Disclaimer: "I do not own Rise of the Guardians, Brave, or any other Disney/Dreamworks/Animated films. All rights belong to Dreamworks, Disney, etc."
Chapter 4 Invasion of the Scots
Elinor passed the gentlemen their passports, making their way through the gates towards their plane. They were on prompt time because of her, being the first ones in line to be seated. The plane was scheduled to take off in about twenty minutes, so they had plenty of time to sort out their carry-ons and seating arrangements. She turned to Fergus and her sons, each holding something personal in their hands.
She immediately began to fuss at the triplets. "Boys, be sure to behave yourself!" she scolded fiercely, spying the mischievous glint in their eyes.
They nodded in agreement, holding back their grins with their maid Maudie trailing behind.
Due to all the fog and rain, Elinor hoped the plane ride would go smoothly when taking off. They would be in the air for nearly 10 hours, probably more depending on how the weather goes. When they reached the end of the path, they were met with the pilot and flight attendants. They greeted them with a smile, bowing respectfully for their appreciation. Fergus went ahead to find their seats, smiling broadly when he found the ones matching to their first class tickets.
"Ah! Here we are!" he nearly shouted.
He let his wife through in order to put the triplets inside their seats, slipping their seatbelts on immediately before taking her own. She quietly silenced them with a stern and motherly look, buckling her own straps together. Maudie took the seat across the isle, keeping a close eye on the lads. Fergus carefully stuffed their personal belongings in the compartments above them, making sure everything was secured before closing it shut. He soon took the empty seat beside his wife, letting out a relieved sigh. Elinor decided to take out one of the books from inside her purse, laying it gently across her lap. The title read "The White Queen" by Philippa Gregory; it was one of her favorite book series.
Fergus felt uneasy, given his dislike for flying. He turned to his wife, already beginning to fuss.
"Elinor, did you bring my sleeping pills?" he asked.
She rolled her eyes, knowing him all too well. "Yes, Fergus; although you and I both know you don't need those to fall asleep."
"It's just caution," he grumbled in defense, causing her to giggle.
More people started coming in, filling up the seats rather quickly since they arrived. Fergus tried to avoid them from hitting his arm, glancing over at Elinor occasionally with worry. She was gazing out the window, trails of raindrops cascading down the screen. Everything seemed like a blur, lights barely peeking out from the fog. It truly was a drowsy day; she was surprised their flight wasn't delayed because of it. The boys already popped open their 3DS, faking innocence as they quietly began to plot ways to drive the flight attendants crazy. Maudie kept a keen eye on them, fighting the urge to take a nap in case they played any tricks on her.
After a moment, the pilot began to speak through the intercom.
"Good morning, passengers. We're currently almost settled to take off in about five minutes. We ask for you all to be seated and situated soon. Don't hesitate to ask our flight attendants any questions you may have. It's currently 3:55pm. It will take us about 11 hours to make it to New York. We should be arriving Sunday morning in JFK by 9:15am. Our weather forecast is partly cloudy between the 60s-70s, but other than that, it should be sunny for the remainder of the day when we arrive. We advice all electronics to be shut off at this time until further notice. Instructions should be given soon from our televised program. Please enjoy your flight." The intercom clicked off, turning on the seatbelt sign.
Elinor sat back inside her seat, gently closing her eyes. She listened to the soft hum of the plane's engine, sensing the luggage being put away underneath them. She honestly couldn't wait to see this Jack person—the one who somehow earned her daughter's heart. It seemed like such a long time ago when Merida had left this place to New York, and now she was doing the same. So much was about to change, and by the time she opened her eyes they were already in the sky.
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Merida tossed another pair of Jack's boxers inside her drawer after folding it. The collection he had was ridiculous, her face growing red by each undergarment she grabbed. Each one had their own pattern of designs on them, proving his taste to be that of a child. They were made out of cotton, which made them quite comfortable to wear too. She picked one up out of curiosity, and gently caressed through the fabric to test its texture. With a foolish thought in mind, she shrugged and decided to try putting it on. This wasn't one of the brightest ideas she ever had, but if she was keeping them in her apartment she might as well use them. The one she chose to try on was blue and held scattered images of the moon on it. She got up and slipped off her underwear, replacing it with Jack's. It hugged tightly around her broad hips, snapping into place around her waist.
"He truly is a skinny thing," she commented aloud with a thoughtful pout.
