“You need to rest that leg and have Nettle apply the poultice,” Tarass said, returning to his wife’s side.

“I’m staying here,” Snow said, striking a stubborn pose by folding her arms across her chest.

“You’re not going to win this one, ást,” Tarass said.

“I’m not going anywhere,” she said, sounding even more stubborn.

Tarass chuckled and scooped her up in his arms so fast she yelped in shock, her arms going quick around his neck.

“You’re safe in my arms,” he reminded and kissed her softly, then walked to the door. “You know I’ll tell you everything.”

“Depending on what he says, I may have questions for him,” she argued though less stubbornly.

“We think the same, wife. I’m sure our questions would be the same,” Tarass assured her.

Snow grew quiet, surprising Tarass. He thought for sure she’d bombard him with questions until they reached their bedchamber.

“What disturbs you, wife?” he asked, concerned.

“Thoughts of Fay and how terrible and frightening it must have been for her. And how horrible for Twilla to lose her son. Was he her only child?”

“I don’t know. I didn’t even know she had a son. I never heard anyone mention him, not even Twilla. I understand why that might be. Losing an only child must have been beyond heartbreaking. She is the only one left here of the original Clan MacFiere. My da did tell me to trust her beyond all others, that she knew all the clan secrets. Though, I’m grateful she didn’t keep this secret.”

Tarass entered their bedchamber. “Thaw must be worn out. He’s already asleep by the hearth, and Nettle waits with a pleasant smile.”

Snow had noticed that her husband painted pictures with words for her lately, just as Nettle did. And she loved him all the more for taking the time and being patient so she could see through his eyes. She hoped and prayed with all her heart that her sight would continue to improve so that she could one day see him clearly and also be able to see the many bairns they would have together.

He placed her on the bed, kissed her, and ordered, “Stay put and be good.”

She smiled. “I’ll try.”

Tarass turned to Nettle. “If my wife attempts to leave this room before I return, send Thaw to fetch me.”

“Aye, my lord,” Nettle said with a smile and got to work on Lady Snow’s knee as soon as Lord Tarass left the room.

Lord Polwarth was waiting along with Rannock when Tarass entered his solar. With a nod from Tarass, Rannock left.

“Sit,” Tarass offered and filled two tankards with ale that waited on a sideboard along with a full pitcher. He handed one to Lord Polwarth and took a seat in a chair opposite the man.