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I slip out, not an ideal candidate to help with Marian’s system in the kitchen. Lauren has graduated to being trusted, though, so I leave her to help with the finishing touches on our traditional Christmas Eve dinner. It’s always crowded and chaotic, loud and fun, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I find my husband talking with Caleb about work. Sawyer often falls into discussions about projects, but when he sees me, I tip my head toward the living room.
After he excuses himself, he joins me on the couch. Darren is done counting his presents, but Matthew is trying to tally them on a paper.
It’s relatively quiet in here, though, so I snuggle into Sawyer’s side to enjoy the peace.
Soon enough, we won’t have any.
“Before we eat,” he whispers, “I want to give you a gift.”
I grin. “Another one?”
He nods and shrugs sheepishly. “Can’t help myself.”
Since we both have money, more than we need, we’ve made a rule early on to never splurge on each other. Material things aren’t the answer for happiness, and it’s easy to keep ourselves in check, buying smaller, functional things, sometimes gag gifts.
He hands me a slim package, and I smile as I open it. “It’s not, uh, another adult gift, is it?” I nod my head toward the twins.
He shakes his head. “Nah, but they shouldn’t touch them.”
I agree. I smile at the fancy scissors I’ve had my eyes on for a long while. They’ve been out of stock, so he really must have searched for these. “Ooooh, thank you, Sawyer. You know me so well.” I lean in to kiss him.
“And I also know, to never, ever, under any circumstances, to borrow your fabric scissors.”
I grin. “Hmm-mmm. That’s right, mister. Especially not to cut paper!”
He smirks and kisses me again.
“I got you a gift, too.”
He gives me a stern look. “You already got me a new saw.”
I shrug.
“And another one of those insulated coffee cups.”
I smile. “Because they are not as sturdy as they claim they are.”
“You don’t need to get me anything else.” He kisses my cheek. “You don’t need to get me anything at all. You are my gift.”
I lick my lips.
“Can you take it back?”
I bite my lip and smile as I shake my head. “Trust me. I think you’ll like it.”
Leaning in, I whisper in his ear.
He goes still, tightening his hold on my hand. His eyes go wide, and a smile begins to spread wide across his face.
“Uncle Sawyer!” Matthew bounds up close and jumps in his lap. Darren tackles me.
“Grammy says it’s dinner time!” Matthew squeals.
“Hurry and eat. Cuz then we can open presents!” Darren shouts.
I giggle and lead a bewildered Sawyer into the dining room, thrilled he’s so shocked and happy about my gift that I can’t claim credit for on my own.
