Chapter 19
Danielle came down to breakfast the next morning to find two new surprises waiting for her, namely, Monique and Jean-Claude. She didn’t expect to see the two of them sitting there and was more upset that no one had told her that they would be.
She should have realized that if their parents were here the children couldn’t be too far behind.
Before she sat down, however, he father cornered her in the hallway.
“Let’s go into the kitchen, Danielle. We need to talk.”
The two of them walked into the deserted kitchen and Danielle sat down at the table. Auguste sat on the other side.
“You remember your cousin Monique, don’t you, Danielle?”
“Of course, Papa,” Danielle answered, “but why did you not tell me that they would be coming?”
Auguste smiled. “I thought you knew that. You are a smart girl after all.” He watched her eyes. “I actually thought that I told you, Danielle. I guess I must have forgotten that’s all. Please forgive me.”
Danielle smiled. “Of course, Papa,” she repeated. “She is my cousin after all.”
Auguste beamed. “This is wonderful. I knew you’d understand. Now I have another favor I must ask of you.”
“And what is that, Papa? You know that I would do anything for you.”
“Your aunt and uncle would like a favor, Danielle. When you go to see Henry today, could you please include Monique and Jean Claude on your adventures? Nothing would please me more.”
Danielle stared at her father. What was he asking of her, she wondered, and why?
She smiled as if it didn’t bother her. “You know I would do anything for you.”
Auguste smiled. He kissed her cheek. “Thank you, Danielle. I am very proud of you.” He put his arms around her and pulled her close. “You know that I love you.”
Danielle smiled and hugged him. “I love you, Papa,” was all she said.