Chapter 28
Branwen, John, and Hugh sat together at dinner, this time with John in the middle, near the front of one of the three long tables in the crowded dining room. Elizabeth faced the room at a smaller table, holding court once again. John suspected the huge sideboard against the wall stood empty for the first time in ages with fine china, silverware, and thick candlesticks in front of every space. The room glowed with free-flowing wine and spirits, happy conversation, and an absolute feast of scents and tastes.
Heavier, rich fare like beef and lamb had never been John’s favorites, certainly not with his stomach so recently post-jet lag. He was delighted with the broad selection of fresh seafood that years of living hundreds of miles from the nearest coast left him craving. Local de
