“And that’s how the candy cane wishes began?”
“Yes. I remembered seeing a sign that the pharmacy would be open on Thanksgiving. I ran to my car, sped to the store, and went in with a tear-streaked face, but I didn’t care. I had a mission.”
“How did you decide what to write?”
“I went through the Bible, searching for verses that could inspire and encourage people for all the reasons Christmas can weigh on a person’s heart. You want to know the amazing part?”
He leaned forward a degree, nodded intently.
“As I wrote those wishes, the messages took root in my own heart. I won’t say it was the best Christmas ever, but it was more than I had dreamed possible.” She set the cup and lid aside. “Passing out the candy canes gave me the gift of purpose and peace. It was still difficult to face each day without those whom I loved the most in this world, but each day became more tolerable. Eventually, I stopped crying every day and then I could bring myself to look at Aubrey’s picture.” She sighed, reflecting on her journey. “Looking back at how far I’ve come, I know it was God working through the candy canes Who brought me here.”
Donovan let out a low whoosh sound. “You’re an inspiration.”
Shaking her head, she disagreed. “There’s nothing special about me. I’m just a girl trying to find a way to move forward in life.”
“You’re succeeding in it and using your pain to help others. Too many who suffer drown in their own sorrows.” He paused and frowned. “I did. For too long.”
“Everyone grieves in their own way.” She locked eyes with him. “When I started with the candy canes, my motives were selfish. Yes, I wanted to help others, but I wanted to feel better in the process.”
“Either way, your story is inspiring. Don’t discount yourself.” He folded his hands in his lap. His mouth opened, but no words came out right away. Several seconds later, he spoke. “Have you ever considered bringing on a helper?”
“What do you mean?”
“I’m sure your efforts consume a substantial amount of time. If you told someone it’s you and let them help you, you could finish the task in a shorter time.”
She laughed—snorted. “I have nothing but time. Other than church and volunteering a few days at the shelter, I have no other obligations.”
“What about companionship? You’re trying to reach the lonely, but it must be lonesome doing this alone year after year.”
Crossing her arms, she peered at him through squinted eyes. “Are you trying to make me feel bad?”
“No, not at all.” He sighed and gave her an apologetic smile. “I had an idea and mangled it.”
“Which was?” She had a feeling of where this was leading, but couldn’t put a name on how she felt about it.
“Let me help you.” His voice filled with earnestness. “It doesn’t have to be every night, and I won’t try to take over, but I’d love to join your efforts.”
“I… I don’t know.” She rested an elbow on the seat cushion and propped her head on her splayed fingers.
“You don’t have to answer now. Just think about it.” He lifted his hips and removed his wallet from his rear pants pocket. Retrieved a card and handed it to her. “Here’s my business card with my cell number on it. If you decide you wouldn’t mind a tagalong, give me a call.”
“Thanks.” After taking the card, she stood, sensing Donovan about to make his exit.
He rose to his feet and held out a hand for a goodbye shake. “Thank you for sharing your story with me. I know it wasn’t easy, and I promise it stays between us.”
“I appreciate that.” She walked him to the door and gripped the doorknob. “Can I ask a question?”
His lips curled into a wry grin. “Only seems fair after all I’ve asked you.”
“Why do you want to help?”
The smile he’d shown disappeared. “The holidays become a tug of war for me. From Thanksgiving to Christmas, I know it’s about gratitude and celebrating the birth of Jesus, but since Deana left, I struggle not to feel sorry for myself. It’s time I shift that focus to others.”
That’s all she needed to hear. “I’ll head out tonight between nine and nine-thirty. Meet me here, and we’ll take one car.”
“Great. I’ll see you soon.”
“Bring a mug of hot coffee or whatever beverage of your choice. It will get cold.”
“I will.” He walked out, closing the door behind him.
Zoe turned and stared at the decorations waiting to be placed. “What did I get myself into?”
Oh, good grief. Now I’m talking to inanimate objects?Before she could change her mind about Donovan, she threw herself into decorating the rest of her apartment. If she didn’t stop to think about it, she couldn’t call him and cancel.
