Unlikely Santa

by J. E. B. Spredemann

  Grandpa led his charges into the house and held the door open for the two of them.

  Wesley looked at his grandfather. “We’ll be inside in just a minute.”

  Grandpa’s brow shot up, then he nodded.

  He reached for her hand and pulled her toward the porch swing. “Let’s talk?” He released her.

  “Sure.” Her smile was easy.

  They both sat down. “You said you had questions?”

  “Yeah. Your grandparents are Amish.”

  “Very observant of you,” he teased.

  “But you’re not.”

  “Nope. Never have been.”

  “Explain that to me.”

  “Well, Dad left the Amish community when he was a young man. Since he was already baptized into the church, he was excommunicated.”

  “I’m sorry, I’m not that familiar with Amish culture. What does that mean exactly?”

  “Grandpa and Grandma can’t have fellowship with him, per the Amish rules.”

  “But they’re okay with you?”

  “My grandparents are, yeah. But not everyone in their community likes it when I come to visit. That’s why Grandpa asked me to park in back. It causes them less grief.”

  “Oh.” She frowned. “That’s kind of sad.”

  “Yeah. Dad would like to visit with his parents, but they’re not allowed to.”

  “Why do you suppose that is? I mean, aren’t they free to choose who they want to spend time with?”

  “No, not really. The Amish culture has a lot of good things going for it, but freedom is not one of them. They are bound by manmade rules. That’s one of the reasons Dad left. He didn’t think it was right to have to live under a bunch of rules that had no true Biblical basis.”

  “Half of that went right over my head.” She laughed. “Biblical basis?”

  “From the Bible. For example, the Bible doesn’t speak of only owning a horse and buggy, but it is something their district insists on. They’re allowed to ride in cars, but not allowed to own them. And that’s just one of the many things they teach that isn’t Biblical.”

  “Is that why they dress the way they do? Because they have to?”

  “Yep.” He stared at her. “Do you mind if I ask you something?”

  “Go ahead.”

  “How old are you?”

  “Eighteen. How old are you?”

  “Twenty-three.”

  “And you said you still live with your parents?”

  “Yeah. They haven’t kicked me out yet, and I can save a lot more money by not having to pay rent. Although I do contribute some money to the family budget.” He grinned. “When I decide to settle down, I should have plenty of money for a nice down payment on a piece of property.” Why had he said that? He hoped she didn’t think he was hinting at anything. Because he wasn’t.

  “That’s great.” She shrugged. “I don’t know what my plans are. I guess I have none. Now that I’m responsible for my siblings, I just have to care for them.” Her voice wobbled and twin tears slid down her cheek.

  “Hey.” He slipped his arm around her shoulders. “It’s okay.”

  She pushed the tears away. “I’m sorry. I don’t mean to get emotional. It’s just that every time I think that Mom and Dad are gone and they’re not coming back…” More moisture gathered and poured down her face.

  He gathered her close and let her cry. Had she even had a chance to grieve her parents’ deaths? It seemed not.

  She pulled back and he removed his arm from her shoulders. “I hate crying on you.”

  “It’s all right. That’s what friends are for. You may cry on me anytime.”

  She stared at him with her slightly red-rimmed eyes. “Friends?”

  “Well, honestly, I’d like to be more than friends with you. But I’m not sure we’re at that point in our relationship just yet.”

  “You would?”

  “Very much so.”

  She smiled. “Me too.”

  “That’s the best news I’ve heard all day. Second only to arriving at my grandparents’ house and discovering that you were here.” He glanced down at her hand. “Do you mind?”

  The shy smile was back and she shook her head.

  He reached for her hand with his and intertwined their fingers. “Tell me about yourself and your family.”

  She shrugged. “There’s not really much to share.”

  “What was your life like growing up? When your parents were alive. If it’s not too difficult to talk about.”

  “No, it’s fine.” She sighed. “I just graduated over the summer. This year was Jaycee’s first year of kindergarten. Brighton’s in sixth grade. Melanie’s almost two.”

