Page 81 of Ask Your Mom If I'm Real

“She got those for Christmas from the Angel Tree at the local YMCA,” she said wistfully. “She loves the outfit so much.”

My stomach sank.

I knew about the Angel Tree.

I also knew that pants set.

Because I’d been with my sister when we’d bought them.

The sweatpants set hadn’t been expensive.

In fact, it was the cheapest thing that we’d purchased.

Noel had insisted on the cashmere sweater and coat, and though I hadn’t objected, I’d still gotten her a few things that I’d liked as well.

And it made my heart literally soar when I saw the little girl wearing them.

Needs:

— Winter Jacket

— Size five youth shoes

— Jeans 3T

Wants:

— Christmas shirt

— Books

— Personal sized Christmas Tree

We hadn’t found the personal sized Christmas tree.

The outdoor area where we were shopping didn’t have anything like that.

But now I had the urge to drive around town until I found one and bring it back for the sweet little girl in her mother’s arms.

“That’s a cute bear,” I said quietly.

“It’s her favorite thing in the world.” She laughed. “We, uh, had to sign up for the Angel Tree this year. I couldn’t afford to get her anything thanks to this place.” She gestured to the building around her. “It’s just not doing well. And the tips have been minimal.”

“You thought any more about leaving?” I asked.

Her eyes swung to the door, almost as if she was afraid that her father would overhear my question.

“No,” she whispered. “This is it for me, Kermit.”

The way she lightheartedly said my name let me know that she wanted to add levity to the situation, but it fell flat.

I studied her face and said, “Are you okay, Merriam?”

She smiled. “I’m fine.”

Her lie tasted bitter on both of our tongues, because she grimaced, and I felt like I’d been hit in the stomach.

My gaze went to the little girl, holding her Christmas bear tight. “And her?”

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