Peggy appeared to have it all figured out. Lindy appreciated that Peggy was giving her the space and time to consider this idea.
“You notice I didn’t mention the real kicker. The one point I think will probably be the strongest incentive for you leaving Seattle.” Peggy gave her a knowing look.
“And exactly what would that be?”
Peggy’s smile took up her entire face. “Billy Kincade. He’s crazy about you, and if I can read the signs, which I have been known to do on occasion, you feel the same about him.”
Lindy was admitting nothing. “We’ve had a few good times,” she said, with some reluctance. Peggy had read her like a cartoon caption. Billy asking her to stay was definitely on the table, although Lindy didn’t want to admit it out loud.
“Then I say let the good times roll with Billy and with me…I’ll wait until you make your decision before I look for a roommate.”
That was fair. Lindy agreed with a quick nod. “You’ve certainly given me something to think about.”
“Good. Now go have a wonderful Christmas with your family and we’ll connect in a couple days.”
Lindy nodded. “And, Peggy, thank you for your friendship and support—you don’t know how much it means to me.”
By then their pizza was cold and Lindy gave the packaged leftovers to Peggy. They left the pizza parlor together. Peggy headed out to her parents’ house. Lindy started toward where she’d parked her car.
As she crossed the street, her gaze fell upon Santa. He had parked next to her. She’d seen him enter the pizza parlor. It was the same Santa she’d met while in Leavenworth. She’d recognized him right away.
“Merry Christmas, Santa,” she said, coming to stand alongside him.
Turning to look her way, he smiled and gave a cheery “Ho, ho, ho.” Santa retrieved a large bag from the truck bed and swung it over his shoulder and waited for her.
“Oh yes, I remember you,” he said, smiling at her.
“I saw you on Wednesday in Leavenworth.”
“Yes, yes. You mentioned that you’d written me a letter.”
“But you hadn’t read it yet.”
“Ah, but I have now, and seeing that you’ve been a good girl all year, I’m happy to grant your every wish.”
“Thanks, Santa.” This was fun. This guy definitely played his part well.
“I recall an earlier letter from your childhood when you asked for Rollerblades.” He rubbed his hand down the side of his beard, as if checking his memory.
Rollerblades were likely the most popular request Santa had received during her childhood years. “You should know I broke my arm while learning to operate those skates,” she said, enjoying teasing him.
“That’s not the only thing that’s been broken, now, is it?”
“The only bone,” she said, not getting what he referenced.
“Ah, but one’s tattered heart can hurt as badly as a broken bone.”
Lindy blinked and studied him more closely. “You seem to know a lot about me, Santa.”
In response he grinned. “Say, young lady, how are you at handing out candy canes to little boys and girls?”
“Why do you ask?”
“Well, for one thing, I’m in need of an assistant, and for another, I believe you’ve got something weighing on your mind. Perhaps what you need is a listening ear.”
Santa was right. Perhaps she did.
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
The long line of adults with small children awaited Santa’s arrival at the Children’s Closet clothing store, where he was set to make his appearance. He handed Lindy a Santa hat and a bucket of candy canes. Her job was to manage the line, making sure each child had time with him.
When Santa had first asked for her help, Lindy had hesitated. Yet, there was something about the way he’d studied her, as if he knew the decision that weighed on her mind. He just might have a word of wisdom to share, and she certainly was willing to listen.
Once Santa was in place and the children took their turns, one by one, Lindy found herself caught up in the magic of the moment. It surprised her how much she enjoyed the exchanges Santa had with the children and their parents. He played his part perfectly. She’d never seen anyone do it better. He asked the children questions and seemed to recognize several as he asked things only an insider would know. She remembered her own time with him while in Leavenworth and how he seemed to know her. He was good, she’d say that. Really good with children and adults alike.