by Beth Carter
Oh, my God. I’ve already paid half. I can’t lose that hard-earned money, plus Betsy has to have a nice Christmas. She won’t understand when all of her friends get new toys. Madison laid her head on the four-person kitchen table she had found for a bargain at her neighbor’s garage sale. I hope I’m dreaming. What a crappy day.
When she heard Betsy’s footsteps in the hallway, she gathered herself and reread the form letter. The store requested she either make a payment in full or work out a payment plan within the week.
Putting her head in her hands, she wept until Betsy bounded into to room. “What’s wrong, Mommy?”
Sniffling, Madison said, “Nothing, hon. Are you ready for dinner?”
Betsy bobbed her tiny head.
Madison scanned the half-bare cupboards. She spotted spaghetti, tuna, and soup. Bending down, she asked her daughter which she preferred.
“Sketti.” Betsy turned on her heel and headed toward a Barbie splayed on the coffee table.
Madison peeked around the kitchen. “Go take a nap, Betsy. When you get up, dinner will be ready.”
“Okay, Mommy.”
Madison smiled as she heard her daughter hum and skip toward her bedroom. I love that little girl. I’ve got to find a job—and fast.
CHAPTER 4
The next morning, Madison texted her mother, Carol, and asked her to babysit.
Carol responded immediately with several happy faces and said she’d be right over since she happened to be in the neighborhood.
Breathing a sigh of relief, Madison sat at the kitchen table sipping coffee until her mother rang the doorbell.
“Hi, Mom.” Madison embraced her mother and pointed toward the coffee pot. “Help yourself. Betsy’s still asleep.” She hesitated, wondering how much to tell her mother, and decided on a simple, “I’ve got some business to take care of.”
Carol eyed Madison. “You’re being mysterious.”
“I’ll explain later. Thanks for coming over on such short notice.” Madison wasn’t in the mood to discuss her non-job, especially with Betsy’s Christmas gifts weighing heavily on her.
Madison hopped in her car and drove directly to Target. She had tossed and turned all night and knew she appeared bedraggled with uncombed hair and wrinkled clothes but didn’t care. Besides, who would be at Target on a workday morning?
Before she lost her confidence, Madison practically marched toward the back of the store. Surprised to see a sign indicating the layaway department had been moved to aisle two, she trudged to the opposite side of the store weaving around shoppers and bulging carts.
Knowing she had to take care of the layaway dilemma—and fast—Madison had rehearsed her sudden unemployed explanation in her head several times. Maybe a kind, understanding employee will be working. Better yet, an employee who has lost their job abruptly before the holidays.
Madison’s shoulders tensed the closer she got to the back of the store. When she spotted another long line snaking around the toy aisle leading to Customer Service, she groaned aloud. A few shoppers stared in her direction while others with bulging bags pushed their way in between customers in the lay-away line. It seemed as though everyone was in a hurry and most were in a bad mood.
Madison’s heart hammered the closer she got to the counter. She brightened when she spotted a bun-wearing, elderly woman at the counter. Good. Maybe she’ll be empathetic like sweet Mrs. Stapp. But the second Madison approached the counter, a young man told the older woman to go on break, punched in some numbers on the register, and said, “Next.”
Great. He doesn’t look nearly as caring and understanding. The younger employee appeared to be half listening to the customer in front of Madison. He even took a phone call, held clothing in the other hand, and shrugged impatiently. Madison considered leaving and returning when the elderly employee came back from break. She glanced at the customers behind her. The line was now even longer, so she decided to stay put.
“Next.” The employee waved Madison forward.
Her feet felt like concrete bricks.
The young man frowned and pointed. “You’re next.”
“Sorry.” Madison lowered her voice as she fished for the notice in her purse. She could feel the man’s impatience as she searched her bag.
He exhaled as she plunked it on the counter. All he said was, “Name?”
Madison leaned forward and lowered her voice. “You see I lost my job. Yesterday. The whole thing was very sudden. My boss’s wife-”
The employee waved his hand in front of her face. “We’re very busy today, ma’am. It’s the holidays. I don’t need your life story.”
