Howl was vain. And arrogant. But Sophie smiled as she watched him decorate the bowler hat she had bought for him.
Sophie was quiet. And too kind. But Howl smiled as he watched her draw a magic circle and attempted her first real spell.
Their extended family was most unusual, they agreed. A fallen star with a quick temper that heated their home. A young boy apprenticed to Howl with no recollection of his own family. An old woman who former made a living as a wizard and who had once tried to kill the master of the house but now helped Sophie with her small hat making business. And a prince the mistress of the house had rescued that they affectionately called Turnip Head who visited them often.
Yes, they were unique. And just like any family they fought. Their fights were more spectacular than most, however. But wizards tended to be flashy people, and with two competent magic users and two who were learning the art, their arguments were most amazing to watch from a safe distance.
But they were a family. And as the master leaned back in his chair beside the mistress as they watched the sun set on the road even as their home marched toward it, they smiled. And wouldn't trade the happiness they had for anything in the world.