CHAPTER 30

“We’ve questioned everyone who served, everyone in the kitchen, everyone who came into contact with the food, and everyone who was gathered in the hall,” Caleb reported.

“Gertie is distraught,” Alan said grimly. “She’s sick that Mary was poisoned. I don’t believe for a moment that Gertie was behind it even if she would have had the easiest opportunity of anyone. She’s been with our clan since before we were born. She was loyal to our father and has been steadfast since his death.”

Edward didn’t believe it either, but he’d be a fool to discount the possibility. He couldn’t imagine anyone in his clan trying to kill Mary. Why would they? She represented hope. She was their salvation and there wasn’t anyone who didn’t know that.

But someone had.

Gannon and Cormac entered the hall, their expressions grim. Fatigue lined their faces and they made a direct line toward Edward.

“Laird, we have a report.”

Edward gestured for them to sit.

Cormac took a seat but Gannon opted to stand, his agitatio