The Watchers Trilogy: Awakening
Page 30
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We began hearing chatter that snow might come down to the lowlands, which made me think this might be the perfect time to head back to the hotel with Matilda and Athen. It was close to 5 pm, and the day had flown by so quickly with the guys taking turns watching Matilda as Arie and I went from store to store. I had gotten into the holiday spirit completely. I was thrilled to be marching through the aisles of scarves, knit caps, and gloves with the Christmas music serenading me throughout each department. I was beginning to realize how fun the holidays were. People were more relaxed, more kind and willing to chat a little longer. It made every environment a little bit more festive. I thought I had no more strength in my arms to carry the bags that I had accumulated and desperately needed to find the nearest Starbucks to crash. I explained my dilemma to Arie, and she completely understood. However, she wasn’t planning on stopping. She apparently had several more stores on her list so Athen and I decided to head back to the hotel. My master plan was actually happening - alone time with Athen. As I hugged Arie goodbye, she whispered to me to ask Athen what he had planned for us tonight.
I looked over at Athen. He looked so innocent and casual. I wondered what he had up his sleeve this time. He grabbed my hand to prepare for the long walk back to the Westin; Matilda pulling us along excitedly. Athen’s warmth was reaching me through his coat. I was elated to be next to him enjoying this experience. My thoughts were few as I enjoyed the moment until the words White Christmas came into my head. That was odd, I thought. That was one of my all time favorite Christmas movies, along with National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and a Christmas Story, but I wondered why White Christmas popped in. Before I knew it, I was humming White Christmas aloud.
He looked at me smiling with a contentment that made me realize something happened that he was hoping for. I’m sure it was another step in the infamous process. I didn’t know the significance.
“You read my mind, Ana! It is starting to come to you slowly.”
“What is?” I asked, not exactly sure what he was talking about.
He stopped on the sidewalk and hugged me while Matilda patiently waited for us to continue our march.
“I kept repeating White Christmas in my head hoping you would pick up on it. You did. Soon you’ll be able to do that on more complete thoughts, and eventually, you’ll be able separate ideas from many thoughts. Also, I know it’s one of your favorites, and the 5th Avenue has a performance of White Christmas which we are going to tonight.” I hoped I could someday repay him the happiness that he gave me daily. How could I ever thank him enough? His surprises were endless.
I squealed, dropping my bags. I jumped up grabbing him as hard as I could.
“Thank you so much. This day keeps getting better,” I whispered in his ear. I didn’t want to let go. I closed my eyes with happiness as he kissed my neck, only to see the serpent’s eyes staring back at me smiling, as if he was kissing her.
CHAPTER 19