One More for Christmas

Tabitha craned her neck, look

ing at the entrance of Central Park. “Can we go for a ride in the horse carriage?”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Because that’s for tourists.”

“What’s a tourist?”

“Someone who doesn’t live here but comes for a visit.”

“We don’t live here.”

Samantha wondered how her sister wasn’t crushed with exhaustion. Tab’s questions were endless, but so was her enthusiasm and her charm, fully on display as she delivered a megawatt smile to the doorman.

“I’m visiting my grandmother.”

“And where does your grandmother live?” He played his part well, and moments later they were standing outside Gayle’s apartment.

“Remember what I said,” Ella muttered in an undertone. “Don’t touch anything.”

Tab was almost vibrating with excitement, the gift she’d insisted on wrapping herself clutched to her chest. “Will there be a Christmas tree?”

“No. Nanna doesn’t really celebrate the holidays.”

“Why not?”

Good question, Samantha thought. Because she considers it frivolous and a waste of time and money.

Ella was more tactful. “Not everyone does, and there are many different reasons.”

“We could buy her a tree.”

Before Ella could answer, the door opened and Gayle stood there. Dressed all in black, she looked thin and a little more drawn than usual.

Samantha frowned. “Are you all right, Mom?”

“Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?”

Er—head injury? A period of unconsciousness? “You’ve just come out of the hospital.”

“It was hardly a prolonged stay. I’m feeling perfectly fine, thank you for asking.”

Samantha gave up. She’d never known her mother admit to feeling weak or vulnerable and didn’t expect her to start now.

She unwrapped her scarf from her neck and stepped inside her mother’s apartment after her sister.

She felt so tense her spine ached.

It was impossible to be here and not remember their last disastrous family gathering. How soon could they leave without seeming rude?

She was removing her shoes and taking her time over it, when she heard Tab gasp and clap her hands.

“A tree! You said there wouldn’t be one, but there is! Look, Mommy.”

“I see it.” Ella sounded a little faint, and Samantha walked into the living room and felt a little faint herself.