Web of Dreams (Casteel 5)

"Try to keep Troy from opening them until

Christmas morning," said Momma's handsome new

husband, with his eyes that followed me everywhere

and his smile that seemed to mock and know so much. "You promised him he could open the wedding

gifts," I reminded Tony, my own eyes breaking the

stare between us.

"We were going to do that when we got back

from our honeymoon," Momma groaned. "He'll just

have to wait."

"Oh, I don't see how it could hurt if he unwraps

some," Tony relented. "Just don't let him make a mess

of it."

"He's sure to

, being a little boy," Momma

complained. "Oh well, I don't want to think of

anything that's the slightest bit unpleasant right now.

Goodbye, Leigh honey." She embraced me and even

with all my pent-up anger I hugged her back tightly,

with a ferocity that I think surprised her. All of a

sudden I didn't want her to leave, needed her in my

heart of hearts to be my mother and warm me with

hugs and kisses and little touches.

"'Have a nice Christmas and New Year's in

your new home. Don't be afraid to explore," Tony

said. "It will take you almost as long as our

honeymoon to do it."

"But please . stay out of the maze," Momma

warned.

"Okay, Momma. Have a good time," I choked

out.