Knight in Highland Armor by Amy Jarecki Read Free Book Online Page A

and replace his lost love, nor did he care for an outspoken, comely lass to try.
    It was far easier on his heavy heart to have Margaret off dancing, enjoying herself where he could not touch her, or smell her, or talk to her. He did, however, watch the lady from behind his goblet, akin to watching quarry when hunting.
    She moved with uncanny grace and laughed like she had not a care. Colin recalled the days when he laughed with such abandon. But war and death had robbed him of his ability to chuckle from his gut like an inexperienced lad. Margaret was made for the dance floor. She executed every step with grace, and Colin imagined she practiced in her father’s keep for hours to become so adept.
    Her gaze shot to his and connected before he lowered his lashes and stared into his ale. He couldn’t allow his young wife to cause irrational stirrings. Her eyes had affected him at the fete. Yes, the color was unusual, but more so, her expression had grasped his attention. Intelligence lurked behind those pools of green. Have mercy, her small nose suited her face and her lightly moistened, plump lips had practically begged him to kiss them. He must guard himself. It was a warrior’s duty to understand his weakness and devise ways to protect and strengthen against it.
    “And what say you, Glenorchy?” The king’s voice cut through his thoughts. “She is a lovely bride.”
    Colin straightened in his chair. “Aye. I hope she will be a suitable stepmother for my heir.”
    “You are aware she can read and write. She will be an excellent tutor for Duncan’s early years,” the queen added.
    Colin dipped his chin respectfully. “Then I agree. Lady Margaret is the perfect choice. I could not have found a more suitable replacement for Jonet if I had searched for years myself.” Except she could be five year’ older, a stone heavier and great deal less comely.
    The queen offered a pleased smile and then turned her attention toward the other side of the table. Colin took a healthy swig of ale, content to once again be left alone with his grief.
    ***
    Margaret stood in the center of her chamber while two maids removed the heavy gown. Colin had walked her to the door and excused himself, saying he must attend to a few things. Her new husband had been nothing but polite. Though he lacked the glint of humor she’d noticed at the fete. His dark brown eyes also held a sadness she hadn’t noticed the day prior. Was he dissatisfied with her? Did he not find her attractive? The tension in her shoulders might actually ease a wee bit if she’d sensed he approved of his new bride.
    She thought she’d danced well, but he hadn’t even smiled at her from across the room—just leered behind his tankard of ale.
    That he’d left her outside her chamber was a relief. Perhaps he wouldn’t return and give her a chance to come to know him before…before.
    She pushed the heels of her hands into her eyes. She couldn’t even think about it.
    Surely they both were nervous. Yes, Colin had been married formerly, but she doubted he’d not met his previous brides prior to the ceremony. Had he? She might ask him if the opportunity presented itself—if she would ever in her lifetime feel comfortable around him. Heaven’s stars, from the stern way he glared at her, Margaret feared she’d apprised poorly on all accounts.
    The maid lifted the hennin from her head. Margaret smoothed her hands over her braids.
    “Sit on the stool so I can brush out yer tresses, m’lady.”
    Divested of the heavy gown, Margaret sat wearing only her linen shift. Once again she felt like herself—no wooden slats binding her ribs, no ridiculous wired hennin pinching her head. The soft brush running through her hair soothed her concerns away. Margaret closed her eyes and let the maid work until her tresses had been brushed to a luminous sheen.
    “Shall I turn down the bed, m’lady?”
    Her tension raced back tenfold and Margaret’s shoulders stiffened. “That will be