“That’s great, so what are you now?” Tricia asked.
“A saved sheep; back in the fold.”
Mavis cleared her throat. Denise looked at her and said. “Mavis, what’s wrong? Are you catching Auntie Stella’s cold?”
Uncle Mac spoke up. “No Denise. Mavis is just being Mavis. She doesn’t go to church so she can’t understand anyone having the need for God. Pass the cornbread please, Carlos.”
Carlos continued, “I’m a regular church goer, but Lord knows I’m no angel.”
Mavis cleared her throat again.
“Of course you’re no angel.” Tricia teased.
Carlos’ eyes widened. “Excuse me young lady! What are you trying to say?”
“Carlos, my friend, please don’t go there,” said Richard. “You can never win this one with auntie. She can really dish it out.”
“Oh, I had a taste of what she can dish out. Didn’t I Tricia?”
“Yeah, and there’s more where that came from.”
Everyone laughed. Mavis, Tricia noticed, was frowning and rolled her eyes as she stared at Carlos.
“My goodness, look at the food on this table!” Denise’s mother, Beulah exclaimed. Her eyes widened as she scanned the table. “What a delightful arrangement of Caribbean–American dishes!”
Uncle Mac agreed, “This is a feast fit for kings and queens.”
Austin, Denise’s dad, raised his glass in a toast, “To kings and queens.”
All laughed, as they raised their glasses, and repeated, “To kings and queens.”
The teasing and joking continued throughout the dinner. Everyone was fair game.
After dinner the table was cleared and all went into the family room for trivia about the Christmas Story. Later Richard brought out his guitar and with Tricia on the piano and Uncle Mac piping on his harmonica, they all joined in singing Silent Night.
“Mom, dad, sing for us,” Denise asked of her parents.
“Oh, yes please do,” Richard added. “Bless us with your special rendition of O Holy Night. Beulah and Austin met in a summer voice training camp as teenagers, Auntie Tricia, and they’ve been singing together ever since. They’ve blessed many a Christmas congregation with their rendition of O Holy Night.”
Everyone started clapping and cheering the couple on. “C’mon sing for us,” they pleaded.
Beulah and Austin moved closer together and with Denise accompanying them on piano, began singing the carol. When they reached the high notes, the room exploded with applause.
“Wow, you two are incredible!” Tricia exclaimed. “You should be singing at Carnegie Hall.”
“There’s a lot of talent in this room. I feel so blessed,” Carlos added. “What a wonderful Christmas celebration.”
“Amen!” Uncle Mac said.
The group continued singing and laughing.
“This is all so beautiful,” Auntie Stella managed to whisper.
During the singing of O Come All Ye Faithful, Tricia’s thoughts drifted to a time long ago, when she was a young girl growing up in her native Barbados. Her family didn’t have much, but they were so happy. Christmas was celebrated with family, friends and neighbours for twelve happy days.
Her mind then took her to another time and place – her home in Toronto. She saw her children in their pajamas opening their gifts. She could hear their squeals and laughter as the wrapping was ripped from the boxes to reveal the toy they’d requested from Santa Claus. She saw her mom, happy and laughing and enjoying being with her grandchildren. Her mom had been her best friend and although it was nine years since she’d passed, Tricia still missed her.
She wiped her eyes as Richard, looking at her with a frown on his face asked, “Auntie, is there anything wrong? Are you crying?”
“I’m fine Richard, don’t worry. My thoughts were miles away, but in a happy place.”
Everyone continued singing carol after carol until they were exhausted, and thought it time to leave for their own homes.
“Denise, Richard, thanks for a wonderful Christmas,” uncle Mac said as he helped Aunt Stella into her coat.
“You’re welcome Uncle Mac,” Richard and Denise said in unison.
“Aunt Stella, you take care of that cold. Uncle Mac, make sure that Auntie gets lots of rest,” Denise added.
Mavis hugged and kissed Tricia. “It was so nice to see you again. You’re still as beautiful as ever. Bye for now.”
