His brother, Holm, stood in the center of the chamber, arm around his wife. Their parents were behind them, holding hands. Beside them was GreatLord Vinni T’Vine, the young prophet. All of the Family who worked in the Residence, on the estate, or even hired out as guards for other Nobles in Druida, had gathered. Tinne sidled over to Tab. The Blackthorns with an actively fussing babe in arms and their other two children stood off to the side. Everyone was beaming. Tab, always astute, set his hand on Tinne’s shoulder, and it felt supportive, bracing. Holm lifted his champagne glass and said, “I am pleased to announce that Lark and I are having a child.” Joyful shouts came from everyone, reverberated against Tinne’s ears, reminding him that this had happened, too, when he and Genista had announced their forthcoming baby. He grunted, settled into his balance. Tab squeezed his shoulder, sending Tinne some Flair. Which was good, because his knees went weak and his gut roiled. But he had to do his duty.
