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“Might we please go? It will be ever so fun.” He put a fingertip into the icing on one of the cakes and then popped the finger in his mouth. “It’s rather dull here, and we might celebrate Christmastide with games.”
Lynette’s heart sank into her stomach. Perhaps she’d been lax in bringing her son up. He needed to be around other people—men included. And if the whole of the Ivy family had assembled at the castle, there would be plenty on hand for John to spend time with. She glanced at her mother. “Do you promise to be on your best behavior?”
“You dare seek to lecture me, young woman?” She wagged a finger. “I’ve earned my status, I’ll have you know.”
“That doesn’t answer my question. I don’t wish for you to spread your foul mood to others, for undoubtedly the duke and duchess will have invited many others along with us.”
“All to the good, for there might be the opportunity for you to mingle with the local gentry. If the war hasn’t taken all the good men, you might have your pick during the holidays.” A laugh issued from the older woman, but it sounded rusty as if she weren’t quite used to giving into mirth. Then she huffed. “I’ll attempt to act cheerful, though why should I when my circumstances are still dreadful?”
Lynette bit her bottom lip once more. She looked at her son. “Do you promise to behave yourself?” Of course he would, for he was an exemplary boy.
“I do.” John gave a little hop as excitement danced in his eyes. “Will we stay at the castle? I saw it from the road when we arrived here.”
“Yes, we’ll stay at the castle, but you must follow the rules and not make a nuisance of yourself.” She raked her fingers through his blond curls that were so much like his father’s. “I can’t promise there will be other children in attendance, but there might indeed be games.”
“And food!”
She gave into a tiny grin. “Yes, I’m certain they’ll take great fun in keeping your belly full.” With a pat to his cheek, she said, “Go upstairs and pack your things. No doubt we’ll leave presently for the castle.”
Her mother snorted. “So, you’ve settled it for all of us then?”
“Why not?” Lynette shrugged. “You said so yourself it would be for the best.” Then she decided to turn the game. “Perhaps you might find a widower around your age. Marrying again might prove a good idea and would keep your from being lonely.”
“I’m not lonely, but I wouldn’t mind the coin a new husband might bring, for you certainly have been a disappointment.”
“I’m sorry you feel that way; I can’t go against what I believe.” But it confirmed her decision to leave the area after Twelfth Night. Her mother’s company hadn’t improved with age.
And God help me to survive seeing Stephen again. I’m not certain I’m strong enough to withstand the storm if he hasn’t moved on.
