AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Joseph tugged on Logan’s hand. “Auntie Ainsley never let Grandda yell in the house. It was a rule.”
“We tend to have a bit more yelling in Scotland, Joseph, but it’s harmless.”
“There’s plenty of work to go around,” Victoria said. “Between giving Kade lessons and taking care of my daughter, I am quite busy.” She flashed Angus a smile. “I’ll be happy to have your help, Grandda. You’re so good with babies.”
Angus was instantly diverted. He adored babies and was as good with them as he was with boisterous little boys.
“Whatever I can do, lass.” He winked at Nick. “We were all that thrilled when ye wrote us with the news.”
“Thank you, Grandda. Rowena’s birth was a truly splendid day.” Nick’s voice was gruff with emotion.
The arrival of Rowena Caroline Kendrick five months ago had brought immense joy to the household, especially to her father. For Nick, many old wounds had been healed that day. He would never truly get over the loss of Cam, but now he had another child to love with a free and open heart.
“Rowena’s a pip,” Kade said.
“What are we waitin’ for?” Angus enthused. “Let’s go have a look at the bairn.”
“In a bit,” Nick said. “Besides, you’ve all been quite remiss when it comes to introductions.”
Joseph glanced up at Logan. “What does that mean?” he whispered.
“It means your uncle Nick is anxious to meet you, son.”
“I am at that,” Nick said with a smile.
While the others silently watched, Nick approached Logan and Joseph. He cast Logan a sharp, assessing glance, then hunkered down so that he and the little boy were on eye level. Joseph regarded his brawny uncle with the sweet gravity that was so much a part of his character, and so much like his mother that Logan could barely breathe.
“Hello, lad. I’m your uncle Nick.”
“Hello, sir. I’m Joseph Kendrick.”
Nick pressed a finger to his mouth for a second, as if holding back a chuckle, then he extended a hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Joseph. Welcome to Kendrick House.”
The boy glanced up at Logan.
“Go ahead, son. Shake his hand.”
Still holding on to Logan, Joseph tentatively reached out. His small hand disappeared into Nick’s.
“Thank you, sir,” the boy said. “Grandda told me all about you on the trip.”
“Did he now? And what did he say?”
“That you’re the laird.” He saidlairdcarefully, as if trying it on for size. “And you’re the clan chief, too.”
Nick stood, still holding on to the boy’s hand. “That I am.”
“Grandda says it’s a great honor, and that I must treat you a . . . accordingly.”
Nick threw Angus an amused glance. “I’m honored to hold the title, Joseph. I try to do the best I can, but I don’t always get it right.”
Angus scoffed. “Och, yer the best laird the title’s ever had.”
“Since you’re the head of Clan Kendrick, that means you’re my chief, too,” Joseph said.
“That’s very true. You’re definitely a member of the clan.”
Logan could see the tension dissipate from his son’s little body. Joseph smiled at his uncle, looking genuinely happy.
