“Yes, and one other man,” Henry explained. “Ravi is Lekha’s husband, and a fine man. And Ravi’s father, Manik, is also with us. He actually assists in the kitchen since he originally worked as a cook in India and he has a distinct talent with culinary arts. You will soon discover that our menu has more variety now.”

“Yes, and it’s delightful,” Viola said. “I must echo my dear Oliver and say that I’m ashamed I didn’t think of such a thing myself a very long time ago. It’s Henry’s theory that while he prefers to live in England, there is much about India that he grew to love, and having elements of that world integrated into this one offers the best of both worlds.”

Oliver added, “When Henry and Kat were married, and he made the decision to sell his estate, most of the staff remained with the home, but he insisted these three must come with him because they were not only his personal responsibility but they helped enrich his life and he believed they could do the same for us. He was certainly right.”

“Your parents have been more than gracious,” Henry said, “not only in allowing me to make my home here but to humor me in making these changes to the household.”

“It’s been nothing but a blessing!” Viola insisted. “We’ve loved every minute you’ve spent in our home right from the start. And far better for you to be here than for us to rarely see our dear Kat.”

“It’s worked out marvelously,” Oliver declared, but his words were followed by a silence that became taut, as everyone was obviously thinking of the same thing but no one wanted to say it and break the lightness of the mood. Everything had worked out marvelously except for the fact that Kat was dying.

Amala was relieved when Paulina said with her typical enthusiasm, “Well, I think it’s absolutely marvelous!” She said to her brother in a teasing tone, “Shame on you for not bringing more of India here with you when you came back in the first place! It seems Henry is a good influence on you.”

“He is indeed.” Oliver chuckled.

Viola said with enthusiasm, “Henry also asked Chit to send many things from India. We have many new and wonderful spices in the kitchen, some beautiful decor about the house here and there, and we all have clothing from India should we choose to wear it.”

“I made it clear that I was not trying to impose my own preferences on anyone,” Henry said. “I was simply offering it as an option. As I told you, I find certain Indian dress much more comfortable, especially during the warmer months. And forgive my boldness, but—”

“Nothing to forgive,” Oliver interjected. “We like your boldness.” He chuckled. “As if you would hold back on our account.”