Page 47 of Christmas Chaos
EPILOGUE
CHRISTMAS DAY
Rory padded quietly around the inside of the cabin, Shona cradled against his bare chest. Even though she seemed to have a talent for sleeping that rivalled her mother’s, he couldn’t help the one-sided conversation that flowed from him like a river into the loch.
‘So, even though your mummy is currently sparko, when she wakes up, it’s very important to have a cup of tea ready. Especially now she’s also responsible for feeding you, little one,’ he whispered. ‘Although the kettle boiling might be too noisy. Maybe we should go for a walk with Bandit?’
Shona stirred, her tiny lips smacking together. Rory’s heart felt too full for his chest, love overflowing and turning his insides to mush.
He kissed her forehead. ‘I love you, Shona.’
A groan came from the bed as Zoe opened her eyes. ‘What time is it?’ she mumbled.
‘Nearly half ten. We’re due at the castle at twelve. Happy Christmas.’
‘We can’t have sex for the next six weeks.’
‘Err. I wasn’t trying to?’
‘Well, the sight of you shirtless and holding a baby is inspiring me to make more, so try and make yourself a little less attractive.’
He smiled. ‘I haven’t brushed my hair.’
‘You never brush it.’
He sat on the edge of the bed and handed Shona to Zoe for the morning feed.
‘I can’t believe she’s here,’ she said quietly. ‘We’re so lucky.’
Rory squeezed her hand. He’d never been one for displays of emotion, but he seemed to be on an oxytocin high that was never going down.
‘It’s snowing,’ he said.
She looked worried. ‘Will we be able to get to the castle?’
‘Yes, it’s only light but it looks really pretty. You’ll love it.’
She smiled. ‘This is the best Christmas ever.’
‘So far. Don’t forget we’ve got to survive lunch.’
‘Do you know who’s in charge?’
He raised an eyebrow. ‘Who do you think? Mum and Brad are incapable of relinquishing control over anything. Thank god your folks are so easy-going.’
‘There’ll be others to help too.’
‘Yes, it should be fun.’
She looked at him as if he’d just grown another head. ‘Fun? You’re looking forward to Christmas Day?’
He smiled. ‘Your obsession has rubbed off on me. I’m a changed man.’
She ran her fingers down his jaw. ‘Well, the beard has gone at any rate.’
‘Do you miss it?’
‘I prefer you like this. I can see more of your gorgeous face.’
