The sound of cheerful chatter and clinking cutlery filled the dining hall. The aroma of food mingled pleasantly with their laughter.
Candles flickered in the jars, lined atop the long oak table. Their lights were reflected off crystal glasses and silver plates.
After finishing her potato soup, Lorianne grinned from ear to ear. She asked, eyes wide with excitement, "Can we open presents after this?"
All gifts were already piled under the giant Christmas tree in the lounge, waiting to be unwrapped. Most of them were for the little one, chosen with love by her parents and grandparents.
Diane chuckled, handing the little girl a slice of ham, "After dinner, darling. Santa told your grandpa already. He gave permission to open the gifts early. No need to wait until tomorrow."
The other elders hummed in approval. They didn't have the heart to let their only grandchild wait any longer.
