Alasdair for an hour or two. Give him some fresh air and sunlight.”
“He could sicken if he’s taken outdoors at such a young age. I dinna think that’s a good idea.”
Kenzie smiled. “You’re wrong, Ben. Fresh air and sunlight is good for everyone, including babies. As long as he’s kept warm, fresh air will do him good.”
Ben seemed to think on her suggestion before he said, “What’s a picnic?”
“A basket of food that we’d share together.”
The lightest kiss touched her neck. A shiver ran down her spine and Kenzie couldn’t wait to get Ben alone. He may come across as a hard, medieval Highland warrior to some people, but to Kenzie, he was so much more than that. The man had a heart, one that she was terribly close to falling for. A man who was fiercely loyal and loving toward his son, and clansmen, and women. The thought that someone wanted him dead and would succeed with their plan within a matter of weeks made her stomach twist.
“After dinner this evening, I want to talk to you about something that I think you need to know about,” Kenzie said, deciding that it was time Ben knew the truth.
“Ye cannot tell me now?”
Kenzie could feel Ben’s inquisitive gaze on her, and she shook her head. “Not here. We need to be alone. It’s something I think you’ll question me about and I don’t want anyone else to overhear.”
“Ye will have my full attention, lass. I’ll come to ye room.” His hand idly ran over her stomach, and she bit her lip. “Mayhap you would allow me to warm ye bed afterward. I find my own sleeping quarters cold and not at all welcoming.”
“Would that be wise with Clan Grant here? What if they catch us? You do know that Athol is aiming to marry you, don’t you?” Kenzie didn’t see the point of beating around the bush. If Ben hadn’t seen the little minx’s plans for himself then she would tell him. Not that Kenzie should be stopping him from marrying again—he ought to, no matter how much he said he was never going to have another wife. He was young, strong, a laird—it would be silly of him to remain a bachelor. Or, at least, a shame for anyone who would never get to know and love such a wonderful man.
And maybe, if he were to marry again, even to Athol—although the thought turned Kenzie’s stomach—it would change his future. Twist what fate had in store for him and allow him to live out his days at Castle Ross, watch Alasdair grow into a man. Pass away as an old man with grandchildren surrounding him.
“They’re housed in the opposite end of the castle and I’ll not be seen. We’re safe.”
As they came closer to the castle Ben removed his hand and returned it to the rein. They walked through the gates to a commotion in the keep. Evan Grant and Bruce were having some sort of argument, which turned into a full-on fist fight.
Ben swore and jumped from the horse, running up to the two men who were rolling on the ground, the thump of fists into flesh loud in the otherwise quiet afternoon. Ben pulled them apart, no mean feat since both men were towers of muscular strength.
“What are ye doing?” he yelled at both of them, glaring at Bruce and then Evan. Both growled, snarling at each other like two savage dogs. Evan’s nose bled, and he blew out the blood, only just missing Ben’s leg.
The sight of blood, and the disgusting act, turned Kenzie’s stomach, and she cringed. Seriously, how revolting is that? She attempted to get down off Ben’s very tall horse, and the drop was higher than she anticipated, and she fell on her ass. Pulling her gown down over her knees, she stood, and all the men were looking at her.
Heat suffused her face, and she shrugged. “I’m still learning,” she said, thankful when they turned their attention back on each other.
“What’s the meaning behind this?” Ben asked, looking from one man to the other when both were quiet.
Bruce nodded toward Evan Grant. “Mayhap we should go into your solar, Ben. ’Twould not be appropriate out here.”
Ben nodded. “Aye, fine then. Follow me, without,” he said, pointing a finger at both men, “incident.”
Kenzie watched them go and caught the gaze of an older gentleman she’d not seen before. A greying, bearded man who looked at her with distaste. A cold shiver ran down