Her Highlander's Promise Read Free Page B

in the bailey when ready.”
    “You have yet to break your fast, and what of your cousin Deirdre?” Isla asked.
    “I’m far too excited to eat and will speak to Deirdre before we depart.”
    “As you wish, milady. I will meet you below,” Isla replied. She curtsied, then headed down the hallway.
    Laurel watched the young woman scurry out of sight before closing the door. Her cousin believed in a firm hand. Whether she’d deserved it or not, Laurel had seen the biting end of a willow switch more than she cared to remember.
    She closed her eyes, her mind drifting back to the day she had dallied too long conversing with friends. She was fourteen. Infuriated by her tardiness, Deirdre had ordered a harsh reprimand. In private, of course, so no one could bear witness.
    Laurel rubbed her wrists, remembering the tight leather straps that bound her to the whipping post. She could still feel the rush of cold air when her gown slid from her shoulders, exposing her bare back. The sharp crack of the whip and the biting sting as it tore into her tender flesh were unforgettable. Passing out after the third lash had been a blessing. She still bore the scars and would do so forever, but she had never been late again.
    “Soon I willna be under their rule, but until then, I must bide my time,” she said on a shuddering breath, then tugged the gown over her head. After plaiting her hair and donning her wimple, she secured an arisaidh around her waist before positioning the extra fabric over her head and shoulders.
    “Best get this over with so I can be on my way to the festival,” she said to herself as she headed in the direction of Deirdre’s chamber.

Chapter 3
    Laurel knocked, waiting for permission to enter the sanctity of Deirdre’s chamber.
    “Who dares disturb me at this hour of the morn? You best have a good reason,” Deirdre shouted.
    “Laurel. Isla said you wanted to speak with me before we left for the festival.”
    “Enter, and be quick about it.”
    Laurel opened the oak door and stepped inside, a rush of warm, fragrant air greeting her. While the décor had changed to reflect her cousin’s taste, the sunny solar stirred many fond memories. A knot formed in the pit of her stomach as she pushed thoughts of her parents and the happy times they’d shared to the back of her mind. “When I assume my rightful place, reclaiming my chamber will be one of the first things I do,” she muttered beneath her breath.
    “Stop mumbling and step intae the light. You remind me of a thief skulking around in the shadows.”
    “Why did you wish to see me?”
    “Let me look at you.” Deirdre’s brows knit together as she studied Laurel from top to bottom. “I suppose you’ll do,” she finally said.
    “Why did you summon me?”
    “You dinna think I would let you leave without making sure you dressed appropriately? I also want to remind you to conduct yourself in a manner befitting your status. Dinna speak to anyone while in the village, except to make your purchases. You are to accompany Isla, retrieve the vegetables, then return by noon. Is that clear?”
    Her heart sank. Noon did not leave them much time to spend at the fair. By the time they got there and completed their task, they’d have to return home. “I was hoping to stay a wee bit longer. I’m sure Angus would like to take part in the completions. He has trained all summer for the events. Would that be possible?”
    “Nay. There is no need for you to dally. Angus is going as your escort, not to compete. Make your appearance, get the items Cook needs, and return as I have instructed. That is, unless you want me to change my mind and not allow you to go at all.” She handed over a small pouch containing several silver coins. “This should be more than enough to cover the cost.”
    Laurel bobbed a curtsy. “Aye. We will do as you request.” She almost choked on the words, but refrained from arguing. It would do no good to anger her benefactor.
    “Dinna make