Flight of Frost and Aurora

Chapter 38

As the commotion surrounding Lute's unexpected comeuppance began to fade, the festive atmosphere of the ballroom resumed its lively rhythm. Laughter and music filled the air once more, yet the spectacle had left a lingering buzz of excitement among the guests.

In one corner of the grand ballroom, a lavish banquet table was elegantly arranged, showcasing an exquisite array of delectable sweets and treats that sparkled under the gentle glow of candlelight. This visual feast featured beautifully presented dishes, including roasted pig, venison, and goose, alongside stewed herring and eel, stuffed partridges and peacock, and an assortment of tempting pastries and cakes. Colorful confections beckoned to guests, inviting them to indulge in the sumptuous offerings laid out before them.

At the head of the table stood Anthony and Molly, the talented bakers responsible for the evening's sweets. As Alastor, Charlotte, and Vagatha approached the banquet table, Anthony's gaze landed on Vagatha, causing his heart to skip a beat. She was a vision.

"Wow," he muttered under his breath, momentarily losing his composure as he stared.

Molly, noticing her brother's distraction, raised an eyebrow with a teasing grin. "Looks like someone has a crush," she whispered, elbowing him playfully.

Anthony snapped out of his reverie, a flush creeping across his cheeks. "I—uh, no, I just—well, she is pretty," he stammered, trying to regain his composure as he focused on arranging the sweets.

"Mmm-hmm," she replied playfully, a teasing lilt in her voice. "It seems I might just keep my promise to Mother after all."

"Oh, hush up!"

"Hey, watch your tone, little brother."

"Little brother? We're twins!"

"Yes, but I'm the older one."

"By a whole ten seconds."

"Still, I mature faster, and I'm the one who handles all the cooking."

"Well, I take care of the cleaning. It's an equal partnership."

"Alright, how about this? Don't sass me, or you can forget about getting any of my baklava. And we both know it's your favorite."

Before he could respond, Charlotte, Alastor, and Vagatha reached the table, leaving Anthony standing awkwardly in front of the enchanting young woman.

"Good evening!" Vagatha greeted, her voice warm and inviting. "Everything looks absolutely delightful."

"Yes, you did a fantastic job, Molly," Charlotte said, marveling at the desserts. "You'll have your own shop soon enough, maybe even before the new year."

"Thank you, but with my father, hell will freeze over before I own anything," Molly replied.

"Well, aren't you due to inherit part of your father's land at some point?" Charlotte asked.

"No, it's all going to Augusto when the old man croaks," Anthony said. "Not that Molly and I would want it anyway."

"But I think you should own half of it, Anthony," Molly insisted.

"Why? You know I hate hunting."

"But, you honor the family's values regarding hunting, and you would manage the game in the way that our mother and grandfather would have wished. Our father already hunts indiscriminately, and he is teaching Augusto to follow in his footsteps. If our brother gains full control of the land, it will be devastated, and the game will face extinction."

"Molly, I don't think this is the right moment to discuss our family issues. Can we set that aside and just enjoy the holiday together?"

"You're right. I'm sorry for bringing it up."