Page 59 of Scandal with a Sinful Scot

“Garrett believes we were placed in danger because we were with him.” Abbie paused, since speaking about this caused her heart to ache afresh. “We are returning home as planned. It is left to Garrett to decide what is more important to him. And I have told him to make a choice, once and for all. I ask we please not speak about this anymore. I never should have come here.” Her voice shook on the last sentence.

“But I am very glad you did.” They whirled about to see Oliver standing in the doorway. “Forgive my interruption, and my overhearing what you said. May I come in?”

Abbie nodded. Lord, she was not in the mood for more discussion on this subject, and certainly not with Garrett’s father.

“I wanted to say what a breath of fresh air you and Megan have been. My joy at finding both of you knows no bounds. Regardless of what may happen, I wish us to stay in touch. Megan may come for visits whenever she pleases. Both of you always have a home here, and a family who cares for you very much.”

Blast it all, why did these men have to be so generous and charming? “Thank you.”

“To have the family expand at last is gratifying indeed. Bastian has confirmed that Sabrina is indeed with child.” Oliver beamed.

“How wonderful!” Megan clapped her hands together with delight.

“I’m pleased for the family. Rest assured I will never keep Megan from you all,” Abbie said.

“I cannot persuade you to stay?” he asked.

“No.”

“Then I will not press you on the matter.”

Thank God.

“What about the puppy?” Megan asked.

“As soon as your mother informed me of your considerate proposal, I made inquires. It appears that there is a sheep farmer in Sussex who has a half-grown collie who is not adjusting well to herding. They have no need for a pet, so I made an offer to buy him. Not exactly a puppy as such, but I believe he would be grateful for a loving home.”

Megan’s lower lip quivered. “You will give him to Garrett? Tell him the puppy’s name is Laddie?”

Another stab of pain radiated from Abbie’s heart. Megan was coming to care for Garrett. Oh, what had she done? To bring her daughter here, introduce her to her father and his family, only to take her away?

“I will,” Oliver replied. “I will say he is a gift from you, Megan. He will be touched. I won’t tell him of it until I have the puppy in my possession. It will be a surprise.”

Megan stood and rushed to Oliver’s arms. He was as surprised as Abbie by the unexpected show of affection. “Thank you, Grandpapa,” she whispered.

Oliver met Abbie’s gaze, and his eyes glistened with emotion. Abbie’s own eyes filled with tears. “My dear girl. You are entirely welcome.” He hugged her tight, closing his eyes, no doubt basking in the fact that Megan had called him Grandpapa.

“The puppy can keep him company while he recovers,” Megan murmured.

Oliver smoothed Megan’s hair. “Yes.”

“May I see my…my…Garrett, before we leave?” Megan asked.

“Let us see him, by all means.” Oliver took Megan’s hand and led her from the room. Abbie waited several moments, then silently followed Oliver and Megan. Standing outside the door, she had a clear view of Garrett’s room, but remained hidden. Eavesdropping was not a prudent thing to do, but she wished to see their interaction.

“I’ve come to say goodbye,” Megan said softly. “I am so very glad the fever broke.”

Abbie couldn’t see Garrett’s face, but he took Megan’s hand and squeezed it. “Look…after…your mother,” he said, his voice weak and raspy.

Hot tears gathered at the corners of Abbie’s eyes at Garrett’s emotionally spoken words.

“You will come and see us, as soon as you are recovered?” Megan asked hopefully.

“Yes.”

“Promise?”

“I…promise.”