Page 53 of Naughty-ish

After ice skating, the kids and I go to Ashford’s to look at the famous department store’s holiday window display. Each year the windows along State Street are decorated according to a theme, often related to something whimsical and seasonal. One year was centered around Dr. Seuss. Another was The Nutcracker. This year’s storyline revolves around a toy soldier, and his desire to be home for the holidays.

Nash is mesmerized by the intricate movements of the puppet characters. Eloise enjoys the display, too, but it’s lacking the glitter and glitz she requires to make something Christmas-y.

The common word ‘holiday’ blends in around us and I’ve learned to distinguish a call for me from the mundane mention. So, it isn’t until someone catches my arm that I jerk and turn to face Eva, from the Snowball’s Chance party.

“I thought that was you,” she says. Her eyes are bright. Her cheeks rosy from the cold. “I’ve been meaning to call you.”

My brows lift, surprised. I’d forgotten we’d exchanged phone numbers the night of the fundraiser.

“Since the winter break is finally here, I thought we could maybe get together with the kids. Have a playdate.”

I glance down at the little girl around Eloise’s age who holds Eva’s hand. A riot of blonde curls cascade beneath a pink knit hat with a pom on the top.

“This is Tam.”

“Hi, Tam.” I wave. “This is Eloise.” I slip my arm around my girl. “And Nash.” His focus is still on a soldier marching in place while the mechanics of the display make the puppet look like he’s moving forward.

“What are you guys up to today?” I ask.

Eva lifts Tam’s hand. “Just looking at the windows. I used to work here.”

I remember her telling me such a thing.

“And we’re going to have tea in The Oak Room.”

“Sounds fun.” And expensive.

“We just came from the Christkindlmart,” Eva adds.

I glance up as if the seasonal mart will magically appear. “Gosh, I can’t remember the last time I went to that.” Maybe in my twenties, pre-Mitch, pre-children. The German-themed fair, which sells authentic holiday décor and German inspired food is a city favorite and gathers quite a crowd.

“It’s only three blocks away.” Eva points in the general direction.

“I remember.” An idea forms. “About that playdate? I’d love to get together. Maybe between Christmas and the New Year.” I just need to get through the first holiday.

“Sounds perfect.”

“Enjoy your tea.”

“We will. And tell Nick I said hi.”

The comment brings me up short. Why would she think I speak to Nick often? It was only a date. Maybe not even one. We simply attended a party together.

Or was it more?

I weakly smile in response and call Nash’s attention.

To my surprise, Eva leans in and offers me a hug. “Merry Christmas, Holliday.”

“Happy Holidays,” I state, as I’d changed my language to the all-encompassing phrase while working at the bank.

Eva gives me a puzzled look at the monotone reply before stepping toward the door of the iconic department store.

“Who’s hungry?” I ask the kids.

“McDonald’s!” Nash shouts.

“Actually, I have something better in mind.”