Page 23 of A Highland Family Affair

‘And you think growing and selling plants and trees will satisfy you?’ She shook her head. ‘It’s hardly thrilling, Kerr, and you’ve always been about the thrill. You can’t deny that.’

He nodded. ‘I know I have in the past. But that’s not who I am any more. It’s not who I want to be. I have an opportunity to make a difference and a positive one for a change. I think I could make this work. I really do. And I’m not looking for a quick fix, Liv. I’m looking for something I can get my teeth into. Something completely different. I’ve also been looking into college courses in tree surgery. That way I could have a sideline year-round. The number of trees in this area and the storms we have, it’s essential for people to look after their trees, and I could be that person. I know it probably sounds utterly ridiculous, but I’ve never felt like this about anything before. I’ve never wanted to do something this much. All I’ve ever done is try to make and make millions quickly and I’ve failed every time, you’re right about that. But I really think I could make a go of this. I could give back to the castle. To you.’

The sincerity in his eyes shocked Olivia. But what shocked her even more was that she believed every word he had uttered. ‘But you’ve never done a day of physical labour in your life, Kerr, and you know that this is all physical labour, don’t you? I mean, you do understand that there’s no sitting behind a desk barking orders at people, don’t you?’

He rolled his eyes. ‘You really do underestimate me, don’t you? Of course I know it’s physical. But that’s exactly what I want. Something completely different.’

Olivia sighed and closed her eyes for a moment. She wanted to support him but not to the detriment of the castle and its finances. ‘I’ll need to think about it, Kerr. I’ll need to decide if there’s money to invest in something like this. It wasn’t on the radar before so I can’t just agree and hand over the money. It’ll take a lot of consideration. And I’ll need to speak to Ali Gordon myself. He may have someone in mind to take over already. His son may want to.’

Kerr shook his head. ‘His son is moving to Shetland to take over a farm. And his daughter’s still working in Edinburgh for the law firm.’

‘Can you leave it with me, Kerr? I love that you’re excited, but I really need⁠—’

‘To think it through, of course, I get it. And I understand. You’ll need to speak to Brodie too. But… don’t take too long, will you? If this idea’s not going to work, I really need to find something else to fill my time, sis. I can’t sit around spending time in my own head. It’s not a healthy place to be.’

Olivia nodded. ‘I promise I’ll give it some serious thought.’

Kerr stuck his hands in his jacket pockets. ‘Thank you. I’ll go back, leave you to your walk. I wouldn’t stay out too long, though, looks like rain. Come on, Lancey.’ He turned and started to walk back in the direction of the castle. Olivia noted the dejection in his tone and the downturn of his mouth, it was clear he was expecting her to say no. The problem was, there was a good chance he was right.

9

On Friday, Olivia greeted Charlotte at the main entrance to the castle. Once again, the woman was smartly presented, this time in a navy trouser suit.

‘Welcome aboard, Charlotte,’ Olivia said as she shook her new employee’s hand.

Charlotte smiled. ‘I don’t think I’ve ever been this nervous!’

‘No need. We’re a nice friendly bunch. Now let me show you around the place. I know you’ve done the public tour but as my PA you will need to know your way around the whole castle.’

Charlotte raised her eyebrows. ‘Oh, wow, lucky me.’

Olivia showed Charlotte every room she would need access to and introduced her to the various staff members as they went. Charlotte was in awe in every room and Olivia was delighted at her reactions; her enthusiasm for the place was reassuring.

Eventually, they reached the kitchen.

‘This is the real hub of the place. You met Mirren on your interview day, Mirren, Dougie, this is Charlotte, my new PA.’

Charlotte shook hands with Mirren and Dougie and Mirren smiled. ‘I’m not an ogre, just so you know, regardless of what my stepson Brodie might say.’

Dougie laughed. ‘He said that? I’ll be having words.’

‘He didn’t use that exact phrase, but it was implied by the cheeky beggar.’ She laughed good-naturedly.

At that moment, Kerr walked into the kitchen. ‘What’s all the laughter? Aren’t you all meant to be working?’

‘Ah, Kerr, I’d like to introduce you to my new PA Charlotte Szabo. Charlotte, this is my big brother, Kerr MacBain.’

Kerr held out his hand. ‘Welcome to the madhouse,’ he said with a grin.

Charlotte’s face turned a shade close to pillar-box red, and she tucked her hair behind her ear. Sure signs of an immediate crush, Olivia thought. Oh no, that’s all I need. ‘Th-thank you. Kerr, was it?’

Kerr nodded. ‘Aye, that’s me. Prodigal son and bad apple, at your service.’

Olivia whacked his arm playfully. ‘Hey! That’s not true and don’t you be scaring her away.’

Kerr chuckled. ‘Am I right in thinking you’re the one with a cat called Spock?’

Charlotte nodded. ‘Yes… well, my son at least.’