“It is sound advice, Dowager Countess,” Benedict said, surprising everyone by not only defending Callum but offering a dry smile. “Though I doubt my coachman would ever consent to taking such paths.”
Isla caught Benedict’s eye, and they shared a moment of proud, affectionate amusement.
He is trying… and he fits in so well with me Scottish family.
As the main course, a magnificent roast pheasant, was brought to the table. Callum raised his glass of wine; his gaze was respectful but direct toward Benedict.
“To the Duke and Duchess of Ealdwick,” he toasted. “Welcome home, Yer Graces and for sharin’ it with us this holiday season.”
“Here, here!” Aunt Honoria said as she signaled to the footman for more wine.
“And thank ye for making our sister smile again,” Eilidh said softly.
“Thank you all,” Benedict responded, his voice deep and sincere. “I am… grateful to have you all here. Welcome to Ealdwick. Our home is your home.”
“I hope ye daenae regret sayin’ that later,” Callum joked once more.
As the last dregs of port were served and the group polished off their chocolate gateau, Oliver began to yawn, rubbing his eyes. Isla stood immediately.
“Time for bed,mo chridhe,” Isla said, taking his hand.
“I will have Mrs. Callahan fetch his governess,” Benedict said, rising to his feet.
“Nay,” Isla said with a smile. “Let me do it.”
“Very well,” Benedict replied with a smile, sitting back down.
As she led Oliver away, Aunt Honoria leaned toward Benedict.
“Your Grace,” she whispered. “She is doing well. I can see it. She is happy, and you have been a very good husband to her.”
Benedict watched Isla’s retreating figure, seeing the way she comforted his son with an effortless grace, pulling him tight to her side as they walked together.
He simply nodded, words unnecessary. He did not need to be told. The life and laughter that now echoed in Ealdwick was proof.
Isla returned an hour later and found Benedict standing by a tall window in the hall, staring out at the frosty grounds. He was tired, but the tension in his shoulders was gone, replaced by a quiet thoughtfulness.
“He is out like a light,” Isla murmured, approaching him. “A long day of travel and excitement is good for a wee lad.”
Benedict turned, offering her a faint, genuine smile. “You managed the chaos with grace, Isla.”
“I think that was ye work. Ye made even Aunt Honoria almost forget herself.”
“Perhaps,” he smiled as he brought her into his arms.
“Although, I think she only relaxed when she realized Callum had nae yet broken anythin’,” Isla chuckled. She shivered slightly. “It is a cold night, but the air is so clean here, is it nae?”
“Agreed, I care not for the smell of industry that has begun to sweep through London.”
“I have missed the smell of the winter air in the country. Let’s nae go up yet. Come out with me.”
“Out?” Benedict frowned, glancing at the freezing glass. “Whatever do you mean?”
“Aye. I cannae sleep after all that noise and I missed the after-dinner drinks with ye and me family. The sky is glorious. We can stand on the terrace and watch the stars.”
“It has been a long day?—”
“Just for ten minutes.”
