Celia could only watch in wide eyed dread as Tobin drew closer and closer to the high table. Yes, he was very definitely drunk.
She knew she'd be blamed for it, of course. Whenever a man did something praiseworthy, the credit was his alone to claim. When he did something disappointing however, it was his wife stuck shouldering the blame.
When Tobin was standing in front of the table, he bowed deeply to his parents and gave a ridiculous flourish with one hand.
"Father, Mother. A very happy new year to you both." his voice was slow and slurred.
"What is the meaning of this, boy?" the king growled. "You reek of liquor from here."
Tobin shrugged. "It's no great issue. I merely started the celebrations early. I had a few drinks with Hal and Ferdinand."
"And you thought you were in a fit state to make an appearance here? Before your family and your subjects?"