Page 110 of Perfect Assumption

“See, this is why I don’t require any gifts,” Hayden declares, bringing us back into the moment.

“Why’s that?” David asks.

“Because, this is what Christmas should be about—being with those you love that you can’t live without. I’m just honored you all invited me to be a part of it.” Hayden lifts his glass in a toast. “There’s nowhere I’d rather be on a cold night like tonight.”

We all lift our glasses to toast him back. Then Angie speaks up softly, “And to those who we miss in our hearts. I hope they know how very much they’re loved.”

We all lift our glasses once again as we think of the ones who aren’t with us. A jolt races through me as I realize how appropriate Angie’s gift truly is. Clearing my throat, I place my glass to the side. “I think there’s one gift left.”

Carefully, I fold the present Angie gave me and slip it into the stocking, noting with interest the garters dangling. Stooping down, I place it at my side reverently before reaching inside my jacket pocket and pulling out a square box. “Here, Angel. Let me up.”

I shift Angie off my lap before kneeling down next to the chair and hand her the beautifully wrapped gift.

And wait.

Angie slowly undoes the crimson bow before sliding a nail beneath the opalescent paper. Her fingers tremble as she lifts the lid on the rectangular box. Then she lifts the box closer to her face. “Oh, Ward.” Her arm not holding the box snakes around my neck to pull me close.

“You didn’t open it up,” I tease her even as I absorb her scent.

“There’s something in it?” Her head jerks back in surprise.

“There’s a few somethings.”

“What is it?” Carys demands.

“A locket. Hold on, let me get it out.” Angie fumble with the pins holding the delicate chain to the satin. “Here it is. It…” Her words halt as she reads the inscription on the back.

My beloved. Always.

The tears are falling so rapidly from Angie’s eyes, I can’t swipe them away fast enough. I yank her into my arms. “Was this too much?” I struggled to find the balance between giving Angie everything her heart could possibly desire and merely the world. Then I saw the locket as I was roaming around priceless jewels and realized she’s wants only one thing from me.

My heart.

Tipping her face back, I whisper, “Open the locket, my love.”

“I’m not sure I can. My hands are shaking too hard,” she admits.

Carefully, I use my thumbnail to undo the catch. That’s when Angie begins to cry. Inside are miniature pictures of the two of us I took using my cell phone: one during our trip to Montana and the other last weekend while we were decorating for Christmas.

“You mean everything to me.” Her eyes glow like gems.

And that’s my true gift—that she’d say that in front of all the people who matter in my family.

I lean over and brush my lips against hers. “And you’re my forever.”

Right then, the clock strikes ten times. “Goodness, when did it get to be so late? David, we have to get Ben home and to bed.” Carys jumps up from David’s lap.

“Then we get to play Santa.” He waggles his eyebrows suggestively.

Carys smacks him, but for once I don’t chime in. I just can’t wait for them all to leave.

I need to hold Angie against me which is right where she belongs.

Forty-Two

Ward

Keene Marshall was spotted ducking into HomeGoods on Christmas Eve. It must be domestic bliss.