“Everything you have comes to around ten to twelve dollars.” Jane whispered, understanding the expression on Dena’s face. She stared. I can buy a gift for my boss.
“What would you suggest I get for Mr. Graves,” Dena asked.
“That’s easy. He likes globes and has a magnificent collection. In fact, Le Chumg has ordered some very special globes in for me. Look at this one. It’s illuminated.”
“Oh, Jane, it’s beautiful, but I don’t know. I’m not sure,” Dena said. It was Jane’s gift. But the gift was great idea. She had found Jane a book of poetry earlier that day. Jane had told Dena how much she enjoyed poetry when they were all out together. I’m glad I bought it first. Dena studied the globe, debating. “I don’t know. I don’t wish to take your gift away.”
“No, I’m buying him this silver globe.” Jane pointed to her gift. Dena bent down and admired the beautifully scrolled silver work on the small globe.
“Oh look. Here’s a letter opener that has a glass globe on the handle. It’s exquisite, yet it will fit into your budget,” Jane offered. Dena checked it over, including the price, before she handed it to Le Chumg. The woman bowed when Jane directed Dena to a counter behind them. It was full of boxed chocolates.
“Mrs. Graves likes chocolates. Some of her favorites are right over here.”
Dena blushed. She hadn’t thought about Mrs. Graves…even though she had come to know her well. Of course she should get her a gift. But can I afford it? I only have twenty-five dollars to spend. Jane helped Dena pick out a box of chocolates. All my gifts are just right. Everything will work out fine.
“Le Chumg. Can you wrap these last two gifts for us? The rest Dena will want to wrap.”
“Yes, missy.”
“Now let’s see, what shall I pick for you?” Jane smiled, guiding Dena to another rack. Stunned, Dena watched Jane pull out several coats, “You know Dena if I could pick a little sister, she would be just like you. I talked to Doreen about what I wanted to do and she agreed.”
She laid out several coats for Dena to choose from. “Oh Jane, I couldn’t. I just couldn’t accept this. It…it… it…” she stammered. Tears pricked her eyes. The coats were exquisite. There was no other word for them.
“Now Dena, you know you don’t have a warm coat to wear back to Colorado. This brown leather jacket can be very versatile. Look.” Jane held the small, jacket next to Dena’s skirt. She’s a very good salesperson.
“It can be worn with this skirt and a couple of other skirts I’ve seen you wear. And I know you have a jumper and one or two dresses it will compliment.
“But, it is so… ”
“Expensive? No more than what you spent on your other gifts, dear,” she interrupted softly. Dena considered this fact, frowning the whole time.
“You know, Dena that’s why I brought you here. You get great merchandise. The price is decent. Why, what you bought for all of your family is a lot less than what you would have paid somewhere else. Now please,” Jane spoke in low tones. Finally she stopped talking and allowed a few minutes for the idea to sink in. Dena was glad for those few moments to compose herself. Jane turned again and offered another jacket for Dena to try on.
“Ooooh. It’s a bit snug,” she said. Jane found another size.
“Try this. Perfect. Look.” She slowly turned Dena to a mirror. Dena caught her breath. She couldn’t believe how gorgeous it was. She smiled—really smiled.
“Then it’s settled. We will take this jacket.” Jane handed it to Le Chumg. Looking around, Dena spied a pair of leather gloves that matched the jacket.
“I don’t think…” She looked at her friend and whispered,
“I don’t know if I have enough money.”
“Trust me. You do.” Jane nodded. “I know you do. In fact, I think you have enough to buy five boxes of chocolates. Ah … yes … wrap these, also, Le Chumg.” When Dena questioned Jane again, she raised her eyebrow knowingly and grinned. “They’re needed. You never know when you may need another Christmas gift.”
“Missy very smart,” Le Chumg said in a high voice. She showed a toothless grin. “Missy want five boxes too?”
“Yes. And wrap them please.” Jane smiled appreciatively at the small woman.
Dena was dazed at the final price. She just couldn’t believe it. She still had money left and even bought more than she had planned for. Le Chumg separated the sacks for her; Mr. and Mrs. Graves in one sack, the chocolates in another and a third sack held gifts for her family. Dena thanked her graciously, sliding into her new coat.
“You come again, missy.” Le Chumg said with a toothless grin. Jane looked at her watch as they left the store. They only had been there a little over an hour. Dena looked at the dark clouds still covering the sky. Her mood was much sunnier. She had her Christmas shopping done.
“Let’s take our gifts to Mr. Graves, and you can check with Doreen to see if she has left. If not, then you can ride home with her.” Jane chattered merrily. Dena could tell she enjoyed helping others and she knew they would shop together again. Dena didn’t always remember to thank God for friends, but today she did. Jane’s friendship was a true gift.
