Of course, that was the strategy of Sir Alfred, who wanted her to draw no attention within the castle walls.Alice had never met Sir Alfred personally ...ecause he was one of the many titled persons that stayed in the sway of the royal family providing services and fealty that kept them in power as long as possible under the contentious atmosphere of a realm in transition. The royal family was surrounded by such necessary support but they seldom would treat with support staff unless it was a. Maybe the savings could be considered a Christmas gift to the truckers.But what to do for the extended family that lived all around there? For the womenfolk, she hand wrote little gift certificate notes that offered varying amounts of her time for babysitting, housekeeping or anything else that they needed done. Time was one of the things that she did have to give.Gifts for the menfolk were more challenging until her boyfriend, when she asked him what he wanted for Christmas, told her, “All I. And you didn't answer my question."He shrugged. "The market's good."She leaned forward eagerly, saw his eyes flick down the front of her blouse. Puppet on a string. "Market? Would you care to tell me who comprises your little voyeur market?" No." The word came out fast, a knee-jerk response. She'd been expecting it. This kid held the rare position of popularity without the aid of varsity sports. He was the sort of merry prankster who tended to become a sort of minor-league folk hero to his. "Grace will have your ass if you fuck this up." You're right, Steve," I agreed. "I feel a lot better now and I'll behave, as long as that dickwad leaves me alone. I wouldn't screw up this weekend for anything. Tell Ann and Grace I apologize and will behave." Tell her yourself, Eric. It looks like she's headed this way. Somebody must have said something to her. I'm sure glad I'm not in your shoes. I have to go smooth things over with Eve and Fuckface. Good luck with Grace," offered Steve over.