Dreamer (Highland Treasure Trilogy) (40 page)

As he did, a gypsy band came to
life across the way, their tambourines and bells and flashing-eyed women
immediately drawing the gazes of the Sinclair warriors.

The Highlander seized his chance.
With a silencing look at the merchant, William reached out, grabbed the
startled woman by the wrist, and dragged her in one quick motion into the alleyway.

“I am a friend!” he whispered
against her ear.

Covering her mouth with his hand
nonetheless, William took her around the waist with his other and speedily
backed along the alley. As they reached the low wall at the end, the Ross
turned and released the squirming woman, setting her back on her feet and
turning her to face him. Her hood was pulled forward, and a lock of thick black
hair had tumbled out across her eyes.

“We’ve only a moment before they
discover you’re missing. But I’ve horses waiting beyond that stand of trees.
You’re safe now.” The Englishwoman was clearly stunned. The corner of his mouth
turned up in a half smile. “You’ve nothing to fear. You’ve been rescued.”

The woman’s eyes swept
questioningly over him, focusing on the coin that he suddenly pulled from his
leather belt. The Tudor rose flashed in the sunlight.

“I’ve no time now to explain. If
we’re to get you out of Fearnoch, we’ll have to--”

William Ross’s words died on his
tongue as the woman’s full-throated scream--loud enough to be heard in Edinburgh--cut like a sword through the crisp winter air.

Read more:
Enchantress