CHAPTER 16

 

“That was a family I’d never want to be a part of,” Jack said. “Imagine being married to a woman like that.”

“I can’t imagine you being married to a woman.” Nick grinned into his turkey.

“What do you mean by that?” Jack demanded.

“Oh I think you know, twinkle toes,” Nancy added, winking at Jack.

“Uhh—well, this was about the best Christmas dinner I can remember—including the ones with your grandma,” Grandpa said and patted his stomach. “Why don’t we put the book away and we can all help clean up.”

“How about one more story?” Nick said. “I’ll read it.”

“How about we let our food settle for a bit, then have some coffee and dessert?” Dan said.

Duly chastened, Nick nodded. “Or that.”

Grandpa motioned with his hand to Dan. “How about we have a glass of that twenty-five-year-old port that I got you for Christmas?”

“Well, I don’t know...” Dan said uncertainly. “Is there more eggnog?”

“Dan, don’t be selfish,” Judy said.

“Could—”

Dan cut Nick off, knowing what the question would be. “Yes, you can all have some port if you want.” He moved unsteadily to the liquor cabinet and returned with a beautifully designed cut-glass bottle. “Let’s go into the family room and be comfortable.”

When the family was all situated with their drinks, Dan said, “Now remember, port is meant to be sipped. You read, Nick, so that you won’t be so tempted to gulp.”

“Here you are, brother dear.” Nancy snarled and handed him the book. She whispered in his ear, “This isn’t over.”

Before Jack sat, he cuffed the back of Nick’s head a little too roughly. “And don’t spill any port on the book.”

Nick rubbed the back of his head. “I won’t. Dick. This one’s called, Silent Fright.”