They pulled into the drive, and Anna squeezed Lorena’s arm. “Let me talk to your parents first, okay? This idea may come as a bit of a shock. I think it’s best coming from me.”
“No problem, Auntie. I agree.”
“Tell your mom I’ll call her.”
“Thanks, Auntie. I love you so much.” They hugged and Anna watched her niece practically bounce into the house.
As soon as she got home she called her sister. “It went well, Lana, but I need to talk to you and Tom privately. Can you come over tomorrow night before you go home from work?”
“No problem, Sis, we’ll make it happen.”
Matt had to work hard to convince Anna to share Christmas in his home. Even after they agreed, she made numerous attempts to change the location back to her house. He was glad he had remained firm and argued that Melody needed to feel as comfortable in his home as hers. A friend of his who was an interior decorator was going to do him a last-minute favor and help bring some Christmas cheer. She was scheduled to arrive that afternoon.
Katrina threw up her hands in dismay. “A traditional Christmas feel, with warmth and welcome. Are you kidding me, Matt? How am I supposed to create warmth with futuristic style furniture, metal and steel accents, and these ghastly white walls? Everything you’ve created here, Matt, is the opposite of the classic traditional style. You’ve got modern style going on, if you can call it a style, and it’s not my cup of tea, that’s for sure.”
Matt looked around with eyes wide open. The walls reminded him of the operating room and exuded a cold starkness. The furniture had never been to his liking but had been designed and custom built by one of the city’s finest.
“What? The interior decorator I hired after the house was built recommended this style as the latest rage.”
“But do you like it, Matt?”
He looked around thoughtfully and realized he far preferred Anna’s home with its wonderful ambience of warmth and color.
“No. Change it,” he said. “You have a week and an unlimited budget.”
The shock on the designer’s face registered fully, as her eyes popped open wide.
“Okay, let me get this straight. You want me to change the décor, not just decorate for Christmas.”
“Yes,” Matt nodded. “Yes, please.”
“Well then,” Katrina stated emphatically not about to argue, “let’s not waste another moment. There’s much to do. Matt, your house has beautiful bones, though unwisely appointed I might add, but not to worry … this will be so much fun.” She clapped her hands in sheer excitement and opened her computer. “Come,” she said. “You will not have another decorator choosing your style. Show me what you like.”
Anna was barely out of bed when her cell rang.
“I don’t know what you did, Anna, but we have our daughter back. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I was so worried, but she’s up already this morning and ate a full breakfast. For the first time in months, she’s wearing a smile. I can’t believe the change—she’s her old chatty self again.”
“Have you talked to her yet?”
There was a pause on the line. “Well, yes—of course we talked, but nothing specific. Should there be?”
Anna dreaded what was to follow. In her mind, she could see her sister flip a lid. The more time she had to think about it, the more fearful she had become. How had she been stupid enough to stick her nose into her sister’s life in such a big way without consulting her first?
“Sorry, Lana, I intended to tell you and Tom tonight. In truth I’ve … I’ve needed time to pray.”
“Okay, Anna, out with it! Surely it can’t be anything too bad, because the transformation in Lorena is amazing.”
“You’ve got to promise to let me finish and not interrupt until I’m done.” Anna found it hard to be forceful with her sister but felt the situation merited a bit of grit.
“Yeah, yeah … now what is it?”
Anna explained the whole conversation she had with Lorena. When she was done, she waited to hear the lecture on why she had not been respectful enough to talk to them first. Instead, she heard soft sobs filter over the line.
“Lana, are you there?”
“Yes.” She sniffled. “Give me a minute.”
Anna heard the sound of a blowing nose, the click, click of heels, and a door shut before Lana whispered into the phone.
“Gosh, Anna, I should be the one offering to look after this child, not you. After all, it’s our grandchild. But you know me, I was never great with babies. Tom and I have had some real good arguments about this lately. He wants me to be someone I’m not. I feel so selfish, but I don’t want to commit to something I know I’ll resent.”
Anna didn’t know what to say, she certainly didn’t want to get between the two of them. “Lana, talk to Tom. We don’t have to figure out all the details just yet. If this idea helps Lorena through a difficult time and gives her peace, then let’s just leave it there. We’ll all pray for the will of the Lord on this matter, and remember, we have months until the baby is born.”
“You’re right, Anna. The most important thing is Lorena’s well-being. We’ll have time to sort out the rest. Thanks, dear Sis. I’ll call you after I talk to Tom.”
“Oh, and Lana?”
“Yes?”
“God knows how he created you, and he knows how he created me. There’s nothing wrong with either creation.”
“Sis, you’re the best.”
Anna hung up the phone and exhaled deeply. She had fretted all night wondering how to tell her sister what she had done on impulse, only to find that the good Lord had everything in his control.
“Imagine a floor to ceiling fireplace without a mantle,” she scoffed. “That’s like having a pie without filling. We’ll fix that in short order.”