She walked over to her mirror, and inspected her rear. It was hard to imagine that her butt was that big, considering her lack of breasts. They weren't THAT small; at least, that's what she thought. She groped through her t-shirt, searching for them. She gave them a light squeeze, wondering if Jack would consider her body attractive or not. Suddenly, she scowled at the thought, not caring if he did. She slammed her back onto the bed, soon letting out a scream into her hands. Out of all the people in the world who could have played the part, she just had to choose him.
"I wonder what Mom and Dad will say when they see him," she said, already dreading the encounter, "Dad will probably think he's a toothpick pretty boy. And Mom…well…I don't think she cares as long as I'm dating someone. Guess I won't know until tomorrow."
Not long in her contemplation, Merida's cellphone began to go off. She looked over to see who it was, and groaned from the name "Jack" appearing on the screen.
"That boy must have the ears of the devil," she said with a drone.
She decided to answer, knowing he'll just call again.
She slid the screen downwards, accepting his call. "Overland, what do you want?"
"Now is that anyway to speak to your boyfriend? No wonder you're single," he said.
She glared at the phone as if he was actually in front of her.
"Is there any reason you're calling me, other than to annoy me?" she asked with a huff.
"I just want to know what time am I picking you up tomorrow morning when going to meet your family at the airport. Plus, my ears were ringing, so I'm pretty sure you were talking about me," he said, grinning through the phone.
"Oh trust me, it wasn't nice things," she said, confirming his suspicions.
"So, you were thinking about me," he said, slightly amused.
"If you're done being a child, can I hang up?"
He chuckled. "It's nothing to be ashamed of, not like you're wearing my underwear or anything."
She blushed madly from the harmless joke, finding herself to be doing just that. "Yeah, well, its not very funny!" she exclaimed, almost letting out a squeak.
"Can't blame a guy for trying. So anyway, what time am I picking you up?"
"By eight o'clock," she muttered.
"Alright, see you then, grumpy bear," he melodiously said, "Talk to you later, goodnight."
"Night," she hastily answered, ending the call.
There was a trace of his laughter on the other line when she hung up, teasing her nerves. Out of unknown rage, she tossed her phone to the side, and quickly slipped off his boxers. She threw them across the room, grudgingly seeking out her panties. Once she found them, she clumsily slipped them back on, nearly tumbling to the floor. She wanted to get rid of her humiliation. Even if he didn't mean it, it felt like he knew. She blushed at her own action, sighing angrily for even enjoying the idea of wearing something that was his—something so intimately too!
"What the hell was I even thinking?" she berated angrily, slapping her forehead.
It was a good thing he called to snap her out of it; she could at least be grateful for that. Merida checked the time, realizing how late it really was. She needed to rest for the stress she was about to face tomorrow.
"I should really finish putting away these clothes," she said, yawning soon after.
She glanced over at the pile of Jack's belongings, rolling her eyes at the amount he had.
"He's worse than a woman," she mumbled, shaking her head as a result while picking up one of his ridiculous snowflake socks, "But still a kid."
Not that she could say much about herself; knowing she was also a handful to deal with. Sometimes she wondered if her and Jack actually did have a chance. They obviously lacked the sufficiency of a couple made in heaven. She was honestly starting to have doubts they could actually pull this off. At this rate, she was just going to have to trust him. It seemed like he was having fun with it, despite his earlier resistance; maybe she could do the same? It's the least she could do, since it was her idea. She gave a weak smile, mentally preparing herself for the task ahead. She would have to play her part well if she was to fool her mother. If Jack was willing to do it, then so could she.
Finally laying her mind to rest, Merida finished putting away the rest of Jack's luggage and headed for bed.
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It was already dawn by the time Jack stepped out of the bathroom. He had woken up earlier than he intended to, using the time to shower before picking up Merida. He even shaved, which was hardly necessary given his lack of body hair—he never could grow a beard. All he had was a light trace of scruffiness, but it was enough to warn him the danger of Elinor's expectation of him. He needed to be sharp in order to impress a family like the DunBroch. He walked back to his room, already having his outfit prepared. Closing the door behind him, he stripped off his towel and immediately got himself dressed. He kept himself casual, wearing nothing more than a blue plaid shirt with some skinny jeans to match. He rolled up the sleeves up his elbows, slipping on his 'All Star' converse. All in all, he was satisfied with how he looked, trying his best to fix his hair from sticking up too much. It proved futile of course, but at least it wasn't too bad.
"Well, hopefully this is good enough," he said, spraying on some light-scented cologne, "And with that, I am done."
