Caelen lifted an eyebrow in surprise and then exchanged glances with Alaric. Neither of the brothers had expected such. It was evident from the McDonalds’ earlier visits that there was tension between father and daughter, but they weren’t prepared for Rionna’s emotionless dictate.

“ ’Tis settled then,” the king said. “ ’Twould appear we have a wedding to attend after all.”

Chapter 39

CHAPTER 39

Alaric met Caelen just as Alaric was about to enter Keeley’s bedchamber. “Give her my love and tell her I never doubted her for a second,” Caelen said with faint amusement.

“I will. And Caelen, thank you. I don’t even know what to say. That you would step in like that for me and for Keeley. Neither of us can ever hope to repay you.”

Caelen smiled. “I learned a lot from your lass, Alaric. I’ve never met someone as fiercely loyal and selfless as her. She refused to allow me to tell you of McDonald’s attack because she knew what you would do and she worried it would ruin the marriage between you and Rionna. She knew how much this alliance meant to our clan, and since she considers the McCabes her family now, she was willing to put aside her own personal wants and desires to do what she thought was best for her family. How could I do anything less?”

“Have a care with Rionna,” Alaric warned. “Mairin worried that I’d be too hard on her, and if she worried that about me, I can only imagine her fears of how you’ll be.”

Caelen snorted.

“Mairin seems to think we all want to handle her with a strong hand and crush the part of her that makes her special.” Alaric shrugged. “I have no idea what she means, but there you have it. I’m sure it has something to do with the fact that she goes around in man’s clothing and can wield a sword and ride a horse better than most warriors.”

“She’ll do as I tell her,” Caelen said lazily.

“I wish now I was there to witness it.”

“Go now and see your lady. Your wife,” Caelen amended.

Alaric clapped Caelen on the shoulder and then entered Keeley’s chamber. To his surprise, Gannon sat on the bed next to Keeley, wiping her brow with a damp cloth.

He nearly laughed. Keeley had made conquests of them all. It wouldn’t surprise him if the whole of the clan took a turn caring for Keeley.

Gannon looked up and saw Alaric. “Maddie took Mairin down so she could nurse the babe. I was to care for her until one of you returned.”

Alaric nodded then motioned for Gannon to get up. “How is she? Has she been conscious?”