Kill or Be Kilt Read Online Free PDF Page A

provoked her sudden flare of temper, but between Uncle Walter, Grace, and the unexplained emotions raging within her about Ian, her voice became laced with sarcasm. “It’s getting late and past the bedtime for a young lass.”
    Ian flew to his feet. For such a large man, he moved faster than she would’ve expected. He loomed over her and grabbed her arm to stay her. “Wait. That’s nae what I meant.”
    There was a heavy silence.
    â€œThen what did you mean?” When he didn’t respond and released his grip, she met his gaze. “Have a pleasant evening, Laird Munro.” She turned on her heel and did not look back. As she walked away, she almost laughed at the irony. That’s what she should’ve done years ago. At least now she was determined to leave the past where it belonged.
    She was traveling home to England, and that’s where her future lie.

Three
    London, England
    Elizabeth sat in lonely silence in the carriage across from Fagan and Grace. Her brother-in-law rubbed his thumb back and forth over her sister’s fingers, and neither one spoke. Elizabeth hadn’t even realized they’d arrived at the manor house until Fagan stepped down from the coach. He extended his hand for Grace, but she hesitated and gazed at Elizabeth.
    â€œYou haven’t said a word since we left Uncle Walter’s grave. Are you all right?”
    â€œI’m fine,” said Elizabeth in a solemn tone. “Your husband is waiting.”
    â€œFagan can wait. You know that you can talk to me about anything. We’re sisters.” Grace continued to study her. “I do recognize that seeing Uncle Walter’s grave wasn’t easy for any of us, but it’s not good to keep your feelings locked away. We’re here for you. We’re all here for each other. That’s what family is for.”
    Elizabeth made no attempt to mask her foul mood when a pain squeezed her heart at the mention of Uncle Walter. In truth, she didn’t want to talk because her sense of loss was now beyond tears. She felt numb, inside and out. Since her sister wasn’t moving her buttocks from the seat, Elizabeth leaned forward and grasped Fagan’s hand. When she stepped out of the carriage, she smiled her thanks and walked to the front door without them.
    Scadbury Manor was a pleasing sight with its drawbridge, gatehouse, walled gardens, and cobblestone courtyard. The Walsinghams had occupied the moated residence since 1424—at least until Ravenna had moved the remaining family to Scotland. Located on the eastern edge of Chislehurst, the manor had eight bedchambers that overlooked the valley of the River Cray, and Elizabeth welcomed the change of venue. Furthermore, even though there were no armed guards walking the walls as she’d been used to, she felt safe being back at home.
    She opened the heavy, wooden door of the house she grew up in. A similar feeling had washed over her yesterday when she’d reached for the same latch, once again returning to her childhood residence. She felt as if whatever was missing from her life was instantly filled with a sense of peace and familiarity.
    Ravenna, Ruairi, Kat, Torquil, and Ian sat in the great hall as Elizabeth gave pause at the entry. She could only imagine what her mother and father would’ve said about all the kilted men sitting around the family table waiting to sup. And God only knew what her parents would’ve thought about two of their daughters marrying these burly Highlanders.
    Ravenna stood and approached Elizabeth. “How are you?”
    â€œI’m weary.” Elizabeth smiled blandly. “Pray excuse me. I think I’ll just retire to my chamber early.” She started to turn away when her sister stayed her.
    â€œI will hear nothing of it. Mary is the only one who is napping. You’ll come and take your place at the table with the rest of the family. We need each other now more than