“Sorry.” Madison felt her cheeks burn as tears snaked down her cheeks. “Um, I can pay ten dollars on my lay-away. There’s nothing on the account for me. It’s toys and a bike for my daughter’s Christmas.”
“Name?”
“Madison.”
“Madison, I need your last name to look up your account.” He plucked the overdue notice out of her hand. “Never mind I can look up your account from this.”
After what seemed like hours, he shook his head. “Sorry, you’ll need to put more than ten dollars down. I see you’ve paid half but Christmas is in two weeks. If you can’t pay your bill, we’ve got to put the toys back on the shelves so someone can enjoy them.”
Madison opened her worn wallet and gulped. “I can manage twenty dollars, I guess. I need to save enough for food and-”
“Sorry, ma’am. That’s still not enough. Maybe you’d like to put a couple of toys back.” He scanned the document. “Or the bike. It’s the most expensive item on your list.”
“Betsy asked Santa for each of these toys. It’s only four things. That’s not too much for a child to ask.” A sob escaped and Madison placed her head on the counter and bawled big, heaving sobs.
“Ma’am, please stop crying.” The employee’s voice softened slightly. “I’m following store policy. We work with customers whenever we can but I have to enforce the rules.” The clerk blew out his breath. “There’s a long line behind you. We need a payment to keep these items on layaway. I wish we didn’t but we’re a business, too.”
Madison blew her nose loudly. “How much do I owe?”
“Ninety-five dollars and thirty-five cents.” The employee squinted at the screen. “You’ve already paid forty-five dollars.” He drummed his fingers on the counter as he waited for her response.
CHAPTER 5
Madison’s mind raced as she considered Betsy’s requested gifts from Santa—an Easy-Bake oven, a pink bike, a Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine and a red velvet dress. She supposed she should be a responsible adult and tell the clerk to take the bike back.
She ran her fingers through her hair. “Damn it. Betsy deserves that bike. All the neighbor kids have a bike. I swore when my husband deserted us that Betsy would have a good life in spite of only having one parent.”
Madison heard rumblings, groans, and foot shuffling from patrons in line behind her. She glanced over her shoulder. A woman dressed in a navy business suit tapped her watch as she talked on a bedazzled cell phone. A heavy-set man folded his arms across his chest and glared at her. A young, obviously exasperated mom with a crying baby stared wide-eyed at Madison.
The clerk asked, “What’s your decision? I have many other customers, as you can see.”
Madison swallowed. “I guess I should-”
A well-dressed, handsome man in a suit and tie jumped the line and stood beside Madison. “Excuse me. Is there a problem?”
She bristled, assuming he, too, was in a huge hurry. “Sorry I’m taking so long. I have a situation.”
The man stood in place. “What kind of situation?”
The young clerk butted in. “Sir, I’ve got this. You need to take your place in line.”
The stranger didn’t move.
Madison stared at her feet, embarrassed, and mumbled, “I can’t afford to pay for the layaway items for my daughter.” She wiped a tear and pushed her h
air behind her ears. “I was laid off.”
When she couldn’t meet his eyes, she noticed the man had shiny shoes that had obviously never stepped in a mud puddle. His crisp, white shirt and expensive watch smelled of money. Immediately, she was envious—and hurt. Why me? Why can’t I have nice shoes and a nice watch? What did I ever do to the world?
He fished out a brown leather wallet. “Let me help.”
Madison’s eyes bulged. “What? You don’t even know me. I can’t accept your money.”
“Please. I want to help. It’s the giving season.” He pulled out a silver Discover card and handed it to cashier.
The cashier’s eyebrows shot up. “Don’t you want to know the total first?”
The man said, “Doesn’t matter. Just close it out.”
For a moment, the employee stared at the credit card, then he held it in mid-air, as if wondering whether to proceed.
Madison flashed a grateful smile. “Are you sure? What if it’s five hundred dollars?”
He shrugged. “Somehow, I doubt that, but if it’s for your daughter’s Christmas, then it doesn’t matter.”
