A Highlander For Christmas

What About Wuggie

Besides the house which had parts that were in disrepair, there were stables, a barn for the sheep, a workshop, and some outbuildings. There was also the cottage that Eugenia and Sinclair live in. Sheep’s Lodge was situated on twenty acres of land, five acres were for growing hay and wheat. Ten acres were forested and had a stream going through it.

Sinclair told me there was even a cave with a waterfall, that it was home to some old highlanders that fought in one of the many battles between Scotland and England. I pulled on my boots and some warm clothes. I wanted to check out this cave and my land.

I wanted to see if there was a spot to build a greenhouse, I always dreamed of having a big gothic type of greenhouse. There were snow drifts around the courtyard, and I shivered looking at all the snow that accumulated overnight.

I threw on another hoodie and grabbed my hat, gloves, and some warm socks. I hoped that I wouldn’t turn into an Anna popsicle when I was out there. I heard Eugenia giggling like a girl from the kitchen and I shuddered again as the wind whipped through the entryway.

Sinclair was hugging Eugenia and I suddenly felt like I was an interloper and should probably just leave. The smell of coffee and cinnamon rolls made me think twice and I cleared my throat as I walked into the kitchen. Eugenia swatted at Sinclair, he laid a peck on her cheek and doffed his cap at me.

“Will ye be exploring the lands? If so, I will get ole Ebony saddled up for you. She is a grumpy lass at times but will enjoy the chance to stretch her legs.” I blinked at him; he wasn’t suggesting that I ride a horse to explore the property.

“Isn’t there like an ATV or something?” He laughed and shook his head; I could have sworn that he was probably making a wager with himself on whether I would be walking back or riding a horse.

“That is funny lass, if ye want I can ring up Mackenzie and have him tour the property with you.” I scowled at him, and he shook his head chuckling.

“About him, he wants me to find another handyman. So, I doubt he will want to go touring the property. Besides, I may just be tempted to leave him out there.” Sinclair let out a string of curses and Eugenia groaned.

“That boy, always making trouble for me. Don’t ye worry lass I will talk some sense into his thick skull? By the way, before you head out, could you come to the barn to meet Doctor Jacob?” He stormed out the door slamming it behind him.

I didn’t even get the chance to tell him that I didn’t care if Mack wanted to change jobs. I have seen enough home improvement shows, I might be able to DIY some of the repairs myself. I was not totally clueless.

“Here you go dear, I packed some goodies and a mug of hot coffee for you. There is another in the bag by the door for later. Please give us a call if you will be late and try not to stay out past dark.” She hugged me and I inhaled the scent of cookies. Oh, she smelled so good.

“Thanks, Eugenia, I’m heading out. Don’t worry, I have ridden a horse before.” I did not want to tell her that the last time I rode a horse I managed to get my shirt and my bra hooked on the horn of the saddle and slid off while flashing everyone my cupcakes. Or the other time I rode bareback and fell off and landed right on my butt.

“Just be careful dear, I am making Shepherd’s Pie tonight for dinner. I will have it in the oven, but Sinclair and I will be in town. Will you be alright by yourself?” She was worried about me being alone and that was heartwarming. It also reminded me to ask her about Wuggie.

“Before I go, Sinclair told me that a friend of mine was staying here but I haven’t seen him since I have gotten here. His brother is worried sick about him.” She looked confused and then she snapped her fingers, she dug around in a drawer and came out with an envelope with my name on it.

“Sorry dear, he was here for a few hours met a girl in town and they just took off somewhere. He left this letter for you and said he was sorry.” Sighing I took the letter and tucked it into my bag. I will read it later, at least I knew he wasn’t lost in the house somewhere or trapped in a cave on the property.

“Thanks, again, I’m off have a good time tonight! I could probably invite Alexei to dinner he said he wanted to talk about my arrest.” I cringed and she chuckled.

“Melinda was the same way and was a regular at the jail. Do not worry, whatever you did, that hag probably deserved it.” I shot her a smile and thumbs up.

“Someday you will have to tell me about her.” Eugenia sniffed and then smiled wider.

“Definitely dear, you would have liked her.” Shrugging on my boots and coat, I stepped out of the warm kitchen into the cold of the courtyard. I may as well go meet this Doctor Jacob before I head out to explore the property.