“There was no opportunity to see it done before you came here to Scotland,” Snow suggested. “And once here, it would take planning and travel, getting to know the area. Or sending someone with you to grow familiar with the area.”

“Hence, the one among us who knows the truth,” Tarass said. “That would mean I could eliminate those who joined me once I arrived here.”

Snow poked him in the chest. “That would mean you’re in danger and need to take precautions.”

“As do you, since your family now as well,” he said, angry that he had placed her in danger by marrying her.

“I don’t believe so,” Snow said. “This person wanted your family dead before I came along.”

“Which would have basically ended the MacFiere lineage, not so now that we’re wed and you carry my child.” The realization flared his anger.

Snow couldn’t argue with that premise. “Then we both need to be cautious and see that the culprit among us is caught soon.” Her stomach grumbled.

“You need to eat,” Tarass said, another grumble from her stomach confirming it for him.

“I would prefer to slip under the blankets with you and have you slip inside me, but I’m famished… for food this time,” Snow admitted with some disappointment.

Tarass chuckled. “It’s cold and gray outside. We can return here later and spend time warming each other.”

“I can’t wait,” she said.

Mid-day found Snow walking through the village with Nettle and Thaw, her husband busy talking with Rannock in regard to the sentinels that patrolled the village. They came upon Runa leaving Helga’s cottage.

“How does Helga’s new bairn do, Runa?” Nettle asked, letting Snow know who she spoke to.

Snow looked at the woman, fuzzy, but at least not a blur. Her face wasn’t clear, but her blonde hair was bright enough to see the color.

“The little lassie does well and Helga’s thrilled she has a daughter after having two lads,” Runa said and looked to Snow. “And how are you feeling, Lady Snow? Rumors say you’re with child.”

“Time will tell,” Snow said, not ready to confirm anything yet.

“Nettle!”

The three women turned at Nettle’s name being called out.

“It’s Helga’s husband, John,” Nettle said to let Snow know who approached.

“I know who you should be talking to about bringing harm to our clan,” John said, stopping by Nettle. “Fasta, that’s who. She’s a liar and cares not who she harms with her lies.”

“What has she lied about?” Snow asked well aware the woman had a penchant for lying.