Chapter 9 chapter eight

Jamie insists that they stay for dinner so that they can have a good reunion with Mina, but Kang Nuo insists on leaving. Aleigh didn't want to disappoint his wife, so he turned the invitation into an order and ended the argument. No one bothered to ask Mina what she was thinking.She was hungry, she always was, but she didn't want to eat in front of these relatives, because she wanted to impress them.She'd probably spill her drink or eat too much, and only God knows what they'll think of her then. When they were arguing whether to stay or not, she was already close to Connor, grabbing his hand unconsciously, and later, he wanted to break her hand away and planned to leave the hall with his brother.

The way he looked down at her made her think he was going to kiss her before leaving, which her father always did when he left his wife, and Mina was grateful for how considerate Connor had been, so she decided to strike out. He hadn't expected this.Before he realized her intentions, her lips were already kissed, and it took only a second or two for her to end the kiss. She damn well looked pretty content with herself. And he looked like he had just been struck by lightning. He didn't want to justify her behaviour, he found it odd that she didn't seem to know what was appropriate and what was not, and he had to admit he didn't care much about that either.

Can you let go of my hand now? She obediently let him go, clasped her hands behind her back. Aleksey had gone up the stairs and was staring at a tapestry on the fireplace.The look on his face was not happy at all.Thank God, his anger seemed to be directed at his wife. You thought I wouldn't notice, did you, Jamie?There was anger in his voice. Jamie seemed unimpressed.She frowned and said, Do you think I don't notice my dear William hanging in the stall? Kang Nuo nudged Wen Na, told her to stay out of trouble, and followed his brother out of the hall. Jie Mi explained to Mina that she was going to leave for a while, and I was going to explain the dinner to the chef, please don't be restrained when I leave.We'll be eating an hour earlier than usual so you can get home before dark.I'll be back soon.

Wen Na was left alone in the hall, and she hurriedly arranged her appearance to look presentable.She dusted her clothes, straightened the folds of her shawl, brushed her hair back, and pinched her cheeks to make herself look rosy. Unfortunately, she felt that all these efforts did not seem to improve her appearance. She wished she wasn't so nervous and unsure.She blames herself for her reaction to Kim Ah Yeol.God, her hands are still shaking now, God knows, she will have to sit at the same table with this man for dinner later. She doesn't want to draw any attention to herself.She decided that she couldn't make a mistake and say nothing they'd object to when they came to dinner, so she started there by listing topics she must never bring up.First she thought of England.Ale and Jamie would probably hate England as much as Connor did.Although she thought this idea was ignorant and stupid, she didn't intend to argue with them.

One topic after another sifted through her mind until she realized that the only safe topic was the weather.She wanted to be perfect, but knew it was impossible, and finally concluded that she just had to keep her mouth shut.She just needs to open her mouth and answer when someone asks a question. She must not sit next to Jamie, otherwise Connor and Ariel will easily see how ordinary she looks in comparison.Ariel's wife is even prettier than Rachel, and Wen Na never imagined that there would be someone prettier than Rachel. She hoped that they would think she was worthy of Connor. She didn't understand why she valued their approval so much, but if she could not be so nervous, she could figure out why.Before stepping into Ariel's house, she thought that a goat would be enough for Conor, but Ariel and Jamie never thought so.They were probably quite fond of their brother, and of course she hoped they would like her too.She desperately needs a friend who can chat, and the kindness and warmth in Jie Mi's eyes make Min Na believe that she will be a good companion.

Wen Na felt inferior for a while, but the education she received in the past reminded her that she should pray more and not complain about herself all the time.So she started trying to make herself think about the wonderful gifts God had given her.Her teeth are white and straight, her back is straight, and she has never been troubled by inconvenient legs and feet.These are all really wonderful capitals, but in addition to these outward things, she also has deep inner advantages.Mother always said that she has a kind heart, and she also studies hard, and her mind is quite normal, but since Connor came into her life, she is not sure about this, she feels that she has recently become a A fool who is always talking nonsense.

But maybe she doesn't have to be so desperate, besides, hasn't she already come up with a good plan now, thinking of this made her feel at ease. As long as she remembers to be quiet and demure, she'll be fine. If you're lucky, maybe no one will notice her. She surveyed the spacious hall curiously, and immediately noticed the huge tapestry hanging over the fireplace. She watched for a long time, trying to figure out what bothered Aleigh so much.She thought the tapestry was beautiful.Although the edges are a bit worn due to years, the silk thread on it is still shining. On the tapestry was a man whom Ariel seemed to have called William just now.He was wearing a royal dark blue robe, a jeweled crown on his head, and his eyes seemed to be looking across the hall.She didn't know who William was, but she thought he must be an ancient man, because he had a golden halo around his head, which meant he had gone to heaven and became a saint.She should have memorized the names and deeds of the saints introduced by the pastor, she thought to herself, if the pastor knew that she was now regretting that she had not listened carefully to his sermon, he would be very happy.Although she really wanted to know who this William was, she would not ask Ariel or Jamie, for she was afraid that they would think she was ignorant.She could ask Connor later.She made the sign of the cross across her chest, then turned and continued to survey the rest of the hall.

She was immediately fascinated by the weapons hanging on the wall by the entrance.On the great wall in the middle hung two great swords, their golden hilts studded with jeweled diamonds.A diamond is missing from the larger sword. The landscape is truly impressive, and of course very peculiar indeed.Why would anyone want to hang a weapon in their home? A door above opened suddenly, and a little girl hurried out.The child had clearly just woken from a nap, and she was rubbing her eyes sleepily.She was wearing a white nightgown with a shawl trailing behind her. The little girl hurried downstairs, but forgot to remove the blanket wrapped around her feet.She stumbles and Mina rushes over to help.

Mina saw the little girl fall down again and ran immediately.Pick up your shawl and stand there waiting for me to pass.she yelled. The little girl didn't seem to understand Min Na's words.She also doesn't seem to be afraid of the dangers she encounters, but full of curiosity.She jumped over the railing and smiled down at Mina, but she didn't stop. It was too late, Minna knew that she shouldn't have yelled at this child, and now this child was too busy looking at her to pay attention to the road under her feet.She's heading for disaster, and Mina runs up the stairs to stop her.