Madison’s mouth went dry. “This never happens to me. Nothing good ever happens to me.”
As the man waited for the employee to run his credit card, he peered at Madison. “One more thing. My business meeting was cancelled so I have a free hour. Let me buy you lunch at the deli across the street.”
Madison couldn’t believe her ears. A gorgeous man out of nowhere offered to pay off her layaway, plus he wanted to take her to lunch. She immediately regretted her dowdy jeans and drab, gray sweatshirt. She attempted to stand tall and poised, hoping it would take his mind off her dull clothes. “I’d love to go to lunch with you. And thank you from the bottom of my heart. You’ve made Betsy’s Christmas—and mine.”
As the cashier completed the transaction, the stranger placed the bagged toys in a nearby cart. “Ready?”
Madison pushed the tiny pink bike alongside the cart unable to get the indelible smile off her face. Her grin might as well have been a tattoo on her face.
Part of her wanted to cry from his generosity but she mostly wanted to throw her arms around this Good Samaritan’s neck. She decided to go with being elated and hoped her red, tear-stained, splotchy face would clear up before lunch.
As they strode through the jam-packed parking lot, the man asked, “Where are you parked?”
With her head, she pointed in the direction of her older white Camry. They walked in silence toward the car.
“Let me help you load these.”
Madison watched as the man gingerly handled the toys. He eased the bike into the trunk and wedged the toys around it so it wouldn’t roll.
He grinned. “Don’t forget and let your daughter open your trunk.”
Madison shifted her purse to her other shoulder. “Good thought but she won’t. She’s only five.”
He retrieved his car keys. “What’s her name?”
“Betsy.”
“That’s a nice name. I bet she’s as pretty as her mom.” His hazel eyes twinkled. Before Madison could respond, he asked, “Do you know how to get to Divine Deli down the street?”
Madison felt her cheeks blush from the compliment. Darn this stupid sweatshirt. Why couldn’t I have worn a black turtleneck and nice boots? She bobbed her head. “Yeah. I know where it is. See you in a minute.”
As she pulled out of the parking lot, she wondered if going to lunch with a strange man was such a great idea. Of course, the man had paid for her layaway ensuring her daughter would have a wonderful Christmas. He surely couldn’t be a bad guy with a heart like that.
CHAPTER 6
At a stop light, Madison applied pink lip gloss and finger combed her dark hair. She found a tube of smoky eyeliner in the seat under Betsy’s Dr. Seuss books. With her ring finger she smeared some under her eyes. There. I look more presentable. Then, she remembered she had silver hoop earrings in her purse, and at the next light, added those.
After she parked, she triple checked the car to make sure it was locked and the toys and bike were safe. Madison’s heart pounded as she stepped over the curb and toward the door.
As she got closer, she grinned. Her very own Santa stood on the sidewalk holding the restaurant door open.
A smile spread across his face. “Nice lipstick and earrings.”
She giggled. “You’re observant. Thanks.” She wasn’t used to nice men. She had always attracted losers.
After walking inside, they stood behind the counter and studied the menu board. The man approached the cashier and turned to Madison. “What would you like?”
She was ravenous but didn’t want to eat anything messy. Her appearance was chaotic enough. Deciding on a grilled cheese, chips, and iced tea, Madison found it hard to break the habit of her usual cheap fare. The man ordered a pastrami sandwich, pasta salad, and a pickle, before motioning toward a red booth.
After they were seated, his gaze unsettled her. His gold-flecked eyes danced with, what, amusement or excitement? She couldn’t tell which. Regardless, his eyes were intense and bored into her. “Tell me about yourself. First off, you don’t even know my name. I’m Adam.”
Madison’s mouth flew open. “I can’t believe I didn’t ask your name. I was too dumbfounded by your unbelievable generosity.”
His eyes twinkled again. “You seemed a little rattled.”
She nodded. “It’s not every day a stranger pays for my purchases.” After placing a napkin in her lap, she extended her hand. “I’m Madison.”
“Nice to meet you, Madison.”
A server plunked their drinks on the table. After the waiter left, Adam said, “I overheard you mention you were laid off. Where did you work?”
