Charles continued to doze, making it easy for the wait staff to keep an eye on him now that he wasn't fighting against them. Sofia fixed the blanket that had slid off the man's lap and looked sadly at him. She had been part of the household for years now and had watched the man before her hand over most of his responsibilities to his grandson, choosing, strongly against his will, to live a more relaxed life.<br/><br/>A snore brought a light smile back to her face as she slipped from the room. Not long after, Charles awoke, blinking repeatedly as he gazed around the room. When it dawned on him where he was, Charles rubbed at his nose and let his hand fall back into his lap. He knew if he tried anything there would be many hands and voices opposing it, and he didn't have the energy to deal with that right now. Turning to watch the fire licking at the freshly placed log, Charles Forge lost himself in his memories, the ones he remembered anyway.<br/><br/>Walter interrupted this, bringing the old man back to the present as he shuffled through a stack of papers in his hands.<br/><br/>"I must say we're doing exceptionally well." The younger man exclaimed, eyes never leaving the figures on the page and the occasional note. "A little lacking from the Sternsons, but that can be made up for this season." Walter explained, more to himself than Charles.<br/><br/>Perched on the arm of one of the chairs, Walter tapped his chin, not noticing Charles shaking his head.<br/><br/>"You've a good head on your shoulders, that's for sure." The man laughed, this followed by a cough. "But you got to live a little, Walt."<br/><br/>"Don't." Walter said, head snapping up to look at his grandfather. "It's Walter." Silence settled over the two, neither wanting to discuss the topic further.<br/><br/>Finally, the younger of the two stood, clearing his throat.<br/><br/>"I have work to do." Turning on his heel, Walter left the room, leaving Charles to ponder.