Page 59 of The Laird’s Sinful Obsession

Of course they were. James knew him too well.

Lachlann straightened, rolling his shoulders back. "Good. I want scouts posted along every approach to the castle. Double the guard on the walls. No one enters or leaves without me kennin’ about it."

"What about Lady Alba?"

"What about her?"

"Will ye tell her?"

Lachlann's jaw clenched. "Nae yet."

"Ye should tell her."

"I will." He moved around the desk, heading for the door. "After I've dealt with this."

James caught his arm. "Lachlann."

"I ken what ye're goin' tae say."

"Dae ye?" James's grip tightened. "Because it looks tae me like ye're about tae walk into a potential ambush without thinkin' it through first."

"I've thought it through plenty."

"Have ye? Or are ye just reactin' because someone's threatenin' what's yers?"

The words hit their mark.

Lachlann pulled his arm free, turning to face his oldest friend fully. "What would ye have me dae, James? Sit here and wait while Torquil's men get closer? While they scout our weaknesses and plan their attack?"

"I'd have ye use that strategic mind of yers instead of lettin' anger drive yer decisions."

"I'm nae angry."

James's eyebrow rose.

"Fine." Lachlann exhaled roughly. "I'm furious. But that daesnae mean I'm wrong."

"Nay," James agreed quietly. "But it daes mean ye need tae be careful. Torquil's hopin' ye'll come chargin' out there. He wants ye emotional and reckless."

"Then he'll be disappointed." Lachlann moved back to the desk, studying the map with forced calm. "We'll approach from the north, use the high ground tae our advantage. Keep scouts on the flanks. If it's a trap, we'll see it comin'."

James joined him, pointing to a narrow pass. "Here. If we move through this valley, we can get behind them without bein' spotted."

"Aye." Lachlann traced the route with his finger. "Split into two groups. One draws them out, the other flanks."

"I'll lead the flankin' party."

"Nay." Lachlann shook his head. "Ye stay here. Guard the castle."

"Lachlann—"

"That's an order, James." He met his friend's gaze. "I need someone I trust completely watchin' over her. That's ye."

James's jaw worked for a moment before he nodded. "Aye, me laird."

Lachlann spent the next several hours in that office, moving between the map and the window, checking equipment brought by various soldiers, giving instructions with clipped efficiency. Routes were planned. Contingencies discussed. Supplies gathered.

The sun sank lower, painting the sky in shades of amber and crimson.