Page 58 of The Laird’s Sinful Obsession

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

"Me laird!"

Lachlann had barely made it halfway back to his chamber when the voice called out from behind him. He turned to find young Malcolm sprinting down the corridor, his face flushed with exertion.

"What is it?"

Malcolm skidded to a halt, bending forward to catch his breath before straightening and bowing quickly. "Beggin' yer pardon, me laird, but there's somethin' that needs yer immediate attention. Captain Fraser sent me tae find ye."

The urgency in the boy's voice killed whatever warmth still lingered from Alba's kiss.

"Where is he?"

"Yer office, me laird. Just returned from border patrol."

Lachlann's jaw tightened. James wouldn't have sent for him unless it was serious.

"Lead the way."

He followed Malcolm through the corridors at a swift pace, his mind already shifting from the softness of Alba's lips to the sharp-edged focus required for whatever threat had materialized.

The pleasant haze of desire gave way to cold calculation with each step.

They reached his office in minutes. Malcolm pushed the door open, revealing James standing by the windows, still in his riding leathers, mud splattered across his boots and cloak.

"Out," Lachlann said to Malcolm without looking at the boy.

The door closed behind him with a soft click.

"Talk."

James turned from the window, his expression grim. "Torquil's men. Spotted them disembarkin' on the eastern shore about two hours ago."

Every muscle in Lachlann's body went rigid. "How many?"

"At least twenty that we could count. Could be more hidden in the tree line."

"Armed?"

"Aye. Swords, bows, light armor." James moved to the desk, pulling out a map and spreading it across the surface. "They landed here—" He tapped a point along the eastern coastline. "—and started movin' inland. We tracked them to this ridge before pullin' back tae report."

Lachlann studied the map, his mind racing through possibilities. "They're testin' our defenses."

"Or scoutin' fer weaknesses before a larger assault."

"Or lookin' fer her." The words tasted like ash.

James met his gaze steadily. "Aye. That too."

Lachlann's hands flattened on the desk. Alba. Safe in his castle. Under his protection. And now Torquil's men were on his land, close enough to⁠—

Nay.

He shoved the thought away and focused on the map.

"Gather fifteen men," he said, his voice sharp with command. "Experienced fighters only. Full gear. We leave at first light."

"Already done."