Page 26 of Hearts Bound By Time

Marissa went to work folding the tarp while Teddy helped move the sleigh. Once it was settled in the right spot according to Mrs. MacDougall, she pulled out a dust cloth and went over the interior making sure it was fit for occupants. Next she retrieved Old Hildy, who was a good-sized, chestnut draft horse with a sweet face. Teddy remembered her from those long ago Christmas holidays when a ride in Mrs. MacDougall’s sleigh was the highlight of the festivities. Things had certainly changed over the years. He was older as was everyone else, including Mrs. MacDougall and Hildy. Glendaloch was lacking in small children, as most adults his age had moved to the larger cities for job opportunities, leaving behind a village stuck in time. Edna always said that he shouldn’t worry, the others would return soon enough. Once they took the time to remember what a wonderful place it had been to grow up, they’d be back with their own children. Edna was always right. They’d be back and the little village would be lively once again no doubt.

The sleigh was ready to go and the children were seated comfortably with blankets to cover their legs. Marissa held the baby and Teddy held an umbrella, which he positioned in the best spot to block the snow from landing on Emma and Marissa. Mrs. MacDougall clucked to Old Hildy and the sleigh began to move out into the late afternoon darkness and back to The Thistle & Hive.

***

The crowd gathered in front of the inn were shouting and throwing their hands in every direction. Edna had reassured them that the children were safe, but much to her dismay they hadn’t really believed her. Even Maggie and Dylan were taking part in this crazy search and rescue mission.

“I’ll head off towards the bridge,” Cailin was saying. “Cormac ye head towards the stables. Robert and Ewan, ye can cover the other two directions.” They all nodded their heads and were about to head off when the sound of sleigh bells caught their attention.

“Ye see, I told ye there was nae need to worry. Here they come now.” Edna proclaimed.

All heads turned and watched as Mrs. MacDougall and her sleigh got closer and closer. Ashley, who was being comforted by Jenna, glanced up and with one last sniffle, broke away and started to run towards the sleigh, Cailin caught up with her and grabbing an arm, stopped her.

“They’ll be here soon enough, love.” He placed his arms around her to still her movement.

As the sleigh pulled up in front of the inn, the children were laughing and smiling at their parents, who all now wore relieved expressions.

“Edna, Merry Christmas to ye.” Mrs. MacDougall sat atop the sleigh, reins in hand.

“And to ye, Frances. I see these little rascals made their way to yer stables.” Edna helped Fiona get down from the sleigh. “Did ye have fun, Fiona?”

“Aye. We had cookies and hot chocolate.”

“Did ye now?”

Wee Robert hopped off next. “Aye. We did. I wanted to check on Tonn, Da.”

The parents were speechless. Caught between being angry that they’d gone off without permission and relief that they were safe. “There was nae need, Robbie. Mrs. MacDougall will see that they’re cared for.” Robert said. “Teddy, why would ye take them out in this weather?” Ashley had climbed up into the sleigh and grabbed Emma from Marissa.

Teddy was about to speak when Wee Robert spoke up. “Dinnae blame Teddy. ’Twas my fault. Teddy was tired and he fell asleep. I wanted to see Tonn, so we snuck away without him knowing.”

“Ye shouldnae have gone without our permission. What if ye’d gotten lost? And ye should never have left here with wee Emma. Do ye ken?” Robert’s stern tone was obviously getting his message across. Wee Robert nodded and gazed down at his feet. “There will be extra chores for ye to do when we return to Breaghacraig, lad.”

“I’m sorry, Da. I shouldnae have done it.” Wee Robert’s voice began to quiver, but he stood tall and accepted his punishment like the little man he was. “I’m sorry Teddy.” He turned first to Teddy and then to Ashley and Cailin. “I’m sorry I took Emma with me.”

Cailin pulled him in for a hug. “All is well, ye’ll ken better in the future. This is how we learn.”

Teddy, who looked as if he’d like to melt into the nearest wall put a hand on Wee Robert’s head. “’Tis alright, lad. I’ll nae hold it against ye.”

Edna knew Teddy well enough to know that he was still feeling responsible for what happened. “It’s alright, Teddy. It could’ve happened to any one of us.” She tut-tutted around the children, gathering them close and ushering them towards the door to the inn. “Mrs. MacDougall please come in and join us.”

“I’m afraid I cannae. I must get back home. Marissa my dear, yer welcome to stay with me, if ye like.”

Edna watched as Marissa and Teddy exchanged glances and she smiled to herself.

“I’d like that,” Marissa said. “Bye Teddy. It was nice meeting you and the children.”

Teddy gave a little half wave and the children all waved and shouted, “Bye.”

Mrs. MacDougall turned the sleigh back towards the stables and as the others watched, she slowly disappeared into the falling snow.

***

The children had their dinner and then headed upstairs where Maggie and Dylan took turns reading them Christmas stories. The adults were eating later so they could relax and enjoy some wine and a good meal without the excited chatter of the little ones. Christmas Eve was the following day and they quietly reflected on their time here in Glendaloch.

Edna was on the phone with some last minute invitations and Angus was helping Dylan bring dinner to the table.

“Dylan, this looks amazing!” Angelina said. “I’m so proud of you. I didn’t know you wanted to be a chef.”