Page 47 of Prize for the Alien Grumpus

"Same old me." I busy myself with the menu, but my cheeks warm under their scrutiny.

"No way." Tiffany leans forward, her eyes narrowing. "You're practically floating. And that smile..."

"What smile?" I touch my lips, realizing I've been grinning like an idiot since I sat down.

"That one!" June points an accusing breadstick at me. "I know that smile. That's an 'I met someone' smile."

"It is not." But even I hear the lie in my voice.

"Who's the guy?" June demands. "You're glowing."

"Spill it." Tiffany crosses her arms. "We haven't seen you this happy since... well, ever."

I take a sip of water, buying time. How do I explain Krampus? 'Oh, you know, just dating an alien fugitive from the future who's great with my kid and makes a mean hot chocolate'?

"His name is Kevin." I trace the rim of my water glass. "He's... different. Not like anyone I've ever met."

"Different how?" June leans forward.

"He's protective. Strong. But also incredibly gentle with Sam." The memory of Krampus playing tea party makes me smile. "She adores him."

"Where'd you meet him?" Tiffany takes a sip of wine.

"Work. Sort of." Not technically a lie. "He helped me out of a tight spot."

"Like a knight in shining armor?" June clasps her hands together.

"More like a wrecking ball in fuzzy boots." I laugh. "But he's changed my whole world. Everything's brighter, easier. He even got my parents to back off."

"Sounds perfect." Tiffany's voice carries a note of concern. "Maybe too perfect?"

"I know it's fast." My chest tightens. "And that's what scares me. I think... I think I'm falling in love with him."

"Mel..." Tiffany reaches across the table. "After what happened with Rick-"

"This isn't like that." June cuts her off. "Look at her face. When was the last time you saw Mel this happy?"

"But-"

"No buts." June squeezes my hand. "If this Kevin makes you and Sam happy, that's what matters. The rest will work itself out."

"Thanks." I blink back tears. "I just never expected..."

"To find someone who fits?" June smiles. "Sometimes the best things come when we least expect them."

"So what are you getting Kevin for Christmas?" June asks.

My fork clatters against the plate. Christmas. Present. Krampus. The words bounce around my skull like a pinball machine.

"I haven't... I mean..." I sputter.

"You haven't bought him anything yet?" Tiffany's eyes widen. "Christmas is next week!"

"Check please!" June waves at our waiter. "Emergency shopping trip."

Before I can protest, they drag me through the winter wonderland of New York's Upper East Side. Store after store, nothing seems right.

"What about this sweater?" Tiffany holds up a cashmere turtleneck.

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