Page 57 of Love's Harvest
“I think that’s a lovely idea,” Sarah said.
After the meal was over, Sarah said, “Why don’t you girls take your gifts from Aaron into the living room.You can open them there.”She looked at Aaron.“If you don’t mind, I’ll open your gift to me later when we’re alone.I have one for you too.”
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The girls were still playing with the stuffed animals Aaron had given them when Sarah’s parents walked inside.
“Look what I got,” said Mia running to them with a stuffed raccoon.“He plays funny tricks on people.”
“And I got a turtle who helped the world,” said Emily importantly.
“What thoughtful gifts,” said Sarah’s mother smiling at Aaron as he rose from the floor to greet them.
Aaron shook hands with Sarah’s mother and then with her father.“Glad to see you looking well and up and about.”
“Thanks.It’s been a wake-up call for me.We’ll do our story book routine and then go home.”He glanced at Edie.“Maybe I could have one beer?”
“Maybe a cup of tea,” said her mother pleasantly but firmly.
“I’ll get that for you,” said Sarah.“Mom, can you help the girls into their pajamas?I’ll see that they have baths tomorrow before we go to the Collister’s party.”
Left alone in the living room, the two men took seats on the couch.Sarah could hear them talking about sports, and after a pause, she heard Aaron tell her father that he was serious about her.
“I don’t play games,” said Aaron.
“I’ve always liked you, son,” said Bob.“Glad to see you two together.”
Sarah clutched her hands prayer-like.She hadn’t realized she wanted her parents’ blessing on this newest change in her life.
And later when her parents had gone and the girls were asleep, when she and Aaron sat on the couch staring into the flickering fire and relaxing, Sarah was even more grateful that she had a new family dynamic.
“I want you to open my present now,” Aaron said.He went to the kitchen and returned to her with a small, square package wrapped in something that looked like birch bark but was handmade paper, as he explained.
She removed the red ribbon and lifted the top off the box.Inside, resting on a creamy silk fabric, a gold necklace held a delicate sunburst with a stunning turquoise center.
“It’s lovely,” Sarah gushed.
“The sunburst is for happiness.And the turquoise is thought to be a protective gem.I thought it was perfect for you,” said Aaron, a bit shyly.
“Here, help me put it on,” said Sarah.
“It’s small enough to wear every day,” said Aaron, hooking the chain behind her neck.“That’s why I got it.So, it wouldn’t be just for a special occasion, but would remind you of me all the time.”
“It’s gorgeous.I love it and the feelings behind it,” said Sarah.She patted the necklace against her skin just above her heart.“Now, it’s time for me to give you your present.”She got up and reached behind the Christmas tree, where she’d placed his rather large present.
She placed it on the floor in front of him on the couch.“I hope you like it.I thought it had a special meaning for you.”
Aaron’s eyes lit with excitement.He ripped the paper off and lifted the carved wooden bird.“It’s awesome.The detail on the loon is beautiful.”
Sarah kissed him.“I know the loon has a place in Abenaki history.Just like the toy you gave Emily.”
“Yes, when the loon calls out, they are reporting news to Gluskabe,” said Aaron, rubbing his palm over the wood.He reached over and pulled her to him.“Thank you.It’s a very special present.And means a lot more coming from you.”
“Tell me about Gluskabe,” said Sarah.“I know he’s a central figure in many of the Abenaki legends.”
“He’s kind and helpful and teaches us about our culture and about the Great Spirit, who is the source of all life.He has magical powers and can turn monsters into harmless animals.That’s what makes this gift to me so special.The loon can spread the news to Gluskabe about us.”
Satisfaction filled her.She kissed him and when he deepened the kiss, she knew he, not a thing, was the best present she could ever receive.
