Page 50 of A Scottish Christmas Hideaway
He stifled a yawn. ‘At five o’clock. But I’ve just tucked her in beside Carolyn and she’s gone off again.’
‘That’s tough for you. You sure you don’t want me to drive?’
He winked. ‘Thanks, but it’s fine. I’d like to get there in one piece.’
‘Ha ha,’ she said. ‘Cheeky. Okay, let’s go.’
It didn’t take them long to get to Balmaha and she thought about the last time she had been here with Reuben then pushed the thought aside.
‘It’s been years since I’ve been here,’ said Murray. ‘Yet it still all looks the same.’ He glanced around. ‘It always feels like home.’
‘I know what you mean. I’ve missed this walk. And remember when we were kids and Mum would take us on the ferry over to the island for picnics.’ She pointed at Inchcailloch Island just across the water. It was an uninhabited island which used to be home to a nunnery and then was a burial ground. Now walkers and birdwatchers would go across to explore it. Jessica had so many happy memories of exploring the woodland paths and having picnics on the beach.
‘I know. When you think about it, we really did have quite a magical upbringing,’ said Murray.
Jessica nodded in agreement. ‘We did. Come on then,’ she said, ‘let’s get going before I change my mind. Oh, and there’s a great café there,’ she said pointing across the road. ‘We should go if there’s time. Reuben and I went the other week.’ The words were out before she realised what she’d said and she clocked her brother giving her a look.
They made their way along the slushy path, which led them up through a wooded area and then through a small gate.
‘I forgot how steep this path was,’ said Murray.
‘And how many steps there are.’ Jessica looked up towards Conic Hill. She didn’t like to think how many steps there were still to climb.
‘It will be worth it when we get to the top though. It’s a view I love. And look how beautiful it all looks with that blanket of snow,’ said Murray, gesturing across the land. ‘Just watch your footing in case any of it is slippery.’
They both focused on climbing and then slowed their pace so they could hold a conversation. ‘So, how are things in Melbourne then? How does it feel to be home?’
Murray was an accountant in Melbourne. He and Carolyn had moved over there five years ago after he was offered an incredible promotion. ‘It’s still great. We love the weather and the lifestyle. But . . . since having Lexi, it’s made us realise how much we miss family.’ Carolyn’s parents had both died before they moved to Australia but she was still close to her brothers who both lived in Edinburgh. They were planning to go and visit them after Christmas.
‘I can understand that. We miss you too. And Lexi is growing up so fast.’
‘I know. Anyway, we shall see what happens. No plans to do anything major yet,’ he said quickly.
Jessica knew he didn’t want to talk more about what their future plans might entail. Murray had always played his cards close to his chest, too.
‘What about you? I get the sense it’s not been an easy year for you.’
She shrugged and dipped her head. ‘Nope. But I feel much better having been home for a few weeks. I’m glad I took some time away from work.’
He watched her curiously and waited for her to expand.
‘Work has been stressful. And . . .’ Her voice trailed away.
‘Mum told me about the guy you were seeing. I am sorry, Jess.’
She looked across at Murray and grimaced. ‘Yes. It wasn’t ideal.’
‘I wish you’d told me, you know.’
‘I didn’t really tell anyone. It was too difficult to talk about.’
He nodded, his expression full of compassion. ‘I can understand that.’
Jessica felt a tear form in the corner of her eye and she wiped it away. How she had missed seeing her brother and talking to him in person. She always opened up to him when they were physically together in the same place.
‘And it sounds like you’ve been spending time with Reuben?’ he said.
Her cheeks flushed. ‘Yes, but just as friends, Murray.’
