Seamus bellowed as Mary and two other women entered the hall with their wriggling bundles. They ascended the dais to permit a better view to Seamus and Alred as Garrick presented the babes. “This is me heir…Garrick Seamus,” he proudly declared as green eyes gazed up to meet his boldly. “And here be me second son…Alred Lokai Brodie. And our daughter…Corinne Diedre Brodie.” King Alred’s gaze jerked up glancing at Seonaid in surprise. His eyes misted as he spoke. “You honor us, Garrick…Seonaid. Your mother would be delighted.” She returned his smile…her heart swelling with love…and pride. The men fussed over the bairns until they grew drowsy and dozed off. Mary and the maids returned them to the nursery as they continued their visit. Natasha had kept her head down and her hair covered as she retrieved the babe, Alred, from Seonaid’s arms. It would not do for her to be recognized, she thought as she hurried back to the nursery with her charge.
