15

When we arrived at Doune Castle I was exhausted. Murtagh helped me off the horse taking me inside. Colum was in the throne room and stood when seeing me. "Iris dear it pains me what my nephew has done. I promise you we will not turn you or your boy away." He said hugging me then looked at Alasdair. "Lord Makenzie might I make a suggestion?" It was Murtagh voice that caught our attention. "Go no Murtagh what is it." Calum said though I had a suspicion on the subject. "The lass needs to be wed and the boy needs a name. I would be honored to be her husband. I would raise the the boy as my own." He said I have no doubt its the truth. "Iris you need protection for yourself and the boy. I don't have a lot of land or money. I have a lot of love willing to give to you." He said getting on his knees before me. "It's a fine offer Lass not many men like him left." I understood my situation was bleak and not many options. With a sigh of defeat I accepted the proposal. The weeks that passed were full of celebration and planning. The maids helped me with my dress. It was White with grey lace and blue embroidery. "I am happy the man is finally settling down. I know you wished it were Jamie but you have a good man in Murtagh." Mrs.Fitz said wanting to tear up at the sight of me. "You look like a fine bride Iris and Murtagh is a lucky man." She said hugging me crying. I hug her not wanting her to cry. She pulled away collecting herself. "Ok we know it fits fine just a few adjustments needs to be taken care of." She said helping me out of it. "Calum is wanting for ya in the main hall. I will let him know you are coming." She said before leaving. Once I was redressed I walked to the main hall. Calum was holding Alistair talking to him. "I'm have happy my son is in good company." I said making him look at me with a boyish grin. "Ah the boy is a pleasure to talk to. Now we need to talk about dates for the wedding." I knew this was coming but didn't think it would be this fast. "soon as possible Calum the longer we wait ,the easier it will be for Jamie to come and take him. I don't want that to happen." I said knowing it was the only way to keep my boy safe.