The soft hum of the car's engine accompanied the gentle sway of the vehicle as I settled into the back seat, pulling the seatbelt across my chest. John glanced at me in the rear-view mirror with a warm smile.
"Good afternoon, Miss Abigail. Did you have a nice Christmas?"
"I did, thank you, John. It was lovely spending time with Liz and her family." I smiled back, leaning into the seat. "How about you? Did you get to celebrate?"
John nodded, his expression softening. "Yes, ma'am. My daughter and her kids came over for dinner. You know how it is when the little ones are around—loud but full of joy."
"That sounds wonderful," I said sincerely. "Nothing beats a full house during the holidays."
"True enough," he agreed, navigating the car smoothly through the lightly dusted streets. "The estate's been quiet the past few days. Mr. Rowley left early for his plans, and you've been away. Good to have life back in the house again."