Page 83 - Book 8 Matty Hedgehog and the Paper Chase

Matty Hedgehog and the Paper Chase 81
With a knowing look, she said: ‘Their coming wedding, silly. Everyone’s talking about it.’
‘Everyone except Charlie. Don’t listen to gossip, Sadie. What if I told you Willow and Serenity are getting married?’
‘Really!’ grinned Sadie.
‘No, I’m kidding,’ he said. ‘Listen to me, Sadie. Charlie will be upset if he hears about this. It isn’t fair for the girls either. Just let the matter drop – please.’
Alfie rose from his chair, kissed his wife, and returned to mending a broken latch, frowning. He recalled Charlie’s last words to him yesterday. He’d told the squirrel that he wasn’t sure that he was ready for marriage, although he was very fond of Velvet.
***
‘I don’t want to go. It’s too cold and we always stay in on Christmas Eve to play games,’ moaned Chloe pulling on her wellies. ‘Will Velvet be at the snow picnic, Grandma?’
‘I expect so. Where’s your scarf, Isla? Jess! Take those silly shoes off now. Boots only. Hurry up, Paris. We’re leaving. Matty! Put your big coat on and don’t forget a scarf.’
Tilly was breathless as she ushered her five charges out and locked the front door. She glanced at Chloe’s scowling face.
‘Sophia and the fairies and gnomes will be there, so behave yourself and do smile,’ she said, taking Chloe’s hand.
‘Who knows, you might build the biggest snow animal and win the prize.’