‘You’re welcome. Anyone want more stew? There’s still a lot left in the pot.’
After we cleaned up the kitchen we went to the front living room and rested our full stomachs in front of the TV.
‘So where do your parents live?’ I asked Renee.
‘They moved to Gainesville several years back. I think they wanted to live where it wouldn’t snow.’
I laughed. ‘Yeah, shoveling sidewalks and driveways can be an issue when we get older.’
‘Thanks for today Pete. I can’t remember the last time Sammi and I had such a good time.’
‘Anytime Renee. I enjoyed myself also. Sammi’s a treasure and I enjoy your company a lot also.’
She took my hand, ‘I wish I could be stronger and be more self sufficient but not having a job is a problem.’
‘It would be for anyone. But you have me. Anytime for any reason, let me know if you need help.’ I said as I squeezed her hand. ‘I mean it. For any reason.’
‘Can I give you a hug?’ she asked.
‘Anytime. And no need to ask.’ I said as we hugged.
We remained in each others arms for another half hour before Renee decided that they needed to get back home and get ready to sleep. As you can expect, Sammi had fallen asleep.
Renee was about to wake her up when I suggested, ‘Let me carry her back home.’
I leaned over and gently cradled her as I picked her up and moved her over to my shoulder. Sammi’s arms went around my neck sort of reflexively. Renee could only smile as we walked over to their home.
‘Where should I put her?’ I asked.
‘You might as well put her in her bed. I don’t think she’ll wake up until tomorrow.’
So that’s what I did. Renee pulled back the blankets on her bed while I placed her in it. I took off her shoes and socks while Renee got her pajamas out. I left the room while Renee changed Sammi into her PJ’s.
‘Thanks for today,’ Renee said as she came out of Sammi’s bedroom.
I hugged her. ‘You’re welcome. And I enjoyed being out with both of you also. Made my day.’
‘Good night Pete.’ Renee said just before she gave me a quick kiss. Surprised me but that definitely made me happy.
The next morning I woke up with a mission. Christmas was three days away, enough time for what I wanted to do. Renee’s and Sammi’s Christmas Tree looked lonesome but I intended to correct that today and tomorrow.
First things first, a call to Renee.
‘Hey, good morning.’ I said as Renee picked up the phone.
‘Morning Pete. I was going to ask how you were but it’s pretty obvious that you’re doing ok.’
I laughed, ‘Yes, very well, thank you. I had a couple of excellent helpers yesterday and they made my day so much better.’
I could feel Renee blush over the phone.
‘The reason I called was to let you know that I would be out this morning but back after lunch. If you and Sammi are still up to help me decorate the tree, you can come over anytime in the afternoon.’
‘Ok. Thanks for letting me know. I think Sammi would kill me if we didn’t go over to help decorate your tree. So we’ll see you sometime in the afternoon.’
‘Great! See you then.’
I spent the morning running around town picking up things for Sammi and Renee.
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