Jack snatched his sweater from the hook next to him, and made his way out. A surprised waited for him down the hall though, catching him off guard.
His little sister sluggishly rubbed the sleep from her eyes, yawning widely. "Jack, are you leaving already?"
He crouched down, keeping her steady from falling over due to drowsiness. "Yeah, Merida's family would be here soon. I have to pick her up to greet them. Will you be okay by yourself for a few hours?"
She smiled with a nod. "I'll be okay. I wish I could come with you though."
"Trust me, I don't want to make this more personal than it already is," he said, "It's not like we're in a real relationship."
"Still, I would like to meet them," she explained, "Just to see what they're like."
He patted her head, reassuring her. "Maybe another time." He got back up, twirling her around. "Now you go back to sleep, you look like you could use a little more of sandman's magic."
"Only if you walk me there while standing on your feet!" she joyfully hailed.
He playfully rolled his eyes. "Oh, alright."
She stepped back onto Jack's feet, her weight too light to ever crush his toes. They both wobbled back inside her room, Jack tenderly tucking her back into bed. He kissed her forehead, making sure she was sound asleep.
He grabbed the phone that was on her nightstand, pointing it directly with a serious tone. "Call me if you need me. I don't like the idea of you being alone, so you know the rules."
She nodded, placing the phone next to her. "I'll be fine, Jack. I'll only sleep a little longer anyway."
He gave a weak smile, trying his best not to seem worried. Ever since their parents' passing, Jack held a bit of uneasiness when leaving Emma alone. They only had each other, their carefree days limited by the responsibilities he held in supporting them. Sure, they had their uncle, but he was always kept busy at his shop. Jack didn't have time to be a kid anymore, relying on that pastime to fall on his sister instead. It's why he didn't like the idea of separating himself from her, knowing all too well that she needed him.
"Alright then, I'm off. Wish me luck," he said, putting on a fake grin.
"Good luck," she chimed.
He kissed her forehead once more and made his way out, keeping her door ajar. Emma played out a little smirk at his departing back, snuggling comfortably into her pillow. Jack's footsteps faded, along with the opening and shutting of the front door. She could only imagine how things were about to play out, already anticipating his return.
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Merida sat in front of the porch of her duplex, calmly hearing the birds chirp above her. She was dressed in a blue blazer with a white tank top underneath. Her pants were ankle length caprice with some worn out sneakers she had for jogging. She sat with her legs spread open at the bottom step, dangling her feet side to side impatiently for Jack's arrival. She pushed her head back and looked at the sky, catching sight of a plane taking off. It roared loudly, causing the birds to fly off from their nests. The sound echoed inside her ears, fading into the distance. She wondered if her family would be landing soon, checking her watch for the time. Perhaps in another hour or two, she predicted, settling her wrist back down onto the pavement.
"Where the hell is Jack?" she asked aloud, checking both sides of the road.
None of the cars that passed were his, her frustration growing even further. Her stomach growled, limiting her breakfast only to a peace of apple and burnt toast. She closed her eyes and actually contemplated in taking a short nap. However, before she could do so a hunk came. It startled her, causing her to lift her head abruptly to check who it was. Jack was doubled parked in front of her porch, slowly bringing down his window from the passenger side.
"I'm here to pick up a certain pain in the ass. Have you seen her?" he asked coyly.
"Took you long enough," she muttered sourly, making her way towards the car.
"Well, someone woke up from the wrong side of the bed today," he said, unlocking the door for her.
"Let's just get this day over with." She climbed into the car after opening the door, closing it immediately afterwards when taking her seat. "I have enough stress as it is."
"Excuse me, your highness. If there's anyone who should be stressing, it's me," he defensively explained, "After all, I'm the one who has to impress them, not you."
"We both have to impress them," she corrected scornfully, "You don't know my parents as I do."
Jack switched the gear to drive, wasting no time in delaying their schedule.
"Says the woman who hasn't seen them in years," he responded tactfully.
She frowned at him. "Just try not to make a fool of yourself, especially in front of my mother."
"I'm actually more concern of your father," he answered honestly.
She examined Jack for a second when he said that, very much aware what her father might say about him. It somehow made her frown, not liking the idea of him being judged. Secretly, she had to laugh at her self—for she was guilty of doing the same thing once long ago. When she lived in Scotland she remembered poking fun at the suitors her mother once try to set her up with, never giving them a chance to know her. They were now one of her closest friends back home, feeling ashamed for even insulting them like she did. She just hoped Jack wouldn't have to face the same humiliation her father had once influenced her to do. When she thought about it, it was funny how much she has changed since she left home.
