Page 64 of Captiva Book Club

“That is funny, and I’m sure he’ll thank you for your purchase.”

Byron extended the plant in front of Maggie. “It’s for you and Paolo. It’s my way of saying Merry Christmas and thank you for all you’ve done for me since Louise died. I’m not sure how I could have made it without your help…oh, and Chelsea’s too. I got her a plant too.”

“Well, come on inside and visit with us for a spell. I’m so glad you stopped by. I’d introduce you to our new chef, but Oliver stepped out for a bit. You’ll have to come back to meet him, when you have the time.”

“Oh, I’ll come back, you know me, I don’t go where I’m not welcomed, but that’s not the case with you and Paolo. After Louise passed, you and Paolo opened your home to me when I needed it most. Staying in that cottage…it gave me a place to find my footing again. I’ll never forget that.”

“You’re family, Byron,” she said, reaching out to squeeze his arm. “We were happy to help. Why don’t you come back and visit with Paolo? As usual, he’s in the garden, but I know he’d love to see you.”

“All right, if you think it’s not an imposition.”

“Of course not. Come on, follow me.”

Lexi bounced around Byron, waiting to be noticed.

“Well, hello there. Aren’t you a cutie?” Byron said, picking up Lexi in his arms.

“Now you’ve gone and done it. She won’t leave you alone for one minute now that she’s been in your arms.”

‘Oh, I don’t mind. I’ve been thinking about getting a puppy for myself. It’s so quiet at the house without Louise.”

“Byron, I think that’s a wonderful idea. You must let me go with you to the pet shelter when you’re ready.”

“Don’t listen to her Byron, she’ll come home with another dog if she goes with you.” Paolo joined Maggie and Byron on the porch. “How are you, Byron? Nice looking plant you’ve got there.”

“He bought it at Sanibellia,” Maggie said.

“Well, that explains it. I sell only the best.”

“I bought it for you and Maggie. It’s my Christmas gift to you both,” he said, handing the plant to Paolo, who gladly took the plant and placed it on the table.

“Thank you, Byron. That’s very kind of you. Are you joining us for Christmas?”

“No, I’m going to my brother-in-law’s house. Being with Louise’s brother and his family makes me feel closer to Louise. They’re having a New Year’s Eve party too. It sounds like lots of fun.”

Paolo nodded. “I understand. I’m glad you’ll be with your family.”

They all smiled and nodded their heads, but the silence felt uncomfortable, and so Byron cleared his throat, breaking the moment.

“They’ve got grandkids, seven last I counted.”

Paolo nodded. “Is that so? Well, that will be nice.”

Maggie smiled at the thought, picturing Byron surrounded by the chaos and joy of a house full of children. “That sounds wonderful, Byron. A little noise can be just what the heart needs sometimes.”

Byron’s eyes twinkled as he continued. “I’ve also invited Linda St. James to join us. She could use some of the kindness you and Paolo showed me.”

Maggie’s smile widened. “Oh Byron, that’s fantastic, and you’re right, Linda shouldn’t be alone. I think what you’re doing is wonderful, and I’m sure Linda will have a great time with your family.”

Maggie couldn’t be sure that Linda would brighten anyone’s day, but she’d promised herself that going forward, she’d only see the good in Linda and assume only the best.

“Well, I best get going. I’ve still got some presents to give out, starting with Chelsea. I’ll see you all in the new year... I wait all year to say that,” he said, laughing, clearly pleased with himself.

“Merry Christmas, Byron and Happy New Year,” Maggie said.

They watched Byron walk toward his car, get in and start for Chelsea’s place.

“I wonder how many gifts he’s got in that beat up old car?” Maggie asked.

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