But she didn't make it.The little girl had reached the edge of the stairs, but she tripped over the blanket again, and then flew out like an arrow off the string. Wen Na flew forward, grabbed the little girl, and held her tightly in her arms.But the momentum caused Mina to lose her balance, and Mina tried to turn around to maintain her balance, but hit her head against the wall. Afterwards, Jie Mi told Wen Na that when she rolled to the bottom of the stairs, her forehead hit the wall twice, but the little girl was held safely in her arms all the time. Mina recovered from the shock before Jamie, but she was still shaking from head to toe.Her forehead felt like it was on fire, but she smiled contentedly when she was sure the little girl was doing well.Her brow was bleeding, her gown was torn, and the folds she had worked so hard to create in the shawl were all unraveling.

Jamie was still in panic, she couldn't think at all.She sat on the steps above Mina, put the baby on her knees, and held her tightly.Dear God, I thought you both were dead.How are you, Mina?Hold on, wait for me what are you doing, Grace?You know you can't get down by yourself.How many times has your father told you?How are you, Mina?tell me. Jie Mi was sobbing, Min Na knew that Jie Mi couldn't listen to what she said.She thought it looked silly lying on the floor like a broken vase, so she forced herself to stand up and straighten herself up again. Mina, don't move, let me check to see if you have broken anything. All right, Jamie. Lord, you have risen. Mom, shall we tell Dad? No, not us, but you to tell Dad. Grace rubs off her mother's lap, wait until I'm ready, okay?she begged. Jie Mi nodded, okay, she gave in, but she must tell him before going to bed tonight. Why don't we forget about it, Jamie?It was just a small accident. Grace must have understood Mina's suggestion somewhat, she moved closer to Mina and nodded her approval. I'm so scared I can't move at all right now.I saw my child fly up and my heart stopped beating.At that time, I didn't have time to save her. She couldn't go on talking sadly. Jamie covered her face with her hands and cried again. Wen Na patted her arm to reassure her, okay, okay, it's all over now.Your daughter is as good as ever, Jamie.She didn't even have a scrape. She helped Jiemi stand up, put her arms around her shoulders, and led her into the hall. Sitting in front of the table, Jie Mi finally regained her senses slowly.She immediately jumped up and pushed Mina onto a chair next to her.Mina sat down with a bang, only to feel a pain in her right buttock.It took Mina a lot of self-control not to let herself cry out. Jamie finally notices the cut on her forehead, oh god, you're bleeding. It's just a small hole.Sit down and take a deep breath.You must be scared to death, Jamie. No, I should be the one to take care of you.God, it might take me a month to actually reply.But you'll be fine right away, won't you?Turn your head and let me take a good look at your injury.Do you still bleed anywhere?Lord, my hands are still shaking and I can't get your hair out of my head.Grace? What's the matter, mother.The little girl came running across the hall, dragging her shawl behind her.She seemed eager to get into their conversation, but after Mom told her what to do, she didn't seem so happy. Go find your father and come here. Grace threw off her shawl, climbed into Mina's lap, and leaned back against her.Mom, can I go to Dad when I'm ready? Wen Na laughed out loud, but Jamie cried again.She squeezed Mina's hand, thank God you are here.If you weren't fast enough, my daughter might have broken her neck.My husband and I owe you our lives until the day we die. Wen Na blushed in embarrassment, you don't owe me anything, you are my relative now, I would be happy to help you with anything.And, each of us should take good care of little ones, shouldn't we? Yes, Jie Mi nodded, now you and I are more than relatives.We are sisters, aren't we? Yes, Mina whispered, I could have more sisters. A deep friendship immediately developed between the two women, and all of Mina's worries and insecurities disappeared.After all, sisters don't need to get along with each other politely. Mom, stop crying.I don't like you crying.Grace begged, her voice trembling slightly. I won't cry anymore, Jamie promises.She let go of Mina's hand, took a deep breath, and wiped the tears off her face with the back of her hand.I'm going to send for Connor.He should have known about it. Wen Na didn't want Kang Nuo to get involved in this matter, just like she didn't want Ariel to know.She didn't have the strength to explain it to him now.If he still acted like he was blaming her, her temper would