She gazed out through the window, exploring the scenery with her eyes. They remained in silent after that, listening to the soft tunes that played on the radio. It calmed them for the most part, allowing their minds to ponder. Jack was doing his best to concentrate on the road, spying on Merida time from time. He kept practicing on what he would say when meeting her family at the airport, not really sure on how he would approach them. Looking at Merida though gave him confidence—at least he won't be trying to fool them alone.
They heard planes roaring close by, indicating they were close to JFK's airport. The city was far behind them now, long empty roads taking their place. Planes could be seen landing and taking off across the flatten surface of concrete, each perfectly scheduled and monitored by the tower. Jack drove up a slope where the terminal was, entering through the gate where guests were permitted to park. Luckily it didn't take them long to find a spot, casually easing between two cars in the second floor.
Without even realizing it, they both let out a breath of air. It seemed so surreal up until now. Once they step out the car, the challenge to their charade would truly begin.
"Well, this is it," Merida said, confirming the obvious.
Jack turned off the engine and took off his seatbelt. "Have they called or texted you yet?"
She checked her phone while unbuckling her own strap. "No, not yet—but I'm sure they would have landed by now. Most likely going through customs, which will take awhile."
"No doubt about that," he agreed.
She shuffled in her seat, suddenly feeling uncomfortable.
Jack looked at her with concern. "Do you want to wait here until they call you or something? Or wait inside?"
"I'm…not really sure," she answered, bowing her head. She soon gave out a short laugh. "To be honest, I'm not sure I'm even ready to meet them yet. It's been so long, I almost forgotten how it felt to be around them."
Jack scratched the back of his head, not sure how to approach her. He smiled though, finding this side of Merida to be comforting—almost sort of endearing. When she was around him, there was nothing but snarky remarks. However, she was actually dumbfounded and letting her guard down while in the company of his presence. The woman he imagined to be steel truly was a rose with just thorns underneath. Even so, he didn't want to wreck the moment with his own vulnerability coming down just yet.
"Well, I'm starving," he bluntly announced, "And I imagine you're hungry as well."
She glowered at him, actually annoyed that he would change the subject. "And what gave you that idea?"
The moment she asked, her stomach growled, enabling a smug grin to appear on Jack's lips. She blushed from the sound, retreating her face away from his. The frown she held was so fierce that he could barely see her irises beneath her burgundy eyelashes.
Jack broke out into joyful fits of laughter, which oddly soothed her. He opened his door, beckoning her to follow him out. "Come on, let's go get something to eat—wouldn't want your parents thinking I'm starving you."
She sighed with a huff of defeat, not liking the idea of being subdued so easily by his laugh. "Fine, only because you look like you need to add a few pounds."
He rolled his eyes, his chuckles settling into a smile. "Yes, tell me the secrets of eating, your highness."
"Trust me, you'll be buffed before you know it!" she exclaimed proudly, closing her door. She soon quietly added, taking a moment to walk beside him, "Not that there's anything wrong with how you look already."
"Woah, are you coming on to me?" he asked in fake astonishment, side stepping away from her before she could slap him.
"I was only saying that so you wouldn't feel nervous when meeting my parents!" she shouted, watching as he sped away from her, "Hey! Get back here!"
"Not a chance!" he rang back, not even caring how much of a child he was being.
He ran inside the building, laughing gleefully the whole way—with Merida not too far behind.
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They reached the food court, inspecting lines. A lot of them were your regular fast food places, nothing really appetizing. The sun's rays beamed brightly though, giving everything a heavenly glow. People were bustling everywhere inside the place, some arriving, and some departing. Merida winced from the brightness, trying her best to read the labels that were there. Everything seemed so expensive; the only best option they had was McDonald's. They entered the line, patiently waiting for their turn. They scanned the menu, deciding what they want in comfortable silence.
Merida was the first to speak, "So, what are you getting?"
Jack scratched the back of his neck, "I was thinking the big breakfast with hotcakes and some coffee. How about you?"
She swayed back and forth, scrunching her face, "Hmm, I think I'll have a oatmeal, apple slices, and cinnamon melts. That sounds really good."
He laughed, moving up the line. "Anything else? Like something to drink?"
"Oh!" She almost forgotten, quickly answering, "And some orange juice."
"No coffee?"
"Not today."
"Okay, go sit down then," he said, preparing to take out his wallet, "I got this."
