Sand and Snow

"No, you're right. We could all improve on that," Brian said. "I think Michael can teach us a thing or two, and I think we need to make use of it."

"Alright, What's the whispering? I am not deaf," Michael said.

"I want to hire you," Brian said boldly.

"For what?" Michael frowned.

"I want tyou to create a nutrition packed food plan for all of us to get us in peak condition. We could all use it."

"And?" Michael frowned.

"And? That's it. Design us a healthy eating plan that we will all like. Super nutritious tasty food, powerpacked with all sorts of healthy things."

"Well, hell, that's easy enough. I'll put it together and owl it to you. Give me a couple of days and you'll have it," MIchael said.

"Good. That's all I want. Send me your bill with that."

"No charge. Not if you get my Khaaty back on her feet and feeling the way she wants to feel again."

"Done," Brian said firmly. He looked at them all. "Once it gets here, consider yourself in bootcamp."

"Send me a copy of that too, Michael. Robert can use it," Kate said.

"Me?" Robert frowned.

"Yes, you, Mr I'm-Sneaking-Off-For-Fish-And-Chips," Kate said. "Dont think I don't know where you go. I do. And it doesn't take a seer to see that."

"Guilty," Robert laughed.

Kate didn't think it took a seer to see how miserable the new female bodyguard was. She went over to her. "I know we haven't met," Kate said softly, "but it doesn't take a seer to know you'd almost rather be naked here than in that dress. Do yourself a favor. Go put your jeans back on. It's fine. Its no sort of party if you're uncomfortable. Nobody's forcing you to dress up. Be yourself. And much as you like how you look, and so does everyone else, you're uncomfortable. Go change. Its fine, Dear," she smiled.

"Now you look more comfortable," Khaat said. "I'm glad you're happy here." She watched Michael head back to the kitchen. "I hope you're all hungry. Michael always fixes a feast when he cooks."

"I'm looking forward to every crumb," Brian laughed. "Its been a long time since Michael cooked. Save some room for the main course, Everyone. Its sure to be a showstopper."

"Don't let him hear you building him up like that," Khaat said. "You know how he feels about that."

"Yeah, yeah," Brian waved away her concerns.

Khaat had never entertained in this house before, and she couldn't think of a better occasion to do it than to be celebrating something for either her mother or her father. She had decorated for Christmas but then the day had passed rather quietly. There hadn't been much celebrating. And it really didn't bother her that there wasn't the celebraing. But tonight was different. She was glad to be honoring her mother for being such a strong and stable force in her life. This was what big houses like this seemed to be all about, as far as she was concerned.

"We'll get there," Angus said.

"Did you know Angus is one course away from being a certified Executive Chef?" Brian asked. "I can't get that sot to go finish his coursework. He's stupid. He needs to go finish it."

"I've been telling him that for years," Robert said. "Before the Cordon Bleu thinks he forgot how to cook."

"Cordon Bleu?" Khaat echoed.

"We were living in Paris after all, Babe," Brian shrugged. "Where else does one go?"

"Dinner is served," Michael announced from the doorway. As they made their way to the dining room, Khaat had to admit, she was hungry. When she got to the table, she was astounded. Michael had fixed a Crown Rack of Lamb. It was spectacular looking. She had never seen anything like it. Along with it, he had put a Rosemary Cassis reduction. For sides, he had grilled asparagus with lemon butter, and a sweet potato duche. She was stunned. He had served a vintage Merlot alongside as the dinner wine.

The table was set with rare antique china, an Irish linen table cloth, and candlelight in beautiful silver candlesticks. It was simply stunning. Khaat just stood for a moment, trying to take it all in. "Michael, its beautiful," she said softly.

"Anything for you, my dear," He hugged her, kissing her cheek.

"That's probably a good idea," Brian said. "I thought that fence would go during the winter. I really should have fixed it before the winter set in."

"No work talk tonight, boys," Robert told them in a fatherly tone. The dinner turned out to be one of the most elegant Khaat had been to in a very long time, and she hadn't had to leave home to do it. It was fabulous. She had never had better lamb in her life.

After dinner, Michael served Cassidy's cheesecake along with a peppermint gelato he'd made. Once dessert was over, Angus brought forth the huge stack of gifts that had been gathered for Kate.

"Okay, Kate," he said, setting them in front of her. "Lets see what's in 'em."