“Excellent.” Camille smiled at her younger sister. She didn’t actually dislike Delilah; she simply hadn’t given her any particular thought throughout the years. “You should know I am most grateful for your assistance in carrying out my little Christmas farce.”

“It seems to me, you need all the assistance you can get,” Delilah said in a wry manner.

“She is perceptive.” Beryl gave her younger sister a reluctant smile. “I’ll give her that.”

“Do you know”—Delilah took a sip of tea—“on occasion, while I don’t look the least bit like you two—”

“Oh, you have the same eyes, dear,” Mother said. “All of you.”

“I have been told that I remind people of you.” She looked at Beryl.

Beryl sniffed. “Nonsense.”

“You poor dear.” Camille bit back a laugh. “You shall have to work on that flaw in your character.”

Delilah’s eyes widened slightly, as if she couldn’t believe one twin was sharing a joke with her at the other’s expense then smiled. “I’m not entirely sure it’s a flaw. I took it as something of a compliment.”

“Very well, then.” Beryl heaved a dramatic sigh. “I suppose we can be friends, as she has such exquisite taste.”

Delilah laughed. “I still don’t entirely trust you, you know.”

“As we don’t entirely trust you either, it does seem like a good foundation to build upon.” Beryl flashed her a genuine smile. “May I confess something too?”

“If you wish.” Caution sounded in Delilah’s voice.

“I have always rather envied your spirit of independence.”

The younger woman’s brows pulled together. “My what?”

“We have always depended upon one another, Camille and I. You have always depended upon no one but yourself.” Beryl gestured absently. “I find it most . . . admirable.”

Delilah stared. “You do?”

“Well, I daresay I couldn’t do it, so yes I do.” Beryl huffed. “Now, do not expect me to utter any more sentimental nonsense. I have had quite enough for one day.”

“No, of course not,” Delilah said. “One can’t hope for too much at once.”

“I want you all to know how very pleased I am,” Mother said. “I have not been unaware of the differences between you, and I have found them most distressing. However, I have felt it was something you would eventually take steps to rectify.” She picked up the teapot and refilled her cup. “I do try not to interfere.”

The sisters exchanged glances. Apparently, this was one subject in which they were in total agreement.

“Might I ask you a question?” Delilah said to Camille.

“Of course.”

“You went to all this trouble to extract a proposal from this prince.” Delilah chose her words with care. “Yet, now you say you are avoiding a proposal. I find it somewhat confusing.”

“Welcome to Christmas at Millworth Manor,” Beryl murmured.