Page 6 of Christmas Wishes

"Maybe some coffee at Over the Roast?"

"Um. I'm persona non grata over there."

"Okay, you choose a place. I don't have any preference."

We drive in silence back to town, both of us deep in thought. His nearness affects me in a way I've never experienced before. I look out my window. The snow is coming down faster now and it's blanketing the streets.

The town looks beautiful with all the Christmas decorations. I put some lights up around the window of my shop, trying to contribute to the holiday spirit. We stop at a diner and sit down at a booth. I'm more nervous than hungry, but I want to spend as much time as I can with Gene.

He is looking at me funny and I wonder if I've got something on my face.

"What?"

"You're an amazing person, Lilah, but I sense something is going on with you."

"What makes you say that?"

"There's something not right at the store and you look a little worse for the wear. Don't get me wrong, you still look beautiful, but I'm concerned."

I look down at the sandwich I don't want to eat and pick at the fries. We've become close, but I'm not sure I should share my troubles.

"I…don't…"

"Don't bother lying. I can see it in your face."

"It's complicated, Gene. There are a lot of things going on, and life doesn't always work out the way you want it to."

"Can you be more specific? Maybe I can help."

I look at him. He seems sincere in his interest. All the stress of what I'm going through is bringing me down and I don't want to be like this during the Christmas season.

"The shop is different because I can't get enough stock lately."

"Why not?"

"Business has been declining."

"Is it because of the season?"

"No."

"What aren't you telling me?"

"Sometimes people bad mouth you and I don't like it. So I've defended you."

"And the town has turned against you. God, I'm so sorry, Lilah. What can I do?"

I know he wants to help, but I've almost given up. Besides anything but a big infusion of cash won't help me or my business.

"It's been challenging. The after effects have been troubling though."

"Like what?"

"My brother has been trying to help by getting me money. He says he's working part time somewhere, but he's giving me big amounts of cash so I can pay the mortgage on the building."

"You think he's stealing?"

"Or dealing drugs."

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