“Tarass’s da was beside himself when Haldana carried Tarass. She had miscarried two previous bairns and he feared they’d lose another, though he feared more that he’d lose her. It was a joyous occasion when Tarass was born and with more ease than expected. She miscarried twice after Tarass, then no more. They both had hoped for many bairns but fate thought differently.”

Snow couldn’t imagine the pain of losing a bairn before it even had a chance to be born. How difficult it must have been for Tarass’s mum.

“How did Tarass’s da meet Haldana?”

“At the market on a trading trip far north,” Twilla said. “Her people had come to trade as well and from what I’ve heard they fell in love at first sight. When you saw them together, you could see how much they loved each other. His da had been furious when he brought her home and announced he’d wed her, but she won the old lord over and even more so when she had Tarass. It meant the Clan MacFiere would live on, as it will in you and Tarass.”

“I pray for many bairns. I want our life filled with lots of love, laughter, and wonderful memories,” Snow said, keeping the thought strong in her heart.

“I have no doubt your prayers will be answered. You and Tarass will have what his parents had so hoped for and they will live in both of you and your children,” Twilla assured her as if she knew it was so.

Thaw’s bark outside the door brought a smile to Snow. “He’s come to fetch me home.”

“Aye, and home is where you are,” Twilla said and reached out to give Snow’s hand a squeeze.

Twilla opened the door as Snow stood and Thaw ran in, shook the snow off himself, and ran to plop down in front of the hearth.

“He looks to be alone,” Twilla said, taking a quick glance outside before shutting the door against the wind and light snow.

“I guess he wandered away from Nettle,” Snow said, knowing Thaw would be urging her to follow him if anything had happened to the young woman. “Nettle probably got lost in conversation with Rannock and doesn’t even know Thaw has deserted her.”

“The two are warming to each other. It won’t be long before they realize they were made for each other,” Twilla said.

Snow stood. “I have heard the yawns you’ve tried to hide. It is time for me to take my leave.”

“I’m old. I yawn all the time, and you can’t think to leave without Nettle,” Twilla said.

“Thaw will guide me home,” Snow said confidently and Thaw barked as if agreeing.

“You should wait,” Twilla urged.