men who were still watching from the safety of their galley. “Half the MacIain cowards are trembling in their boat, while my men have battle wounds to tend. What do you think happened?”
Duncan shrugged. “No matter. The lands will all remain in the family.”
“Your family, aye.”
“Of which your clan is a part.”
Eoin bristled. He dearly loved Duncan Campbell, but the man had no idea what it was like to be a Clan Chieftain and owe fealty to another. The Lord of Glenorchy owned lands and castles far greater than anything Eoin could ever hope for.
He summoned his men and headed for his galley. He’d endured just about enough of battles for one season and there was another place he’d much rather be.
Chapter Twenty-Five
“This cider is delicious,” Helen said, taking another heavenly sip while balancing Maggie on her lap.
“I knew you would enjoy it.” Gyllis sat across the table, enjoying a cup as well. “And I filled two satchels with apples.”
“Thank you so much. I love the harvest. Everything is so fresh.” Helen glanced at the book on the table and chuckled. “I’m ever so grateful that you brought a book as well. I’ve missed reading.”
Gyllis smoothed her hand over the worn leather volume. “The Wedding of Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnelle & other Romantic Tales,” she recited. “Do you remember when Mother sent this to me at Ardchattan Priory?”
“Aye, I’m the one who picked it out, lest you would have ended up with a copy of The Holy Bible for your entertainment.”
Gyllis chuckled. “I’d always thought it was awfully bold of Mother to send a romantic book. I must thank you. Enduring the monks day and night whilst I suffered with paralysis was penance enough.”
Helen hated to think of all the pain and suffering her sister had borne. “I knew it at the time. I worried about you ever so much.”
Gyllis sat quietly for a moment, as if recalling something sad. “And then you paid a far greater penance than I, suffering the ire of Aleck MacIain for so many years.”
Helen gulped. “Let us pray those years are now behind me.” She lowered the cup to Maggie and the bairn helped guide it to her mouth with her tiny hands.
Gyllis watched them while a smile spread across her lips. “Every time I visit, she’s doing something new.”
Helen looked up. “Was it that way with your two?”
“Aye, the first year always has the most changes. And then they start thinking about walking. That’s when things really become interesting.”
“I’ll be happy when she can talk and tell me what’s wrong.”
“I agree with you there. Why God saw fit for us to bring helpless bairns into the world, I’ll never understand. Wee chicks can walk and eat, even puppies are up and around in a few days.”
Helen gave Maggie a squeeze. “I don’t think I’d have it any other way. This little miss is ever so interesting to watch. I wouldn’t want her to forgo a moment of her childhood.”
“No parent would care to miss it.” Gyllis looked away, biting her lower lip. “’Tis unfortunate some do not see it that way.”
Helen took a sip of cider and thoughtfully swirled the tart liquid around her mouth. She knew exactly what Gyllis implied. “I only hope I’m doing right for her.”
“Of course you are. In my opinion, Aleck MacIain has no honor.”
“I daresay I agree.” Helen stood and held Maggie out to Gyllis. “Would you hold her for a moment? I’d like to take a cup of cider out to Mr. Keith.”
“Och aye, you should. He’s been ever so kind. Why not invite him in as well? ’Tis chilly outside.”
“Very well.” Helen pattered across the floor and opened the door.
She jolted so violently, cider splashed over her hand.
Eoin’s knuckles were raised as if he were about to knock. “You look surprised to see me.” His deep voice flowed like thick treacle.
“Thrilled is more like it.” She offered her hand, inclining her head toward Gyllis.
Eoin nodded his understanding and graciously accepted her offering, bent over her hand, and plied it with a kiss.
“Shut the door you two, you’re letting all the heat escape,” Gyllis complained from the table.
Helen beckoned Mr. Keith. “Won’t you come in and join us in a cup of cider? I’m afraid the one I poured for you has sloshed all over my sleeve.”
The guard blew on his hands and rubbed them. “Thank you, m’lady.”
Eoin stepped inside and removed his cloak while Mr. Keith did the same.