Flight of Frost and Aurora

Chapter 31

Charlotte had an incredible time baking with Molly, so much so that she was nearly tempted to stay and help until dawn. However, she had promised her father that she would return home before sunset, and for Alastor's sake, she felt compelled to keep her word. As they walked back, she and Alastor chatted animatedly, mostly about Christmas. The Pentious family was hosting their annual ball the week before the holiday, mindful that not everyone preferred to celebrate with a grand party; many cherished the opportunity to spend the season with their families.

Each year, Charlotte eagerly anticipated the week of Christmas, knowing it meant her father would be home from work. During this time, her stepfamily was compelled to treat her with a semblance of respect, as if they were all part of the same family. For an entire week, she was free from being spoken to like a dog or treated like a servant, basking instead in her father's unwavering love and attention. In those moments, she felt she had everything she could ever desire.

"Even if you don't end up going to the ball," Charlotte said to Alastor, "Papa will still allow you to spend Christmas with us. He might even give you a present."

"That's very kind of him," Alastor replied.

"It won't be anything extravagant, mind you, but he is always generous during the holiday season. He promised my mother he would be."

"Perhaps I should give him a gift in return. Mother Rosamund taught me that when invited to celebrate a holiday in someone's home, it's wise and proper to bring a present for the host."

"That's a thoughtful idea," Charlotte agreed, "but I'm not sure what you could give him. He can buy just about anything he wants."

"I'm sure I can think of something. After all, I bought you that cloak, those gloves, and the ice skates."

"Yes, and I appreciate them more than you can imagine," she replied with a smile, pulling the cloak tighter around her.

"What would you like for Christmas?"

"Nothing, really. Having my father home for an entire week is all I could ever wish for."

"In that case, I'll have to come up with a gift for you on my own, based on what I know about you."

"But I told you I don't want a gift."

"Nonsense, my dear. Everyone wants a gift at Christmas, and there's nothing wrong with wanting one—as long as you remember to give as well as receive."

"Then I must get you a gift too. Otherwise, I won't accept anything you give me."

"Deal."

"Would Vagatha like to join us for Christmas? You can invite her; I know she's the only family you have nearby, and family should be together during the holidays."

"She would love to come, but I have a small concern."

"What is it?"

"Vagatha has quite the temper, and your stepsister has a knack for making it very difficult for anyone to control their temper, if you know what I mean."

"Oh, don't worry about Lute. She's on her best behavior when my father is around. We won't have any trouble."

"Are you sure? Because I'm telling you, as sweet and kind as Vagatha can be, if you make her angry, she won't hold back. I know from years of experience."

Charlotte chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I promise, I'll keep Lute in check. Besides, it's Christmas! Everyone should be on their best behavior, right?"

Alastor raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical but amused. "You make it sound so simple. But you haven't known Vagatha as long as I have; you have no idea how bad things can get when she loses her temper."