Chapter 47: Visiting the Countess (A)

I fell asleep in the chair while waiting for both Papa and Christopher. I hoped Papa would come home first so I could tell him that Christopher would be visiting; I couldn't risk getting him upset with me for involving myself with them.

When I woke up to a knock on the door, I rushed to open it, expecting to see Papa... instead Christopher was standing there, holding a wooden box that must contain some tools.

"Where is the fireplace?" He asked. No hello, no goodday.

"Right this way." I forced a smile, stepping aside to let him in. He followed quietly behind me to my failed attempt at a fireplace.

"It needs a chimney first." He muttered, dropping to his knee while the examined the space.

"Oh, yes. That is important but we thought we would create the fireplace first and then we can create the chimney when the handymen start working again." I might as well be talking to myself as he paid no attention to me.

"I guess I'll leave you to it then. Unless you need my help?"

"Not necessary." He