"Get up. Let's go grab a bite before you get too comfortable by the hearth. We'll chat more in the afternoon."
Seeing Hannah's face growing somber, Steven quickly shoved Farley aside, "Kiddo, your sister and I have some grown-up talk to do."
Only then did Farley notice Hannah's sour expression. "Hannah." He was quick to realize he'd stepped in it and bolted out of there.
Steven got up, moving to Hannah's side, "Hannah."
It was the holidays, and Hannah didn't want to hold a grudge and ruin the mood. "Just this once."
Steven happily said, "Deal!"d2
...
Lunch was very simple. Seeing Steven around, Jeo wanted to have a couple of beers, but Pandora wouldn't allow it.
After lunch, Uncle and Aunt Ableson took their kids and went home.
The Ableson family was now down to four, no, actually, it was a family of five.
Their number was small, but they still laid out a full spread for their holiday dinner. The dishes symbolizing prosperity and good fortune were a must-have.
A few days ago, Jeo had caught a ten-pound fish in the river and kept it for today. Everyone chipped in and by dusk, they'd filled up the dining table.
Farley piped up, "Dad, I'd like a sip."
Hannah intervened, "Dad, I'll pass. And Farley, what are you doing asking for booze? I swear, if you touch alcohol before you reach legal age, I'll wring your ears."
Farley fell silent.
Steven took the bottle and poured a few drops into Farley's juice, "Here, have a taste."
Hannah gave him a look. The man was stirring up trouble again. She regretted inviting him to their holiday dinner.
Farley was also quiet. A few drops? That was not how you treated a kid. Not to mention, he wasn't a kid anymore.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Impulsive Vow to an Enigmatic Husband
Beautiful novel. Can we have a continuation of Zavier and Skyler's story? Them getting back together? Short story.......