Read The Highlander's Bride for Free Online

west.” Laurel smiled, remembering that was how her grandfather had referred to lakes or bodies of water.
    “The valley stretches from the southwest to the northeast along the mountain line, cutting across the center of Scotland to separate her highlands from her border regions.”
    “How long will we be in the valley?” she inquired.
    “We shall be out of the valley by day after tomorrow. Watch the terrain. It will change as we get closer.”
    Laurel had already noticed that the red sandstone and limestone that were characteristic of her homeland and the border lands were changing. As they rode on, the red sandstone remained, but it was now sprinkled with an unusual dense, dark-gray, fine-grained rock that was peppered with holes. She remembered her grandfather explaining its features were caused by the cooling of melted rock. Even now, it was difficult for Laurel to conceive rock so hot that it melted and then changed form after it cooled.
    After their noon break, they proceeded north entering Clyde valley, which cut across the southern middle of Scotland. It was a beautiful combination of riverine and gorgeous ash and elm woodlands that were extensively covered with lush ground flora. Laurel had never seen the like.
    She could feel Conor relax some and knew they must be in friendly territory once again. It was amazing how he was able to tell just by his surroundings exactly where he was in relation to his friends and enemies. After riding with him all day yesterday and now today, she could sense when they were on friendly land and able to speak.
    “Clyde said that all the McTiernays were traveling home with the exception of Colin. Who is he? Will he be returning soon?”
    “Colin is the second McTiernay and, in answer to your other question, no, he will be staying with his new wife’s family, helping out with their guard and eventually becoming their laird.”
    “Isn’t it unusual for a husband to assume the role of laird in a clan?”
    “Sometimes. But, in this case, Deirdre Dunstan was the eldest of Dunstan’s children—all girls.”
    “Similar to the McTiernays—all boys,” Laurel said and smiled, looking ahead.
    “Similar, but no. Without boys to become laird, someone must fight for the title. In Dunstan’s case, his clan is small but strong. If Colin becomes laird, the alliance among our clans will be near unbreakable.”
    “Because you are brothers,” she tried to understand.
    “Because Colin is strong, skilled, capable and most important, trustworthy.”
    “Ah, he will be loyal.”
    “He is my brother.” Laurel silently shook her head, amused at his circular logic.
    They rode a little further, and Laurel gathered her nerve to ask a personal question.
    “Why haven’t you married?”
    Conor unconsciously raised his shoulders in a shrug. “I have no reason to search for a good match.”
    “A good match?” Laurel asked, confused.
    “I have no need to marry. I have alliances with the clans I want to be united with. My brothers will continue the McTiernay line and as for physical…well, that requires no contract of commitment.”
    They rode on, each absorbed in private thoughts. Laurel had enjoyed the conversation with him up until hearing his opinion on the three reasons why men marry women. He thought a man and a woman only married due to some external need. What about love, affection, and friendship?
    Conor sensed her stiffen in reaction to what he had said, but she did not contradict him. Maybe she understood and agreed with him. But, then again, a lady usually wanted babies, a family and companionship. And these things were not possible without marriage. He was not sure how he felt about such things himself, now that he had met her. The concept of marriage was still not pleasant, but the idea of having a family with Laurel sounded surprisingly appealing.

Chapter Three

    That night, Conor made camp in a very small clearing that was not located near a water source. Laurel was surprised by