Snippet #1498452

Asher's descent of the stairs was a slow one, keen hearing picking up the conversation echoeing about the kitchen. His steps were careful- too many times had he stumbled down these stairs on a particularly hazy morning. When he reached the bottom of the set he glanced about in an almost suspicous manner, as if expecting to be jumped. Indeed, there had been many days which started with an angry Cyrus- normally about a mess left, or a task undone. Today, though, he seemed safe, so he started into the kitchen.

He didn't announce his coming with a 'good morning' like the rest of his family. Instead, he glanced around to see who was up, then immediately started to the fridge. He snatched out a bottle of Kokanee and cracked it open and took a short swig. He then took a moment to examine his family- It was much too peaceful. No arguements, Cyrus wasn't barking out orders for the day...it made him uneasy.

Picking at his food in the most polite manner possible- his mother had been an enforcer of table manners with a heavy hand- Cyrus glanced back at his wife a little fond smile. "Of course," He told her softly when she spoke of going to lay down, "I'll be around the house until after dinner...so if you need me, just shout." Strange words coming from the man's mouth. It was as if he'd completely transformed with the news of the baby. Normally, he'd scold her for being lazy, but now, he was offering to help her be lazy?

This didn't settle right with Asher. Not at all. So, he began inching towards the basement door, hoping not to be noticed. His crops would be comforting. They always were.