True to her word, a crew of masonry experts arrived and set to work. They tore down the colorless white marble and framed the fireplace with stones in rich, earth-tone colors, adding a complementary black slate hearth. A couple days later, a carpenter installed a meaty timber mantle that finished off the beautiful transformation. The room instantly became one of Matt’s favorites.
A team of painters showed up and magically, warm, earth-tone colors sprang to life. An electrician worked around the painters replacing what Katrina referred to as the ‘appalling light fixtures,’ and the Salvation Army carted off the gaudy furniture.
With Matt’s input, the transformation took on life. As per Katrina’s only request, he kept in close contact with her in order to answer a myriad of questions.
About three days into the project, Matt received a frustrated text from Katrina. “I need photos, Matt, old and new. You have nothing personal out. Surely you have some old photo albums I can peek through, and what about some recent pictures of that beautiful baby you keep talking about?”
Katrina’s no-nonsense, let’s-get-it-done attitude, kept the ball rolling. After the painters were done, a team of women stormed the house. They cleaned, fussed, and carted in boxes and bags of endless décor items. Every day when Matt came in after work, he marveled at how his house was being transformed into a home.
Wide-open spaces were filled with a combination of new and antique furniture, creating a classic traditional feel. Warm Persian rugs that complimented the wall color were strategically placed on the hardwood floors to create a room within a room. The windows were covered in new, chic blinds and tasteful drapes. Beautiful paintings graced the walls, and his bookcases were filled with not only books but ornaments, candles, and pictures all carefully arranged. Flowers and plants spilled out of pots and vases. Every nook and cranny came alive with color and texture. Katrina was determined that he’d love his home when she was done. And love it he did.
On December 24th, the makeover complete, Katrina’s team arrived to do what he’d originally hire
d her to do—decorate for Christmas.
Matt worked a half day then headed back. In those few morning hours, Katrina’s team of elves brought Christmas into his home. A real tree rose from floor to ceiling permeating the house with a woodsy scent of pine. Garland, lights, and bows graced the balcony and stair banister. A smaller beautifully decorated tree draped with gold stars, angels, and red bows brought cheer to the living area just off the kitchen.
Matt especially loved the new swivel leather rocking chairs strategically placed where he could enjoy the stunning view of the city in one direction and his crackling fire in the other. Three stockings hung from the mantle, two filled to the brim with goodies for his girls. He glanced up at his favorite addition and smiled in delight. Twinkling lights woven into garland framed the photo he had enlarged and mounted. He couldn’t be more pleased.
At his request, his recent purchase of a carved olive wood nativity scene received center stage on the mantle recreating the Christmas story. Poinsettias graced most every room in tasteful cheer. The whole effect was truly magical and hopelessly romantic.
“Katrina, you have outdone yourself. I can’t say thank you enough.” Matt handed her a check with a sizable tip.
Katrina looked down at the amount, and her eyes widened. “This project certainly challenged me in both the time allotted and the sheer magnitude of the job. But,” she said holding up the check, “this soothed the tired right out of my bones.”
Anna dressed with care for the candlelight service on Christmas Eve. An unexplained excitement jumped inside. She pulled the brush through her hair—a flash of the wedding ring still on her finger brought back thoughts of Steven.
He had died late November … so much had happened. The past year could be chalked up as her worst year ever except for the blessing of Melody and the redeeming love of God. Her Christianity had grown leaps and bounds out of the ashes.
She turned the single gold band around on her finger and shook off the cobwebs of the memories. With a smile into the mirror, she concentrated on the here and now. Her choice of a bright red sweater that hugged her curves and layered over a pencil slim black skirt that rode just above the knees gave her the pretty look she longed for. She dug her high heels from the back of the closet and was about to slip them on when she noticed a thick layer of dust. It made her realize how long since she had dressed up for an evening.
She focused on the full-length mirror in front of her and pirouetted for inspection. Her hair waved obediently down her back. She grinned at the fact she had actually tamed the frizzy sprigs that usually turned into uncontrollable fluff. Her makeup applied with intentional care provided the fresh natural look she desired.
One more glance gave her the inspiration for that last little touch. She rummaged through her dresser until she found the velvet box she had received after her mother’s death. With care, she opened the precious gift. A matching set of pearl earrings and necklace stood out against the dark green velvet. They were just what she needed. The end result brought an instant smile to her face.
With the Christmas music cranked up loud, Anna waltzed into Melody’s room. She had been awake from her nap for the past half hour. Anna had heard her sweet coos and babbles filter down the hall to her room.
A huge smile lit Melody’s face as Anna came into view. “Come, my sweet baby. Let’s get you looking pretty for Daddy too.” Anna smiled. She had dressed with care for one person in mind, and there was no point in denying that truth.
Melody wiggled and reached with chubby fists toward Anna’s hair that was usually pulled back. “No, no, little one. Mama just got that looking good.” She pinned her hair behind each ear as she dressed Melody in a bright red dress with frilly white lace, a warm coat, and tiny moccasin boots. Melody cooed to the Christmas music in the car all the way to the church.
