Page 10 of Stuffing His Stocking

“That sounds ominous.” She laughs. “Depends on what?”

“I, uh… I might be bringing someone home with me.” I wince, waiting for her response.

There’s a sharp gasp on the other end of the line. “You’re bringing someone home? Like a boyfriend? Since when have you been dating?”

“Jeez, Mom. I’m not a monster or anything,” I huff. “I go on dates sometimes.”

“Pfft. You haven’t been on a date since that very strange boy made you pay half the bill and told you how education was wasted on women. What was his name? Albert? Allan?”

“Alex, Mom. His name was Alex.” I cringe while thinking back on that dreadful night. The guy was terrible, and I ended up leaving as soon as the check was paid. “And I’ve been out with other people since then,” I grumble.

“Oh, so you’re keeping secrets from your mother, I see.”

I can picture her now. Her lips pinched together in a slight pout and her toned arms crossed over her chest. “No, I’m not keeping secrets. I was fibbing, because my life sounded pretty boring since I haven’t been on a date in the last six months.”

Who am I kidding? My social life is pathetic.

“You’re not boring, sweetie. You have a busy life, and you’re focused on finishing school. Nothing to be ashamed of. You can date later.”

I wish I was dating Dylan, but I know that’s ridiculous. It’s just remnants of an old crush, and I’m sure I’ll get over it soon.

“Nonetheless, I’m not bringing a boyfriend home. I ran into an old friend. That’s all.”

“An old friend?” she asks curiously.

“I ran into Dylan.”

She pauses for a moment until recognition hits her. “Dylan Kane? Where did you see him?”

“Surprisingly, on campus.” He was like a knight in work boots and a tight t-shirt, but I’ll keep that part to myself. “It’s a long story, and I’ll spare you the details, but he helped me out the other night when I really needed him.”

“You called him?” I can hear the confusion in her tone, so I try to clarify.

“No, I just ran into a bit of trouble while walking to my car and he helped me out. So we decided to meet for coffee and catch up.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful, honey. How is he? You know, he was always such a sweet boy.”

I don’t miss the fondness in her tone when she speaks about him. “I don’t thinksweet boyis how I’d describe him, Mom.” I chuckle. “There’s nothing boyish about him.” Dylan is one-hundred percent all man, and a damn sexy one too.

“You know what I mean, Livie.” She laughs. “So how is he? He must be about thirty now, right? Is he married? Any kids?”

I know she’s chatted with his dad on occasion, but I guess it’s no surprise Bruce didn’t mention his son. “No, he’s not married and he doesn’t have any kids. But he did manage to surprise me.”

“What do you mean?”

“He’s been working construction for the last several years and he’s gotten very close with his boss.”

“Construction? I don’t understand. I thought he’d be working with Bruce?”

“Me too. But apparently, that’s not the case.” I’m still a little stunned at his revelation. “I’ll let him fill you in on the story, but he’s been living very quietly, working a blue-collar job, and staying out of trouble.”

“Sounds like he’s doing well, then. I’m glad to hear that.” Her relief is evident through the phone. “I always thought he was very special. I know he had a rebellious phase, but any mother worth her salt could see it was just a cry for attention. That boy needed love and affection. He really was a good kid.”

“I know, Mom. I could tell.”

“And incredibly smart,” she adds. “And handsome.”

“Alright, Mom. I get it.” I laugh and shake my head. “So it’s okay for him to join us for the holidays?”

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