“And you are still as mischievous as ever,” Tricia said.
Mavis laughed. “You said it best a few days ago my dear. A leopard just can’t change his spots.”
There was lots of hugging and kissing as all thanked their hosts for a wonderful Christmas. Carlos was the last one to leave, but not before Tricia handed him the gift she’d purchased for him. He already had his gift from Denise and Richard in his hand.
“I hope you like it.”
“Tricia, I’ll love anything that comes from you. Thank you so much.”
She walked him to the door. He placed his gifts on the bench in the foyer, took her hands, looked into her eyes, and kissed her fully on her mouth. She wanted to return his kiss, but instead became as frozen as a Popsicle.
“Good night, Tricia.”
“Good night, Carlos.”
Tricia closed the door behind him and plopped down on a loveseat in the family room. Richard and Denise were lying on the sofa, both looking exhausted. She closed her eyes and thought of the evening and Carlos’ kiss. It was the first time his lips had touched hers and it made her heart beat rapidly in her chest. She loved the way he made her feel, but questions raced through her mind. Why didn’t she return his kiss when she wanted to so much? What did Carlos think as he walked to his car? She consoled herself that at least she didn’t push him away. As the reasons for her not kissing him in return became clear to her, Tricia recited a little prayer. “Jesus, help me to trust again. Please let me see my worth. Work on my self-esteem, Lord.” Denise’s voice interrupted her thoughts.
“Tricia, there’s a gift from Carlos to you, under the tree. We can’t wait for you to open it.”
“I’ll open it right away.”
She walked over to the seven-foot tree that was beautifully decorated with white lights and gold ornaments and ribbons. She picked up the small box that was labelled “To Tricia, Merry Christmas from Carlos.”
Carefully, Tricia peeled the tape from the box and opened it. Inside was an envelope. She took the same care breaking the seal of the envelope. Her mouth gaped open and tears formed in her eyes when she saw two tickets to the Broadway hit, Fiddler on the Roof and the note which read, “Dearest Tricia, I know how much you love the theatre and longed to see this musical. When I saw how your face lit up as you gazed at the billboard ad a few days ago, I knew I had to play Santa, and make your wish come true. I purchased two tickets hoping that you would allow me to be your date for the evening. No one should go to a play alone, especially on New Year’s Eve, so would you do me the honour of spending New Year’s Eve with me? I’ve also made dinner reservations for two. Of course, if there is someone else that you’d rather be your date, I’ll understand. I just want you to be happy.” It was signed, “With affection, Carlos.”
“Auntie, what is it?” Richard asked. “We’re anxious to know.”
“It’s tickets to Fiddler on the Roof on New Year’s Eve. Oh Richard, Denise, he does the sweetest things. He’s so amazing!”
“He’s a wonderful man, and so are you Richard,” Denise added, giving her husband a peck on the cheek.
Tricia continued, “I’ve always wanted to attend a Broadway show, and I missed seeing Fiddler on The Roof when it came to Toronto some years ago. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a date on New Year’s Eve. This one should be interesting.” she said laughing.
“I guess it will be. Do you need a refresher course?”
“Richard, stop teasing your aunt!” Denise said laughing. “It’s like riding a bike. I’m happy for you Auntie, and
I know you’ll have fun.”
Very early the next day, Tricia’s cell phone rang. “Hello Carlos, how are you doing? I was thinking to call you.”
“You were? I guess great minds do think alike. I’m doing well, thank you, and you?”
“I’m fine. Thank you so much for your very thoughtful gift. What a wonderful surprise! You’ve made me so happy, and of course you’ll be my date. I’m looking forward to it.”
“So am I. Anyway, I was calling to thank you for the gloves. I’m always losing mine, and was thinking of buying another pair. You must have read my mind. I shall think of you each time I wear them.”
“I’m glad you like them. I know it’s a very practical gift, but I honestly didn’t know what else to get you.”
“It’s a wonderful gift Tricia, and thanks again.”
