Page 8 of We Wish You a Messy Christmas

“Wow, Dad, when you said you were working on a birdhouse, I didn’t realize you were going into production. These are awesome.”

“All the grands seemed to think they needed one. So, what are you doing here?”

“Came for Mom’s birthday. Figured better late than never. And Mom didn’t seem to mind.” He turned back to Rob. “By the way, I brought a surprise for you.”

“Huh?” Rob blinked.

“Your daughter came with me.”

“Olivia?” Rob was stunned. “She’s here?”

“In the house with Mom and the ladies. Last I saw they were shoving food at her, but I wanted to say hey to Dad.”

Erik grabbed his son into a big bear hug. “Well, I’m so glad to see you, son. Thanks for coming. But you might have to sleep on the floor.” He started to rattle off how many kids and grandkids were camped out in the various rooms.”

“We have an empty guest room,” Rob said suddenly, despite knowing he probably shouldn’t. “Why not stay with us, Malcolm?”

“Seriously?” Malcolm looked surprised.

“Absolutely. The guest room is always ready but rarely gets used.”

“We’re only here for one night,” Malcolm told him.

“And you came together?” Rob studied the tall young man. “How did that happen?”

“Well, sir, I might as well let the cat out of the bag.”

“Sounds like veterinarian talk to me,” Erik teased. “Did you hear he’s practicing at a vet clinic in Salem?”

“That’s right. Congratulations on graduating vet school, Malcolm. Or should I call you Dr. McEntire?”

Malcolm laughed. “First name’s good.”

“So, tell me, what proverbial cat are you talking about?” Rob asked.

“Well, Olivia and I met by chance at the clinic where I work.” He quickly explained about her work friend’s feline trouble while Rob impatiently waited.

“And?”

“Well, we sort of hit it off. I mean we’ve always been friends. But this, well, it’s different.” His cheeks actually reddened a bit. “More serious.”

Rob didn’t know what to say and felt his brows arching as he imagined Jane’s reaction to this news. “Well, Malcolm . . . Olivia is a fine girl. Not that I’m biased.” He forced a nervous chuckle. “And I’m happy you two ran into each other like that.”

Erik slapped his son’s back. “We’ve always loved Olivia. She was over here so much she felt like one of the family.”

“That’s what she says too, Dad.”

“So, are you two planning to make this a permanent arrangement?” Erik asked eagerly. “Setting a date?”

“Dad.” Malcolm shook his head. “Don’t rush things. We’re only dating right now. I mean, it’s exclusive and all. But we’re not in any big hurry.”

“Well, your mom will be thrilled.” Erik beamed. “Does she know?”

“Not exactly. But I saw a glint in her eye when she hugged Olivia and figured I should give you a heads-up.” Malcolm turned to Rob. “So, is that invitation to stay at your house still good? Or would you prefer to think it over and, uh, maybe consult your wife?”

Rob thought for a good long moment, then slowly shook his head. “No need to consult the missus. I invited you, Malcolm. It’s my home and you are welcome.” He chuckled. “Might be just the right medicine for Jane to have an unexpected guest.”

But he was thinking of an old saying his grandmother quipped when dosing him with some family remedy—“kill or cure.” For all he knew, that might be true in Jane’s case. Because if Olivia and Malcolm were truly getting serious, Jane would probably faint or throw a fit. Rob knew how to dial 911 and administer CPR, but hopefully it wouldn’t come down to that.