Happy Christmas

A Little Christmas Cheer: A Teaser from the World of Blaine

As a thank you to my readers, here is a small glimpse into a moment of quiet reflection amidst the "Happy Chaos" of the families...

"Happy Christmas," Gus said, kissing her cheek platonically. His blue eyes crinkled with a warmth that always made her feel safe, his brown hair ruffled by the winter wind.

"Thank you," Dre replied with a thin smile, her own silvery hair catching the light like frost, her green eyes reflecting a mix of exhaustion and hope.

"You're sure you're okay for a quick visit to the family before we head off to Wales?" he enquired. He knew how painful the first anniversary of Bridie's departure was.

"Yes, of course," she agreed, hugging him tight.

The drive to Ashbury House didn't take long now; the noise that greeted them was happy chaos. Manoeuvring through the cottage hallway and into the main lounge, they were met with a chorus of voices.

"Happy Christmas Eve!" the children yelled. A raven-haired child smiled at them and hugged them warmly, as did the auburn-haired beauty.

Dre touched their faces tenderly. "We have been through a lot this year," she whispered, kissing them fondly. She greeted the grandparents, who were bouncing twins on their laps, and then she hugged the parents. "We'll be back on Boxing Day," she whispered, hugging them tight.

It was a short visit—a quick bite to eat and drinks of tea and coffee—and then Dre and Gus made their way to Shep's cottage together.

"It's been a long year since we did this," Gus replied as they headed over the River Lain, its silver water glistening in the afternoon light.

Dre smiled at him. "I think this year... it's going to be very different," she laughed, looking at the backseat amongst the presents.