Page 53 of Easton Island: Old-Fashioned Christmas
She grasped his hand. “You can call me Aunt Morgan now, if you want.”
“Aunt Morgan.” A slow smile spread across Tristan’s face. “I’m going to draw you a picture with my new art kit when we get back. That way, you won’t forget me.”
Morgan’s lower lip trembled. “I won’t forget you, Tristan. Trust me, I won’t.”
Chapter 22
Early the next morning, Morgan peeked through the lace curtain and found her neighbor and friend Grace Coates, the owner of Lilac Inn, standing on her front porch.
She flung the door open. “Good morning, Grace. C’mon in.”
“Hey, Morgan. Merry belated Christmas.” Grace slid her boots and jacket off and followed her into the study where Tina had set up a tea cart with beverages and tasty treats.
“I’m sorry we haven’t had a chance to get together sooner, but it got crazy.”
“The snowstorm, packing guests up and sending them away before we were snowed in.” Grace set the gift bag she was holding on the floor next to her. “I have to say it was one of the most action-packed Christmases we’ve had in a long time.”
“You’re telling me. Grandmother had a full house over at Easton Estate.”
“I ran into Elizabeth’s friend Mary at the store this morning. She told me Naomi and Prissy spent the night.”
Morgan told her how Naomi had shown up at Looking Glass Cottage. “The roads to the airport had already drifted shut and she had nowhere to go.”
“I guess she and your grandmother have finally made amends.”
Morgan grimaced.
“They didn’t?”
“Things were going okay right up until Naomi was getting ready to leave. She made a few snide comments. Grandmother put her in her place. Let’s just say it didn’t end well.”
“She’s a trip.” Grace rolled her eyes. “What about Prissy?”
“She’s turned over a new leaf and seems very appreciative.” Morgan took a seat alongside her friend. “I haven’t talked to your dad. How was it hunkering down at the airport?”
“We were packed in like sardines. We sang Christmas songs, drank hot chocolate, and ate pre-packaged deli sandwiches.”
“At least everyone was safeandwarm.” Morgan poured the piping hot tea and handed Grace a cup. “Despite the storm, Locke Pointe is booked solid into the new year.”
“Ditto for Lilac Inn. Are you and your guests still planning on coming to my place for the New Year’s Eve ball drop?”
“We wouldn’t miss it. Thanks for inviting us. Even Jax and Ronni plan to be there.”
“Speaking of Jax and Ronni, I noticed them cozying up at the open house. Talk about making amends.”
“Jax called Ronni not long after Grandmother’s wedding. They’re officially dating. He’s been bringing her flowers, stopping by Locke Pointe unannounced with coffee and donuts.” At first, Ronni pretended it was no big deal, but as the weeks went by, Morgan could see Jax was serious about pursuing a relationship.
Both Morgan and Elizabeth secretly agreed they wouldn’t be surprised if Jax popped the question and proposed.
“Things are heating up,” Morgan joked. “They’re so cute together. After all these years, Jax and Ronni are finally a couple. Mom would be tickled pink.”
“I heard your grandmother hosted other guests at Easton Estate.” Grace daintily sipped her tea.
“Other guests?”
“A man and his nephew.”
Morgan’s scalp tingled. “What exactly have you heard?”