explode.Of course there was the slight possibility that he might show a little sympathy, but that would make her cry.That was just as embarrassing. You are wrong.Your husband will ask you as soon as he sees you. I wish I could explain it to him on the way home. Are you afraid of him?Jamie asked in shock. Wen Na shook her head, of course she wasn't afraid, but I knew he would definitely blame me, and I couldn't control my emotions, so we would definitely quarrel in front of Ariel, wouldn't that be too embarrassing?I wanted to impress Ariel, not to annoy him.And, I swore not to draw attention to myself.Please don't poke me anymore. Isn't that enough to impress him that you saved our daughter?Why are you so unaccustomed to being praised, Mina? Because I have nothing to praise.I just did what I was supposed to do. I find this embarrassing for you, so I'll leave it alone for now.Grace, dear, go and get a servant to bring a fresh basin of water and some towels. The little girl was so eager to help that she forgot the shawl she always wore. The wound was on Mina's forehead above the left eye.After cleaning the wound briefly, Wenna guessed that Jamie must be terrified, so she suggested that Jamie tell her the story of how to marry Ariel, but Jamie hoped to find a needle to help Wenna stitch the wound. Mina doesn't like this, and I appreciate that, but I don't want to bother you any more.In fact, I feel so good now that I almost feel no pain at all.Do you have only one child, Grace? No, I have four children.Mary is the biggest.She is married and lives far away, so I only see her twice a year.I also have a ten-year-old son, Gideon, and Dillon was born five years ago.Grace is the youngest. She is very cute, like a little angel. Yes, said Jamie, your words didn't change my mind, even though you did it on purpose.The wound was too deep to be ignored.It's gotta be stitched up, so stop pretending, I know you're in pain right now. You must be crazy if you thought you were going to approach me with stitches after I found out you couldn't stop shaking. Mina, I must stitch up your wound. Jamie, you're out of your mind. Grace watched them argue with wide eyes, then climbed back into Mina's lap, fascinated as the two women yelled at each other. In the end Jamie won, being older and stronger, and with the help of two servants. Grace is Mina's only helper, but she's useless at all.She giggled when her mother yelled, and covered her ears when Mina yelled back. Can you finish it before Ariel and Connor come back? Can. Fortunately, Jamie did finish stitching up the wound before the man returned.During the cleaning and sewing process, Mina didn't hum. You will have a scar on your forehead, but it will be partially hidden by your hair.are you sad No, Mina replied, but I feel bad when you stop talking to me, please end it quickly. Jie Mi sighed, I didn't know you were so difficult. Jie Mi wets a towel to wash away the blood from Min Na's hair.She still thinks that Kang Nuo will ask her what's going on as soon as he sees Min Na. I admit he'll notice my wound, but I'm sure he won't ask until we're gone.He probably didn't bring it up until the next day.I can't get him to talk unless I brush my hair back and point to the wound and ask him. The cook came in a few minutes ago and has been waiting by the side. What's the matter, Elayne?Jie Mi asked the cook. Why don't you take a bet? Wenna likes Yilan's idea very much. If Kang Nuo ignores her injury, she hopes that Jamie can help her plant those flowers in Kang Nuo's house.If Kang Nuo mentioned the wound, Jie Mi hoped that Wen Na would agree to visit at least once a week. The deal was quickly struck, and neither woman could change her mind.Yilan got an important task, she had to hide in the corridor, monitor everyone and not play tricks, such as giving hints and so on, must be strictly prohibited. The two brothers heard the laughter of the two women outside the door, and they smiled at each other.Ariel is happy that his wife likes her guests, and Kang Nuo is happy that Wen Na is not as nervous with Jamie as she is with Ariel. Mina heard the sound of the door opening and immediately put Grace on the ground.She stood up, turned her back on her husband, and pretended to concentrate on fastening the little girl's shawl. Grace saw her father striding toward one side of the table and ran to the other. Ariel sat down at the head of the table, and Jamie sat on his left.Wen Na asked Kang Nuo to sit opposite to Jie Mi, and she sat next to him.Grace was the last to sit, taking the seat a good sixteen chairs away from her father.She rested her chin on her elbows and stared at her father. Connor barely looked at Mina, he just asked her if