It had been one year ago, today. It felt simultaneously as though it had been only yesterday, and an entire lifetime ago, at least to Ford. Shouldering the weight of the family's situation felt as though it had aged him ten years over the course of one, but he also felt as though he was far too young to assume this level of responsibility. He felt keenly the grief, disappointment, and resentment from his various siblings. He was trying his best to carry on just as they'd always done, but with only mixed success. Their last Christmas had been ruined by death, and although this one would be different, it was unlikely to be truly happy. With so much uncertainty, it was unlikely they would have a happy Christmas for at least a few more years. With the proximity of the anniversary of their father's death, they may never have a truly happy holiday again.

Ford already knew what he was getting for Christmas: a renewal of the Black's membership that had lapsed the previous year, which he neither needed nor wanted but had to maintain for the sake of appearances. Last year he'd had grief as an excuse, but this year as they thrust themselves into society, his presence there might be missed — particularly if anyone wanted to talk to him about one of his sisters. Which, Merlin, he hoped they would.

"It'll be refreshing to see you in color again," he said to one of his sisters upon finding her in the parlor.