Maddie reached to trail her fingers down the locks of Keeley’s hair in a soothing manner. “ ’Tis hard when the heart must be denied. I don’t have words to tend the hurt. I wish I did. But you are a good lass, Keeley. You mustn’t allow the ills done to you in the past to influence you now. You aren’t a whore. You have a good and loyal heart. The McCabes are fortunate to have you.”

Keeley threw herself in Maddie’s arms and hugged the other woman fiercely. “Thank you, Maddie. ’Tis the truth I’ve never had dearer friends than you and the other women of the keep. I’ll never forget your kindness—or your understanding.”

Maddie stroked Keeley’s hair and returned her hug. “Gannon has told the others that you’re tired and ailing. We all agree you’ve done much in your time here. Why don’t I go down and ask Gertie to send up something to eat. I’ll come sit with you if you like, but you should go to bed and have a long rest.”

Keeley nodded and slowly pulled away. “I’d like that. ’Tis the truth I’m tired and sick at heart. I haven’t the strength to smile this day and pretend naught is the matter.”

Maddie patted her hand. “Hie yourself to bed and let me take care of the rest. Your secret ’tis safe with me. I’ll not even be telling Lady McCabe. ’Tis your concern who you share your affairs with.”

“Thank you,” Keeley said again.

Maddie rose and gestured toward the bed. “Go now. Make yourself comfortable. After a night of loving, I imagine your appetite ’tis monstrous.”

Keeley blushed and then laughed. “Aye, it is to be sure.”

Maddie smiled and exited the room, closing the door behind her. Keeley pulled on her nightdress and then burrowed under the covers. It was a cold day and her chamber had a chill despite the fire Gannon had thoughtfully tended.

As she waited for Maddie, she stared up at the ceiling, grateful she wouldn’t bear the day alone. Her heart already ached enough without the burden of solitude. Sometimes ’Twas best to share with a friend. She missed the friendship that she and Rionna used to share.

Keeley had lived a long time alone, but now that she’d found the companionship—and camaraderie—of other women, the idea of going back to the silent cottage was more than she could bear.

She wanted to be part of the McCabe clan. As painful as it would be, knowing Alaric was close but never to be hers. But she wasn’t willing to be a coward and flee to sulk and lick her wounds in solitude. She was tired of being alone.

She wanted to belong.