Page 72 - Book 8 Matty Hedgehog and the Paper Chase

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Matty Hedgehog and the Paper Chase
Charlie blushed and moved towards Velvet to take her hand. She raised her head to look at him with her big brown eyes.
‘Hello,’ he said softly. ‘This is a lovely surprise.’
‘I’m glad. Because Paris and Jessica invited me,’ she said warmly.
The two rabbits stood smiling at each other.
‘Are we going or do we have to stand here looking at you two all night?’ chuckled Sam Hedgehog. ‘Come on, kids. What are we waiting for? Let’s go and have some fun at the fair.’
In the heart of Barns Wood stood a red and green carousel made from a wooden wheel. The animals sat on small seats as it whizzed around and around. Swings dangled from branches and a long slide enticed daring young animals to show off.
Velvet was a hit as far as Charlie’s daughters were concerned and they made sure that she was included in all the rides. Sideshows and stalls added to the attraction. Betsy and Sam Hedgehog were overjoyed when Jackson Squirrel arrived with their son, Matty, sitting in a cart.
The celebrations continued long after the fair had closed but back home frantic activity filled the garden.
Earlier that day, as promised, Alfie had hoisted a flag in the conifer trees for Minnie to see. When she saw it, she nervously moved around the pen whispering to the other birds: ‘It’s on. We are going home tonight. Pretend to go to sleep and I’ll tell you when it’s time to leave.’