Page 39 of A Not So Quiet Christmas
“Good idea,” I said, raising my voice slightly. “Seb and I have things to do.”
“Are you sure you don’t mind?” Lizzie said, getting back to the matter at hand. “He can be a bit of a handful when he wants to be.”
“Of course, I don’t mind,” I replied. “We’re going to have fun, aren’t we, Seb?”
“I’d say yes, looking at that lot.” He indicated the pile of Christmas activities awaiting his attention.
“Oh, let me give you this before I forget,” Lizzie said. She fumbled in her coat pocket before producing a scrap of paper. “It’s my number. In case of an emergency.” As she handed it over, the woman appeared torn. It was obvious she wasn’t used to leaving her son in someone else’s care and seemed reluctant to leave.
I softened my tone appreciating her position. “He’ll be fine,” I said, giving her arm a reassuring rub.
“Jason,” Barrowboy said, nodding to the door. He seemed to be back to his usual self too.
Jason looked from his brother to me and just like Lizzie, he seemed hesitant.
I had an idea why. As Jason fleetingly looked at the pile of activities, it was clear he wanted to join in the fun. I recalled our conversation when he explained that he and his brother no longer celebrated Christmas and, while he might not admit it, that obviously bothered him. I considered his kindness in making sure I didn’t go without a tree even though he had to himself. “You’re welcome to stay,” I said, deciding that was the least I could do.
“Really?” Jason replied. He turned to his brother in eager anticipation, but Barrowboy didn’t appear as keen.
I knew Barrowboy was only looking out for Jason. After all, Jason had told me his brother tended to be protective. Jason might be a grown man, but the damage caused in his past was evident. It had made him almost childlike.
“It’s all right with me,” Lizzie said.
Barrowboy seemed surprised.
“And I’d appreciate the help,” I said.
“Me too,” Seb said. He began sifting through the activities that Jules had had delivered. “Some of these look pretty tricky.”
“Only if you’re sure,” Barrowboy said, still wary.
Wearing great big smiles, Jason and Seb high-fived, while I showed Lizzie and Barrowboy out, before they could change their minds.
Barrowboy paused at the front door and turned to look at me. “Thank you,” he said.
