On the other hand, Julian was busy sorting through the carefully wrapped gift bags he and Ruby had collected during their journey.
He stood near the shelf, checking each tag. Ruby had written all the names with her elegant handwriting—Angeline, her husbands, Pillu and few nigherbour.
With a soft smile on his lips, Julian picked up the bag meant for Angeline and her husbands. It was a beautifully embroidered box filled with a delicate table runner, spice jars shaped like tiny animals, and a warm shawl that Ruby insisted would suit her perfectly. He had to admit—Ruby had an eye for these things.
He tucked the bag under his arm and grabbed the others, walking through the village with the late afternoon breeze brushing through his hair. It felt good. Familiar. Peaceful.
At Angeline's home, she opened the door with her usual bright energy. "Oh! You're back!" she gasped. Her eyes widened when Julian handed the gift with both hands.
"From Wife," he said, smiling politely.
