Two and a Half Months Post Intended Wedding Day
“My darling, how are you?” Katla says as she presses a kiss to both of my cheeks.
“I’m getting better, thanks,” I say before we both take a seat.
Katla has come to visit me in Marsdale. She’s only come one other time and that was when Pala got married. Isabella and Marit were telling me how happy their mom is that she’s been able to reconnect with Katla, and the fact she’s here speaks volumes.
“You look incredible.” Katla takes me in, and her eyes start to water.
“Why are you going to cry?” I ask as I move closer to her.
“Because you really scared us,” she says. “I know it’s not your fault and you were grieving a love, but we were truly worried there for a moment.”
“I understand. I think I worried myself as well. But I’m doing better. Being away has truly helped.”
“I’m glad.”
“And being with Isabella and Marit has been a breath of fresh air. I truly love them as if they were my very own sisters.”
“They are quite wonderful, aren’t they?”
“They are.”
“Are you talking about us?” Marit asks, walking into the room, Isabella close behind her.
“Just saying how wretched you are.” I smile.
“Good, wouldn’t want you telling our grandmum any lies.” Marit and Isabella hug Katla. “We don’t want to disturb your gathering, but we wanted to see if you’d want to stay an extra week or so.”
“The reason Marit asks,” Isabella says, “is because we’re having our annual Winter Flurries party, and we’d love for you to be there.”
“Martin will be cooking.” Marit wiggles her brows, causing me to roll my eyes.
“Don’t start on me with that Martin stuff again.”
“Who is Martin?” Katla asks.
“Their chef,” I answer.
Marit leans in and says, “It’s been a real scandal. Once a loyal fan of our dear Isabella, Lilly came in and stole his heart. He made her mashed potatoes the other night, just the way she liked them, with chives. It was a spectacle.”
“He asked me.” I laugh.
“Meanwhile, the future queen of Marsdale over here”—Marit thumbs toward Isabella—“has to have cheesy potatoes. Talk about a slap to the face, especially since she loves chives in her mashed potatoes.” Marit slaps the armrest. “Unheard of.”
“Don’t pay any attention to her. She had some sour gummies and is now on a sugar high,” Isabella says. “And for the record, I love cheesy potatoes.”
“Not as much as the chive.” Marit taps her own nose.
“Will you stay?” Isabella asks, clearly ignoring her sister on a sugar high.
“Of course, as long as I’m not needed in Torskethorpe.”
Katla shakes her head. “Take all the time you need. I’m just happy to see a smile on your face again.”
“Then it’s settled. Now, if only we can get Granddad to come as well . . .” Marit taps her chin.
* * *