***
Tricia kept herself very busy doing chores around the home, preparing dinner for Denise and Richard, and getting some much needed rest, during the days following Christmas. She could not wait for New Year’s Eve. Now, she would have someplace to wear the black dress that she’d purchased just days before leaving Toronto. She’d seen the dress while shopping for her children’s Christmas gifts and decided to try it on. It fit perfectly, and even made her appear slimmer than her one hundred and forty pounds. The dress featured a high neck at the front, a very low V-back, and sheer long sleeves. It hugged her hips showing off her curvy figure; the one thing that Wesley had found attractive about her in the early days of their relationship. She dressed early and had plenty of time to apply her makeup and fix her hair in the upsweep that Carlos liked. When she was satisfied with her appearance, Tricia descended the stairs like a model on the runway. She presented herself to Richard and Denise who were anticipating her appearance.
“Wow, you look stunning, absolutely stunning! But are you sure you won’t be cold in that dress?” Richard teased when she turned, revealing the low back.
Tricia smiled mischievously and winked at Richard. “My dear nephew, I’ve got my love to keep me warm.”
“Denise, Auntie Tricia is back! This is the person we knew and loved. Auntie, you’re back to your lovely, funny and somewhat naughty self. I’m so glad to see you this way. Have fun tonight; you deserve it. Denise, I wish you had known Auntie Tricia during my childhood years. Sometimes my family would visit hers in Toronto during summer holidays. She would make up all kinds of funny stories to entertain Kirk, Katrina and me. Once, she got all dressed up in a dazzling gown, and very high-heeled shoes. You should have seen her make-up and hair, adorned with a tiara. She started from the top of the stairs and took her time descending while she sang ‘here she comes, Miss America’. Kirk, Katrina and I clapped and laughed. Oh the fun we use to have back in those days!”
“Oh, I wish I’d known her then. It seems like you guys had a fun childhood hanging out with Auntie.” Denise responded. “Somehow that doesn’t surprise me though. I’ve seen her slowly letting her hair down these few weeks. Auntie Tricia, I can still remember you having the time of your life at our wedding, even though Uncle Wesley was as stiff as cardboard.”
They all laughed as Richard added, “Yes he was a real stuffed shirt.”
***
Carlos arrived about ten minutes before they were scheduled to leave and the four of them had a glass of wine.
“To friendship and a happy New Year,” Richard toasted.
They clinked their glasses together. “To friendship. Happy New Year.”
As Carlos helped Tricia into her coat, he said to her, “You are so beautiful. I’m a lucky man to have such a gorgeous lady as my date.”
The compliment pleased her, and she smiled from her heart.
Carlos had a cab already waiting at the house for them, and they drove from there to Petite Fleur restaurant.
“Good evening Mr. DaSilva, Madame,” the Maître D greeted them. “It is good to see you again, Sir. Your table is ready. Follow me please.”
As they walked to their table Tricia could not help but admire the ambiance of the large room, lavished with Christmas decorations and expensive looking paintings on the walls.
“Carlos, this place is amazing. That Christmas tree is just beautiful and I love the giant chandeliers!”
“This is one of the best restaurants in the city. You’re in for a real treat.”
Dinner was a feast of onion soup, seared salmon with a dijonnaise mustard sauce, roast duck, in an orange sauce, and triple sec liquor. It was served with seasoned rice, and included grilled vegetables. For dessert, Tricia chose the New York Cheesecake and her choice of wine was a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. Carlos chose a glass of Chardonnay, but passed on dessert.
Carlos took a sip of his wine. “Wasn’t it a wonderful Christmas?” he said. “I’m so glad that I accepted Richard and Denise’s invitation to dinner. The food was delicious, and the company heartwarming. I don’t remember laughing so much and having so much fun in a long time.”
“Carlos that is what a real family dinner is supposed to be like. You know, the love, the teasing and the laughter. We used to have that in my family, a long time ago. ”
“I know what you mean. I too miss that, but I’m thankful we had this one.”
“So am I.”
