Chapter 17

Izzy held Siofra to her side and watched her husband talking to a figure downstream. She could not see clearly through the water and certainly could not hear what was being said. She stepped back, pressing herself as tightly as possible against the damp rocks.

Fortunately, she had hidden behind these falls often enough to be certain that nobody on the other side could see them back here. The space was small, with only just enough room to walk without getting soaked. The spray would wet her, but not drench her. At least not quickly. The water flow was usually full enough to disguise all but the brightest colours. She kept Siofra in front of her so the grey fur would hide her red tunic and hopefully her bright hair.

“Is it me father coming fer me?” Isobel barely heard the little voice. “Is he gonna sell me to the French men on the boat as he told me mither? I’m scared. I don’t want to go away.” Isobel closed her eyes and pulled the girl in tight.

“You will have to go away, Siofra. Bu