The Dragon Guardian (Lochguard Highland Dragons 2)

A random male shouted, “It sounds like less freedom to me.”

Finn’s voice was firm when he answered, “I disagree. I believe this path will lead to greater freedom, especially since the DDA has also given us leave to apply for special mate licenses. If, by chance, a sacrifice’s relative or a local lass stirs a mate-claim frenzy and both sides wish to mate, the DDA will make it happen. Considering our recent problems, this concession will allow me to stop going gray before I’m forty.”

A few clan members chuckled. Finn grinned. “And since I’m soon going to have three bairns to watch after, too, I’d rather save some of my blond hair for them. We all know three wee Stewarts running amok will turn all of my hair gray in a year or three.”

Some of the tension of the crowd eased as more people snorted at Finn’s comment. His cousin had always been good at diffusing situations.

Finn tugged Arabella to his side and wrapped his arm around his shoulder. “And one last thing—if anyone is interested in helping babysit the wee devils, then I might just set up a sign-up sheet. The both of us could use the help, although I’m sure it means they’ll be spoiled rotten.”

Shaking his head, Fergus murmured to Gina, “You think he’s jesting, but he just found about a dozen babysitters without even trying. Finn has always been a sly one.”

Gina smiled up at him. “That works for me. It means your mom can help us out more.”

Fergus chuckled. “Aye, I do like the sound of that.”

Finn addressed the crowd again. “I think that’s enough announcements for the day. Ara and I will be visiting as many of the clan as we can today and the rest over the next few days. I’m determined to hear all of your grievances and see about fixing up Lochguard as quickly as possible. If there’s one thing we Scottish dragons know how to do, it’s pick ourselves up and come out stronger than ever before. We’ll be having a celebration in the great hall before you know it.”

The majority of the crowd cheered. With one last wave, Finn descended the stairs with Arabella beside him. The pair walked straight toward Fergus and Gina. When he was close enough, Finn brushed wee Jamie’s cheek. “The lad looks strong.” Finn looked at Gina and then Fergus. “Congrats to the pair of you.” Finn looked at Gina again. “I heard about you choosing to name him after Uncle Jamie. Thank you, lass. It means a lot to all of us.”

Gina snuggled against Fergus’s side. “It’s the least I could do, considering everything Fergus and your family have done for us.”

Lorna spoke up. “Nonsense, child. It was nothing special.”

Fergus knew it was special to Gina. But rather than waste time

trying to convince his family of it, he met Finn’s eye. “We’d better be the first visit of the day. I’m not sure how much longer I can wait to hear our fate.”

Arabella frowned. “Didn’t Aunt Lorna tell you?”

Fergus glanced at his mum. “No.”

Lorna studied Fergus’s face. “Are you sure I didn’t tell you, Fergus? I’m pretty sure I did.” She looked to Faye. “Didn’t I?

Before Faye could answer, Fergus growled. “No, but how about telling me now?”

Ross stepped in. “Watch your tone, lad. Your mum has been under a lot of stress.”

Fergus was on the verge of telling Ross to mind his own business when Gina pressed Jamie against his chest. Fergus took the bairn without question, although before he could say another word, Gina beat him to it. “We’ve all been under stress. How about you just tell us now?”

Finn answered, “Your mating was accepted by the DDA. You, and your child, will stay here.”

Chapter Twenty-Two

Gina stopped breathing a second. She had a home, a family, and a future. She would also be able to help her son understand his dragon half; Fergus would ensure Jamie never turned rogue.

And who knew, she might be able to work with Lochguard and the DDA to prevent BroadBay or any other clan from hurting other women in the future.

For the first time in a long time, she was hopeful.

Turning her head to Fergus, she had to blink back tears to keep from crying. “We can stay.”

Fergus maneuvered Jamie into one arm and pulled Gina against his side. After kissing her hair, he murmured, “I love you, lass.”

A tear rolled down her cheek as she answered, “I love you, too.”

Just as she raised her head to kiss Fergus, Finn interrupted. “I hate to break up the happy moment, but there are a few things you should know first.”

Fergus growled out, “Then hurry up and bloody tell us.”