everything was okay, Mina thought he might mean asking if she was causing trouble, so she nodded quickly. What about your other children?Wen Na asked Jamie. Ariel asked them to play with the Gavins for another hour, Jamie explained, and then turned to her husband, did you tell Connor about that? not yet.Ariel replied with a smile. Is it good news?Mina asked. Yes, Mina, Jemi replied, good news. Just got a report that your stepmother and her son are on their way to your house, Connor.They should be here tonight or tomorrow morning. Mina reacted before Kang Nuo.She was so freaked out by the news that she jumped up and almost knocked over the stool, now?Is your mother coming to visit now? Connor gently pushed her back into the chair and said, it's just my stepmother. Yes, it's your stepmother.Is she coming to visit now? Yes, according to what Ariel said is exactly now.I see no reason to be alarmed.Does this upset you? of course not.I'm just worried that maybe your stepmother is waiting for us right now. She should arrive tomorrow.Ariel said. Connor looked at his wife, what's wrong with you, this is good news, not bad news. Yes, good news, she agreed, and I hope I do everything I can to make her feel welcome. How long has Euphemia been gone?Jamie asked. Seventeen years.Connor replied that she was at home caring for a sick relative when my father was killed.After hearing the bad news, she was too sad to come back. You haven't seen her in so long?Mina asked. I've seen her a few times since then.Three years ago, when Ariel and I were fighting near the top of the hill, I visited her once. She is still in mourning.Ariel said. She must have loved your father quite a lot.Mina said softly. certainly.he answered. She should have let that go, Ariel said, grief doesn't bring back the dead. You don't feel sorry for me, do you, Aleigh?Jamie asked. Of course I will be sad for you. How long can it last? Ariel didn't want to argue with her about how long he could mourn for his wife.He didn't even dare to think about losing her. You can't die before me, understand?He ordered in an undeniable tone. Jemi sees the panic in his eyes, so immediately comforts him, yes, I won't die before you.Don't you have some interesting news?Did you tell Connor? He happily cooperated with his wife to change the subject.He turned to Connor and told him that a messenger from a border lord had sent him a message.Connor seemed interested and asked a few questions.As a result, they asked one question after another, and they forgot about Jie Mi and Min Na after a while. Mina put aside her worries about trying to please Connor's stepmother, but she prayed briefly, asking God that the woman wouldn't arrive before she got home.Minna needs to familiarize herself with the environment first. Jie Mi coaxed her little daughter patiently and asked her to come over for dinner.Wen Na immediately shook her head at her, she was afraid that Grace's slip of the tongue would arouse the curiosity of the men and make Jamie win their bet.Mina is winning so far, as neither of the brothers has said anything about her injury.She ate up the food in front of her, and then looked at Jie Mi complacently. Ariel waited for the servant to take away the plate, turned to his wife and said to her, I have always wanted to ask why Her laughter cut him off.He waited for her to calm down and continued, what are you laughing at? Please forgive me, Ariel.What are you going to ask me? Why is my daughter sitting across the table?I can barely see her here. Everyone looks at Grace.The little girl didn't seem to care about other people's attention at all, she kept smiling and watching her father. Mina, do you want to answer Ariel's question? No. You can't say no to my brother.Connor said. She did reject him just now, and Jamie laughed again after saying that. Wen Na is sure that Jamie's behavior is unusual, because she must be deliberately trying to arouse the curiosity of the men.She won't let her get her way, Jamie, I think you should go to the kitchen, thanks Elayne for the dinner. If I leave, you have to come with me too. None of you need get up.Connor interrupted. Elayne and two servants are watching us from the back of the corridor.You can talk to them here. Can you control yourself?Ariel demanded, as his wife laughed again. Mina stood up.Thank you for this great dinner.Can I quit? She left without waiting for permission.Jie Mi also quickly jumped up and followed Wen Na. When Kang Nuo heard his wife accuse Jie Mi of cheating, he was so surprised that he almost dropped the goblet in his hand.He prayed to God that Ariel hadn't heard her.Wen Na stopped in front of the fireplace, crossed herself, and Ariel was startled again. But