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MAX

I hummed along with the Christmas music that played from the small radio, lights filling the cave as the fire cracked before me. I pulled the needle and thread through the thick material, finishing the final touches as I squealed, wincing at the pain in my shoulder.

“Silly Max,” I said to myself, “got to be more careful.” My fingers ached from sewing all night, though I was relieved to finally be done with my own Christmas gift.

I switched stations, finding more Christmas music, gently rocking my head back and forth as I stroked the furry collar of my brand-new coat, proud of what I had made.

“Green is such a pretty color,” I chirped, wrapping it around my body, inhaling the scent of it. “Merry Christmas, May-Martha.” I looked down next to the radio, smiling at her heart as I stroked my coat, admiring it closely. “And Merry Christmas to you, you mean old Grouch.”

My fingers played with the green fur, still as soft as it was when it was on his chest. I burrowed myself into his skin, sinking into the chair as I inhaled his scent again. He was so warm, so inviting. Absolutely perfect. I grabbed the sleeve made from his arm and wrapped it around my chest, leaning into it.

“Now, we can be together. Forever .”

Merry Christmas