It had been a year since the defeat of Mocata, and life went on. Rex and Tanith were married, Simon seemed back to his old-self, and Nicholas was happy to see how it all turned out.
He drove up to the Eaton's manor for Peggy's birthday. He went in with his gift, which he set with others, and was greeted by Marie.
"Hello, Uncle Nicholas."
"Hello, my dear."
He bent and kissed her forehead.
"Peggy's in the drawing room."
He went in. His now nine year old great-niece was twirling to some music in the blue dress Nicholas had bought her.
"Uncle Nicholas!" she cried happily when she saw him.
He smiled and held out his arms. She ran to him, and he lifted her into his arms.
"Happy birthday, sweetheart."
"Thank you."
He kissed her forehead.
"I see you're wearing the dress I bought you."
She nodded, and he set her down.
"Well, then, I believe I am in the presence of a proper and lovely young lady. Where are my manners?"
He bowed gracefully at the waist as she giggled.
"Would the young lady care to dance?" he said, offering his hand, unaware of Marie, Richard, Simon, Tanith, and Rex coming in.
She took his hand, and despite the vast differences in their height, he waltzed her around the room. Once they finished, they were startled by the others clapping.
"Bravo."
As Peggy opened her gifts, Nicholas helped Marie finish preparing the cake. He lit the candles and carried it out to her. The Duke's cultured baritone led them in singing 'Happy Birthday'.
"Make a wish."
She made a wish and blew out the candles.
Later that evening, Rex and Simon drew Nicholas aside.
"We know it's Peggy's birthday, but we needed to tell you."
"Tell me what?"
The two other men looked at each other for a moment.
"Mocata had a son, and we think he may be after Peggy," Rex said.