Episode 278: The Sweetest Gift

"Sorry, I hoped I’d be done before you got home." Gingerbread men piled in a tin, Avalon turned welcoming her boyfriend with a thorough kiss. "I know you hate sweets."

"Not all of them." Xavier grinned. His hand teased her shirt hem. "So what’s all this for? Giving up book reviews to become a baker?"

Though Avalon understood he was kidding, the trace of hopefulness in his voice twisted her guts. She shook off the guilt. "Nope. I bake like this every Christmas."

His mouth drooped. "I guess I didn’t notice last year."

"No, you didn’t. It’s no big deal though just inexpensive gift giving. I usually make Bowie and Jesse their favorites and give the Marques’ something decadent-"

Xavier gritted his teeth and turned away.

"I shouldn’t have mentioned them. You’ve got enough challenges without me adding undue strain. I’ll quit my jobs."

"I’m jealous Avalon." He faced her, looped his arms around her neck. "But that’s my problem, it’s not like you’ve thrown yourself at preppie. I’m dealing with it and if I do screw up it’ll be my own fault not yours, understood?"

Ava nodded. Though unsure, she smiled. "So I have an early present for you."

"Yeah? What’s that?"

"Me."

"Exactly what I want to unwrap."

Episode 279: Winter Wonderland