The Highlander's Lass; Arran's Story

Chapter 6 Maisie

I sat in the copper bathtub, as the water grew colder and colder. Causing me to shiver. But I did not seem to care. All my mind was thinking about was the events that had occurred earlier in the day. Sir Arran Wallace was nothing like I had imagined. Nothing like Henry had described to me. Arran Wallace was anything but a cavalier. He was kind and empathic. He had shown me nothing but affection since the moment I stepped off my carriage. I did not know I needed that affection before. It was affection I was beginning to crave, and I had only known the man for a day. Every time he touched my skin, I felt sparks go up and down my body. Something that had never happened to me before, not even Edmund could elicit such a response from my body. I am beginning to develop dangerous feelings for Arran Wallace, deep meaningful feelings. The moment his brother introduced us, he was never far from my mind. We barely knew one another, and yet we both were drawn to each other. Like moths to a flame. I knew in my mind that I had to stop thinking about him. Thinking about the possibility of choosing a man that I loved was simply impossible. I should not flirt with him like I was. I should have never accepted his offer to be his partner for tonight's feast. But I could not find it in my heart to reject him, especially with Fey standing right there. I pulled my knees to my chest and buried my face into my knees. I was betrothed to another man. A man that my father chose, a man my father would make me marry no matter my objections. I heard the door open, but I did not think anything of it. Wishing to wallow in the feelings of despair.

"Why do you look so sad my darling daughter," my mother's voice floated into my ears. I looked up at saw mama by my bed. She looked radiant in the dress she chose. It was a dress made from the Hamilton colors. Her auburn hair which was streaked with gray was in an intricate updo on top of her head. Charity was behind her. A curious expression on her young face.

"You look beautiful mama. What are you doing here, I thought for sure you would be down stairs already," I asked. I stood up from the water, and Charity came over to wrap a sheet around my body. I stepped out of the tub. I could hear the water dripping onto the stone floor. The sheet becomes soaked through.

"I thought ye could wear this to the feast tonight. It would be perfect with the crown that the young Fey had made for ye," mama said. She laid out the gown on my bed. I felt my breath leave my body. It was absolutely stunning. I walked toward the bed.

It was a dark blue gown with gold accents along the bodice and sleeves. The blue would go perfectly with my complexion and hair. It would also go well with the flower crown that Fey had made for me. I looked back up at my mother. A smile on my face, my mama really did know how to make me feel comforted. Even when she did not know what was troubling me.

"Mama, tis beautiful," I whispered. She walked over and wrapped her arm around my shoulder. Gently squeezing me. Not caring that I was still very much wet.

"I knew ye would like it, and it suits your complexion and hair color so well," she replied. I touched my mother's hand. She pulled away from me.

"It does mama, thank ye," I replied. Charity came over and I dropped the sheet. Charity came over and helped me with my corset and the dress. Mama was seated by the fire. Her eyes were watching us. Charity pulled the dress over my head.

"What do ye think about Sir Arran Wallace Maisie," mama asked. Once my face emerged, Charity began to lace up the dress. I felt my cheeks go blush, at the mention of Arran's name. Did mama know about the way I felt? I am sure that she did, the way both Arran and I looked at one another. It was rather obvious that we harbored some feelings for one another.

"He is a very handsome and kind hearted man mama, why do you ask," I replied. Trying to be careful with my words. But I saw my mama furrowed her brow. As if she did not like the answer I gave to her.