Christmas Therapy

Morgan winked. “Word travels fast in this town.”

“Now, Heather I’m thinking lights around the mantle with the garland.” Her mother pointed to the front door, which was still open. A few men stood in it including Desmond and Terrance. “You can start hanging the lights outside.”

“Mom, I was going to—”

Her mother motioned for her to sit down. “This is our gift to you.”

Heather settled on her couch just as little Emily came to sit next to her holding Tinsel in her arms. “Open your present.”

Heather opened the black and white box filled with green tissue paper. Inside, she found journals, scented lotions, homemade cookies, and Christmas glitter ornaments. She gave a side hug to Emily who ran then ran after Tinsel as he jumped off her lap. Heather touched her temple as she closed her eyes.

“Surprised?” Terrance asked.

Heather lifted her chin. “I am.” She looked outside. “You guys finished already?”

Terrance held up another handful of lights. “Far from it. How are you doing?”

“Better. I’m grateful to you all for doing this.”

Terrance gestured to her mother. “I’m following directions from your mother.” He then clasped her hand. “Merry Christmas, Heather.”

“Same to you,” she said.

He returned outside just as Morgan played Christmas music on her phone. Andy Williams’ “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” filled the air and Heather sneaked a homemade Christmas cookie into her mouth. Laying a hand on her chest, she looked about as her house transformed into a winter wonderland. This was usually her project, but thanks to the people of Maple Meadow, she could sit back and enjoy her favorite treat.

“Now tell me what Dr. Boyer said.” Her mother sat next to her.

“He wants me to take it easy. Nothing’s wrong.”

“Are you sure?”

“I had a minor setback. I felt some pain and I told him so he thinks I need to rest.”

“You do,” her mother said, her forehead wrinkled.

“I’m okay, Mom.”

“Heather?”

She patted her mother’s hand. “I’m sure. He says I’m doing well overall but not to get overambitious.” Another smile built on her face. “Thanks, Mom. This means a lot to me.”

Her mother hugged her. “Don’t thank me.” She pulled away and pointed to the window.

Heather followed her mother’s gaze and spotted Allen through her curtains. He was helping Terrance and Desmond with the lights.

“Allen? He did this?”

“He called me after he dropped you off.”

Heather stared out the window again. “Allen? My physical therapist called you? Mom, he doesn’t even like Christmas.” He didn’t do this for her. It meant too much.

“Maybe he likes you,” her mother said with a raised eyebrow.

Heather dropped her gaze to her braced knee. “He’s only here to help my knee get better.”

Her mother lifted her chin. “I’ve got eyes and I’ve got ears. He sounded so sincere when he called me. He didn’t like that not coming to the ceremony disappointed you.”

Heather tucked in her upper lip. Could she believe what she was feeling? It never got this far. Allen saw past her wall. She always wanted to appear confident, but he saw her disappointments and vulnerabilities.