Twelve Days of Xanthus

“Why are you helping me?”

“Why not?”

“Because really I am none of your concern and I bring the potential of danger to you.”

“Well, what’s life without a little danger? Besides, there are still people out there who do the right thing. My people were originally brought over to this country as slaves. After decades of being treated like no more than property, we received our freedom. It took many years after to come into our own and some would argue that we still haven’t made it there yet. How could I see this same scenario played out right in front of my eyes, and not do something about it?” Her eyes flashed, and she squared her jaw. “Not on my watch.”

He admired her passion and conviction. What would it be like to be able to pick and choose what you stood for? You are about to find out soon. The thought excited and terrified. His entire life had been about obeying orders. Now the possibilities were infinite. It overwhelmed him.

“Don’t do that.”

“Do what?”

“Think too hard. I can practically see the smoke coming out of your ears.”

He placed his hands over his ears to check the temperature.

She snickered.

“It’s an expression, Xan.”

“Aaah.”

“Cheer up. We’re getting ready to go shopping in your first human store. Isn’t that something to look forward to? I mean don’t you want to see all those things we looked at on the computer yesterday in person?”

“Yes.”

“Good, focus on that. I swear it’s like adding another brother to my family.”

The thought made him frown. He did now want to be thought of as brotherly.

“I do not believe you do the things you do with me to your brothers.”

Her head popped up as she set down her list. A strange look crossed over her face and he tensed. Had he gone too far? What would she do?

Violet tipped her head back and laughed a magical sound that reminded him of chiming bells. Her hair fell back and swirled around her shoulders. Her face glowed with joy. Her unrestrained emotions called to him. After a life lived on a planet that abhorred any open displays of emotion, this was like water for his thirsty soul. Violet O’Shea dazzled him. Her even white teeth flashed as her laughter died off.

He couldn’t tell her about Kala now; he’d wait until after the dinner. She’d spent days planning his first Christmas experience.

“You just made a joke, I’m impressed.”

“It was not my intention.”

“I know, Xan, that’s sort of what makes it even more hilarious. But don’t worry I promise I’m laughing with you, not at you.”

“How is that possible, when I’m not laughing?”

She chuckled and shook her head. “We’ll keep working on it.”

She tucked a shopping list into her pocket and came over to pat him on his shoulder. “You ready for your trial run?”

“Yes.”

“Here we go, let’s get our coats on and head out. The nearest store, real store, not the one up here for the renters of the cabin is about forty-five minutes out.”

“What is it called?”

“Walmart.”