Jie Mi is very satisfied with the respect shown by Wen Na.She was laughing all the way out the front door. Ariel waited until the servants cleared the dining table and left the hall before turning to Connor. We should really be angry. Yes.How do you think Mina got hurt, and why these two women act like nothing happened? There is only one way to quickly discover the truth. any solution? Ariel smiled slightly, Grace? What's the matter, Dad? Come and sit with daddy. Come over when I'm ready? You are ready now, Grace. The little girl lowered her head and slowly moved towards Ariel.He winked at Conor as she passed. Ariel picked her up, kissed her forehead, sat her down on the table, and ordered her to tell what had happened. The lady yelled at her mother. Her name is Mina, Grace.Now tell me the facts. She may be telling the truth.Connor said. So what did your mom do? she cried. Ariel looked at Connor, doesn't that surprise you? No. Mom yelled too, Dad. What did you do again, Grace? I did nothing. Ariel doesn't believe it at all. Is there anything else you want to tell me? When the mother cried again, the lady laughed.Thinking of this made the little girl so happy that she shrugged her shoulders with joy. Connor, I have to say Mina doesn't seem to have much respect for my wife.I think I'll have to talk to her. You can't scare her, Ariel. The lady wasn't crying, Dad. Yeah?Ariel said. Mom put stitches in the lady's head. How did Mina get hurt?Connor asked. She fell down the stairs. What is she doing upstairs? Connor, if you yell like that, you won't get any answers.Ariel said that she remembered that she was still young. I remember you saying that this method would be quick. Mrs. Wen Na said that mother was crazy. Tell me why she's on the stairs.Ariel ordered. i love you dad. This little trick didn't work.She also failed to break free from her father's arms.Answer me, Grace. She is going to catch me. Ariel could imagine the scene at that time. Connor didn't understand what was going on.Because he left Aleigh's house before Grace was born, he didn't know about the little girl's naughty deeds. I still don't understand why Mina fell down.Connor said. Grace, tell Uncle how she caught you.her father ordered. The little girl, trembling with fright when she saw both men looking at her, put her feet on her father's lap, stretched her hands high above her head, and tried to jump into the air, trying to reenact the scene. Ariel hugged his daughter and gently pushed her back again. You're driving me crazy, Grace.He shook his head and muttered to himself. I know, Dad, you've said that before, many, many times. She frightened your dear wife to death, lord.said the cook. Ariel looked at the cook, my daughter flew down the stairs, didn't she, Elayne? I didn't see what was going on, lord, but the mistress told me Grace flew down the stairs like an arrow from the string.Mrs. Mina had to jump up to catch her. Both of them could break their necks. Yes, Connor.Ariel turned again to his faithful servant.Explain why our wives don't want us to know about it. Yilan couldn't refuse the lord's order, so she told about their bet. The two brothers did not find their wives' bet funny at all.But they intend to cooperate with them. A few minutes later, Jemi and Mina join them.Both husbands stood up as the women entered.But the wives ignored them, so the two sat down again.Ariel poured some wine into the glass and drank it down in one gulp. Wen Na married Kang Nuo and already gained Ariel's trust.But she saved his daughter, and being hurt for this made her even more loved by Ariel.Especially when he heard Wen Na suggested that Jamie take down the tapestry, he began to respect her even more.But Jamie immediately refused. But at least get that halo off as soon as possible.You can't make a conqueror a saint because of his own ideas.This is blasphemy. William would be a saint. Wen Na shook her head, no wonder your husband seems to have seen a ghost.Why on earth would you have a portrait of the former king of England in a highlander's house?Even I know he doesn't belong here.You have to take it off, Jamie.God, I'm even crossing him every time I pass by, what a blasphemy.Is there no picture of your king to hang? Why? Why?Because you are a highlander. you don't know, do you?Mina, I was born and raised in England. Needless to say, her words left Mina speechless.Jamie laughed out loud at Mina's disappointment. But you talk like a Highlander, and no one told me Wenna stopped to stare at her husband, you should have told me beforehand. No, I don't think Connor will tell you.You should understand that a man will never tell a woman anything but hurt her, Mina.That I am English should please