13 Dinner Guest Part 2

The four of us took a seat at the dining table, My mother had conveniently placed Caleb next to me and herself across from us, To better watch our reactions I'm sure. My father took his seat at the head of the table and dinner was then served.

I was still full from the large lunch I had so I asked for a small bowl of broth. I noticed Caleb wasn't eating much either, playing with his spoon rather than taking it up to his mouth.

My parents were talking amongst themselves while they ate, not paying much attention to Caleb and I, "Are you not hungry?" I whispered, "Not particularly."

He hadn't eaten at lunch and now again at dinner. It was strange.

As if noticing my suspicion he took a spoonful of broth and swallowed it quickly.

"How is the broth, Caleb?" My mother had noticed him eating now. "It is divine Lady Blackwood."

"I am glad you like it, It is Zenobia's favorite – Lamb"

"I must get the recipe, I'm sure my cooks would love to replicate it."

Now I knew he was just being polite, After experiencing the delicious meals his cooks had made, I was sure a simple lamb broth would be an insult to their talents.

After we had finished the main course we had returned to the drawing room for tea.

My father had decided to play a game of chess against Caleb and to my surprise, Caleb had one. It was the first time I had seen my father lose.

"Well done." My father shook his hand, impressed with his skill I'm sure. "It was a good game Ser."

My mother and I sat across the room on the couch. Leaning closer to me my mother whispered, "He really is a fine gentleman. And he seems to pay you a lot of attention." My face flushed at the thought of it. Glancing over to him, our eyes met for a moment and he smiled. "I'm sure he is just being polite, Mama."

"I think I would like to get some fresh air," I announced.

Heading out into the garden I took a stroll across the lawn. Looking up at the night sky.

The cloudless clear blue-black and the yellow and violet stars glistening brightly were hypnotizing.