Page 52 of The Art of Being Merry
“Excellent. I’m not worried anymore.”
“Great. And you told him what you wanted for Christmas?”
“Yes, but I can’t tell you or Mama. It’s a secret between me and Santa. No offense.” His seriousness kills me.
“None taken.”
“What else is on your agenda today?”
“Hadn’t thought much past this. Wasn’t sure how long the line would be. We got lucky and it wasn’t too busy.”
He peers around me at what he can see of the line. “Yeah, it’s a lot longer now. Good thing we got here when we did.”
I don’t acknowledge the way he rushed us. It’s over and done with, and as a kid, I’d probably have been the same way.
“What’s your plan for the day?” I toss the question back to him.
He shrugs. “Mama didn’t say. Probably video games for as long as she’ll let me. Then I’ll read some of my book. I’m almost finished with it.”
“Is it good?”
“So good. I’m at the part where they’ll soon solve the mystery, and I can’t wait to find out if I’m right or not.” His enthusiasm spills into his words, akin to how I’ve heard Willa talk about her stories.
“I hope it works out for you.”
“Me too. I love when I guess correctly.”
“I bet. Makes you feel accomplished, right?”
“Yeah. You should stay for lunch. I’m sure Mama won’t mind. I can ask her if you want.” His torso shifts to face me, the eagerness in his expression hard to ignore. Or maybe it’s his suggestion of staying for lunch, of spending more time with all of them, that has me lighting up inside.
“If your mama says yes, I’d love to join you.”
“Do you like burgers?”
“I love them. It’s one meal I can cook on the grill.”
“Mama cooks them on the stove. Is that okay?” He tilts his head slightly to the side and presses his lips into a thin line.
“I’m not too particular about my burgers. If they’re cooked to medium, I’ll eat them any way they’re prepared.”
I’m not used to answering so many questions, but I can’t say I mind. Getting to know Atlas and Jace is fun, and I enjoy their company.
From the corner of my eye, I notice Jace jumping off Santa’s lap, his excitement palpable. His hand entwines with Clementine’s as they walk over to us.
“What trouble did you two get into while we were gone?” she asks, looking between the two of us.
“Dax likes burgers,” Atlas blurts.
Way to be subtle, kid.
Clementine doesn’t bat an eye or take his bait. “Does he? Burgers are delicious for sure.”
“And we’re having them for lunch today.”
“That was the plan.” I’m sure she’s on to him, but she doesn’t let on.
Jace peers up at his mother. “Can he eat with us?” He trains those puppy dog eyes on her.
