Mrs. Garvin looked around the table at Merrick, Andre, and Mielle. Her expression held a ghost of a frown, and her eyes suggested they leave. "We should give them space," she said, getting up from her chair. As Merrick stood with her, so did the others.
"Let's go get ready for the gift exchange with the children."
Carter waited for the small gathering of friends to leave them.
Merrick looked back over his shoulder. His mind linked with Carter, [I hope all will be well. If you need us, you know where to find us.] then he quietly excused himself.
When he was sure they were out of earshot, Carter brought his focus back to his bride.
"Dahlia…Please, lover, don't be sad, don't cry. Share your worries with me." He said.
Her bright auburn hair gleamed with shadows of deep gold and rich red as he played with a strand of her tresses. "Tell me, what has you feeling so sad all of a sudden?"
