Page 39 of Royal Academy

Stephanie turned to Lia, “I’m afraid that you are seeing first hand how rambunctious the girls can be. I would love to say that this isn’t usual, but I’m afraid most days are like this.”

Lia spoke honestly, “I think it’s wonderful. The girls obvious feel safe and loved. They adore Nick and seem self-confident and assured. You have a truly marvelous family.”

Stephanie put her hand on her heart. “How kind of you to say so! Is your family quite like this? We know Benedict and he fits in like he was born to it.”

Lia felt a little sad. Her family had been nothing like this. Not only that, but Benedict had come here for years leaving her alone with her father.

The bright halo that she always had surrounding her brother was starting to slip.

“I have a charity ball coming up on Friday,” Stephanie added, noticing that Lia hadn’t answered her previous question. “Would you like to help prepare for that?”

Lia nodded, “Yes, I don’t know very much about planning balls, but I would love to help.”