Eilean Donan Castle: IonaIona checked behind her to ensure her father wasn't coming, then asked what was on her mind.She looked at her mother. "So, how's it going?" Iona asked her.Fiona frowned. "How's it going what, my child?""Your life here in the castle," She opened her hands wide, gesturing towards the space around her.Fiona's eyes widened as she clutched her chest. "What do you know, Iona?"Iona tilted her head to the side. "I mean, how is your life going here without having that fool, Skye, around? What did you mean, Mother?" she asked, taking a step closer and looking at her straight in the eyes."I will explain, but let's wait for your father to arrive. In the meantime, I can answer your question. If she were here, she could make herself useful. Although, if it weren't for her, nothing would have happened, and now it won't-""What are you mumbling, Mother? I cannot understand anything that you're saying."Fiona looked at her daughter- her pursed lips and arms crossed over

Skye quickly found a dress that she thought was suitable for the occasion - breakfast with royalty. She promptly put it on, slipped into her boots, went to her dressing table, picked up her brush, and quickly combed her hair. There was no time to fuss with her hair, so she didn't bother. After one last look in the mirror, she straightened her dress and headed for the door.She spotted Hector leaning against the corridor wall opposite her chamber's door.As she gazed at him, she pursed her lips together, unable to tolerate his irresponsible behavior. "What if we're questioned?" she wondered. How would they justify their delay? They would keep the truth private. Skye needed a believable excuse.On the contrary, Hector appeared unfazed by the situation. He was fixated on Skye's appearance, his eyes sparkling as he scanned her from head to toe."You look beautiful. Loose hair suits you," he told her.She glared at him. "What's important is that I'm ready. Shall we go?"Hector ignored that

Skye rushed towards the stables to catch up with Hector and Lennox.A while ago, Hector sent a maid to Skye's chamber to inform her that they were leaving. Skye pretended to have a headache and did not go see them off. Although she understood Hector's desire to accompany Lennox to ensure his safety, she was angry with him for leaving her alone. Nevertheless, she accepted that Lennox needed Hector's help more.Skye had a change of heart two minutes later and quickly ran, hoping to catch up with them.Entering the stable, she saw them and stopped short. They were saddling the horses and chatting in low voices.Skye inhaled a sweet, grassy aroma mixed with the scent of leather from the saddles and bridles. She took a deep breath, enjoying the freshness of the air. It might have been the first time she had experienced such a clean and refreshing smell in a stable.Her attention shifted back to the two men, and she stared at them, trying to figure out what was different about them. It took

Hector leaned his back against the wall behind him. He gasped for air, his chest heaving. His hands trembled, sweat mixed with blood dripping from his palms. His father was right.He scanned the area but found no suitable cloth to wipe his hands. There was no time to waste; thus, he opened his woollen tunic and used his shirt to clean his hands.He straightened his clothes and ran his hands through his messy hair.He walked steadily towards Skye's chamber. The guard standing outside the door bowed as soon as he saw him.Hector stood in front of the closed door."Who is inside?" he asked the guard."Miss Talisha and the girl you brought from your wife's uncle's castle. I am sorry, but I don't remember her name."Hector nodded with understanding. "It's okay. Thank you." he replied and knocked on the door.The door opened, and Talisha poked her head out.She smiled widely. "Hector, you came! I expected you to come sooner.""I had something else to do first."Talisha raised her eyebrows a

Hector was lost in his dark thoughts when a knock on the door interrupted his misery.The uninvited visitor didn't wait for Hector's permission to enter. She opened the door and entered.Hector remained in the same position - sitting in the armchair with his head bowed. He identified the person responsible for the footsteps he heard on the floor."My dear, Hector," Talisha said when she reached him. She leaned over and hugged him, placing her hands on his shoulders."I'm so sorry," she told him.Hector shook his head. "Me too," he answered. "How is she?"Talisha sat in the armchair beside Hector, studying his profile as he kept his head lowered. Her heart melted in pain. "I came to see you because I know you're in pain. You asked about Skye, though. You love her that much?"Hector nodded and said, "I love her more than anything. I would give my life for her."She tenderly rubbed his arm. "Skye is so lucky. The truth is that she is not better. She requested to take a bath and is now as