“Mama’s angel, yes, you are.” Anna whispered as she lifted her out of her car seat. The child smiled like a cherub.
Anna balanced the diaper bag, baby, and her purse. She should’ve accepted Matt’s offer to pick them up, but she had wanted him to see her as a capable woman, especially in light of her recent offer to adopt Lorena’s baby. She hadn’t had the opportunity to share that possibility with Matt just yet.
Caught in one hug after another as she walked into the foyer, it amazed her how the majority of church people had forgiven and loved her. She felt truly blessed.
She waved as she caught a glimpse of Matt and moved toward him. She wondered if her hair survived the fact Melody had fistfuls in her mouth—one of the reasons Anna rarely wore it down.
“Beautiful,” he whispered, leaning in.
She heard the word float her way and saw the way his eyes lit up.
Melody flung her tiny body toward her daddy. Anna stumbled and nearly landed in his arms.
He steadied her with one hand and reached for Melody with the other. They stood eyes locked on each other. Neither moved, neither breathed. Melody, however, made her presence known by batting Matt on the face. He kissed her tiny cheek but kept his eyes riveted on Anna. An unveiled moment of passion moved between them without a single touch.
A tingle started from the tip of Anna’s toes straight up to the top of her head. She needed to get a grip.
“Here.” She plunked the diaper bag in his hand and moved to the nearby rack to hang her winter coat. When she turned around, Matt was mere inches from her.
“Anna, you look amazing.” His voice sounded breathy.
She smiled widely. “You don’t look too shabby yourself, Doctor Carmichael, but enough of this mutual admiration. We’d better get a seat, it’s filling up fast.”
They entered the sanctuary looking every bit a family. Melody served up smiles all the way down the aisle as many waved and reached out to touch her. Matt beamed, and Anna stressed at the feelings crashing in.
Anna’s mind was not on the candlelight service. Instead, the heat from Matt’s shoulder seared its way into her consciousness. A craving to lean in and snuggle close bled into her thoughts. When they passed Melody between them, their hands touched and lingered just a tad too long. She was glad when Melody fussed, and he offered to take her to the back.
Her heart rate and mind settled but not on Christmas or the baby Jesus in a manger. Thoughts of Matt, their baby, and what it would be like as a family dominated. She wondered why God had not given clear direction. She had taken Rita’s advice and spent time with God, asking over and over what she should do.
It’s because you keep asking but not listening. The words exploded into her soul.
“I’m not listening?”
You embrace fear and fail to see the gift of love I’ve given you.
Anna felt the truth of those words.
I have not given you a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, and love.
Anna fidgeted in her seat. Conviction ruled. She understood the message. She was not to fear relationship.
Matt slipped in beside her with a sleeping Melody in his arms. His smile radiated through her like a lighthouse beacon shining across black waters. She warmly returned his smile and marveled at how good Melody and he looked together, father and child.
Music played softly as the congregation rose to sing “It Came upon a Midnight Clear,” and all became clear to Anna.
She understood the message, but the question remained … what would she do with her Christmas Eve revelation?
Anna touched Matt’s arm. “How about coming over to my place, so we can get Melody settled and have a hot cup of my famous Christmas cider?”
His brows furrowed in question.
“Come on, the service started early, and the night’s still young.”
“What about going to Lana’s?”
“Really? I didn’t tell you?”
“Tell me what?”
“Tom and Lana decided at the last minute that a family g
etaway for Lorena was in order. Far away from prying eyes and nosy questions,” Anna whispered. “Not that everyone is like that, but there’re a few.”
As if on cue, Myrtle Pinsmith beelined her way over to where they stood.
“Why, Anna, wherever is your sister and her family on this most important evening of worship?” She clucked her tongue and shook her head in contempt.
“They’re out of town, Myrtle.”
“Only heaven knows why anyone would travel on these winter roads? Why, that’s just asking for trouble. Then, of course, they’d blame the good Lord if an accident happened.”
“They flew to Mexico, so no driving necessary.”
“Tsk, Tsk,” the old bird fussed as she shook her head in disagreement and pointed her spotted finger in Anna’s direction. “One would think with a pregnant daughter, they’d stay close to home.”
Anna exhaled deeply. Matt picked up on her angst as he touched her arm with slight pressure and stepped in.
“Myrtle, is it?” He questioned. “We’ve never met.” He extended his hand in greeting.
She whirled in his direction and ignored his outstretched hand. “Oh, I know who you are.” Her nose lifted. “The least you could do is marry this girl now that you’ve gotten her into such a mess.”
Anna could feel her eyes involuntarily widen as storm clouds billowed on the inside. “I would hardly call my daughter a mess, Myrtle, and neither would God. And though I know I’m far from innocent, I also know I’m forgiven.”
Myrtle had to have the last word. “Maybe you don’t think it’s a mess, but I sure do. Seems your family needs a good dose of the Scripture and maybe all this fornicating will stop.” She harrumphed and turned on her heels.
They stood with their mouths half open and watched her large caboose waddle away.
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