The following morning, Nana and Kira stood side by side at the top of the wide steps, watching the staff load the last of the luggage into the boot of the waiting Cullinan Rolls-Royce. Kira held the oversized teddy bear tightly against her chest like a shield, watching silently. Derek stood a little way off, deep in conversation with Connor and Declan.
Nana glanced sideways at Kira and gave a soft, knowing chuckle. "You know, dear," Nana murmured, leaning in just enough so her voice wouldn't carry to the men, "I suspect that bear is going to be the only one getting any sleep on this trip if my grandson has anything to say about it."
Heat crept up Kira's neck instantly. "Nana!"
"Oh, don't 'Nana' me," the matriarch teased, smoothing the lapel of her own coat. "I saw the way he was looking at you over breakfast. Like a man who hasn't eaten in a month and just realized he owns the bakery. It's a terrifying look, I know, but quite effective for a honeymoon."