you, not offend you. Mina stopped frowning at her husband.I am very happy, no wonder I like you so much. You will like Mary too.Aleigh, look how lucky I am.Now I have a sister on each side of my domain. Ah yes.Ariel admitted. Connor, Wen Na must see Mary as soon as possible. Can we stop on the way home?Mina asked. It is too late, we cannot delay any longer.Connor replied. Not wanting him to dampen her enthusiasm, she hurried over to the table and put her hand on his shoulder.How about next time? OK She pats him on the shoulder and tells him she's pleased with his cooperation.Ariel stood up and turned his head away so that Minna could not see his smile.He was happy to see Mina's love for his brother, but what really made him laugh was knowing that Kang Nuo was trying not to like Mina's behavior. Connor shook his head at his brother, don't think about it.He pushed his wife away so as not to bump into her when he got up. Ariel nodded.I would advise you to think about it. Mina didn't know what the two men were talking about.But Ariel suddenly changed the subject before she could ask. You'd better be careful on your way home. Connor was always alert.she says. yes.Ariel agrees, but warns his brother again that he might even be waiting on your domain now. Ah, Ariel, you gave me hope. Your arrogance will kill you sooner or later.We all knew he was going to get her back. Minna suddenly understood what the two brothers were talking about.She gasped in surprise, grabbed Connor's hand tightly, and asked in a low voice, is that McNeil's pig? Her husband smiled with satisfaction, God, she is lovely, she finally understands how lucky she is to marry him. Yes, McNair that pig. You won't, will you? won't what? She leaned toward him so that no one could hear her, and you won't send me back. His smile disappeared, what were you thinking? You will not. He nodded, and she knew she had guessed right.He grabbed her shoulder and squeezed it, confirming his thoughts. She tried to hide her anger.Her husband was now going so far as to explain her behavior to his brother. My wife doesn't mean to be against me.She's English, if you remember, so she probably doesn't understand. I don't understand what? Ariel answered her, we protect what is ours, protect our wives.You don't understand your worth yet, do you, Mina? Yes, she doesn't understand.Connor replied. English men also protect what is theirs.She told them the obvious. So why are you here, woman?Ariel asked, is your father escorting you to marry McNair? These are two different things, my lord. What's the difference?he asks. Both brothers felt that her father was motivated by nothing more than greed, and she knew that she would never be able to convince them that he loved his daughter deeply. I'm here because I want to be.I asked my husband if he would send me back, it was just me wanting reassurance, I already knew he wouldn't.She brags. Because the church has given you the assurance, the pastor has given you the blessing, hasn't it?Ariel asked. Connor did get a priest to bless us.But I know that because there are not many pastors here, many marriages are not blessed. Connor knew that she was trying to socialize, so he smiled happily.Now she was about to lose patience, and from the way Ariel asked the question, he just wanted to see how she would react. Ariel had a great time, and every time Minna frowned and hesitated to give an answer, he knew her better, and she didn't realize it. How do you know Connor won't send you back?Ariel continued, do you know him that well? No, I don't know him at all, but at least I know how stubborn he is. She remembered how difficult it was to persuade Connor to change his mind, and he couldn't listen to a word.However, my parents taught us that everyone should be able to support themselves.look my family Connor interrupted her, now we are your family. yes but my brothers and sisters He interrupted her again, yes, Ryan, he agreed, it's been so long since I last saw him, I almost forgot about him. Connor, why don't you let me talk about my family? Now we are your family.He corrected her gently. Ariel fully understood what Connor meant and absolutely supported him.Connor wanted his wife to be faithful to him and his people.He wants her to forget the past.Although he felt that Connor was not as considerate as he was when he solved the homesickness problem for Jamie, he couldn't be too critical of his brother.In fact, it was impossible for Connor to be considerate. She was devastated and realized that her husband wanted her to pretend that her family didn't matter at all.She really wanted to run out for a few minutes and think about why he was so cruel by herself.Of course, if she wanted to do