It's Christmas time in the city

 

Cori wasn't sure when he woke up to Christmas, but it was before Megan could start cooking. He was apologetic he knew he'd let her down. It was true, he'd let his brother get to him, his mother too. Even if he hadn't met her face to face.

He was beginning to wonder if he'd forgotten her gaze. It had been a good long while since they'd seen each other. Of course, it was for the best. She would become angry at the sight of him. 

Even now he was consumed with bitter tears and a stuffy nose. Even his throat was raw with anguish. He wanted to stop thinking about what it was that ruined everything for the family. He guessed now it was the fact being born. Why hadn't she given him up?

But he went on with the ham. Megan defrosted it. All would be on time. There was nothing to really worry about. Christmas was going to be great. Or so he kept it on repeat in his head. 

"You'll make deviled eggs won't you?" Naturally, Megan gave him a hug from the backside while he was doing his best to get the eggs on to boil. Honestly, he didn't know what was so special about them, but she could eat a dozen all on her own.

"So how many are we cooking for?" He wanted to know. Naturally, she wanted to know if he had a cold. He was sniffling.

"No, I'm fine," he promised. 

Megan counted on her fingers then. "Maybe six."

"It'll probably be just the two of us," he sighed.

"Caitlin is in her room and I think Tori is still sleeping," she said as he looked at the clock on the microwave. It was well afternoon now. Everything should be ready for early evening.

"Did you want to open a Christmas present?" She asked.

He shook his head, no, and realized Megan's present was still in his jean's pocket. Suddenly, he was at a loss for words. He didn't know if he should give it to her now, after being at his brother's.

Just then a knock came to the door. He guessed he could wait. Cori imagined it was Melvin. Better early than late, he thought.

But that wasn't who was at the door. No, it was someone quite beautiful, looking for Tori.