The mall is a swirl of holiday cheer. Red and gold garlands hang from every railing, and twinkling lights wrap around every column, creating a warm, festive glow. The Christmas carols playing in the background add to the cozy atmosphere. Everywhere we look, people are laughing and carrying their last-minute purchases, caught up in the Christmas spirit.
Hannah and Beth are darting from store to store, their eyes wide with excitement as they spot decorations and grab at trinkets. Tina and I smile at them, trying to keepup with their energy. The mall is packed with shoppers, but the festive atmosphere somehow makes it all feel like an adventure rather than a chore.
We stop in front of a small boutique, and I spot the perfect gift for Thomas—an apron with the words “Have you hugged a Chef today?” stitched in playful font. It’s quirky but practical, and I know it’ll get a laugh from him when he unwraps it. We move on to the next store and find a camping lantern for Nate.
“He’s been wanting something small but efficient for his weekend camping trips,” I say. “This one has a vintage look that I know he’ll appreciate.”
"Appreciate?” Tina says, her lips curling into a sly smile. “I wouldn’t hold my breath if I were you.”
I shake my head. “You two are going to have to learn to get along."
"Like I said," she responds, "I wouldn't hold my breath if I were you."
I roll my eyes and decide to change the subject. “Help me find some DVDs for Cal’s parents.”
“I got them a gift card to their favorite steakhouse,” Tina says. “I had Beth fish out where they like to go on special occasions.”
“I’m going the practical route,” I say, picking up a scented candle and taking a whiff. “They love date nights, so I grabbed a beautiful handmade basket last week when I took Hannah to the farmers market so Cal could get a few hours of work in. I’ll fill it with popcorn, an assortment of candy, some soft drinks, and a few of their favorite DVDs. Instant cozy night in.”
“Ooh, that sounds so romantic,” Tina says with a smile. “Get me the same thing, but toss in a hunky guy in the basket, if you don’t mind.”
“The only hunky guy I know besides Cal is Nate,” I tease, knowing that’ll get a rise out of her.
Tina rolls her eyes. “That dangerously handsome face and annoyingly perfect body are the only things that man has going for him,” she says. “He lacks manners, humility, a sense of humor—and don’t even get me started on his listening skills.”
“Okay, okay,” I cut in, laughing. “What do you think?While You Were SleepingandSleepless in Seattle?”
She walks down the aisle, returns with a DVD in hand, and hands it to me. “How about10 Things I Hate About You? I’m only up to four with Nate,” she adds, tilting her head, “but I’m working on it.”
“We’re almost done!” Hannah exclaims, holding up a small stuffed teddy bear wearing a pink T-shirt with the words "Mama Bear" on it. She’s planning to give it to her mom. It’s a thoughtful gift, and I can tell it means a lot to her.
I glance at my watch. “How about we take a quick picture with Santa before we head out?” I suggest. Hannah and Beth light up at the idea, and we make our way over to the mall’s holiday display, where a jolly Santa Claus sits in a plush chair, surrounded by shimmering presents and a snowy backdrop.
“Ho, ho, ho!” Santa laughs as we approach. He motions for us to come closer, and I’m already grinning at the thought of the photo. Santa pats his knee, and Hannahjumps on his lap, while Beth, Tina, and I stand on either side of him. As the photographer takes my phone and snaps the picture, the girls giggle, and I can’t help but feel a wave of warmth and happiness.
“Look at that!” I say, showing them the picture. “A perfect Christmas memory.”
With our shopping done and our photo taken, I feel a sense of contentment as we head back toward the exit, chatting excitedly about what we’ll do for Christmas Eve.
“I’m going to the ladies’ room before we go,” Tina says.
“We’ll wait for you in the car,” I say.
As we approach the food court, my heart stutters in my chest.
Standing just outside a jewelry store is none other than Meghan. She’s with a tall, handsome man, impeccably dressed in a crisp button-down and dark jeans, his arm casually draped around her waist as they peer into the glittering display of diamond bracelets and rings. But the moment Meghan spots us, everything about her shifts.
Her eyes narrow, her posture stiffens, and a flicker of recognition crosses her face—followed quickly by something sharper. She leans in slightly toward the man and whispers something I can’t make out.
He nods, staying by the jewelry store entrance. Meghan steps away from the window and begins marching straight toward us. her heels clicking against the polished tile like warning shots.
She looks furious, her lips pressed into a tight line, making it clear she has every intention to confront me.
I feel a flash of panic and instinctively reach for Hannah’s hand, pulling her toward me protectively.
Meghan doesn’t waste time. “What the hell are you doing with my daughter?” she snaps.
I square my shoulders, ready to go on the attack.