  “Wow, sounds like you all are pretty spread out.”

  She nodded. “We are. Seven years between Brighton and me, six years between Brighton and Jaycee, and three years between Jaycee and Mel. Melanie and I are over sixteen years apart. Do you have siblings?”

  “It’s just my younger brother and me. He’s off at college right now. He’ll be visiting for Christmas, though.” His thumb slid over the top of her hand. “Do you attend church anywhere?”

  “No. We occasionally went for holidays and such, but not every Sunday. But my parents were still good people.”

  “I have no doubt about that.” But were they saved? He’d wanted to say the words aloud, but she might not be ready for that conversation. Especially considering her emotional state. He’d wait for the Lord’s prompting. “Would you be interested in coming to church with me?”

  Her eyes widened. She apparently hadn’t expected that question. “Oh. Well, um, yeah, sure, I guess. Me and the kids?”

  “Yes, definitely the kids too. I think they’ll enjoy it.”

  She seemed to be thinking. “What…is there like a certain dress code?”

  “No, not really. I mean, my mom always wanted us to dress in our best clothes for church to show respect for God’s house. But that doesn’t mean we dress fancy or anything. I usually just wear nice slacks and a button up shirt or a polo.”

  “Should I wear a dress?”

  He’d love to see her in a dress. “You could if you want. Some women do, some don’t.”

  “Okay.”

  “So, tomorrow? Or is that too soon?”

  She grimaced. “I might have to wash a load of laundry tonight, but I think we can probably manage. What time do we need to be there?”

  “I could pick you up at nine fifteen. Unless you don’t want to attend Sunday school. In that case, I’d pick you up at ten fifteen.”

  “I think we can swing nine fifteen. The kids are used to getting up early for school.”

  “We usually go out to eat afterwards for lunch.”

  She frowned. “The kids and I can eat at home.”

  “I want you to come with us.” He squeezed her hand. “And I wouldn’t dream of letting you pay for it.”

  “Are you sure?”

  “One hundred percent.”

  “It would be a nice treat for the kids. They haven’t been out since…” She let the words fall off, but he caught their meaning.

  “Well, then I’d love to treat them. And you.”

  She shook her head. “Thank you, Wesley. You’re too sweet.”

  “It’s truly my pleasure. I’m looking forward to it.” He pulled his phone out of his pocket. “Let me give you my phone number in case you need to get ahold of me for any reason.”

  “My phone’s in my purse in the house.”

  “Well, then, how about if I send you a quick text? You can just save my contact info when you check it.”

  “Sure.” She recited her phone number.

  He quickly typed it into his keypad, then sent her a text message. “Great.”

  NINE

  Shannon could scarcely wrap her mind around the turn of events. First, meeting Wesley at the restaurant. Next, Christopher and Judy randomly showing up on their doorstep. Then, being disappointed because Wesley hadn’t returne
d to the restaurant, assuming he was probably a jerk. And now, she finds out that Wesley—gorgeous Wesley—is this sweet Amish couple’s grandson?

  Not only that, but he liked her. He like liked her. Like a lot. Enough to make future plans. Okay, it was just church, but still. This had to be one of the most amazing days of her life. She felt like she’d been slapped with the happy stick. She couldn’t seem to erase the smile off her face.

  They all sat around Judy and Christopher’s table, enjoying the grilled chicken the men had prepared along with Judy’s noodles, coleslaw, applesauce, pickles, and bread with what they’d called ‘peanut butter spread.’ Shannon sat across the table from Wesley, with Melanie between her and Judy. The boys sat on each side of Wesley, on a long wooden bench. Jaycee had insisted on sitting next to Christopher, or “Santa.”

  “We might have spotted a couple of deer out in the woods,” Christopher said, sharing a knowing look with Jaycee. Was he encouraging this Santa charade? The stinker.

  “I bet it was the reindeers!” Jaycee beamed.

  Shannon held her tongue, although tempted to correct his speech. She looked at Wesley, whose smile broadened. He winked at her and she grinned back.

