The series of events that had led to Miss Allaway being invited to the reach felt a little odd to Murdock now with retrospect, it was an unwritten rule that outsiders, that is- those who were not family, were not asked to the reach unless absolutely necessary.  The rational had been that  -well - Miss Allaway was not a stranger, she was family after a fashion -their sisters closest confident. The revelation that not only was Miss Allaway an animagus but a bear had been met with rolled eyes and threats from Murdock.  His sister had known of her companions skill, and the value that was placed on such an ability by the Greyback family - which encouraged all women both natal and married in to try and master the skill - the fact that not only had Miss Allaway succeeded but that it was a bear, which was infinitely more useful than his brother Adair's wife ability to turn into a salmon - come to think of it the two women might be best kept apart.  The news had led to all sorts of teasing and pointed looks by Isobel, which the other siblings picked up on and immediately began to mock and imitate. 

Miss Allaways company was not the problem - his siblings jibing was. 

As the visit wore on, however, even the teasing stopped having any effect on him, the lady's grace, charm and humour winning over even the crotchtiest of the Greyback men.  Her penchant for more outdoor pursuits went a long way in endearing her to the family which universally appreciated and enjoyed the outdoors.

On one of the several rides they had taken together during her trip, they made their way along the coast.  Murdock's large muddy white Clydesdale, with it's shaggy brown forlocks navigated the uneven path with ease - well used to the terrain and the route.  'Aye' he acknowledged, his speech more relaxed and informal, thanks in part to their better acquaintance and their removal from 'polite' society.  'There is nowhere in the world I'd trade it for.' he admitted, to be a Greyback was to love this land - more sentimental words were on the tip of his tongue, but he bit them back.  As much as he enjoyed Miss Allaways presence, and he hoped this new connection and intimacy would give her greater leave to visit with them, but other than his sisters insinuations he had no reason to believe she was dissatisfied with her lot, that she would consider giving up the freedom of her life for another, especially one bound to an antisocial man with children of his own. 

So for the moment he would content himself with her friendship, with visits where dancing and the quiet intimacy he so enjoyed were easy and unpressured.  Where after dinner cards, music, and dancing were unfussy and simple, and where they could go off by themselves for a ride and no one at the reach would think twice about the propriety of the thing.  To that end 'You should feel free to visit us...it often then.' he said quickly correcting his word choice.  'there is plenty of room in The Reach for those who appreciate it.' he offered with a smile. 

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