For the first time in years, the idea of the holidays put a smile on her face.
It cancelled the meal reserved for eighteen people. She brought the gifts back to the store. Two were not exchangeable — she gave them to a neighborhood charity drive. When he returned that evening, his body was exhausted... but his heart, incredibly light.
What should finally be said out loud
On December 22, Amanda knocked on her door, her arms full of groceries for the children. Celia breathed slowly, then said softly:
* "I won't be here for Christmas. I am leaving tomorrow with Pauline. »*
Amanda's face froze. * "But everything was organized! »*
* "You had organized everything. I had never said yes. »*