  “Christopher and I have been talking.” Judy pinned her gaze on Shannon. “How would you feel about us watching the little one for you while the other kinner are at school?”

  Shannon’s jaw nearly dropped. What a perfect solution! “Well, I could use an extra babysitter every now and then. What would you charge?”

  “Oh, no, we wouldn’t charge you a thing. It would be a blessing to have this boppli with us. Haven’t had one in our home in a long time.” She and Christopher shared a sad smile, briefly glancing at Wesley. No doubt, this family had experienced its own heartaches.

  She fought back tears. Really? Seriously? They were offering to watch Melanie? For free? “I-I don’t know what to say. That’s such a kind offer.”

  “The way that little one takes to you, you’d think she’s our grossboppli,” Christopher said, studying his wife.

  “Not just this one,” Judy nodded to the boys.

  “Sounds like a great opportunity for both of you.” Wesley glanced at Shannon again, lifting his brow.

  “Aww, I wanna come too! Can I skip school, Shan? Pleeaase?” Jaycee whined.

  “If your little schweschder’s here, I suspect Shannon will be bringing you and Brighton over when she picks her up. Ain’t so?” Christopher looked to Shannon.

  “Yes. I can bring the boys when I pick her up.” But she felt like a charity case. Who was she kidding? She was a charity case. In this instance, she’d accept it. She had a feeling Christopher and Judy would be devastated if she refused their kind-hearted offer. She wouldn’t have the heart to say no, even if she wanted to.

  “And Judy just might have some treats waiting.” Christopher winked at the boys.

  “But you’ve got to do your best in school,” Judy added.

  “We will! Won’t we, Brighton?” Jaycee’s excitement was almost tangible.

  Shannon didn’t know what to say…or do. Her heart was so full right now. She couldn’t wipe the smile off her face if she tried. Had she stepped into a fairy tale? Someone else’s life? Because this was way beyond her blessing zone. At any moment, she feared she might wake up from this magnificent dream.

  She stood from the table, with plate in hand.

  Wesley shook his head attempting to communicate…what?

  Christopher cleared his throat and bowed his head. Judy did likewise. Wesley also did, but only after shooting a wink in her direction. She had no idea Amish people prayed before and after every meal. Not that she’d ever been around any before now. She quickly sat back down and bowed her head as well.

  ~

  Grandpa, Grandma, and Wesley escorted the Parker family to their vehicle. Wesley should be leaving now too, if he wanted to follow Shannon to her destination. He needed to know where they lived if he planned to pick them up in the morning for church.

  “Do we have to go home now?” Jaycee whined as they approached her car.

  “Yes. I still have things to do today,” Shannon insisted.

  “Like what?” He challenged.

  “Laundry, for one. And I need to make dinner.” She opened the door so Jaycee could climb into his booster in the backseat.

  “But we can eat dinner here,” he protested.

  “No, we can’t. Christopher and Judy have already been kind enough to feed us lunch. It would be rude to stay for dinner too. You want them to invite us back over, don’t you?” She’d lowered her voice, but her words could still be clearly understood from just behind her, where Wesley stood. He averted his gaze, trying not to notice how nicely her jeans fit.

  “Fine, we can go home. When can we come back?”

  “Jaycee, we don’t want to wear out our welcome. If we come over too much, they might not want us to come back.”

  “Shannon.” The boy huffed in exasperation. “Don’t you know that Santa loves kids and he never gets tired of them?”

  Shannon turned around and Wesley caught her giggle. She closed the car door. “I tell you, that boy…” She shook her head.

  “I see who provides all the entertainment at your house.” Wesley grinned.

  She rolled her eyes. “If you only knew.”

  Grandma stepped up to the other side of the vehicle, leading little Melanie by the hand. Shannon picked the little one up and placed her into her car seat, then fastened the straps.

  “I’m planning to follow you home so I know where to pick you up tomorrow. If that’s okay,” Wesley said.

  “Just so long as you’re not stalking me.” Shannon’s teasing smile sent his pulse racing.

