“As it is, because you are you,” Fiona said, “you will help me and the Duke to find happiness.”
For a moment the Earl did not speak, then he gave a deep sigh before he admitted,
“All right! You win! It is just my accursed luck to play the supporting role instead of the lead!”
“Thank you,” Fiona said simply.
Then she looked at the clock.
“It is time for me to waken Mary-Rose after her rest.”
“Which I suppose is a gentle hint that I can get myself lost,” the Earl sighed. “What are you going to do?”
“We are going fishing.”
“Can I come with you?”
“I would like you to, but I think it would be a mistake. I am quite sure that, when the Duke has finished with the Clansmen, he will want you with him.”
“If you go on at me like this,” the Earl threatened, “I shall return to my own castle an
