The smile slid across his lips easily. "Are you sure?" Hector asked as he stepped closer and touched her cheek.Skye nodded again.Hector slid his hand behind her neck and pulled her towards him, his lips crushed against hers in a warm kiss full of longing.As their lips touched, he conveyed a message of unconditional love to her. His love was like an unobstructed, vast green meadow, and nothing could shake the firm foundation of his love. It was unbreakable and everlasting.His blistering kiss set fire to her soul, causing her to forget everything else – the surrounding guests, their conversations and amusement, and the staff constantly attending to their needs. A haze overtook her thoughts, blurring out the world beyond.The kiss continued uninterrupted as Hector's hands held her jaw and neck, gently pressing her against his lips.As Skye's palms rested on his chest, they were lost in an intoxicating kiss that made them forget about time and space. They were wholly devoted to each o
Meegan looked at her with a smile. "Hmm…You care about him, don't you?" she asked. "Yes, I do care," Skye replied, still looking at Hector. She recognized his position, with his hands behind his back, as she had seen before. Despite his predicament, he appeared at ease and collected. When he caught her eye, he gave a reassuring nod, indicating that she need not worry and could leave him for a bit. Skye nodded and turned her attention back to Meegan, smiling. "Okay, let's talk for a while. What about your marriage to...?" She paused, cupping her forehead. "I'm sorry, I forgot his name." Meegan giggled quietly and said, "His name is Oisin." "Ah, I remember now. So, how did the wedding go? Is everything going well between you two?" I inquired. Meegan's face brightened, and her cheeks turned pink. "It has only been three weeks since the wedding, but I can tell he is the best man I could have asked for." She replied with a smile. Skye gently rubbed her arm. "I'm happy for you and I ho
Eilean Donan Castle A few days ago…. Malcolm stormed out of the stable, clenching his jaw and fists. He forcefully kicked a small pile of rotting wood and shook his clothes to remove the hay sticking to it with quick, clumsy movements. "Stupid mare," he muttered through gritted teeth. He looked up at the overcast sky and estimated the sun's position. "It's almost noon," he said, touching his growling stomach. "I hope the food is ready." He walked towards the kitchen door, which led to the yard. He opened it and walked in. He passed the wooden counters and proceeded to the hearth, confident he would find Fiona there. He wished he didn't have to force himself to eat the food she prepared so he wouldn't upset her this time. He walked a few more steps and spotted her bending over the hearth, trying hard to keep the fire going. With one hand, she gripped the iron handle meant for stirring the wood to rekindle the fire. She wiped her sweaty forehead with the other, leaving a black strea
Eilean Donan Castle: IonaIona checked behind her to ensure her father wasn't coming, then asked what was on her mind.She looked at her mother. "So, how's it going?" Iona asked her.Fiona frowned. "How's it going what, my child?""Your life here in the castle," She opened her hands wide, gesturing towards the space around her.Fiona's eyes widened as she clutched her chest. "What do you know, Iona?"Iona tilted her head to the side. "I mean, how is your life going here without having that fool, Skye, around? What did you mean, Mother?" she asked, taking a step closer and looking at her straight in the eyes."I will explain, but let's wait for your father to arrive. In the meantime, I can answer your question. If she were here, she could make herself useful. Although, if it weren't for her, nothing would have happened, and now it won't-""What are you mumbling, Mother? I cannot understand anything that you're saying."Fiona looked at her daughter- her pursed lips and arms crossed over
Skye woke up to the warm sensation of a kiss on her cheek, followed by a trail of breathy and hot kisses along her jawline and down the slope of her neck. His mouth was breathy and seductive between kisses.A giggle escaped her, and she turned to look at him. The manly spice scent of his body filled her nose, and she took a deep breath to savor it.She smiled at him.Hector smiled back at her. "Good morning, my Princess!" His eyes sparkled while he explored her face."I missed you!" he confessed, and Skye laughed."Already? Haven't you just woken up now?" she said, looking at him more carefully. He was so close to her.He was leaning over her, and Skye realized her body was between his arms.He had taken a bath, his wet hair falling forward off his shoulders. Dressed, he emitted a manful, freshly washed scent.She raised her eyebrows. "You haven't woke up just now, have you?" she stated."No. When I woke up, you were still fast asleep. So, I grabbed the opportunity to sneak out and go
Skye quickly found a dress that she thought was suitable for the occasion - breakfast with royalty. She promptly put it on, slipped into her boots, went to her dressing table, picked up her brush, and quickly combed her hair. There was no time to fuss with her hair, so she didn't bother. After one last look in the mirror, she straightened her dress and headed for the door.She spotted Hector leaning against the corridor wall opposite her chamber's door.As she gazed at him, she pursed her lips together, unable to tolerate his irresponsible behavior. "What if we're questioned?" she wondered. How would they justify their delay? They would keep the truth private. Skye needed a believable excuse.On the contrary, Hector appeared unfazed by the situation. He was fixated on Skye's appearance, his eyes sparkling as he scanned her from head to toe."You look beautiful. Loose hair suits you," he told her.She glared at him. "What's important is that I'm ready. Shall we go?"Hector ignored that