"What? No!" she nearly shouted, hating the idea of him paying for her.
"Relax, can you calm your 'I'm a strong independent woman' tiff, and let me pay," he scoffed.
She folded her arms across her chest, giving him her trademark glare. He was unimpressed, waving his hand at her.
"Now go find us a table, I got this already."
A part of her couldn't help to think it was just his way in making up an excuse in getting away from her. It wasn't like it mattered though, so she just agreed without arguing about it.
"Fine, I'll go find us a seat," she mumbled, walking away without caring to hear him say anything else.
'What the hell? What's her problem now?' he mentally asked with concern, moving a step forward within the line.
Merida rushed over to a table she found suitable where the sun couldn't reach. She pulled the chair rather loudly, screeching the floor. When she sat down, she immediately checked her phone in case of any messages from her family. Nothing yet it would seem. She dropped her phone back into her purse, and anxiously began tapping her foot. It wasn't long before Jack came over with their tray of food, taking the seat across from her. He passed her food over, making sure everything was correct inside the bags.
"Here you go," he said.
"Thanks," she replied.
The first thing she did was a take a sip out of her juice, never realizing how thirsty she was. She smacked her lips together, doing her best to eat. In all honesty, she wasn't all that hungry, but it was best she ate something—especially since Jack paid for it. Unfortunately, he noticed her lack of appetite right away, his concern for her peeking out once more.
"Aren't you hungry?" he asked, taking a bite out of the hash brown he ordered.
She grimaced at her meal, poking it diligently with a spoon. "I was, but now I think my nerves are catching up to me."
"Heh, what are you talking about? You have nerves of steel," he said, surprisingly complimenting her.
She forced a spoonful inside her mouth. "I'm just trying to think on how I should act."
"Around your family?"
"Around you," she corrected.
He didn't know how to respond to that, his heart sinking somewhere he never knew it could.
Merida shook her head, and decided to elaborate, "I mean, when my family comes, we have to act like we're a couple. It's sort of awkward and strange, don't you think?"
"Yeah, you're telling me," he scoffed with a laugh, feeling his own nerves catch up to him.
"I really hope they don't expect us to hold hands or kiss in front of them," she said, shaking her head from the thought.
"We could just tell them we don't like to show affection in public," he offered hesitantly.
"That excuse will only get us so far," she said, "Mom's too smart for that."
"So what, you telling me I have to kiss you?" he asked, pulling his seat back in dismay.
She felt insulted by his reaction. "Oh, like that's the most horrible scenario you can think of."
He sighed and tried to explain, "No, it's just, like you said. It's weird."
"Guess we'll just have to try and act natural," she said, rubbing her temples lightly, "Easier said, than done."
Jack continued to eat, not wanting to think too much about it. It was going to be odd, how could it not though? They've always been co-workers—friends even—but lovers? That was tipping the iceberg. This was all happening too fast, and they didn't even have much time to discuss about it. They could always improvise, but like she said, that would only get them so far. Then again, what harm will it be if they were caught? It's not like they would go to jail about it. The only thing costing him here is his story. As for Merida, it was hard too tell. When he thought about it, it wasn't like there was much going for her. She must have her reasons besides her mother's approval and nagging. As hard as he tried to read into her motive, it was all too hard to tell.
A soft rumble coming from inside Merida's purse soon caught their attention. It was obviously her phone, a text message flashing onto her screen. Her heart skipped a beat, and the rush of anxiety took over her.
'We're here, getting out of customs now. Can't wait to see you!' It was a text from her Mom.
Merida looked up at Jack with a nervous glance, trying to pass up a smile in which she hoped was reassuring.
"They're here," she simply said.
Jack drank down the rest of his coffee, his Adam's apple bouncing from each gulp.
He wiped the bit of liquid off his lips, clearing away his tray. "It's Showtime."
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They were at the waiting area before they knew it. Merida kept a watchful eye out for her family, contemplating if she should hold Jack's hand or not when she saw them. No, maybe that would be a little too much. Just act natural, it's all she needed to do. Jack fumbled his hands inside his pockets, casually swaying back and forth on his heels. He stared at Merida waiting for her to crack and call this whole thing off. It almost seemed like she was ready to flee. He had to nail her down before she could. As much as this was about him meeting her parents, it was much more about her instead.
"Hey, relax, will you?" he told her, "You're making me nervous."
"Sorry," she blandly answered, shaking her voice from sounding so pitiful, "I'm just not ready yet."
