Highland Intrigue - A Prequel

Annis pounded her fist on the table. “That is at the top of my list for a husband. He must be part of this clan so that we three stay together.”

Elysia hurried to agree. “Aye, we stay together.”

“Good,” Bliss said relieved, fearful of losing her sisters. “Now, is there any man in the clan that either of you might favor?”

“What if the two men who arrived today chooses one of us before we can find a husband?” Elysia asked.

“We have time,” Bliss assured her. “You both know, Lendra, a friend and servant in the keep. She made sure to spread the word of what she heard. They are here to see if anyone might suit their need and to report back to Lord MacClaren. The two are going to some other clans as well, so there is time for us to see this done.”

“I heard tell that two other clans were also affected by this curse that has cost the lives of two of Lord MacClaren’s three sons,” Annis said.

“What is this curse that has brought such heartache to the Clan MacClaren?” Elysia asked.

Annis shook her head. “I do not know and, if anyone does know, they dare not utter a word of it for fear it will somehow strike them.”

“And it is better we do not speak of it so it does not strike us,” Bliss warned.

Annis and Elysia nodded.

“Instead of telling me if there is anyone you favor in the clan, tell me what you each want in a husband,” Bliss said.

Elysia and Annis talked over each other with their list until Bliss halted them both with a loud “STOP!”

Annis and Elysia laughed.

“You go first, Annis,” Elysia offered and Annis was only too happy to oblige.

“I want a strong man but not a stubborn one. He also has to be clean. I cannot abide the stink of some of the men in the clan.”

“I agree wholeheartedly,” Elysia said.

“I thought you were mean when you made me wash more than the other children, but I am so grateful you did,” Annis said, then laughed. “We are so clean that it makes even a slight stink unbearable. So definitely no stinky husband. I also do not want a man who expects me to obey his every word or submit to his every whim.” She lowered her voice as if afraid someone might hear her. “I heard some women talk about how demanding their husbands are in bed.” She scrunched her nose. “I could not put up with that.”

Bliss raised her hand and pointed to each finger as she listed what Annis wanted in a husband. “Strong husband. Not stubborn. Not stinky. Not one who expects you to obey his every word or whim. And not one who demands when it comes to coupling. Is that all?”

“No drinking himself senseless.”

“Aye, definitely not that,” Elysia agreed.

“And at least some intelligence,” Annis added. “So we may discuss interesting things.”

Bliss nodded. “No heavy drinker and some intelligence. Now you must keep all those things in mind when you look for a husband, and I will do the same as I search for one that might suit you.” She turned to Elysia. “Your turn.”

“I do not want a man so large that he looks as if he will consume me,” she said with a shiver. “I prefer him to be slim and not too tall since I am short. He does not need to talk much, since I prefer things quiet. I would like him to be thoughtful and gentle.” She shook her head. “No warrior. No man so skillful with a sword he is feared.” She shivered again. “I would not mind if he worked one of the crofts, where it would be quiet, though it would have to be a short distance from the village.” She smiled at Bliss. “So I could come and spend time with you every day.”

Bliss returned the smile and held up her hand to once again point at her fingers as she listed what type of husband Elysia wanted. “No large man. Slim and not too tall. Doesn’t talk much. Likes the quiet. Thoughtful and gentle. Definitely no warrior. Not overly skillful with a sword. Can live in one of the crofts but a short walk to the keep.”

“How about that man who moved into one of the crofts about a month ago? He stays to himself and doesn’t say much when he comes to market day,” Annis said. “I think someone mentioned he was a friend of Chieftain Emory. I believe his name is Saber.”

Elysia shook her head. “I saw him briefly. He is far too large and too thick with muscles. He would easily squash me with one hug.”

“Maybe he’s thoughtful and gentle,” Annis said with a teasing smile.

Elysia did not find her sister amusing, shaking her head as she cast her eyes down at the table top. “How can a man that large be gentle? No, I have no interest in him.”