Highland Heather - Highland Heather Part 19
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Highland Heather Part 19

"I do not break easily." Brenna's throat felt parched. Her lids fluttered. Into her line of vision swam an unusual woman's face.

Large, sensuous lips parted in a friendly smile. Almond eyes studied Brenna with concern.

"Ah. You are awake. You fainted, cherie."

Brenna struggled to sit up.

"Impossible. I have never

The queen could not resist a quick smile.

"All in good time, my lord."

"You mean" -- Brenna's voice was choked with rage "--I have no voice in my own destiny? I cannot return to my home? I must remain this man's captive?"

Morgan gave her an indulgent smile.

"It seems you are fated to remain under my--protected care."

"Aye," the queen said quickly.

"Take her and good riddance. Set her up in one of your households, Morgan, until I am able to arrange a suitable marriage."

Brenna heard no more. She felt the blood rush from her head, leaving her ashen. The queen's words faded until they were only a slight buzzing in her ears. The room began to spin in a dizzying rush. And as she slid to the floor, a soothing black mantle settled over her.

Chapter Seven

JVlon Dieu. Did you not give this poor child anything to eat during her journey to England? "

Brenna felt the press of a cool, damp cloth against her forehead and struggled to open her eyes.

Morgan's voice, deep with concern, was very near.

"I tried to feed her. The damned female refused all offers of food."

"And did you allow her to rest, mon cher?"

"Rest? I am a soldier, on a mission for my queen. I expected her to keep up."

Brenna heard the queen's voice, low, regal.

"Was she not given even a moment's privacy?"

"I foolishly offered her privacy. But only once. She bolted and tried to run home to Scotland. My men and I were forced to waste precious time chasing after her again. I tell you, the woman needs a firm hand."

"Be careful, Morgan Grey," the gentle French voice said, "that your firm hand does not break her into little pieces."

"I do not break easily." Brenna's throat felt parched. Her lids fluttered. Into her line of vision swam an unusual woman's face.

Large, sensuous lips parted in a friendly smile. Almond eyes studied Brenna with concern.

"Ah. You are awake. You fainted, cherie."

Brenna struggled to sit up.

"Impossible. I have never fainted." The very thought of such a weakness was repugnant to her.

The woman placed her hand gently on Brenna's shoulder and forced her to lie still.

"That may be so. But I have known a great many people who react violently to strange circumstances. Even the strongest woman must give in to the demands of her body, cherie."

"Who are you?"

"I am Madeline d'Arbeville, Duchess of Eton. And I am told that you are Brenna MacAlpin, leader of a Borderer clan in Scotland."

"Aye." Brenna gave her a grateful smile.

"Thank you for your kindness.

Where am I? " She glanced around at the sumptuous bed hangings.

"You are in my chambers." The queen leaned close.

In the queen's own bed!

"Majesty, I did not mean to create such a disturbance. Forgive me for my weakness," Brenna whispered.

Again she struggled to sit up. This time it was Morgan who restrained her.

"Rest a while longer." His tone was gentler than he'd intended.

"Aye." The queen gave a conspiratorial smile.

"Your little spell gave me the perfect opportunity to dismiss the court and free myself of all duties for the rest of the day. A rare thing indeed. Now," she said, linking her arm through Morgan's, "perhaps I can spend some time with you, dear rogue. We have much to discuss."

Morgan turned toward the figure in the bed. His eyes narrowed as he studied her carefully, noting with satisfaction that the color was returning to her cheeks.

"You will stay with Brenna, Madeline?"

"Oui. It will give us a chance to become acquainted."

Brenna watched as Morgan and the queen retired to a small alcove.

Instantly a servant approached the two with goblets;? of wine. When the servant left, the queen and her loyal soldier bent their heads close in intimate conversation. Thougha they kept their voices low, Brenna was aware of the tension'.

in their tones. Whatever was being discussed, it was obviously of utmost importance.

"Would you like to tell me about yourself?" Madeline asked softly.