Page 26 of The Grump

“I don’t even know. When does it start?”

“Oh, very early, about three o’clock.”

“Do people not work in this town?”

“Oh, Xander. Yes, they do. But this is... You know what? It doesn’t matter. Just come whenever you can.”

“When does Bailey usually arrive?”

“Five.”

“I’ll try to make it in time.”

Chapter Seven

Bailey

Open houses were some of my favorite events. I took pralines to six of them, all in the Garden District. But the celebration at the LeBlanc-Broussard mansion was truly the best. I arrived at five o’clock on the dot. Adele and her husband, Remy, were always doing the tours. Usually, both sets of grandparents—David and Isabeau, Felix and Celine—stayed in the enormous living room, chatting up guests.

I was carrying the praline boxes in two huge baskets. They were heavy, but I was used to it. I considered it my arm workout.

David opened the door and led me to the living room. I was smiling for no reason as I took in the decorations. They were always magnificent. In the past, they had four Christmas trees throughout the house, which some might think was over the top, but for a Christmas lover like me, it was heaven on earth. Red ribbons and garlands with gold and red clips were spread around everywhere. They’d reached a perfect balance while still making it very cozy.

“Bailey, darling. Excellent, you’re here. Is it just you this year?” Isabeau inquired.

“Yes. We ran into some issues with production yesterday, so my sister had to stay and manage a few other things.”

“Xander told me.”

“He didn’t give you grief, I hope?” Celine asked, coming to Isabeau’s side. The guests she’d been chatting with turned to the buffet.

I shook my head. “Not at all. If he hadn’t helped me wrap and pack, I would’ve probably worked until early in the morning.”

Celine’s mouth hung open.

Isabeau tilted forward. “Did we hear you right, my dear? Xander, our grandson? He helped you pack boxes?”

“Yes. And wrap and tie each individual praline.”

“Honey, that doesn’t sound like Xander at all. Are you sure?”

I started to laugh. These two were unbelievable.

“You’re a good influence on him... if you can put up with him.” Celine sounded perplexed.

“The way I see it, I’ve got nothing to lose. So, where should I put the pralines? The usual spot?”

They both nodded, so I put them down at the very edge of the table near the dessert section.

“Would you like to tour the house?” Isabeau offered. “The next one starts in about fifteen minutes.”

“I think I’ll just stay around here, thank you. Anyone else from the family coming?” I asked in a careful tone.

“Most of the boys. And of course Bella with Scarlett, baby Simone and Chad. And Xander said he’ll be here this year.” The look on Celine’s face made me think she didn’t believe he’d show.

I tried not to look too surprised. “Oh, that’s good. This shouldn’t be missed. I feel like the house tour is the official start of the Christmas season.”

“Oh, so many of our guests say the same. That’s why we choose to do it so early before everyone else starts their celebrations,” Celine mentioned.

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