Chapitre 77: Chapter 77: Kirstie's Christmas, Part 17

Sumptuous smells are drifting in from the kitchen. James refuses any more assistance from me, instead pouring me an egg-nog, and another for Ryan, then ambling through to the lounge with me to take his accustomed armchair by the fire.

Most of the Christmas household are there ahead of us. Michael, Beth and Richard are playing a board game. Ryan sits behind Michael, apparently in the role of 'Chief Criticiser' of his moves.

Mitch, sitting with Larry on the couch, has the bundled Cara in her arms. Eyes closed, the baby sucks contently at a bottle.

A bit startled by the sight, "Where's Charlotte?"

"Getting changed for dinner. I said I'd finish Cara's feed." Mitch follows my eye to the bottle. "It's Jenny's milk, expressed. I told her early she'll have an easier time if Cara can be fed by anyone."

"Damn!" Michael tosses dice to one side.

"Told you," says Ryan. "You should have put a hotel on the square while you still had the cash."