A Fierce Archer (Clan Ross Book 6) Hildie McQueen (online e reader TXT) 📖

think Malcolm is unsettling, then ye will find Kieran absolutely terrifying.”

The women chuckled, except for Catriona, who could not imagine anyone scarier than Malcolm Ross.

***

Dressed for last meal, Catriona was still astonished at her lack of nervousness. It could be that the change in location helped. She hoped that when it was time to sleep, her fears would remain at bay.

Since no one had offered to stop by for her, she decided to make her way there. Leaving her bedchamber, she went to the end of the corridor, turned right down a second one. She’d memorized the way. Right, left and then left.

However, upon reaching the end of the corridor, she found herself not in the great room, but in a different one. This one was smaller, with several sitting areas. Over a fireplace, there was a portrait of a couple. The man resembled Malcolm, but it was not him. The woman was seated, her hands folded, her gaze straight ahead.

She wondered what the room was used for. Perhaps small gatherings. She turned just as a man entered the space.

In all her life, she’d never seen a more astonishingly angelic being. He looked to her with interest before motioning to the doorway. “Ye must be lost.”

There was no warmth in his tone, nor animosity, however something about him gave her pause. It was as if restrained ferocity floated just beneath his skin. His movements, although graceful, seemed measured.

When his gaze met hers, her lips parted at the heavily lashed, lovely and yet icy gaze.

He seemed to understand her hesitation. “I am Kieran Ross. The laird’s younger brother. Ye can follow me. I was sent to find ye for last meal.”

Catriona was thankful he did not come near and wondered if he’d been forewarned of her fears.

“Why did they send ye?”

One wide shoulder lifted. “Ewan is held back and will be late. He wished to ensure ye were not bothered by a warrior named Browen...or the like.”

“Broden. Ewan sent ye?” Obviously, men were not aware of Kieran’s intimidating presence.

“Aye.”

“Very well. Shall we go?” Catriona took a breath and went to where he stood. If Ewan trusted Kieran, she would as well.

“I do not believe I am afraid of ye. However, I must admit to a compelling need to keep looking at ye. Ye must find it bothersome.”

Kieran tilted his head to one side and looked down at her. “Sometimes. I do not notice it much.”

At his words, Catriona relaxed. Everyone had burdens, even the beautiful man who now walked beside her.

Once in the great room, Catriona went to sit at a table with Esme. The meal was bountiful, musicians entertained, and tankards were kept full.

Meanwhile, Lady Fraser, who sat at the high board next to Elspeth, beamed, her face bright with excitement. Catriona had to smile at seeing the woman’s happiness. It was a full circle that night, a contrast to the worst time in both of their lives.

Esme squeezed her hand. “Ye seemed changed. More like yerself.”

“I am hopeful,” Catriona replied. “For the first time in a long time, I want to be happy.”

After everyone ate, several people danced, while most sat and watched. It was the first time in a long time that Catriona had attended a large gathering. She remained at the table ensuring to keep her back to the wall, but able to watch those dancing.

“How do ye feel?” Broden lowered next to her, his gaze moving from her to the dance floor.

“I am well,” Catriona replied. She was well aware that Broden wished for more from her than just friendship. It was interesting that for the many years she’d been so infatuated with Keithen Fraser, she’d not taken time to notice other men. Now, however, she could not think of anyone else except Ewan.

“Ye should find a lass and dance,” Catriona suggested. “Several kept an eye on ye when ye walked across the room.”

“I would dance with ye,” he said.

“Broden,” Catriona began. “Ye and I cannot be more than friends. Please understand.”

He leaned closer so she could hear him. “Ye cannot consider Ewan Ross. He has no home to call his own. He is but a drifter. Have ye asked why he left Uist?”

Catriona wasn’t sure what to say. She had asked, several times, but he’d yet to tell her the real reason.

“He left behind a wife and a bairn,” Broden said, his voice flat. “Ewan Ross is a married man.”

Her entire being constricted. It was as if a strong fist gripped her body and squeezed. Her breath caught and every ounce of her fought to inhale, but it was impossible.

At her gasp, Broden touched her arm. Esme hurried around the table and took her by the shoulders.

“Breathe Cat, please breathe.”

She tried. Gasped, but no air entered her body. It was as if her throat had closed, not allowing anything to pass.

Desperation struck and she clawed at Esme’s clothing mouthing “Help me”.

Ruari Ross pushed Esme aside, placed his hand flat on Catriona’s stomach and pushed hard. A loud whoof of air escaped and she was finally able to take full, desperate breaths.

“What did ye do?” Esme screamed at Broden. “What did ye say to her.”

“Something she had to know,” Broden replied, giving her a concerned look. “I apologize.”

Catriona pushed away from him and looked past Esme and Ruari. Thankfully, no one seemed to take much notice of what had happened. Just then, past the tables, Ewan and several warriors entered. His bow was still strapped to his back, his dark hair wild from the wind. He looked every bit a fierce archer.

“I need to go to my room,” Catriona told Esme, grabbing her hand. “I do not wish to speak to anyone right now.”

Chapter Eleven

The great room was overfilled with revelers and