Laird McCabe stood atop the stairs to the courtyard, the tiny bundle of his daughter cradled in his massive arms.

　　“My daughter!” he proclaimed and held her high.

　　The gathered clan roared their approval. Swords thrust upward, shields banged, and a resounding cheer echoed over the land.

　　Ewan cradled her in his arms again, and his expression was so tender and proud that Keeley could barely swallow around the knot in her throat. Maddie smiled broadly beside Keeley and reached over to squeeze Keeley’s hand.

　　“ ’Tis a wondrous day for the McCabe clan.”

　　The older woman wiped at her eyes and sniffed noisily even as she offered a loud...