And as for Emblyn, it was likely just as miraculous. She had not been raised in much of a family setting, though her mother had certainly done her best by her. Her initial reaction to Harrison’s attempts at familial connection had been bordering on the feral, and it was only through time and persistence that she was now in his life in such a warm capacity.

It was not his first Christmas with her, but it was the first where they felt truly like family.

Fighting a sudden tightening in his throat, Harrison put his hand on the small of Adelaide’s back while they waited for their friends to remove their outer things and hand them off to servants.

Adelaide did not look at him, but he felt her settle against his hand as though it was comfortable in its place there, which was a right sight better than recoiling, as she might have done not so long ago.

“I hope we might be able to convince Honora to sing for us tonight,” Adelaide said brightly when their guests returned their attention to them. “After Basset and I portray our rudimentary musical skills, someone will need to salvage the evening.”

Self-disparaging comments from his wife? Would wonders never cease? But then, she was playing the hostess, and there was nothing she did so well as that.

“I would not mind in the least,” Honora assured her, bearing a smile that seemed truly pleased by the invitation. “I love singing Christmas songs most of all.”

“That says a great deal, considering your talents,” Gage said. “I recall your singing the last time you visited your cousin, and it was quite remarkable.”

She blushed a little, her smile deepening. “Thank you, Mr. Trembath.”

“I only speak the truth,” he insisted with a shrug. “No one would ever ask me to sing for a gathering, you can be quite sure of that.”

“Oh, please, no,” Julia begged. “I wish to enjoy Christmas.”

“So do I,” Mr. Roskelley agreed with a fervent nod. “Limit his spirits, if you please, and spare us all.”

Gage glared at him while the others laughed. “Et tu, John?”

Roskelley looked only mildly apologetic.

“I believe dinner will be ready in just a moment or two,” Adelaide told them all. “Perhaps we might go into the dining room now? Unless you would prefer the drawing room while we wait.”

Gage shook his head immediately. “No, indeed, the sooner we can eat, the sooner my more charming side will arrive. Surely we all want that.”

“I wasn’t aware you had one of those,” Harrison mused thoughtfully, now finding himself rubbing Adelaide’s back gently. “Interesting.”

“Basset,” Adelaide scolded with a laugh. “For shame!”

“Thank you, Adelaide.” Gage sniffed dismissively and nodded at her. “I trust you to recognize such things, considering your husband is the one without charm.”

Now the others chortled at the friendly banter, and Harrison only shrugged at the accusation.