Page 34 of The Eagle

For a moment he was confused. His lands were a day’s ride to the northwest. He’d not had time to return since the first time he’d gone there several months earlier. For whatever reason, his father had ignored that region for years and the people were accustomed to it. If anything, they were probably the ones who needed leadership the least.

“They are independent and will be resistant to anyone coming to bring them under any control.”

“They are Clan Ross and must be loyal to me and our family. I have had reports they are going through a trying time. Apparently, the constable is overstepping in his authority. They need ye, Stuart.”

He let out a long breath. “So, I have failed them as well.”

“If anyone failed them it was me. So much has happened that I’ve barely had time to take care of those who need us. I have kept ye away from them for too long. Do as I say and stop making it about ye.”

The words sunk in, and Stuart straightened. “Ye are right.”

“Be sure to take enough seed, livestock, and whatever ye think is needed to settle there. Ye have a lot of work to do to prepare. I suggest ye get started.”

For the first time in a long time, Stuart was filled with anticipation of what was to come. “I will ask to see who wishes to go with me. I can find farmers and men from the village once I’m there to help with all that is required, but first, I will need to have people alongside me that I can trust. Can I take six men with me?”

“Take as many as ye think are required. Give them the option of remaining or returning if they do not like it.”

Darach pulled the map of Ross lands and spread it across the desk in front of them. He then circled the lands Stuart was gifted upon becoming laird. “There is a loch and ye have the seashore not too far. Ensure the people are utilizing both for their needs.”

“Here.” He pointed to a specific spot. “There is a house here that with some repairs will be a good place for ye to live. There is another one in town.”

Stuart nodded his chest expanding at the thought that this had to be his purpose. “Thank ye, brother.”

“Ye may be cursing me after a few weeks of trying to bring those people and the land to heel.” Darach chuckled.

Walking out of the study, Stuart asked a servant about his mother and was told she and Isobel were in the parlor. He found the women sewing in quiet companionship.

“Mother,” he stated, getting her attention. “I just spoke to Darach. I have decided to go and live on my lands.”

His mother’s lips curved, but her gaze was sad. “I do not wish for ye to leave. Why do ye feel the need to?”

“I am needed there more than here. My lands and people are not faring well.”

“Do ye wish for Cait and I to go with ye?”

At the mention of the maid’s name, his stomach tumbled. “The house is not habitable yet. Ye can come once I settle, and all is as it should be.”

“Are ye to marry then, before leaving?” Isobel asked. “Lila Maclean is set to arrive soon, and we should have a good reason for turning her away.”

Stuart blew out a breath. “At this time, I do not wish to marry the maid or anyone else for that matter. I have much to do. I care little what Lila Maclean, or her brother are told.”

At Isobel’s wide gaze locked to a place past him, Stuart turned to see Cait standing in the doorway with a tray, looking pale as a ghost.

Somehow, she managed to hold her head high as she walked in. The tray shook just enough to alert those in the room that she was doing her best to keep her emotions under control.

Everyone was silent, except his mother. “Thank ye, Cait. How is yer hand? Ye should be resting.”

“I am well enough to do my tasks,” Cait said. “I prefer to work and take care of my family rather than expect anyone else to do so. I will be going home for a pair of days. Greer has allowed it.”

Isobel nodded. “Aye, of course. Take as long as ye need.”

Head bowed, she brushed past him and left.

His mother stood. “Ye are an idiot.” She walked out behind Cait leaving only him and a glaring Isobel.

“Why did ye say that?” Isobel demanded. “Ye have made us all believe ye are interested in Cait. I cannot believe ye were so cruel.”

“Do not walk out.” Stuart moved sideways to block Isobel from leaving.