Episode 1221: Cozy Little Christmas

“Don’t tell your father, but on your way out, there are several bags in the front hall closet, wrapped gifts for Hope. I may have gone a little overboard, but I only have one granddaughter and I’m entitled to spoil her.”

“She’ll love it, she gets really into the holidays, that’s why it’s extra special that Michael okayed her spending the afternoon with me today before she goes back home for dinner. I’ve been looking forward to this like I used to look forward to Christmas when I was a kid. And thanks, Mom.” He kissed her cheek. “I’m glad you want to spoil her, even if it is in secret, it means a lot.”

“Your father will come around eventually, once he sees that no one is going to be ruined by that beautiful child’s presence. I’m afraid sometimes your father behaves like we’re subject to the edicts of the gilded age or something. I, on the other hand, will try to stop by this afternoon for a quick visit. If we manage to get rid of this lot by then, I’ll tell your father I’m just popping out to see a friend or do some sort of charity errand. If I can’t make that work, maybe the three of us could go ice skating next week? Or maybe we could just do that even if we do see each other today.”

“Sounds good, I’ll have to check with-”

Now that he had a kid he never ignored his phone, just in case. This once though he wished he had ignored it.

“Hey, so, I was thinking I would share all these photos of your decorations, the meal, and especially the little guy, with Sarette, if that’s okay with you sweetheart,” Cal said as he snapped another one of the slumbering infant in his daughter’s arms.

“That’s okay, yeah, I don’t think I’ve sent her anything since the week he was born. I guess I should.”

Pleased Ava appeared genuinely chagrined by her oversight, Cal opted to push his luck a little. “It would be nicer still if you’d invite her over to meet him in person some time. I know things have thawed considerably between you two the last few years and if you can extend an olive branch to Marques, maybe you can find it in yourself to make some space for Sarette, too, in whatever, capacity you’re comfortable with, maybe I’m overstepping but-”

“No, you’re right. I’ll reach out to her after the holidays.”

“She’ll be very happy about that, thank you.”

“Now, I need to go check on some things in the kitchen before your parents get here.”

Ava passed the baby into Sebastian’s arms and left the living room.

“I can’t quite wrap my head around Ava inviting your father,” Cal said. “Yeah, it’s weird,” Sebastian agreed. “Hardy’s birth bonded them, I guess. But… I mean, my parents have never made a habit of actually showing up for the holidays. I doubt this year will be any different. It will probably just be the four of us today, so you don’t have to worry about butting heads with either of my parents.”

Episode 1222: Don't Worry Be Happy