“I’m not even being naughty yet.”
“You’ve got thirty seconds, button. If you can’t answer me verbally, you can get your sparkly notebook and write down what’s bothering you.”
“I don’t know! I’m not trying to be difficult, Sir. Really. I should be walking in a winter wonderland! I usually love Christmas but this year money was so tight. I can’t afford gifts for everyone who’s special in my life. I’d never tell Manda that, because she would just get me more gifts. I adore her so much, but it’s like our special holiday. She deserves nice things like more than anyone,” I insisted.
“Is money tight because you were out of work for a few weeks or is it something more?”
Nathan was so patient and kind. If anyone could get to the bottom of the real issue, it was him.
I nodded. “Yes , Daddy. When I lost my job it messed up my finances but to be very honest with you, it wasn’t the only thing. I started to struggle a little bit and let a few bills get behind. I didn’t want to bother anyone, even though I know Uncle Seth would have helped me figure out a budget. Or really whatever I needed, but I was so embarrassed.”
Phew! Getting all of that off my chest helped relieve a ton of stress.
“All right, sweetie. I want you to write down the gifts you intended to purchase this year, or put it together in an online wish list.”
Oh no! I stood up, hating where he was going with this. “I will not be doing that.”
Nathan rubbed his hand along his mouth, and shook his head. “Sit down.”
“No, I will not be doing that either.”
“You can sit or I will put you across my knee and we can finish our conversation while you get your bottom spanked. Choose wisely.”
I had obviously sassed a little too close to the fireplace. I immediately sat on his lap and he pulled me close to him. “I’m sorry, Daddy.”
“You haven’t done anything wrong, button, but I do not like the attitude that keeps spouting out of your pretty little mouth.”
“I apologize so much!” I kissed both of his cheeks in turn. “I just sort of think I know where you're going with this, and I don’t like it.”
“Let Daddy finish speaking completely before shutting down. Will you do that for me?”
I tried to focus on his reply instead of his handsome face and failed. “Huh?”
“Oh, you’re very stuck in your head aren’t you? One thing at a time. Can you focus on me, babygirl?”
“Yes, Daddy.”
“Step one. Do what I asked of you regarding gifts. It doesn’t have to be today but by the end of the week.”
“I will do it even though I really don’t want you to do what I think you’re going to do.” Geesh. Can I say ‘do’ eight more times? I cleared my throat trying to clear all the gunk in my stomach and heart. It didn’t work. “Yes, Daddy. I will have the gifts listed somewhere.”
“Step two. I want a separate list with your Christmas wishes. Anything can be on there, but include physical gifts too. I plan on spoiling you, and I don’t want to hear a word about it.”
“Gross,” I muttered. Nathan tipped me over his lap and slapped either side of my ass hard enough to make me shriek. Our doggies didn’t move from the kitchen. They were used to mebeing loud. After a few more, he righted me. Unexpected tears fell down my cheeks and he brushed them away.
“I understand you aren’t used to anyone lavishing their time, love, affection, and money on you, but I will be doing it as often as I please. You are very special to me, Kelsey. I plan on showing you how much you mean to me.”
“I-I-I’m sorry, Daddy! I know! You’re right. It’s old insecurities trapped inside my belly. As much as I love the holidays now, I didn’t always. I’ll make you a list of wishes and even some gifts.”
“That’s my good girl,” he praised. “Third step. This one is a bit more complicated. I’d like to sit down and look at your finances with you.”
Ugh! That was worse than writing down wishes. I was mortified by the idea of him looking at my measly income and my sometimes out of control spending. At least, it had gotten out of control when I had extra money.
“Fine.” My tone sounded haughty to my own ears. I swallowed hard expecting another trip over Nathan’s knee.
“Technically the word ‘fine’ is positive but adjust your tone, Kels.”
“Yes, Sir.”