that, she had to take off Connor's hands on her shoulders first, but when she wanted to get up, she realized that the Kim's shawl had been placed on her lap during the meal just now.She tucked the shawl under her arm, intending to put it on the stool as soon as Conor let her go.She reached out and pushed Kang Nuo, telling him to leave her. He grabbed her hand and held it tightly.She tried to pull it out, but he tightened his grip.There was nothing she could do now, and he knew it perfectly.She frowned at him, showing her attitude. He winked at her. It took a lot of effort for Ariel not to laugh.The way she stared at Connor was really funny, like she was saying wait, I want you to look good when we're alone later.It's the same look his Jamie has when he knows he shouldn't and can't express his opinion. You haven't satisfied my curiosity yet, Mina.Ariel continued to tease her. She forced a smile at the lord, trying to remember his question just now.Kang Nuo actually winked at her, what happened to him? Mina, answer my brother's question.Connor ordered. God help her, his eyes have grown so soft.Why is this handsome warrior always so difficult to get along with?She sighed softly. I would of course be happy to answer his questions. The two brothers waited for a long time, but she still didn't say a word. Ariel first showed his compassion.He repeated the topic just now. You're about to explain how you know Connor won't send you back to McNair. very simple.I won't let him do that. certainly.Jae-mi chimes in to show her support for Min-na. Ariel laughed, which confused Mina.Kang Nuo just smiled, and Monk Zhang Er was puzzled by his reaction. 直到兩人來到門口，康諾還在微笑著。等他正要開始想其他的事情時，玟娜突然問他，是什麼讓他覺得這麼好笑。 我不是覺得好笑，我只是很開心。 很好，她點頭，那麼你為什麼開心？ 因為你認為自己強大得足以執行自己的決定。 傑宓跟在兩人後面，聽到康諾的話時，她開口告訴康諾事情並非如此，她並不認為自己強大的能夠把自己的想法強加給你。我相信她認為自己聰明的能夠想出其他方法得到自己想要的。 我們的父親養的可不是無知的女兒，如果你這麼想那就錯了。玟娜說。 Yes or no?傑宓問站在身後的丈夫。 亞烈知道最好不要跟自己的妻子作對，因為這件事好像對她很重要。Yes, it does. 康諾為妻子打開一扇門。傑宓給了玟娜一個送別的擁抱，然後抱住康諾，在他耳邊說了句什麼，這讓他又微笑起來，然後傑宓親了親康諾的面頰。 經常回家來看看。她命令他們，然後離開門口讓他們出去。 昆藍看見女主人時，眼睛驚訝的睜的老大。她注意到他的關心，朝他搖了搖頭，然後放下頭髮遮住縫線。昆藍沒說什麼。他們都留意到她走路時重心都放在左邊。康諾抱她上馬時已經夠小心的了，可是她還是痛的咧了咧嘴。 康諾跟他兄弟道別的方式讓她忘記了自己的疼痛，幾乎大笑出來，實在是太好笑了。他們不是互相點頭鞠躬，也不是握手道別，康諾朝亞烈的肩膀給了一拳，亞烈也回了一拳。等他們野蠻的表達完感情後，康諾飛身上馬，坐在玟娜身後，手臂環住玟娜的腰。 他低頭靠近她的耳朵低聲說，很快就到家了。 亞烈耐心地站在旁邊，等著他的妻子跟玟娜道別。當她回屋去找格蕾絲時，亞烈轉向玟娜。他似乎覺得很好笑，我的女兒對她的披肩似乎特別偏愛。 Yeah?玟娜問，不明白為什麼他此刻想要討論格蕾絲的毯子。 亞烈點頭，她可以通過味道認出自己的毯子。至少我妻子這麼認為。傑宓可能是對的，因為如果有人換一條給格蕾絲，她一定會發現。她睡覺時一定要蓋著那條毯子，而今晚她會需要它，否則我的妻子和我就可能無法睡個好覺了。 康諾從他妻子的表情可以判斷，她根本不知道亞烈想要幹什麼。他想要你把毯子還給他，玟娜。He said. 玟娜的臉馬上羞的通紅。她把毯子遞給亞烈，我不知道怎麼自己忘了把它放在凳子上了。我確實打算這麼做的，可能當時我太專注於談話而 她停下話頭努力想要給出一個合理的解釋，但亞烈拍了拍她的手。他似乎想要說些很重要的話，所以她本能地緊張地等著。 我妻子一個禮拜後會去幫你種花，玟娜。 謝謝你，領主。 亞烈是要謝你。Connor told her. 我知道，我是在謝他對我這麼好。 要不是想要感謝你救了我的女兒，我和康諾會讓你一直以為我們沒發現什麼的。但我們什麼都留意到了。 作為兩個聰明的女人，你們都想錯了。康諾說。 是啊，亞烈同意。他抽回手，退後一步，你們不明白，其實是我們打算讓你贏得這場打賭的，但你無需感謝我們的體貼。 玟娜又大笑出來，你們以為是你們讓我贏的嗎？我可不這麼認為，領主。 他揚了揚眉，我們一直在假裝沒有看到。 是的，她承認，你們以為你們有沒有看到是我們打賭的內容嗎？傑宓和我都知道你們絕對會注意到的。 那麼你們賭的是什麼？康諾問，聲音中隱約有絲笑意。 傑宓認為你們不會保持沉默，會想要立刻知道到底發生了什麼。而我賭你們會不置一評。而據我所知，你們確實什麼都沒說。 不是一樣的嗎？康諾爭辯。 Yeah?她問，笑容天真無辜，而表情卻表明當然並非如此。 承認吧，康諾，勝利確實是屬於玟娜的。亞烈讓步。 yes.康諾承認。 傑宓幫我種花時會帶格蕾絲一起來嗎？ 不，我不會讓我的孩子離開我的領地的。康諾，我會跟我妻子一塊去。我希望到時你能在家。 亞烈又推了康諾一把以示友好，然後反身進屋。格蕾絲肯定就等在門邊，因為亞烈一開門，她就跑上來搶走了他手中的毯子。 在回家的路上，玟娜調整坐姿向後靠，把重量全都放在他腿上，雙手抱住他的腰。 我很難過沒跟格蕾絲道別。 她現在肯定正忙著跟父親解釋自己的行為呢。 他會怎麼懲罰她？那只是個小意外，康諾。亞烈不會傷害她脆弱的感情吧？ 她和狄龍都被禁止自己上樓。亞烈只是會提醒她遵守命令而已。 其他孩子也是這麼淘氣嗎？ No.男孩子們會害怕生人，但一旦他們跟你熟了，到時你就只能祈求上帝保佑了。他們比格蕾絲要難纏多了。 我想我會最偏愛她。 康諾故意跟玟娜一直閒聊，以免她留意到那些護送他們的金氏士兵。他不想讓她意識到亞烈的擔憂。她很可能會猜到，他兄弟這種保護性的行為肯定跟麥內爾有關。 他知道自己必須忍受亞烈的干涉，雖然他並不喜歡。昆藍也不喜歡，但跟領主不同的是他沒有掩飾自己的憤怒。 我不會只偏愛我們某一個孩子的。she assured him. He didn't speak.她想要讓他說話，希望不停的說話能讓自己忘掉身上的疼痛。她頭痛不已，大腿也如火燒火燎的痛。 她又一次在他腿上調整坐姿，他終於明白了她的用意。 我在格蕾絲和狄龍出生前就離開那裏了。他說，我跟瑪麗最親，因為我最瞭解她。但我也承認對格蕾絲我也是相當喜歡，因為他老是會讓我想起一個人來。 她抬頭看他，但他輕輕地把她的頭又推回到他的胸口上。她生氣地捏了他一下，然後問他格蕾絲讓他想起誰。 我以前抱過的一個小女孩。 他不會再多說什麼了，但想起那個小女孩肯定讓他感到很快樂。他的聲音充滿暖意。 尤菲米婭要來，你高興嗎？ 當然，但你不高興，是嗎？ 我當然高興。她爭辯，我只是有點擔心見她。贏得她的贊同是很重要的。她又說，她是你的母親，如果她不喜歡我，那可是太悲慘了。 Why? 她覺得他問的很白癡，因為你的家裏應該和睦，而我該負責讓她滿意。她住在你家期間，她就是女主人。現在你明白了？ 你總愛擔心些小事。她肯定會喜歡你的。 她可不像康諾那麼肯定，但她發誓她會贏得尤菲米婭的愛。她花了幾分鐘的時間去想該怎樣取悅那個女人，然後又把這一切拋諸腦後。她努力回想跟傑宓相處的那些快樂的時光，想要用此讓自己忘記身上的痛，但這並沒起作用。 這條路似乎很適合散步，是不是？ no.他下巴輕刷她的頭頂，努力讓自己的拒絕不那麼生硬。如果我讓你橫著趴在我腿上，會不會好過點？ 他的建議嚇壞了她。她腦中開始出現這樣的畫面：她的頭垂在馬鞍的一頭。而她的腳在另一頭，那樣子她肯定會因羞愧而死的。 這樣與他的族人們見面可真是太完美了。我想不出你的建議有什麼好處。I'm fine thank you.我只是想，這樣美妙的天氣散散步會讓我神清氣爽。忘了這個吧。 她寧可要驕傲而不管自己是否舒服，而他早已猜到如此。他把手伸進她的裙子，想要看看她受傷的情況。他本來想停下來看看她的傷，但馬上打消了這個念頭。讓她同意合作可能會用去一個小時，而只要再過十分鐘，他們就會來到交界處了。 他的碰觸簡直像是愛撫。她還是不喜歡這個。她僵直不動，低聲說，把你的手拿開。 你淤傷了一大片，是不是？Does it hurt? 根本不疼。請拿開你的手。太尷尬了。 康諾照做。 英格蘭男人會給她妻子一點同情和安慰。she muttered. 我不是英格蘭人。 Yes, you are not.她同意，我能問個關於你的房子的問題嗎？ Speak. 首先，請告訴我，我們什麼時候能到達你的領地？ 看到你前邊那個小山了嗎？你應該發現我的崗哨已經在看著我們了。 她立刻坐直身子，手指開始快速地梳理頭髮。她整理背上的鬈髮時撞到了康諾的肩膀。她整理披肩上的結直到自己滿意，然後輕捏雙頰想讓自己臉色紅潤起來。 What the hell are you doing? 捏臉。 Why?