October 31, 1860

Daniel sat back and watched Serena flit around the small room where the town's children were having their own party. They were dressed in matching clown costumes of blue and white because Serena thought she could disguise her pregnancy better in the baggy style. He had a huge smile when she finally took five minutes to sit down.

"I don't know where you find all the energy to do what you do." He said as he clasped her hand in his.

"I'm using it all up, so that when the baby's born you'll have to do all the work." Serena replied.

Daniel moved his hand and laid it upon her abdomen and waited for any movement their child would make. It never ceased to amaze him, the miracle of it all and he got caught up in his thoughts. "I love you."

Serena smiled and patted his hand. "I love you too. Now can you get me something to eat. We're hungry."

As if to prove it's mother's point the baby moved and Daniel laughed softly. "What can I get you?"

"Whatever Meg has out will do, a little of everything. And if you see her remind her of her appointment later this week."

Daniel nodded and kissed her forehead. When he glanced up he noticed Michael, Melissa and Jesse staring at him. He winked at them, then got up and made his way out.

Meanwhile, Anjanette entered the party and smoothed the long black material of her nun's costume. Talk about a fish out of water, she thought. Anjanette knew she would feel a little out of place here, but everyone she worked with had taken the night off to come here, and she didn't want to spend the entire night at the bordello by herself. Maybe, she thought, she could stir up some more business by making contacts, both physical and conversational with some of the men here.

She spied Vanessa with her escort on the dance floor and wondered where Elena was. Immediately she sought out Luke, thinking that wherever he was Elena wouldn't be to far behind. She found him leaning against the wall glaring daggers at the dance floor. She moved her eyes once more to the group of dancers and found what he was staring at. Meghan was in the arms of an incredibly handsome young man, and she seemed to be enjoying herself immensely. "Trouble in paradise." Anjanette muttered and wondered why Elena hadn't taken advantage of the situation yet. It then occurred to her that the Spanish girl might be the cause of the rift.

Slowly Anjanette made her way around the room and ignored the snickers and harsh looks of the women while smiling seductively at the many men she recognized. One man in particular caught her eye and her grin widened.

"Hello there, long time no see."

Daniel jumped and smiled at the woman dressed as a nun. He then realized who it was and his smile faltered. "Ms. Gardinier. Is there something I can help you with?"

"No. I was just admiring your daughter's home. I can't tell you how many people have said it was beautiful. I was told you helped to design it."

"No, Meghan was the one who came up with the design and Luke made it happen. They are completely in love, and I suggest you remind your employee's of that."

Anjanette chuckled softly. "I have, numerous times, but it seems that the lovebirds are currently testing out other nests." She motioned towards the dance floor, and Daniel frowned when he saw Meg and Ian dancing together.

"He's a good friend of her husband's."

"So I've seen. If Luke looks any happier he'll rip that man's head off with his bare hands."

Daniel glanced at his son in law and smiled, jealousy was not a good look for him. "I'll have to talk with him." He piled more food on his plate.

"Hungry?"

He chuckled softly. "No this is for my wife."

Anjanette arched an eyebrow. "Ah yes, I've heard she's expecting like your daughter. Please accept my congratulations for you."

"Thank you."

"And when you find that your needs are not being met please come on down to the Chateau. I'll give you a good deal." Daniel coughed and stared at her in wonder that made Anjanette smile. Before he could respond she stepped on her tiptoes and kissed him square on the lips then walked away.