Skye watched the royal carriage drive away, slowly fading into the distance.Standing beside Hector and Lennox, she glanced at Roisin, who was still waving goodbye. Her eyes were misty, in contrast to Donncha's reaction. He let out a long sigh and a slow smile spread across his face. His eyes sparkled as he watched the regal carriage drive away.As if he felt someone staring at him, he pivoted on his heel, his piercing eyes locking onto Skye's. Skye looked away, a flush of embarrassment spreading across her cheeks. It all seemed so unfair; why did this happen right now?She shifted her focus back to Hector, oblivious to the smug expression on Donncha's face that exuded arrogance and superiority."See? It wasn't that difficult," Hector told Lennox."Indeed," agreed Lennox."Did you notice the twinkle in Queen Aine's eyes and her faint smile of satisfaction?"Lennox nodded.They turned and entered the castle.The maids, who had also gathered to bid farewell to the royal couple, were hur
Skye rushed towards the stables to catch up with Hector and Lennox.A while ago, Hector sent a maid to Skye's chamber to inform her that they were leaving. Skye pretended to have a headache and did not go see them off. Although she understood Hector's desire to accompany Lennox to ensure his safety, she was angry with him for leaving her alone. Nevertheless, she accepted that Lennox needed Hector's help more.Skye had a change of heart two minutes later and quickly ran, hoping to catch up with them.Entering the stable, she saw them and stopped short. They were saddling the horses and chatting in low voices.Skye inhaled a sweet, grassy aroma mixed with the scent of leather from the saddles and bridles. She took a deep breath, enjoying the freshness of the air. It might have been the first time she had experienced such a clean and refreshing smell in a stable.Her attention shifted back to the two men, and she stared at them, trying to figure out what was different about them. It took
Talisha strode ahead, the corridor stretching long and cold ahead of her. Its stone walls whispered with memories of a time not so long ago when Iona walked these halls with her chin held high and wearing a beautiful and expensive gown. But now, her footsteps followed Talisha's brisk pace, her shoulders hunched under the weight of her new role, and her thoughts swirling in bitterness."Your duties are simple," Talisha began, her tone clipped and unyielding. "You will peel vegetables, clean the kitchen, and assist wherever needed. You are to remain in the kitchen—only the kitchen. When your work is done, you may return to your home. Is that clear?"The words felt like a slap. Iona's eyebrows drew together in silent protest, the weight of disappointment settling heavily on her chest. Only in the kitchen? It was a bitter pill to swallow. She had imagined something different— her work should include the entire castle so that she could move freely around it, to see and hear. But now?Swall
Talisha returned, holding a small leather pouch in her hands."This is it," she said softly, handing it to Hector. Her voice trembled just slightly, but she quickly turned away. "Now, I can get back to my work.""Yes, of course. Thank you, Talisha."As she left, Hector stared at the pouch silently for a moment. His hands moved almost mechanically as he loosened the string and tipped its contents into his palm. The locket fell out, cold and heavy against his skin.He let the pouch drop onto the table as he studied the locket. The delicate gold chain spilled between his fingers like liquid light. He turned the locket over in his hand. The intricate floral engravings still caught the light, and the details seemed sharper, almost painfully vivid. At its center, the blue sapphire gleamed."It's beautiful!" Skye's voice broke through his thoughts, drawing his attention to her admiration."Yes, it is," Hector said, though his voice came out hoarse. He clenched the locket tightly, his throat
Skye gazed thoughtfully at the doorway through which Talisha had just exited. Had she made the right decision? Perhaps she shouldn't have agreed to let Iona into their home and, by extension, into their lives. She couldn't forget how Iona had treated her in the past; it was a constant reminder of how little she could trust her. However, according to Talisha, Iona's family had fallen into poverty, losing their former glory and power. Maybe Iona and her parents, indeed, were in need.She bit her lower lip, deep in thought. Would that be enough to prevent Iona's malicious intentions?"Have you changed your mind?" Hector's voice cut through her thoughts. He stood off to the side, observing every move and subtle change in her expression. Startled, Skye turned her head towards him but didn’t respond immediately. Instead, she paced back and forth, her thoughts in turmoil. Finally, she said, "Do you think she will try something? I can’t forget her past behavior, but considering her current si