他告訴自己不要問，但還是問了出來。 因為我不想自己看起來臉色蒼白。 He shook his head.他從沒聽說過這麼荒謬的事。 我們還要多久才能到達你的堡壘？she asked. Soon. 你的意思是我們住的離亞烈和傑宓很近嗎？ Yes. 我可以隨時去拜訪他們嗎？ Can. 這讓她忘記了自己身上的痛。他解釋說自己沒在產業中心建立家園，而是在靠近他兄弟領地這邊造了房子。她猜他這麼做是為了取悅亞烈。 康諾舉起了手，何氏士兵歡呼著表示歡迎。 你每次回家他們都向你歡呼嗎？ 不，只有我離開很久後再回來時。 你這次離開了多久了？ 差不多三個禮拜。 那麼長時間裏他一直在幹什麼？她剛想要問，但突然想起了他臉上藍色的作戰染料。她馬上打消了這個念頭，如果她發現他正在突襲，那麼她的好心情就會毀了。而且她也會毀了他的好心情，因為她肯定會讓他知道她覺得他那時有多麼野蠻。 他們經過那些士兵時，她發現他們都盯著她，雖然她一直朝他們微笑，但他們卻沒有給予相同的回報。她馬上開始擔心起來。 你的士兵們不喜歡我，是因為我本來該嫁麥內爾嗎？ No. 但我們經過時，那六個士兵誰也沒有對我微笑。 他們當然不會這麼做。 Why? 因為你是我的妻子，他們會尊重你。 即使我並不值得他們尊敬？ 你當然值得。 她覺得他這麼說可真體貼，但康諾並不是一個體貼的人，所以她立刻懷疑起來。 Why? 因為我選擇了你。 記得嗎，是我選了你。 你很喜歡跟我爭辯是嗎？ 她覺得他的問題不值得回答。我會喜歡你的家嗎？ certainly. 我已經等不及了。它像亞烈的家那麼吸引人嗎？，她猶豫著又加了一句，如果不是的話，我也不會失望的。我並不要求它很豪華。那麼你的家豪華嗎？ 她的熱情讓他很開心，是的，它跟我兄弟的家一樣吸引人。 你為它驕傲，是嗎？從你的聲音可以聽出來。 I guess so. 大廳也像亞烈家的那麼大嗎？如果沒那麼大也沒關係。 因為你並不要求它那麼大。 Yes. 我不能確定是不是夠大。我從沒花時間去觀察這個。 那麼你的家因為什麼而吸引人呢？ 它夠安全。 安全跟外觀有什麼關係？但是它看起來是怎樣的呢？ 它是無敵的。he answered. 她跟他是說不清了，她想只有等到時自己看了。 而他認為已經把她想知道的一切都告訴了她了。 雖然他覺得自己的家是無敵的，但還是要在牆上再下點功夫。他已經照他兄弟的建議在木頭上又加了石頭以更加鞏固整體，而且在北邊屋頂上又加了一個瞭望台。 玟娜一直興奮不已，心情好的一直在微笑。 當康諾父親被毀的家園出現在視野中時，康諾的情緒低沉下來。 是誰住在這？她低語，盯著一大片廢墟。 my father. 他死在那裏嗎？ Yes. 你原來跟他一起住在那裏嗎？ Yes. 他的聲音冰冷而毫無感情，她明白他並不喜歡被問及過去。她非常想弄清她丈夫以前所有的事，想知道為什麼他會成為這樣一個冷酷無情的人。但她知道她應該有點耐心，不能要求過高，否則他再也不會向她敞開心扉了。她得先讓他明白她是值得信任的，那樣他才會放鬆下來向她傾訴一切。 她止不住一直盯著那片廢墟看。甚至他們走過之後，她還是不停回頭望著。 她可以看出大火燒過的痕跡，但這片廢墟上總有些不一樣的地方。她花了幾分鐘的時間才發現到底哪裡不對勁。她以前曾經見過燒毀了的小木屋，很快廢墟上面就會長滿野草。但這片沒有。它三面都環著樹林，但那些植物居然都沒長到中間來。 很明顯它是刻意被保存下來的，也許這就是為什麼這讓她感到這麼不安的原因。 為什麼康諾不下令把它毀掉呢？難道他留著它是為了提醒自己和他的族人嗎？ 耐心，她提醒自己。遲早她會找出答案的。 她直起後背，然後轉過身。她把手滑進他空著的手掌裏，斜靠在他身上，低聲祈禱他父親的靈魂能夠安息。然後又為自己的母親禱告了一會。 幾分鐘後，她的新家映入眼簾。她嚇得閉上眼睛，希望自己所見的只是自己的幻象。但等她鼓足勇氣再次睜開眼睛時，那個怪異的東西還在那裏，它像個憤怒的巨獸臥在山頂上俯視著她。 上帝一定是非常生她的氣，才會讓她住在這樣一個醜陋的房子裏。她給父母帶來的麻煩可能遠比自己以為的要嚴重的多，而她的道歉顯然沒有足夠取悅到上帝。 別傻了，她告訴自己，這個堡壘這麼可怕不是上帝的原因，是康諾的錯。 她深呼吸，努力觀察她的新家，想要找出點什麼好看的東西來。她把這個堡壘從頭看到腳，上帝啊，她真的是興奮地要笑起來了。 它非常的巨大，至少有三層樓高，也許有四層那麼高也不一定，不好說到底有多少層，因為她找不到一扇窗子來做參考。 但它確實很大，很高。 她終於發現了窗子。這讓她放下心來，有窗子就不會讓她有住在墳墓裏的感覺。窗子是好好的在那兒，但上面都蓋著醜陋的棕色的編製物，那顏色像極了乾乾的黃土。她不能想像為什麼有人會讓自己家裏的窗子成這個樣子。她會馬上把那些遮蓋物拿下來，到時應該就不會這麼難看了，是吧？ of course.鮮花也會有幫助。她需要奇蹟才能把這裏變成一個家。 她為自己感到羞愧。她不該只考慮外觀，而且她必須馬上調整自己的態度。她可以從管這個醜陋的怪物稱做家開始。 玟娜，有什麼不對嗎？ 為什麼你覺得有什麼不對？ 你在喘氣，好像你喘不過來氣似的。 她說了腦子裏的第一個想法，上帝保佑，那不需要說謊。你的家令我無法呼吸。 她應該再加一兩句，讓他知道她很喜歡他努力的成果。他為自己的堡壘感到驕傲，而一個好的妻子至少應該抱有相同的感覺。 它很大。 He didn't speak. 天哪，我以前絕不會相信有這麼大的房子。而且它也很高，不是嗎？ 他還是不出聲。 你建完了嗎？ 你是問我，它後面建完了嗎？ 不，她根本沒想過這個東西後邊的事。她想知道的是前邊是否建完了。那麼後邊建完了嗎？ Yes. Understood.她無話可說。你的堡壘令人印象深刻，不是嗎？ Maybe. 它至少有十五英尺高。那些木頭居然會是這種棕色的，真是奇怪，是不是？ 他收緊握住她腰部的雙手，把她拉回自己胸前，然後低頭在她耳邊說，玟娜？ 什麼事，康諾？ 一切都會變好的。 她足足花了一分鐘才點頭表示同意。她又開始祈禱自己能有足夠的力量和忍耐力，並發誓自己一定要隨遇而安。她以前從沒逃避過什麼難題，雖然她現在很想逃開這一切，但她絕不會向自己的絕望低頭。只要她努力工作，只要她運用上帝賜予自己的頭腦，沒什麼事情是做不成的。 她平靜下來後感覺好多了，而此時他們已經走過了吊橋。她抬頭以另一種心情重新打量自己的新家。她朝那些族人微笑著，但他們同那些哨兵一樣，沒有回她微笑。他們也沒有朝她皺眉，更沒有轉頭不看她。也許他們不知道該怎麼對她吧，她想。她會在未來的日子裏讓他們明白，她是值得他們尊敬的。 你們佔了半座山，是嗎？ 這算不上什麼山，只是個小丘罷了，妻子。 天哪，光城堡外庭就能容納三十個小屋，房間肯定超過三十間了。你的士兵訓練時也都是在牆裏邊嗎？ 有時，他一邊回答，一邊把她帶上城堡的上部。 玟娜努力四處張望觀察。 他們到達院子之前，康諾命令停止前進。他下馬，然後轉身幫助玟娜，同時不時地回答著那些男人們的問題。 人群圍住他時，他已經放開了他的妻子。他牽著馬韁繩，繼續朝坡上爬，他以為玟娜會跟在他身後。而當有人把韁繩接走時，他以為那是昆藍或是歐文想要幫他把馬送到馬伕那裏去，因為他這頭馬喜怒無常，只有這兩個士兵才能近身。 男人女人互相推搡著，爭著跟領主說話。玟娜緩下腳步以免被他們踩到。他的馬也不會比她更喜歡這群人的靠近，他抬起前腿抗議著。她抓住韁繩，免得他傷到別人，然後拉著他一起往後退。她有幾次雙腳都被提了起來，甚至被馬拖著往後走。 但馬上哥哥們給她的訓練起了作用。她努力不被馬匹左右，抓緊韁繩，用力地拉下馬頭。掙扎了幾下之後，那匹馬明白了她絕不會讓步的決心。 她輕拍他，讓他明白她喜歡他的合作，然後牽著他朝馬廄走去。 一個士兵站在門口處的臺階上，看到領主朝他招手才往前幾步。 一切都好，康諾。 人群馬上安靜了下來，他們全都停下來聽著兩人的對話。我希望如此，克里斯。我離開時留你在此正是為了這個。 兩個士兵對望著，站在庭院的中央。 我有好消息告訴你。你的繼母正在大廳等著歡迎你呢。 康諾微笑，確實是個好消息。 尤菲米婭夫人肯定是對你妻子感到好奇，想看看她，所以才回來我們的領地的。 I guess so.也許她把這看作一個新的開始，雖然實際上，我原來還以為建起一個新城堡就能夠讓她回來呢。她還好吧，克里斯？ 似乎不錯，他回答，康諾，我要叫她何夫人嗎？ 當然，她過去是我父親的妻子，而且至今沒有再婚。 她仍然在為他服喪，因為她穿著一身黑。克里斯告訴康諾，我還有一件事要告訴你。 能等會再說嗎？ 你會現在就想聽的。他堅持，休領主給我們送來一個東西，據說是被人留在他領地邊界的。他堅持說你會想要看看。不論是什麼，一個小時後就會到了。 休送你禮物？昆藍問領主。 克里斯回答，更像是個口信而不是個禮物。從他的士兵口中我無法得知更多細節了。但他們似乎很擔心。好像康諾是否能夠理解他對他相當重要。 這毫無道理，昆藍嘟囔著。為什麼他們不告訴你是誰送的呢？ 他們不想解釋。Chris replied. 那我們只好等著看看了。康諾說。 康諾微笑地看著他的朋友，給了他肩膀一拳，告訴他見到他很高興，然後經過他身邊走進房子。昆藍也給了他一拳，讓他幾乎站不穩。克里斯站穩腳然後作出一副厭倦的表情，但他棕眼中的快樂閃光出賣了他。 你錯過了一件樂事，克里斯。是的，你真應該在那看看我是怎麼揮劍的。那可是值得一看啊，也許還能讓你學到一兩招。 克里斯大笑，要是我根本就不需要動我的劍，我的雙手就足夠了。而且，你知道的，是我教給了你一切。是不是啊，康諾？he shouted. 我不想捲進你們倆的爭論，但我不得不說，我無法理解你們兩個盲目的吹噓，事實上是我訓練你們兩個的。 克里斯喜歡領主的坦白。他看著領主在人群中開出一條路，來到臺階前面。領主等著這兩個士兵跟著他進去，跟他一起坐在桌子旁，向他報告族裏的事務已經成了一種儀式了。他們現在落後了，因為其他的族人們正在歡迎他們。 克里斯和昆藍都不時地回頭看著。克里斯很奇怪，因為剛才他的領主經過吊橋時，他看見他不是一個人。而為什麼現在只有他一個了呢？ 昆藍止不住笑，他知道為什麼現在會只剩領主一個人。 康諾開始走上臺階準備進入房子，克里斯的好奇心終於占了上風，他喊道，領主，你的旅程成功嗎？ certainly.he shouted back. 那麼你確實結婚了？ Yes. 那麼你的新娘呢？ 康諾本來以為他的妻子會跟在他後面，而現在可能是被人群耽擱了。上帝明鑒，自從克里斯過來說話他就忘了她了。 他仔細掃視人群，希望找到他的妻子。他看見歐文對著身邊圍繞著他的女人傻笑著。但到處都不見玟娜。 怎麼你沒在馬廄照顧我的馬嗎，歐文？ 康諾吼出他的問題時，已經又回到了院子裏。 有人幫我做了，領主。歐文緊張地望了一眼昆藍回答到。 康諾轉向他的朋友，我的妻子在哪，昆藍？ 我想你是把她留在了下面。 人群在領主經過時立刻四散開來。康諾臉上的表情表明誰也不要擋他的路。克里斯和昆藍跟在他後邊，但跟領主不同的是，他們沒有怒目而視。 昆藍，你怎麼這麼快就安頓好我的馬，而且還回到了這裏？ 我沒有照顧你的馬。he answered. 那是大衛斯了？康諾想也許是馬伕直接過來牽走了馬。 no. Who is that? 是一個比大衛斯厲害的多的人把你的馬牽走的。 康諾聽出昆藍的聲音中帶著笑意，知道他肯定是話裏有話。他不再擔心玟娜會單獨跟他的馬在一起，因為他知道如果玟娜真的有危險，昆藍不可能這麼該死的高