The Day After Christmas
The day after Christmas, the coals lay cold in the hearth, likewise
no scent from hot cocoa or fresh baked cookies filled the air. Nor did the tree
lights glimmer and the star’s shine had gone dim. The multitude of stockings hung
empty from the mantle and not a wrapped package lay forgotten.
The day before the house buzzed with employees, neighbors,
and family. They celebrated the biggest day of their year. The toys built,
packages wrapped, loaded, and delivered. The elves came to the great hall and
waited for their fearless leader to return. And return he did with a huge smile
and a boisterous laugh.
With the team stabled and fed, the party began. Singing,
eating, and presents flowed throughout the day until late into the night. Santa
Claus collapsed onto the chaise lounge, his belly full and exhausted. Santa
closed his eyes and then startled awake by a tap on the shoulder.
“Go to bed, Kris. You’ve earned a nice long rest,” Mrs. Claus
said.
“I’m sorry. I sat for but a moment. What time do you have?” Santa
apologized.
“Most of the elves retired hours ago. I will wake you when
the sun rises in the spring.” Mrs. Claus grinned and gently pushed Santa toward
their living quarters.
“Come, Mrs. Claus. I’m tired enough to sleep until this time
next year,” the Jolly Old Elf said, taking Jessica by the hand and leading her into
the hall.
“Oh, Kris, I have this mess to clean before I can rest. Your
suit needs cleaning, and it’s the morning of December 26th. If I
start now, I’ll have the costume finished by tomorrow,” Mrs. Claus giggled,
pulling her hand from Santa’s.
“I’ll get the elves to help,” Santa chuckled.
“No, no, they’ve been working non-stop for nine months. You
go ahead.”
“A better woman, does not exist.” Santa kissed Jessica good
night in front of the Christmas Tree, throwing the magic dust into the air, and
snapping his fingers three times. When Jessica left Santa’s embrace, the
workshop was spotless, with the dishes stacked in the cupboard, and the lights
on the tree put out.
“Oh, Santa, you never cease to amaze. I’ll race you to the
bedroom,” Jessica tittered, pulling Santa back into the hall, closing the door.
“Woo-hoo! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!” Santa
shouted.
Novels by TD Cooper... 2nd Chances: A Book of Choices and Magic House
Get your copy from my website http://www.tdcooperbooks.com. by following the direct links for each book to Kindle and Nook, or get a signed copy by following the prompts on the contact page of my website.
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