Nanny Behaving Badly (23 page)

Lyle smiled at her deeply. ‘Here’s to the future.’

Maddie nodded to Isobel, Lyle’s mother, to signal that that a particularly special moment had arrived. Very carefully, Isobel passed over the most special bridesmaid of all. Lyle’s mother had already dabbed her eyes so often, with so many different lace hankies, Maddie imagined she had the world’s biggest supply somewhere in a maxi tote. Alongside diapers for their youngest guest.

Molly Isobel Alicia held out her arms for her daddy; a heart stealer dressed in ivory taffeta with a lilac sash.

‘No more tears,’ Lyle instructed his mother.

‘I cry when I’m happy. So shoot me.’

‘The harpist and quintet in the church started it.’ Heather remarked. Maddie noticed Lyle’s sister’s engagement ring sparkle on her finger; Heather Sutherland would soon be Edinburgh’s hottest tennis star’s first lady.

Lyle interjected, ‘My wife organised the music and she always goes to extremes; it’s part of her irrepressible charm.’

Even when tiny Molly was reclaimed by her doting grandmother, photography complete, Lyle and Maddie lingered. They chose to watch the party navigate the cobbled slope, towards their Royal Mile reception.

‘My mother loved a good wedding,’ said Maddie.

‘She’d have been as proud as I am.’ Changing the mood, Lyle linked his fingers with hers. ‘I miss those old days … your daring, zany ways … the blue hair.’

Maddie stared in faux surprise. ‘I thought you disapproved!’

Lyle dragged his wife into his arms. ‘Come here, Mrs Sutherland – unleash that rebel side a fraction and kiss me like crazy!’

Maddie grinned and did, relishing every moment. With her own wild, wonderful Scotsman.

The End