Page 44 of A Scottish Christmas Hideaway
‘They’re upset.’
‘So are you,’ she’d said sharply.
‘Leave it with me and I’ll try and get some closure.’
Freda had hesitated. ‘Do you really think that’s a good idea?’ Then in a gentler voice she’d said, ‘You are supposed to be on leave from work and this is not helping you move forward with your life. Remember, you’re dealing with someone who can’t be reasoned with. And, Jessica, think back to the state you were in at the start of the month . . . I am more than happy to take care of it.’
Jessica had paused, tempted by Freda’s offer.
‘If the roles were reversed, what would you advise me to do?’ she’d asked.
Now, as she walked into the Co-op and reflected on Freda’s words, she wished shehadtaken her up on her offer to deal with it. She thought she was doing the right thing by making the call herself — even if it was extremely uncomfortable. She knew it was her responsibility and she had to face it herself. But doing the right thing might have come at a cost, especially if Reuben had overheard her on the phone and jumped to the wrong conclusion.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
‘Hey, sis!’ said Murray as he got out the hire car the next day.
Jessica flung herself at her brother. ‘I can’t believe you’re finally here!’ she squealed. She looked over at Carolyn, who beamed at her. Catriona and Angus rushed out the front door and hugged her and then their son, before anxiously hopping around waiting for the star guest to appear. Carolyn leaned into the back seat and unclipped Lexi who was clutching a pale blue rabbit.
‘Hello, sweetheart,’ said Catriona, gently patting Lexi’s strawberry-blonde curls. ‘We are so excited to see you.’
Lexi buried her face in her mum’s neck. Jessica watched cautiously, not wanting to overwhelm her niece any more than she already was.
‘Come on, toots,’ said Catriona. ‘Shall we show you Primrose Cottage where you are going to be staying while you’re here? And your very special bedroom.’
Lexi looked up, seemingly intrigued.
‘That sounds exciting, doesn’t it?’ said Carolyn encouragingly.
‘Wait until you see what Reuben has done with this place. He has transformed it,’ said Catriona, grinning.
Murray walked over to his parents and gave them another hug. ‘It’s good to be home,’ he said. ‘But where’s Reuben? I thought he’d be part of the welcome party and giving us the official tour.’
‘He wanted to give you all some space to settle in. He knew you’d be tired,’ said Angus. ‘He’s a thoughtful lad. But I’m sure he’ll be over to see you soon.’
Jessica felt a strange pang of longing for Reuben and wished he was there too. It felt really strange without him and she resolved to text him to check he was okay. ‘Let me help you withyour bags,’ she said, giving her brother a hand with the cases from the boot. ‘How’re you feeling?’
He yawned. ‘A bit weary, you know, but I’m sure I’ll be fine after a couple of days. Brr,’ he said with a shiver. ‘I forgot how cold and damp it gets here in the winter.’
‘The weather was one of the reasons you moved to the other side of the world,’ said Jessica with a smile. ‘I’m sure this will feel like a total culture shock.’
She and Murray followed their parents, who led the way towards Primrose Cottage, Lexi still holding tightly on to her mum but watching curiously.
‘Interesting wreath. Did Reuben make that?’ Murray said with a smirk.
Jessica threw him a look and tilted her head towards their mum.
‘No, I did. So watch what you’re saying,’ said Catriona firmly, her eyes amused.
‘Erm, it looks wonderful, Mum. Veryartistic,’said Murray smoothly.
Jessica waited until her mum had unlocked the front door and then followed the party in and put the cases in the front room. She pulled a funny face at Lexi, who was peeking at her over Carolyn’s shoulder. The little girl started to giggle. ‘I’m going to give you some space, too,’ Jessica continued, ‘and let Mum and Dad get you settled.’
‘There’s no need to rush off,’ said Carolyn.
‘It’s fine, honestly. I’ll catch up with you later. It’s a lot for the wee one to take in. I’ll see you later but shout if you need anything. I’m only two doors along.’
‘Okay, Jess, see you later on,’ called Murray as he disappeared into the kitchen after their parents.
