“I have good days and bad. My stomach has settled more in recent days, but I still have bouts of horrible sickness.” Elizabeth’s smile was wide, and he’d never seen a more beautiful woman in his life than his wife. “At least I can still fit into most of my dresses, but only just.”
“Not to worry. Patricia and I will help you let out the seams while you’re here.” His mother caught Brand’s eye. “That is your Aunt Patricia, Francis.”
“Hullo, Auntie.” The woman didn’t rise, but she nodded. The pallor of her skin suggested she battled some sort of ailment, but he perched next to her on the sofa opposite his mother’s and bussed her cheek while taking possession of one of her thin hands. “I’m glad for the chance to further our acquaintance. It’s been an age.”
“I agree. You’ve grown into a fine man, Francis.” Tears sprang into her eyes. “Your uncle would have been pleased to see that.”
He chatted quietly with her while Elizabeth talked with his mother, then Drew sailed into the room and interrupted the bucolic scene.
“Surely you can do the pretty later, Brand. We have matters to attend.” Annoyance wove through his brother’s voice, but the grin on his face negated the emotion.
“Stuff it, Drew. We’re not children anymore and you can’t boss me.”
“I’m the head of the Storme house, and I’d like to finish the game. Are you with us or not?”
Brand rolled his eyes for effect. He peeked at Lizzy, who shrugged. “Fine. Let me see the clue.”
“Isobel!” Drew’s shout made both older women startle. When his younger cousin pelted into the room, he held out a hand. “The latest riddle please.”
“Sarah said she knew—”
“I realize that, but I want Brand to read it, so he’ll have a feeling for the game.” He wriggled his fingers.
“Ah, now I can see the boy I used to remember.” She handed him a scrap of paper and then waved to her mother. “We shouldn’t be too much longer. After, we’ll all sit with you.”
His aunt nodded. “Perhaps you’ll be a dear and play the pianoforte this evening?”
Isobel’s sigh sounded as if it originated in her toes. “If I must, but you know how I detest indulging in anything a proper society lady ought.”
“Oh, I’m well aware.” Aunt Patricia rolled her eyes. “In this one instance, it won’t kill you.”
Brand grinned as Drew put the scrap into his hand.
This room in the hall is all well and good,
for it contains the heart of the house as well as the food.
But hidden somewhere in this wonderous place,
is a spot where the ashes and soot tend to gather.
Careful else you find yourself burned,
and be mindful of the folks who are waiting their turn… to eat.
Amidst the hustle and bustle you’ll see,
a mountain of treats made for Christmas Eve,
but pay your dues to the one who has remained true lest you be hungry as church mice tomorrow.
“How fun.” To think his father and uncle got up this game! Did that mean they’d sought to mend the rift before they’d both died? He’d need more details once the house party calmed. Anything that made his family come together was good with him. The Stormes as a whole needed unity. “Does the countess know where this is? I do.”
Drew nodded. “She’s guessed the kitchens.”
“Oh, then that means you should all show your gratefulness to the cook.” Elizabeth beamed. “She’s the one who’ll see you’re properly fed for the holidays, yes?”
“My darling girl, you’re a marvel.” Pride filled Brand’s chest. He bounded across the room and then kissed her soundly, regardless of their audience. “Will you come with us?”
“I imagine I will.” She stood, and as he spun her about so that her skirts flared, she giggled. “What has gotten into you, Brand Storme?”
“Perhaps the spirit of Christmas,” he couldn’t help but tease as he threw a glance around to the occupants of the drawing room. “It’s good to be home and know there’s healing afoot.” He met her eyes. “You helped me with mine, and I want that for the rest of my family.”
A blush stained her cheeks. “Rogue.” She patted his cheek while Drew cleared his throat. “Let’s go down and see if my guess is right.”
Spending the holidays with his wife and his family. Brand marveled over it as he trailed Drew out of the room. Never in his wildest dreams could he ever think he’d have both.
Thank God I was shown a way out of destruction, so I won’t repeat that with my own child.