The Seer - Hildie McQueen Page 0,24
about it. The only time she may speak will be if Cuthbert comes to them with a request for yer hand.”
“Nay.” Dallis shook her head. “Mother didn’t say anything when father was going to present me to the Macpherson’s son. If it wasn’t for yer father and Robertson agreeing to the clans uniting, I’d be betrothed to the horrible man now.”
Flowers were plentiful across the meadow. Sunlight streamed between tree limbs, sending rays to light upon the colorful buds. A rabbit scurried away as they walked into a clearing.
Dallis made her way to a stump, placed her basket on the ground and sat on the fallen tree. She followed a butterfly’s progress as it fluttered from bud to bud. “I think I’ll bring a blanket and a basket of food and come spend a day here.”
“What of the wild beasts?” Fiona looked toward the trees. “They will come with the smell of food.”
Although her friend was partly right, Dallis refused to allow her to ruin her plans. “Ye are overly dramatic.”
“Hmm,” Fiona replied noncommittally. “I must agree, nonetheless it is a good place for lovers to spend time alone.”
A butterfly landed on her skirts and Dallis watched it as its wings opened and closed. “If ye are considering stealing away with Guiles, I bet he’d be more than willing.”
The usually cheerful Fiona frowned. “I’m not so sure. He’s been avoiding me since the betrothal was announced.”
“That is interesting,” Dallis said. “He follows yer every movement, never once looking away when ye’re both in the same room. My brother is quite taken with ye. It is a good match.”
“I think so too,” Fiona said beaming. “I am very excited at becoming his bride and yer sister. I can’t imagine anything better.” Her friend jumped to her feet and continued to pick flowers. She looked over her shoulder at Dallis. “I think I’ll pick extra ones to be placed in our chambers.”
“What a great idea. I will help.” Dallis slid off the stump and began to walk about, picking only the younger blooms that had not quite opened yet. The tables at the feast were going to look splendid that night.
There was also something she needed to do. Alasdair had to be made aware her mother knew of her wishing to be with him and not Cuthbert. No doubt he’d also remind her of his station and inability to provide for her. Her mother was probably right when stating he was not the settling type of man.
Alasdair was not only a man without a home, but with his abilities, it would be dangerous to remain in one place too long. People like him were often persecuted or accused of witchcraft. The consequences of such accusations could bring death upon anyone married to him and their children.
Later with flower laden baskets, Dallis made her way to the kitchen, she hesitated when Fiona tapped her arm. “Yer mother wasn’t totally opposed to him, ye know? Don’t be sad. I’m sure if ye speak with Alasdair, he may have something to divulge that will make him more suitable.”
“Perhaps.” Dallis considered it, and realized it was probably in the end it would be best to forget about Alasdair and set her sights on someone her parents would agree to.
They walked past the kitchens and into the great room. The floors had been swept and now maids moved about setting empty tankards on the tables for those who’d sit there later.
It took a long time, but at the end, the great room was brightened by cups of water with the wildflowers.
Her mother and the other laird’s wives entered and went to sit at one of the tables.
“The flowers are a lovely idea,” Lady Gordon said with a bright smile directed at Dallis.
Lady Robertson studied Dallis for a moment making hard not to fidget. “I agree, it brightens the room.”
Dallis smiled at the woman. In truth she liked both Laird and Lady Robertson, it was unfortunate her sentiment did not go further.
“Come, I have a great idea.” Fiona took her hand and tugged her up the stairs and down a long corridor. “Let’s make ourselves beautiful for mealtime. I want Guiles to notice me.”
Unable to keep from rolling her eyes, Dallis chuckled. “He already notices ye plenty.”
Her friend shrugged and they continued until arriving at Fiona’s mother’s chambers. “Mother always brings extra finery, more than she would ever need. She won’t mind us borrowing from the trunks.”
They dug in and found shawls, combs, and strands of jewels. Dallis