we were better.” Nicholas growled, closing his eyes. Anguish colored his voice. “I had to leave, yet then found myself in same fight here. We fight Edward for what is ours, for our way of life. We are Highlanders; the English do not belong here.” Mary touched the locket. “So this is to remind you of that.” “Somewhat,” he agreed. The locket was a gift of life, a reminder not to throw it away in a useless endeavor. “Did you love her?” Nicholas drew Mary’s head to his chest. Had he? Mina was beautiful in her own way, marked by hardship and abuse, she had not been pretty but her heart had been true. “No, but I did care for her.” “Did she live?” “Aye, when I left, but cannot say after.” He had ridden away full of guilt, leaving her alone to face certain punishment for allowing him to go free. She had had a courage few could match. “We will be fine, you know.” Nicholas kissed her brow, smiling. Perhaps here was another with such courage. “Indeed.”