“Julian, do tell us how the expansion in the southern territories is coming along,” Ramona requested as everyone settled into their seats and began slicing into the roasted venison. “I hear the winter weather down there has been surprisingly mild.”
“Manageable, Ramona,” Julian replied, setting down his wine glass. “The trade routes remained open through November, which saved us weeks of delays on shipping.”
“Oh, but shipping work sounds so dreadfully exhausting!” Evelyn chimed in, leaning across the table with an overly dramatic pout. Her eyes glittered as she reached out to lightly touch the back of his hand. “A man of your stature shouldn’t be spending his holidays bogged down in trade reports, Julian. You really must come by my suite later this evening. I have a rare vintage from the