A sharp, icy breeze swept through the air, stirring Iona's hair. She shivered, pulling her cloak tighter around her trembling form. Her fists were slick with sweat, and her heart hammered against her ribcage.She knew that her actions were reckless. One wrong move could leave her life hanging by a thread. A single order from the king could end everything.As she pondered her situation, the weight of her misery pressed down on her. Her life had become a bleak, meaningless struggle. Yet, this desperate act offered her a chance to change everything. Even if she failed, at least she would have tried; she would have fought for a better future. For that alone, the risk was worth taking.Iona had bet her life on a perilous gamble, ready to risk everything. With determination etched on her face, she pursed her lips and stared at the imposing door ahead.Why are they delaying? Maybe they didn't hear?Just as she raised her hand to knock again, the heavy door creaked open, leaving her hand susp
"I'm sorry I'm late," Iona said, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "With those clouds hiding the sun, I couldn't tell if it was noon yet. I decided to come and wait for you anyway."Anise's eyes sparkled with excitement as she gestured for Iona to take a seat. "We have so much to discuss," she said eagerly. "Let's begin with why you decided to move to the town, I never expected you to leave the castle," Anise asked.Iona's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief. "There's a plan," she revealed, raising Anise's eyebrows."Plan? What plan?" Anise leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper."I want to make Hector fall in love with me and leave Skye. I want to be a princess in her place."Anise's eyes widened. "That would be amazing. But how?""I'll seduce him somehow. I'll have to find his soft spots first and use them to my advantage," Iona replied, determination gleaming in her eyes.Anise's eyes lit up. "And that means Skye will be out of the castle," she said."And out of o
Maysie knocked on the door."Come in, Maysie," Skye called from inside. Maysie entered and found Skye pacing anxiously.The room was warm, the fire crackling in the hearth, contrasting sharply with the cold outside.Skye's face lit up with relief as she hurriedly approached and hugged Maysie. "You're finally here." Maysie's eyes widened in surprise; Skye wasn't usually this emotional."Mary told me that you need me. Are you okay?" Maysie asked, feeling Skye's fragile, trembling body. "You are trembling. Are you cold?""No. I'm scared." Skye whispered, her voice barely audible.Maysie looked at her, concern etched on her face. "Did something happen between you and Hector?""Not yet, but I'm afraid it will," Skye admitted, her eyes darting nervously."I don't understand, Skye." Maysie said, her brow furrowing."I will explain to you as we drink our tea," she said, gently guiding her toward the small living room. A large tray with tea and side dishes waited on a small table. Skye's hands
"Wait, Toren," Malcolm called, but Toren continued without looking back.Fiona leaned out the carriage window, her eyes narrowing. "What should we do now?" she asked her husband, her voice tinged with frustration."Moving on alone is our only option," Malcolm said, pressing his lips together thoughtfully."Let's move on, then. The noise here is dizzying," she said, squeezing her temples with a pained expression.Around them, the square buzzed with activity. Merchants hawking their goods, horses clattering on cobblestones, and the distant melody of a street musician's lute created a cacophony. The air was thick with freshly baked bread, mingling with the earthy aroma of vegetables and the tang of salted fish.Several moments passed without the carriage moving. Fiona glanced at Iona, her jaw clenched. "What is your father doing?" she asked, her voice tight."I don't know," Iona shrugged, her eyes wide with uncertainty."Stay here. I'll see what's happening," Fiona said, pushing the carr
Iona looked at her mother as she approached. She stood up, clutching the fabric of her skirt in her fists. Fiona was unhappy with the situation, her eyes wide, face red, and lips pursed."Oh, mother, I hope nothing went wrong in there . . .""Did you hear how he talked to me?" Fiona hissed at a low volume, interrupting her as if she hadn't heard anything she had said."He is uncouth, rude, and a boor," she continued in a low yet intense voice. Fiona paced back and forth; every time she turned, she violently kicked back her skirt as it gathered around her legs."Mother, please remain calm. You're right, but they must not perceive your anger. Remember, we rely on them. We must not upset them, or they might leave."Fiona stopped short in front of her, very close to her face. "I know," she replied. "That alone prevented me from causing a scene."A droplet of saliva flew from her mouth and landed on Iona's left cheek, just below her eye.Fiona began pacing back and forth again, and Iona se
Castle Eilean Donan: The UnexpectedThe day started with bleak gray clouds obscuring the sky. As winter approached, the sun had become a rare sight, and the chill in the air grew increasingly biting. Fiona held Iona by the shoulders, tightening her grip as Malcolm rode through the castle courtyard door. The echoing of the horse's hooves on the hard ground slowly faded. "Be careful," Fiona whispered. Tears welled as she watched him cross the narrow bridge connecting the castle to the mainland. They stood there until his figure disappeared behind the trees. "Let's go inside, mother. I'm frozen," Iona complained, clutching her cape tightly to protect herself from the cold wind."Yes, let's go," Fiona agreed. They headed towards the large wooden door, which was wide open, waiting for them. Fiona shut the heavy door and wiped the tears from her eyes. What would she do without Malcolm? He was left alone, unaccompanied. If he was attacked on the street, he could hardly get through on his o