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boldly.
    The two men studied each other, taking measure. Perhaps Bryan had found an ally, someone who would protect the lady with his life. Satisfied that the man’s belligerence was properly motivated, Bryan nodded and said, “As I would expect you to do, Fergus.”
    Bryan saw the man’s shoulders relax and the woman’s dawning realization that he was praising Fergus, encouraging him. “However, it would be unwise to challenge me again.”
    â€œAye, my laird,” Fergus said as he sketched a bow, still wary but with a show of grudging respect.
    Bryan looked to the lady whose emotions played clearly on her beautiful face. She obviously had great affection for this Fergus, and her relief that the two of them settled their differences peaceably showed plainly. She dipped her head in unspoken acknowledgment, and without giving it a second thought, Bryan silently pledged himself to her protection.
    BLACK BRYAN’S COAL BLACK HAIR shone in the sun, and Kathryn swallowed the lump of fear in her throat. Although his treatment of Fergus gave her hope that he would prove to be a man of honor, she didn’t trust him. Sir Bryan’s reputation as a fierce fighter and his unwavering loyalty to his king were renowned, and Kathryn feared he would not keep his word to her, might still consider her his enemy. She stared at the man’s impassive face and prayed. Lord, what have I done?
    Fergus said nothing, leaving Kathryn to further doubt the wisdom of her decision. Afraid to move or breathe, she was determined to maintain a tight rein on her clattering emotions. The warrior’s angry dark eyes, rimmed with thick black lashes, transfixed her.
    Somehow she managed to step forward and say, “I am Kathryn de Lindsay, Countess of Homelea.” Sir Bryan brushed her hand lightly with his lips, and she withdrew from his touch as quickly as courtesy would permit. The man was huge and well armed with weapons.
    â€œMy lady, you are injured.”
    With surprise, she noted the concern in his voice. “It is nothing, my laird. I will attend it shortly.”
    His dispassionate features hid his emotions. “As you will. You were wise to allow me entrance, Lady Kathryn. You and yours are now under my protection. Robert the Bruce sends you his warmest regards.”
    â€œKing Robert is most kind to send such an esteemed knight to convey his regards and offer protection.” Kathryn nodded in Rodney’s direction. “However, Lord Carleton has made the same offer on behalf of King Edward.”
    The knight glanced to where Rodney stood captive, then offered her his arm as they walked toward the nobleman. “Did you take insult at the offer?”
    She was considered tall for a woman yet she felt small walking beside the knight. “King Edward would betroth me to him.”
    The man stopped walking, turned to face her, and frowned. “He speaks the truth, then. Your men are holding your betrothed at bay? What mischief is this?”
    The coldness in his voice made her want to retreat from him, but she would not allow him to intimidate her. Because, despite her fear, Kathryn knew she must place her trust in this knight. He stood between her and Rodney here in the bailey. And she needed him to remain as a protective shield against Rodney’s greed and whatever else drove him to covet Homelea. “I do not wish to marry him. I accept your offer of protection most gratefully.”
    She cringed when he lightly cupped her cheek with his gloved hand to inspect the damage Rodney had inflicted, but his touch was more gentle than she expected. “I can understand your dislike of Carleton.” With quiet intensity, the knight dropped his hand to his sword hilt, bent his head to gaze directly into her eyes, and quietly vowed, “He will not harm you again. You need not fear.”
    Staring into his cold, dark eyes, she trembled with apprehension. “And should I not fear you,