on earth, lad?”
Are you mad? Liam demanded.
Lachlan shook his head, then looked at Fergus. “Angus’s beliefs might have been extreme, but they are not entirely unfounded. A unicorn should take his seat on the council, not a dragon. The balance of power between unicorns and dragons has served Scotland for centuries, and we must maintain that.”
Holly’s eyes were full of pride, but what really touched him was Fergus’s reaction.
The unicorn managed a thin smile. “Your words show how wrong my brother was, rest his poor soul.”
Everyone looked around, a little lost. Then old Callum Ballantyne tapped his glass, calling for everyone’s attention.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I believe I have a solution. And an announcement I have been waiting to make for some time.” He flashed his mate a secret smile. “Myrtle and I have been discussing my retirement. I have served Scotland for decades, and I will continue to do so. But even a spry dragon like me could use a chance to slow down a wee bit,” he joked, touching his gray hair. “Not immediately, of course. Myrtle suggested six to eight months. That gives all of us some time to adjust. We older folk can wrap up our business without rushing, while you youngsters can enjoy being freshly mated.” He winked.
Holly blushed, and Lachlan’s cheeks heated. Oh, they would enjoy it, indeed.
That would be perfect, Holly said in a private aside. We can visit my parents, and I can get my head around moving to Scotland.
Truly? You wouldn’t mind?
She beamed. It would be a dream come true. And really, I’ll just flip what I do now. Instead of spending most of my time in the US and dreaming about Scotland, I can spend more time in Scotland and look forward to visits to Wyoming.
Still, Lachlan hesitated. He had a way of getting carried away with work, and Holly was right about needing time together. He looked at her. You think we can make it work?
Her smile lit up his soul. Just you asking proves we can.
Fergus looked from Callum to Lachlan. “Big shoes to fill, lad. Are you up to the challenge?”
Lachlan nodded. “I believe I am.”
Lady Montgomery smiled. “Is that a yes, then, Mr. McKenney?”
Lachlan looked at Holly once more, then nodded. “It would be an honor. Thank you.”
Everyone clapped, and Holly hugged him. Then she turned to the others, her eyes shining. “May I make a suggestion?”
The Guardians looked over expectantly.
“It seems fitting that Angus’s seat go to a unicorn. But may I suggest a woman?” She motioned around. “The council could use more balance in that way too.”
Lady Montgomery flashed a look that said, I like her already. Then she tilted her head at Holly. “I suppose you’re suggesting a second woman, in addition to you.”
Holly’s face went blank. “Me?”
“My dear, noble dragon blood runs through your veins. You’re a Stuart, even if you use a different name. As a Fire Maiden, you act as adjunct to the Guardians.”
Holly’s jaw dropped open. “I do?”
Gemma smacked her on the back, laughing. “That’s what I told you. Remember?”
Holly shook her head. “I guess you did. I just didn’t…um…connect that idea to me.”
Which is why you’ll be a wonderful Fire Maiden, Lachlan wanted to say. Holly was a genuine, honest soul with no interest in lording over others.
“But…but…” Holly went on.
Lady Montgomery raised her hand and cast a critical eye around the room. “In the event that you are not the only one who requires further evidence, allow me to prove you are.” She gestured to the velvet box on the table. “Miss Jennings, if you please.”
Haltingly, Holly reached for the box and opened it. The moment she did, her jaw dropped. Lachlan’s did too.
“It is something, isn’t it?” Lady Montgomery smiled. “A little something Trevor left for me to pass on if ever a prospective Fire Maiden were found. Go on, take it out.”
Slowly, Holly removed the brooch inside — a wide silver band with a smoky, brownish-black gem in the middle.
“Cairngorm stone,” Lachlan breathed. “Just like the one Ava wore.”
“Not like Ava’s.” Lady Montgomery chuckled. “This was Ava’s — Trevor’s wedding gift, and possibly the greatest single treasure in his hoard. Indeed, it is one of Scotland’s most valuable treasures.”
Dark as the gemstone was, light seemed to flicker deep inside it. The longer Holly held it, the brighter the light grew, until goldish-brown beams shot out in all directions. Everyone leaned away, murmuring in wonder
“Why is it doing that?” Holly’s hand shook, and her voice was a