Tricia found herself looking at Carlos and admiring his broad shoulders and his handsome face that showed maturity yet also softness, features that made him so attractive, she thought. She did not realize that she was smiling until Carlos commented, “You’ve been smiling all evening. Can you tell me what is so amusing?”
She looked into his eyes. “I’m not amused. I was thinking that I’m a lucky gal to be in the company of such a handsome, warm and generous gentleman.”
Carlos smiled. “You say the sweetest things, but I’m the lucky one.”
Her heartbeat quickened as she realized that she loved everything about this man who came into her life at a time when she definitely needed the friendship. “I now know who you remind me of,” she exclaimed.
“Who?”
“Tom Selleck.”
“Tom Selleck? Ha! I don’t know what to say. This time, I’m speechless.”
“Carlos, how old are you, may I ask?”
Carlos took a sip of his Chardonnay, then with his head tilted to one side and a boyish smile on his face answered, “I’m sixty-two.”
“Sixty-two! Are you serious? You don’t look a day over fifty. Wow, you’ve got great genes!”
“So have you, Tricia. You look young enough to be Richard’s sister, not his aunt. I won’t ask your age though, because a gentleman never asks.”
“Thank you. Anyway, I have no problem telling you my age. I’m fifty-five.”
“I would never have guessed that. You look very much younger.”
He stared at her for a moment and then added “Your eyes are beautiful. They are such a light brown, and sometimes they look green. I love them!”
“I like them too. It’s the one thing I inherited from my dad.”
They both laughed.
“Carlos, why did you retire so young?”
She looked at him anticipating his response. He ran his fingers through his hair before looking into her eyes. “Tricia,” he started, but she noticed the pain in his eyes and she knew then that he was going back to a sad place and time.
She reached across the table and touched his hand. “It’s alright. You can tell me another time.”
He nodded and squeezed her hand in response.
Carlos beckoned the waiter over. After settling the bill, they left the restaurant, hand in hand, and headed for the theatre.
***
Carlos held Tricia’s hand at times during the musical. At the end of the performance they jumped to their feet along with the entire audience. A thunderous applause filled the room along with whistling and hooting. Some cast members blew kisses to their patrons. Tricia cheered and hooted as well. Carlos placed one arm around her waist and kissed her on her cheek.
He
smiled as he said, “You’re having a good time, and that makes me very happy.”
As they were leaving the theatre, it was she who took his hand. “Wasn’t the show terrific?” She asked. “I enjoyed it so much, I wouldn’t mind seeing it again.”
“Yes it was great. It was funny and very entertaining. I too, wouldn’t mind seeing it again, especially if I have the pleasure of your wonderful company.”
“Hmmm, maybe we could arrange for that to happen.”
It was just after eleven so they decided to take in the festivities in Times Square. Carlos hooked her arm as they walked towards the square. The closer they got, the louder the music and happy chatter of the crowd grew and the more rapid was her heartbeat. She wondered if Carlos could sense her excitement from just being with him on this special night. Could he feel her tremble, or sense the emotions that were flooding through her? She thanked God that because of the loud music Carlos would not hear the loud pounding of her heart.
“Carlos I love this,” she shouted above the noise. “I can’t believe I’m going to actually be in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.”
“I sense your excitement, and I love it. I can’t believe this whole evening, either. It’s magical!”
At last they stood among thousands, all waiting to welcome the New Year. Music filled the air and a myriad of red, white, gold and green lights and huge beautifully decorated Christmas trees adorned the whole perimeter of the square. Couples packed every square inch. There was hugging and kissing and joy filled the air. The music and the merriment of excited party revellers were intoxicating and infectious.
Carlos drew her close to him and pecked her on her neck. She turned, tiptoed and kissed his cheek. Her heart was freed as her insecurities melted away. She raised herself on her toes and spoke in Carlos’s ears above an overture of noise. “Carlos, this is a dream come true. Thank you.”
He hugged her. “You’re welcome, sweetie. To be part of this grand celebration is like a happy dream for me too.”
Walking Through and Other Stories Page 19