Flight of Frost and Aurora

Chapter 44

The week of Christmas was a truly magical time for Charlotte. As usual, her father had taken the entire week off work, dedicating those precious days to spending time at home. This meant that her stepmother and stepsister had to be on their best behavior and contribute their fair share to the household chores.

During this special week, the judge focused almost entirely on his daughter, creating cherished memories together. They played in the snow, cooked and baked delicious treats, decorated the house, and sang carols by the warm glow of the fire. It was everything Charlotte had hoped for and more, filling her heart with joy and anticipation.

"Oh, Papa, it's been such a joy to have you home like this," she said to Lucifer on Christmas Eve night.

Lucifer smiled warmly at Charlotte, his eyes twinkling with affection. "It's been a joy for me too, my dear. These moments with you are what I cherish the most. I wish we could have weeks like this all year round."

"And thank you so much for allowing Anthony and Molly to spend Christmas with us. I know it means the world to them."

"I understand how things are at their house," he replied. "Honestly, that man has no business being a father. After the war, your grandfather Gabriel became the church reverend, and he warned Giuseppe that it was a mistake to choose that man to marry his daughter. He told him that Hilarion didn't have any love in his heart to give. Unfortunately, the poor old man didn't listen and went to his grave regretting his decision to arrange that marriage."

Charlotte couldn't help but think, 'It's a shame Grandfather had already passed away by the time you met Eisheth. He might have convinced you not to marry her.'"

Charlotte's thoughts drifted as she gazed into the flickering flames of the fire, the warmth wrapping around her like a cozy blanket.

"Papa," she said softly. "I was wondering if you would like to join me for church service this year. Peter and Emily invited us both, and Alastor, Anthony, and Molly will be there too. Please, Papa, it's been so long since we've gone to service."

"You can go if you'd like, Charlotte, but I'm afraid I can't join you."

"Papa—"

"I'm sorry, Charlotte, but I won't pretend to worship a God I don't believe in."

"But, Papa, isn't that what you're doing by celebrating Christmas even though you don't believe in the Son of God?"

"No, because I celebrate Christmas for you and your mother, not for myself."

"Then can't you come to church for me?"

"My answer is no, Charlotte. Please, leave me be."

Charlotte felt a twinge of disappointment at her father's refusal, yet she respected his wishes. Without saying another word, she headed to the kitchen to prepare a warm drink for them. Alastor and Vagatha were already there, warming milk and tea while gathering honey and chocolate from the pantry.

"You know, Mother Rosamund used to say that when it comes to God and those who don't believe in Him," Alastor began, "if they have a good heart, they'll eventually find their way to faith. But it has to happen in their own time; if you try to push them, they'll only turn away further."

"Do you really believe that?" Charlotte asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Absolutely," he replied.

"That's essentially how faith works," Vagatha chimed in. "It has to be a personal decision, made when you're ready and willing."

"But what if Papa never chooses to have faith?" Charlotte pressed, concern evident in her voice.

"He's a good man with a loving heart. I'm confident he'll find his faith soon enough," Vagatha reassured her.