“You already have that, though there is something I can give you.” She took his hand and placed it on her stomach.

He looked at her oddly then his eyes turned wide. “Truly?”

“Aye,” she said.

He pressed his hand protectively over her stomach. “I don’t think I could be any happier than at this moment.”

Willow grinned. “I think I can make you happier.”

Slatter chuckled and lifted her as he stood. “Let’s see you try.”

They went down together on the bed and made each other both very very happy.

Chapter 29

Two weeks later

Chaos reigned in the village. Slatter’s people had arrived and what was left of Beck’s people had arrived two days ago, having been given a choice of remaining with Tarass’s clan or residing with Slatter. They had all chosen to stay with Slatter.

Gray skies and cold weather promised a winter storm. They had to get everyone settled fast. They didn’t need any interruptions, which was why Willow got annoyed when Tarass arrived with a troop of his warriors.

Willow sent Eleanor to alert Snow to Tarass’s arrival, but Snow was a distance away, Thaw busy playing with some children so she didn’t think there’d be a problem. At least she hoped not.

James came forward to greet Tarass.

“I want to talk with Slatter and Willow. I have a proposal for them,” he said after dismounting.

James waved Slatter and Willow over.

Tarass didn’t give James a chance to explain. “In appreciation for seeing Rhodes killer caught and the other information you provided me with, I’d like to offer you and Willow a keep of your own where you can start your own clan with your people. Of course, I’d expect you to pledge your allegiance to me like the old laird had.”

“Where is this keep?” Slatter asked, knowing his wife would not want to be far from her sister.

“The McHenry keep—”

“A short ride from here,” Willow said, turning to her husband with a smile. “It’s a small keep, but the fields are fertile and the woods that surround it teem with healing herbs.”

“I brought a troop with me to help move your people there today. I prefer the few people who remain there not be alone through the winter. So what say you?”

“It’s up to my wife,” Slatter said.

Willow looked ready to say, aye, when she caught sight of her sister.

“Go talk with her,” Slatter said when he saw his wife’s smile fade.

Tarass shook his head. “It’s your decision not hers.”

Slatter laughed. “I can’t wait until you wed.”

“My wife will obey me,” Tarass said as if there was no other option.

Slatter laughed harder. “We’ll see about that.”

Tarass turned to James. “A moment with Slatter.”

James nodded and walked off.

“This offer is because of what you gave me,” Tarass said.

“I didn’t give you anything. I simply alerted you to the fact that MacBlair land was ripe for someone to claim it.”