Page 31 of First Christmas

“Merry Christmas, Lucas,” Nan grabbed me, hugging me at the door of her apartment in the senior housing.

“Merry Christmas, Nan,” I greeted, returning the hug and moving aside so Becks and Nat could get theirs. I set a gift for Nan on the counter and was immediately scolded.

“Lucas and Rebecca. I told you all I don’t need anything. I am an old woman. What on Earth?” glaring at us as sternly as she could, Nat snickered then spoke.

“This is my first Christmas with a grandma though,” she pouted, “I helped pick it out.”

I watched my tiny grandmother’s eyes well with tears causing her to sniffle.

“Well,” she shook her head, “I guess I can’t be too mad then.”

Becks chuckled and carried the presents for Monica, the girls, and Nan,into the living room to set under her small Christmas tree.

“Everything smells so good, Vi!” she cooed, standing to take off her coat.

“Now! Young lady. I’ve told you to call me grandma or nan just like everyone else.”

“Okay, Nan. I’m sorry.” Beck’s eyes sparkled at her feisty tone. “Nat, can you run these coats to the guest room and lay them on the bed?” she asked softly.

Nat was up and off within a blink.

“How was your all’s first Christmas then?” asked Nan, shuffling to the stove to check on the food.

“Wonderful ” Becks and I answered in unison.

“Jinx. You owe me a coke!” Becks laughed.

“Did you like your surprise?” Nan stood, her knowing eyes sparkling.

“You knew?” Becks accused, trying to sound affronted.

“Well, of course.”

“Is there anyone who didn’t?” Becks’ asked shoving me lightly. “How on Earth did you all manage to keep it a secret?”

“I have my ways.” I answered, slinging an arm around her and pulling her close. “That library is absolutely nothing compared to the gift you and Nat gave me.”

“Oh?” said Nan, distracted with something in the fridge now. “What did they get you?”

“Nat’s adoption papers. All I have to do is sign and file them. Then I’m her legal father.”

Nan jerked upright, nearly hitting her head on the fridge's ceiling, eyes full of tears again.

“Oh, Lucas,” she murmured. “Rebecca, that is the best gift you could have given either of us this Christmas.”

Becks sniffled again and mumbled, “Dammit, I’m always crying lately.” even as my tiny grandmother drew her in for a tight, lingering hug.

“Nan. Did they tell you you’re gonna be my official Nan now?” asked Nat sliding back into the room.

“Slow down.” scolded Nan. “And yes, beautiful. They did.” she drew Nat in for a tight hug herself and smiled at me over her head. “Your Papa would be so proud of you, Lucas.”

I nodded, clearing my throat.

“Dammit.” I grumbled to myself.

Becks laughed, poking me when there was a knock on the door behind us.

Running to open it we heard Nat squeal“Merry Christmas, Lexi!”

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