Page 24 of Christmas Chaos
Barbara was looking askance at her, Brad with undisguised interest. Rory made a mental note to ensure Zoe’s condition never made it into one of his films.
After a minute, she got her breathing back under control.
He passed her a handkerchief.
‘Thank you.’ She wiped her eyes, blew her nose, then took a long breath in and out.
‘Barbara,’ she said firmly. ‘I’m extremely appreciative of the thought and time that has gone into your research, however the name of our child will be decided by Rory and myself. The fate of Scotland doesn’t depend on us following this particular tradition.’
‘But—’
‘Babe!’ said Brad excitedly. ‘They can go with Jesus’s vision!’
No, we fucking won’t.
‘Haysuss, Bradley, Haysuss.’
‘It came to him during ceremony,’ Brad continued.
Rory squeezed Zoe’s hand, trying to reassure her that whatever wind of insanity was about to blow their way, she could close the door on it.
‘Rob Roy Macbeth for a dude, or Heather Loch Leary for a dudette!’
‘No,’ said Rory.
‘And I’m going to give birth in Raigmore hospital in Inverness,’ added Zoe.
‘Very well,’ his mother replied, her lips thinning. Rory knew how much of an effort she was making to be nice.
Brad deflated for a moment, then recovered like a puppy distracted by a new toy. ‘We got you some books!’
His mother took two books out of her bag and gave them to Zoe.
One had a picture of a baby and was titled ‘The New Contented Little Baby Book’. The other had an elaborately illustrated cover with children and animals and was called ‘The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby & Child Care’.
‘Bradley’s contribution has a more alternative approach to proceedings but, as you said, this is your pregnancy and you must make the right decisions for you.’
Zoe pushed her chair back, her eyes filling with tears as she embraced his mother. ‘Thank you, Barbara.’
She looked startled at the sudden affection, patting Zoe stiffly on the back.
‘You guys!’ cried Brad, enveloping them both in a hug. ‘Bring it in!’
Zoe pulled away.
‘Bradley!’ snapped Barbara.
He sat back.
Barbara got to her feet. ‘We’ll stay at the castle tonight, then take the jet back tomorrow afternoon. This is just a flying visit to check in with you both.’ She paused and fiddled with the clasp on her bag. ‘Unfortunately, due to Bradley’s commitments, we may not make it back before the birth.’
Brad stood and put his arms around her. ‘Babe,’ he said, softly.
She gave him a little nod, then lifted her head. ‘Bradley, the castle.’
He straightened. ‘Yes, Countess.’
