The Highlander's Servant (Book One of the Highlander Possession Series)

Chapter Two

           "Wake up, Kirstin. Tis the early morn' and Laird Bateson is here to take ye away."

            The blonde haired girl groggily awoke upon hearing her mother's sympathy filled voice. She slept for no more than an hour or two, and dreaded opening her eyes.

            Kirstin's small bag was packed with her few belongings, only consisting of a few dresses, a pair of shoes, and a hairbrush. She didn't have much due to her family's small fortune, but it was enough to get by.

            "I canna just sleep away this horrible nightmare, Ma?"

            "Nay, ye need to meet Laird Bateson downstairs. The man is waiting for ye." Came her mother's reply. Kirstin could hear the hurt in her voice as she was forced to lose her only daughter to a fearful stranger. Lachlan Bateson was known to be treacherous with rough intentions, but lots of wealth. There was no doubt that he was selfish, and would not let Kirstin go unless under unusual circumstances.

            It was as if she were to be kept as a prisoner. All because of her clumsy actions and small mistakes.

            "Very well, I will make way in only a moment. Let me just grab my bag." Kirstin replied, looking around her room one final time.

            Her mother nodded and turned around to head back downstairs, all the while trying to keep the tears from falling. She had to remain strong, and Kirstin had to stay willful as well. This did not prevent Kirstin's blue eyes from being red from the crying she had done hours before.

            Taking in a deep breath and strapping her bag around her shoulder, she turned around and left her small room. Kirstin became shaky as her nerves began to increase, and her anxiety rushed over her in waves. Walking down the creaky stairs, she was given a clear view of their kitchen.

            Amidst the kitchen were her parents, and the one and only dark haired man who she had come to despise. They were standing around in tense silence, and this did nothing to calm Kirstin.

            By the time she made it down the stairs, Laird Bateson gave her a once over which made Kirstin's cheeks redden. She did not appreciate the way his eyes roamed over her soft curves, and the unusual look in his eyes that she did not understand.

            "We meet again, Kirstin Croft." A wide smirk made its way on his lips, and his eyes seemed to brighten as he said her name.

            "Aye." She drawled, sparing him little attention. Her mother coughed loudly, as it was clearly intentional. Kirstin spared her a glance and she mouthed 'Apologize.'

            She would have rolled her eyes if it weren't for the man standing before her.           Gulping, Kirstin spoke softly, "I am sorry for causing ye any embarrassment in town yesterday. I meant no harm by it, honestly."

            This time, his eyes seemed to darken more as they glazed over with seriousness, "Well, yer apology canna change my mind about what is to happen, but I do accept it." He said roughly, then reached for the bag that was secured around her shoulder, "Let me help ye with that."

            Kirstin did not have a choice as his large hand gripped the strap and pulled it away from her. He threw it over his own shoulder, and she couldn't help but observe at how easy and light he made its contents seem. She struggled carrying the bag, but he did not seem to show any hint of strain.

            "Come now, we must leave. It takes nearly a week to return to my estate." He guided her by the elbow towards the door, and her father held the door open for them.