"Well, something tells me you won't have time to feel ready," he said, "Just know—I'm here with a getaway car whenever you need it."
She couldn't help but laugh, his words providing more than enough courage for her to stay. "I think I'll be fine."
"Good," he said, hiding a smile.
Before long, Merida's name was heard being shouted across the hall. Jack looked ahead and saw—whom he assumed—were Merida's brothers running towards them.
"Merida!" they shouted simultaneously, jumping into her arms with mad speed.
The collision nearly knocked the wind out of her, causing her to stumble backwards onto the floor.
"Well, if it isn't my favorite wee lads," she said, her accent becoming clear to Jack's ears more than ever.
They covered their faces into her chest, resisting the urge to cry. She smiled though, patting their heads, while kissing each of their foreheads. Jack was almost in awe at the affectionate display. He never quite imagined this side of Merida before, and it was honestly a newfound sensation he wanted to see more of—maybe even towards him. He wanted to slap himself from the thought; best not let his imagination and feelings wander too far from the true objective.
"We missed you," they said, beaming happily.
"And I missed you," she replied in return.
They soon took notice of Jack, inspecting him shrewdly with suspicion. Merida got up from the floor, coughing awkwardly to herself on what to say. It was then that the boys' received a whack in the head from their nanny.
"How many times have I told you lads not to run off on your own?" Maudie lectured, shaking a disproving finger.
The boys groaned and held their heads, but held no regret over their action. It was all good fun for them anyway. Merida giggled inside her hand, finding nothing to have changed. Jack just kept quiet and looked up when two new figures started to approach them. Merida was too distracted by her brothers to notice them, remaining oblivious—that was until one of them spoke.
"Merida…"
She immediately lifted her head up, her smile slowly fading away. She was stunned to say the least, overwhelmed by something she thought was lost forever. Her parents stood there like a figment of her imagination, beckoning her to run to them.
"Mom…. Dad…" she whispered out, her lower lip quivering.
"Well, don't just stand their lass, are you going to give us a hug, or not?" Fergus bellowed, his mustache curving along with his grin.
She jolted forward between everyone, and fell into her father's arms. He took hold of her, twisting her small body around in glee. Even after all this time, he still was huge as a bear. The strength of his laughter echoed across the air, influencing her very own. The scruff of his beard tickled her cheeks, slapping a wet kiss on top of her forehead. When he released her, she looked over to her mother, tears brimming in the corner of her eyes.
"I've missed you guys," she said.
"And we've missed you," Elinor answered.
Merida suddenly found herself inside her mother's embrace. They held each other tightly inside a cocoon of warmth, never wanting to let go. The scent of her mother's perfume reminded her of home. It almost felt too surreal, banishing all the years they've been separated since she moved to America.
Elinor pulled her back, brushing the strand of hair from her daughter's face. "You've grown so much. I can hardly believe it's been six years."
"Hehe, yeah," she replied awkwardly, shrugging her shoulders.
During this time, Jack just watched the spectacle reunion as a stranger in the dark. There were no bagpipes of a royal entrance; just a family reunion between loved ones. He felt uncomfortable even being there, shying away from everyone. It usually wasn't like him to feel this way, but something in him felt out of place. That was until someone pointed him out.
"Merida, who's this?" Hamish asked, striking the other two boys' interest.
Merida turned to Jack, nearly forgetting he was there.
"Oh, that's…Jack, my," she didn't know if she was brave enough to even say it, "My boyfriend." She forced herself to smile, walking over to stand by his side. "Jack, this is my family. Mom, Dad, my brothers, and their nanny Maudie."
"Hey," he said, waving up a hand.
"Hay is for horses, lad," Fergus replied, mocking him, "Best you remember that."
"I expected him to be bigger," Harris soon added, his brothers nodding in agreement.
"Fergus! Boys!" Elinor scolded, "Don't be rude, the lad is obviously nervous to see us. It's a pleasure to meet you, Jack. You don't know how excited I am to meet you. You must be a fine young man to win my daughter's heart."
"Hehe, right," he said, not knowing if that was a compliment or a question.
He looked over at Merida, who could only give him a shrug. This was going to be harder than he thought.
End Chapter
Kiome-Yasha: I know it's been like almost a YEAR since I updated this story, but I'm back and hope to continue it better than before with the New Year. Hope you guys enjoyed this chapter! The fun just started! Also, in case you're wondering, Jack is 25 in this story and Merida is 23. In case you guys were curious how old they are. Until the next chapter!