Page 73 of The Best of Times
“I’m sure we can think of something,” he said. “After all, we’re on the same street.”
Paul winked. “I’m always up for an assignation with an exceptionally handsome neighbour.”
Aron dropped to his knees.
“What are you doing?” Paul asked.
“Making us late.”
Aron showered in record time and put on his best Christmas jumper. The one with all four Power Rangers spelling XMAS. By the time he came downstairs, the Professor was in the kitchen.
“I am as light as a feather. I am as happy as an angel.”
“I am as merry as a school-boy. I am as giddy as a drunken man.”
“Merry Christmas, Prof.”
“Glad tidings to you too, young man.”
Aron clapped the Professor on the shoulder. “No one quite says Christmas other than Dickens.”
“You won’t get any argument from me.”
Aron sat down on a kitchen stool. “It’s a shame you can’t get over to New York. I’d love to show you the writing desk.”
The Professor looked rueful. “We could have honeymooned there, I suppose. Too late now. I’ve booked somewhere wonderful.”
It dawned on Aron that Granny and the Professor may not be perfectly aligned on that score. A potential hiccup that he hadn’t allowed for.
“Where have you booked?” he asked as innocently as he could.
Unfortunately, the Professor tapped his nose.
“All will be revealed,” he said. “I can’t trust you not to report back. Sorry, son.”
Aron clutched his chest. “Professor! I’m appalled.
Oh well. They would be married by then. The Professor was on his own.
“I take it Granny is up.”
The Professor nodded. “I’m surprised you can’t hear the carols from here. She had them booming out of those speakers when I left.”
Aron beamed. After the hard work of the previous days, he was looking forward to the forthcoming festivities. A day of rest before the final mission.
The Professor seemed tired. Aron hoped he wouldn’t collapse before the wedding.
“I’d better go and get things underway. I’ve got her the best present.”
“I hope it’s nothing too large. Both our houses are full as it is.”
Aron squeezed his nearly step grandfather’s shoulder. “Have no fear. I’m the sensible one in our family, remember?”
“You?” Paul said, bounding into the kitchen. He looked sensational in a blue cord shirt and faded jeans. Aron worried he might be dribbling. “I could think of a lot of words for you but sensible isn’t one of them.”
“Now, now,” the Professor said. “Let’s play nice today.”
Aron and Paul shared a knowing glance. They had been playing nicely ever since the impromptu house swap.
