My word, I do declare you are prettier than ever and so like your dear mother, God rest her soul!” Aunt Clara clasped Erica to her ample bosom and kissed her cheek fondly, before turning her attention to Gerald. “My word, much as I disapproved of your decision to go into the army, I have to admit it has done you no harm. You’re a handsome devil and will be causing a stir with all the young ladies and their mammas. Have you a kiss for you old aunt?” Gerald picked her up in a big bear hug and kissed her soundly. “Aunt Clara, how glad I am to see you! And I do declare you are younger looking than ever. How old are you now, twenty-three, and twenty-four?” “Nonsensical boy!” Aunt Clara scolded but with a beaming smile that declared her delight at his words. “Let me show you to your room, Aunt,” Erica said as she linked arms and together they strolled towards the stairs. “I’ve put you in the rose room-well away from the nursery so you won’t be disturbed by the children and with a view over the lake.”
