Page 14 of Reindeer and Restraints
A sign. That gives me an idea. I take the program from her and hold it up. “It is a sign. Read it.”
She stares blankly so I start at the top, pointing to my name. “Jolene, that’s me.”
Pointing to Starla, I read her name. Then sliding my finger back and forth under Bellamie’s name, I state slowly, “Bellamie, that’s you.”
“I know, but–”
“And then, Molly.” I move my finger down. “There are four of us now. It’s a sign. You helped make sure she was included, the same way as you made sure I was. Now we’re going to return the favor.”
When she doesn’t shake free from her indecision, Starla says, “Dating’s a crapshoot, Bellamie. You don’t even know if Krampus will show up on Sunday.”
“Or why he won’t tell you his name.” I step toward the door, ready to wrap this up the second she shows a sign of agreement.
Starla gives her a hug. “Ready to give the auction a chance?”
“Yes.” Bellamie’s answer is weak, but sufficient.
“She’s in, Laz,” I call through the open door.
“Oh shoot.” Bellamie snaps back to life. “I have to meet the babysitter for the woobie handoff.”
I’m so grateful for a friend like her, and only have a tiny bit of worry that she’ll use the woobie handoff as a chance to sneak away.
Laz comes in after Bellamie exits. "One last detail. Have you decided on whether to announce that you have a kid or not?"
"Let's do it—save me from having an awkward conversation afterward.”
"You're sure? Some men—"
"At this point, all I'm counting on is the auction setting me up for a mind-blowing first sexual experience. I just got a lifelong commitment thrust on me. I don't want to push that on anyone else who's not ready."
"Good point." Starla touches up her lipstick. "Skip right to the guys who will accept a stepdaughter as part of a happily ever after."
Smiling warmly at her, I add, "And avoid a mood-killing conversation."
Laz rubs his chin. "One solid bidder, that's all it takes."
Does he not understand the allure of a reverse harem? "Right."
Molly shows up, and Laz leaves us alone to get her ready.
Before long, my name is being called from the stage. I take my place under the lights. All I can think about is that I belong here. It's my time to shine.
The crowd hushes, a sea of eager bidders listening intently as Jefferson introduces me.
My reality comes crashing back down with the mention of me having a two-year-old. It was the right choice to have it declared up front. Thankfully, the smattering of applause and catcalls boosts my confidence that I'll get bid on.
Jefferson continues, "I'm going to turn this over to the auctioneer, and let's see who starts the bidding."
Letting my true spirit shine, I strut across the stage, channeling every ounce of my adventurous vibe, even if I now pack sippy cups for my adventures.
Bids take off. "Fifty thousand… one hundred!" My heart soars. I'm lost in the rush, the dream unfolding, eyes drifting over the crowd without landing. Numbers blur—half a mil? A million? Doesn't matter. This is my spotlight.
As the dollar amounts continue upward, the number of bidders drops. One of the remaining bidders is in the front. His crisp shirt, perfectly styled hair, and controlled smile are too buttoned-up for my flair, but I won't judge. He exudes stability… and solid dad potential. As do his friends who appear to be in on this with him.
But is he, or are they, right for me?
Gibberish tumbles from the auctioneer's mouth, and a new bidder number joins the fun.