“A dental clinic. I’m a—I mean—I was a dental hygienist.”
“That must be why you have perfect teeth.”
Feeling uncomfortable, Madison sipped her drink. “What do you do . . . Adam?”
“I’m an architect. My firm recently renovated the new hotel downtown. It’s my first big project.” He beamed. “I’m pretty proud of it.”
Madison had never dated an expert in . . . anything. Not that they were dating she reminded herself. She studied his expensive suit and shiny cuff links. “The Redbud Canyon Hotel?”
He nodded. “That’s the one.”
“I heard about the renovations on the news. I haven’t been inside but have driven past it.”
Adam’s eyes glimmered. “Well, then, we need to correct that. I’ll give you a personal tour soon.”
Madison couldn’t believe her ears. This successful, handsome stranger wanted to see her again. I’ll be able to make a second impression and wear something more exciting than a stupid sweatshirt. I’ll even wash my hair. Still, she was too afraid to get overly eager. After all, he might be offering to be kind but never planned to deliver. She wanted to believe him. “I’d like that.”
After their food arrived, they both ate quickly and in silence. After draining her tea, Madison stood to refill her drink. “Would you like a refill?”
“Sure. Thanks. Regular Coke for me.”
When Madison returned to the table, she noticed only crumbs remained from his sandwich. As Adam picked at his salad, she said, “My daughter is going to love those gifts. I don’t know how I—how we—can thank you. You are beyond generous and a kind man.” Tears pricked her eyes.
“Please don’t cry. I hate it when women cry.” He wiped his mouth. “Besides, this is a happy occasion. I was able to help you and you can help me.”
Uh oh. Madison’s heart hammered. What if he expects a favor? Like a bedroom favor. She wasn’t prepared for this. She lowered her disappointed voice. “How?”
He grinned. “By going to dinner with me.”
Relaxing, she said, “I’d love to go to dinner with you.
Groceries are expensive. Eating out is a real treat.” Madison thought she detected tears in his eyes.
“Groceri
es are expensive. Everything is, it seems.” Adam cleared his throat. “I have a good job now. A very good job. In fact, I make a lot of money. I hope you don’t think I’m bragging.”
She shook her head. “Go on.”
He changed his tone. “I grew up dirt poor. My parents, brother, and I had to scratch and claw for everything we had. Now, I love to give back, especially at Christmastime. I’m just glad you were on the receiving end.”
“Me, too. Extremely glad.” Madison dabbed her mouth with her napkin. “How did you get out of poverty, if I’m not being too nosy?”
“Not nosy at all. I enjoy telling my story. Basically, I worked hard in school, got good grades, and landed several scholarships. That’s how I got my architectural degree after five long years. My parents couldn’t afford to send me to college, so obtaining a professional career was up to me. After graduation, I interviewed with several firms, and luckily, the largest firm in Redbud Canyon hired me. We have more work than we can handle. Job security.” Adam obviously noticed Madison’s face fall. “Sorry. Bad choice of words.”
“It’s fine. I’m happy for you.” Madison took the last bite of her grilled cheese. “Besides, I don’t think it was pure luck. You sound like a smart guy. And you’re definitely a good guy. I’m sure they firm is lucky to have you.”
Adam shrugged. “I’m fortunate to have the job. But . . . my luck isn’t great in other areas.”
She raised her eyebrows. “In what way?”
He rubbed the dark stubble on his jawline, suddenly appearing shy and vulnerable. “Love. But that’s another discussion for another day.” He grinned. “Maybe I’ll tell you over dinner tomorrow night—if you’re free.”
Madison’s heart hammered. If I’m free. Are you kidding me? She paused for a half-second. “I’d love to go to dinner with you tomorrow night.”
“Good. Will that give you time to get a sitter? It’s on me.” He reached for his wallet.
Madison waved her hand. “No, no. I can pay for a sitter. You’ve done more than enough with the Christmas layaway and lunch. Besides, Betsy’s grandma loves to babysit any chance she gets. She only charges hugs.”
