Disclaimer: All original characters and plot goes to Diana Wynne Jones. Nonprofit. Thanks Laughing Phoenix for beta reading.
—Miracles—
Chapter Seven: Aunty Sophie
Calcifer studied Howl as he attempted a normally simple spell.
For as strange as things are in the castle, that was normal, but Sophie and Howl playing strangers broke the abnormal normality.
"I'm sick of this," whined the fire demon. "Sophie doesn't talk to me anymore because of you!"
"Well she doesn't talk to me either," grumbled Howl. He lost the ability to act charming and pleasant since Sophie left the bed.
Calcifer sunk low in the logs, but shot right back up as squeals and happy chatter gushed from the shop. They exchanged glances before simultaneously making their way towards the shop door.
Howl did his best to stay in the shadows, but having a glowing fire ball beside you made it difficult. Peering into the room, the wicked wizard watched as Sophie and her sister exchanged excited words.
"Oh!" The eldest Hatter daughter exclaimed, "I am going to be an aunt!" All the drooping and rotting flowers regained their vibrancy and perked up at Sophie's happiness. Their sweet scent made them more giddy.
"Yes! And I am going to be a mother!" Martha laughed.
Howl blanched, it finally sinking in.
Calcifer slunk back towards his hearth.
"Have you told mother yet?" Sophie inquired.
"Course not! You're more of a mother than she is!" the pregnant woman snorted.
"Martha." Sophie scolded.
Waving her sister off, the youngest continued, "Don't worry, she's next... After Lettie that is."
"Martha!" Sophie laughed. The sisters shared a few more words before Martha departed with kisses, hugs and good wishes.
Howl turned his back on the shop filled with stinking flowers and withered petals and slipped back into the main house. It did not seem right to spy while Sophie cried silent tears.
Word Count: 300