  “Not stalking, I promise.” He held up his arms in surrender and chuckled.

  He caught her gaze resting on his biceps, then noticed a sudden blush on her cheeks.

  She averted her eyes and cleared her throat. “Okay, then. I guess I’ll see you…tomorrow…or were you planning to stay at the house a little while?”

  He nodded. “Tomorrow. You said you had things to do, and I wouldn’t want to spring myself on you unawares. I know my mom hates when people show up without prior notice. She likes to tidy up the house before guests come over.”

  “I totally get that. It’s nice to have a heads-up. But I don’t mind so much.”

  “I can maybe stop in when I drop you off after lunch tomorrow, if that works for you.”

  “That sounds perfect.” She broke eye contact, then turned to his grandparents. “Thank you both so much for everything. The kids had a wonderful time.”

  “I suspect it wasn’t just the kids.” Grandpa chuckled. His joyful gaze moved from Shannon to Wesley.

  “No, I did too,” she admitted, casting an all-too-brief glance in his direction.

  “If you’d like to drop Melanie off Monday morning, we’ll be here,” Grandma offered.

  “That’s so kind. I’ll need to call my original babysitter, so right now it’s a tentative yes. Should I call you?”

  “That’s not necessary, but we will take down your phone number in case we need to call you. And I can give you the number to the shanty.” Grandma looked at Grandpa, who must’ve instinctively known what she was thinking. He hustled into the house and returned in short order with a pen and paper.

  Shannon’s brow shot up. “Shanty?”

  Wesley chuckled. “They don’t have a telephone inside the house. Instead, there is a phone booth of sorts that is shared by several families in the area. It’s down the road. So, if you call, you’ll need to leave a message. But beware that everyone who uses the phone will have access to the messages you leave. And if no one checks the messages, you may be waiting a while to hear back.”

  “Oh. Okay.”

  “It might not be the best idea to mention anything about babysitting in a message. Some of the members can get up in arms about things. Right, Grandpa?”

  He nodded, but Wesley got the mess
age that Grandpa didn’t want to drag her into the community’s goings-on. “Best not to mention it.”

  Shannon’s look conveyed that she didn’t know whether he meant best not to mention the members’ testiness or if he was referring to babysitting.

  “A short message like, ‘This is Wesley. Please call me,’ is usually what I leave. That way, nobody else has to know anything,” Wesley clarified.

  “Okay, that’s what I’ll do then if I need to get ahold of you. I better get going now. I hear the kids complaining already.” She smiled again at Grandma and Grandpa.

  How he loved her smile. He could just stand there all day and stare at her.

  Grandpa chuckled. “I never liked to sit still when I was a bu either.”

  “When you were a bu?” Grandma’s brow rose. “You can’t sit still now.”

  “I suppose you’re right, fraa.”

  Wesley loved it when his grandparents teased each other. They’d always seemed to have a strong relationship. It was just too bad it wasn’t one they could share with Wesley’s father.

  TEN

  Shannon’s heart did a little flip when Wesley’s truck pulled up behind her car in the driveway. Now he knew where she lived. Of course, if he intended to give them a ride to church tomorrow morning, it only stood to reason that he would need to know.

  She stepped out of the car, handing the keys to Brighton so he could unlock the front door. He and Jaycee would let themselves in while she removed Melanie from her car seat.

  Wesley approached. “Need any help?”

  “No. I just need to take Melanie and put her down for her nap.”

  He nodded, looking unsure of what his next course of action should be.

  “Like I said before, you’re more than welcome to come in,” she offered.

  “Nah, I should let you go.” He frowned. “I did kind of want to ask you something first, though.”

  She rubbed Melanie’s back, so she’d stay sleeping. “Do you mind holding on a minute? I’ll be right back. Let me just put Mel down real quick.”

  “Sure. That’s not a problem.”

  “You’re welcome to take a seat on the porch.” She said before disappearing into the house with her baby sister. She hurried to Melanie’s room and laid her down in her toddler bed, kissing her soft little chubby cheek. “Sleep well, baby.”