Chapter Forty-Four
Lennox
Lennox lay beside his wife in the middle of the night, taking in her long lashes, the few freckles on her nose, her slender fingers wrapped in his hand.
Hell, but he’d never expected this.
She opened her eyes, a heavy-lidded gaze, and smiled. “What are you thinking?”
He played with her fingers, shaking his head. “That I never thought it possible.”
She frowned, arching a brow at him.
“I never thought it possible to love someone as much, as thoroughly, as I love you. I want you by my side when I awaken in the morning, and in the same spot next to me at night. You took me by surprise, as subtle as a bolt of lightning in a night sky. And it’s not just for the intimate parts either. I love discussing things with you because you give me insight I’ve never had before.” He leaned over and kissed her lips as tenderly as he could. “I am forever grateful that you have accepted me as your husband.”
“And I am excited to see what our life together will bring us, Lennox. I look forward to every day we have together. I pray we are blessed with many bairns and much happiness.”
He heard an odd sound, and Meg lifted her head as though she’d heard it too. “What is it, Lennox?”
“It’s my mother. She climbs up to the parapets on many nights. She thinks my father can hear her when she’s closer to heaven.”
“Go talk with her. Make sure she doesn’t fall on those steps.”
Lennox said, “She’s done it enough times that I’m sure she won’t fall.”
“But go speak with her. She probably missed your father more today than any other day.”
“You don’t mind?”
“Nay. I’ll close my eyes for a bit. You did wear me out, husband.”
“Um, I think you wore me out, Meg.” He gave her bottom a soft caress before getting out of bed and donning his plaid, folding it quickly. “I won’t be long.”
He headed down the passageway and up the stairs to the parapets, opening the door to find his mother seated on her stool. “Mama, you are hale?”
“More than hale, Lennox. It was a lovely day, a lovely ceremony, and you have a beautiful bride. You chose well.”
“I did. I needed to find her on my own.”
“You probably wouldn’t have found her if I hadn’t given you that nudge.”
Lennox rolled his eyes. He knew the nudge had nothing to do with his finding Meg, but if she wished to think so, he’d allow it. “Anytime I find a lass protecting four bairns with an axe over her head, she’d have my attention, Mother.”
“Oh, I suppose you are right. I am just pleased it has finally happened.”
“Were you talking with Da?”
She gave him an exasperated look. “You know I do.”
“But you don’t need his help for me anymore, do you?”
“Of course not.”
“Then what brings you here?”
His mother tipped her head back, crossed her arms, and looked at the stars overhead. “I was just discussing my next endeavor.”
“Your next endeavor? Or should I ask who your next endeavor is?”
“I’ve just made up my mind. Taskill isn’t done with his flirting yet. It’s your sister. I have to find a husband for Eva.”
“Good for you.” He leaned over and kissed his mother’s cheek. “Then I’ll leave you to discuss it with Da.”
Lennox couldn’t wait to tell his sister about that statement.
Or perhaps he wouldn’t tell her at all.