An utterly undignified, raspberry-like kiss was placed on Mairi's cheek, prompting her to place a similar one on her grandson's - yet even in such an undignified action, she retained her grace. Oh, how she adored this child, blood of her blood. If she'd had her way, Ernie would have had half a dozen siblings to fill the palace with light and laughter, but she would never trade the son she did have for all of the ones she wanted. Her love for him and his son left her breathless at times, and there was no mother or grandmother in the world happier or prouder than she.
Reaching out to pluck a stuffed hippogryff from the crib, Mairi carried Ciaran over to a nearby rocking chair and sat down, seating her grandson upon her lap and placing the toy in his outstretched hands. His head leaned onto her chest as he examined the animal, even taking one of the wings and putting it into his mouth as she rocked them.
"You do well in your entertainment of your charge," she finally said approvingly. "Yet you spoke of security the other day. I would like to hear your ideas, child."