"Well done," he said, warmth resonating in his voice. He was pleased to know that she consistently practiced. He would have liked to have seen her through it all, especially the newer skill of piano. But for now he would content himself with the knowledge that it was being done.
"Were your lattices installed?" he asked, knowing his wife's fondness for the garden she was shaping. He hadn't managed to smile yet, but imagining Christine strolling the mansion to ensure all was as it should be -- that came close to doing it. He squeezed her little form closer. Such a young thing she was. Still so malleable. Erik curled a possessive hand around the back of her neck and held her closer. But carefully.