When they stepped off the bus, a sharp wind was blowing off the mountains. If it had come from the ocean, it would be considerably warmer she had learned. Again Dena thanked Jane for her new coat. She caressed the sleeve as she held her arm over the front, parcels and all. It felt good. Jane had bought herself a black and a gray jacket in a different style. Dena ducked into the door just as another strong gust whipped around the office building. She appreciated the warmth of Aunt Doreen’s office.
***
“Uncle Don.” Jane poked her head in. He looked up. “May we come in?”
“Of course,” Mr. Graves slid his work into a drawer. He was surprised to see all three of his staff.
“Merry Christmas,” they said in unison, placing their gifts on his desk.
“Oh. You shouldn’t have.” Yet Dena noticed he ripped the paper off her gift first. His face glowed. “Look. It’s a letter opener with a globe worked into the handle. Perfect. I needed another letter opener. My old one fell apart this morning. I’ll keep it here on my desk but not until the next semester. I wouldn’t want it to disappear over the holidays. Thank you, Dena.”
“Doreen, what can I say.” he said while he ripped off the paper. Dena giggled as she watched Mr. Graves’ eyes twinkle. He was like a small child. “Will you look at this? Gloves. Doreen, this is wonderful. You know how cold my hands get. Thank you.” Aunt Doreen smiled.
“And, what did you get your old uncle?” Jane giggled.
“It’s another globe for my set. Thank you.” He came around the desk and gave Jane a kiss on the cheek before he turned to Dena. “You will have to come over some time and see my collection after the holiday.”
Dena nodded. Mr. Graves sat back down.
“Mr. Graves, here are gifts for Mrs. Graves.” Dena pushed her and Aunt Doreen’s gifts forward. The packages looked almost identical.
“Chocolates?” Dena nodded, wondering how he knew. “Mrs. Graves loves chocolates. She’ll be pleased. Thank you. Thank you all.” Dena watched Mr. Graves stack each gift gently in a neat pile. Then he opened his desk drawer and took out three envelopes and walked around to his staff. He handed an envelope to Jane and one to Aunt Doreen. Next he stepped in front of Dena and gently placed an envelope in her hands.
“Merry Christmas Dena; Enjoy your time at home.” Her eyes sparkled. She nodded.
“My goodness, Dena, we must go, or we’ll miss our bus,” Aunt Doreen spoke suddenly, looking at her watch.
“Thank you, Mr. Graves. Merry Christmas,” Dena called following her aunt into the other office. As Aunt Doreen picked up her coat, Dena gathered her packages and they rushed out the door. It’s hard rushing against the bitter cold wind carrying all of these bags. I’m really glad I have this new jacket to keep me warm. Thank you, God, for presents and f
riends.
“I really like the jacket,” Aunt Doreen said. “Jane has good taste. It looks great on you.” Dena nodded. She caressed the sleeve again. It felt soft and was definitely warm.
***
“Hello, dear,” Uncle Walter said, smiling at Aunt Doreen.
He stood in the middle of the hallway rifling through the mail. A gust of wind scattered pile of letters. Dena watched unable to move as the envelopes floated to the floor. She couldn’t think of another word to describe the wind but blustery.
Dropping her parcels, she pulled off her gloves and slid them into her new coat pocket before she stooped down to help Uncle Walter picked up the envelopes.
“Dena, you have mail.” He grinned and handed her two letters from the large stack in his hand.
Tucking the letters into a parcel, she grabbed up the other packages and started up the stairs. Call it selfish if you want, she pursed her lips. But I like reading my letters in privacy. If someone would have told me last spring I would feel this way I would have emphatically denied it. Time and distance has made the difference.
Slowly she slipped out of her new jacket and carefully laid it over the footboard. She took both letters from among the packages and quickly crawled into the middle of the bed, laid
Susan’s letter down and opened Brock’s.
***
December, 1939
Dear Sis,
The countdown to Christmas is on. I didn’t think I would ever say this, but there was a great big hole at our table Thanksgiving with you gone. Now don’t go and get all weepy. Yes, you. Don’t you think I know you? Duh!
***
Dena half grinned and sniffled, wiping her eyes on her sweater sleeve at the same time. Ladies always carry handkerchiefs. She pulled out a handkerchief from her pocket, and blew her nose before she continued.
***
Seriously, Dena, when are you coming home, and how long can you stay? Let me know so I can get the same time off. I’ll need to pull several double-shifts to allow me the time I want. Have you found my present yet? I think I’ll get you a heavy parka coat—fur lined. What with the “cold, wet rain” I think you “need” it. Don’t you think that would be nice? Mother and Dad are well. Dad was pleased that I came home. Grant and Susan are the same. Say, maybe we can see a movie with just the four of us while we’re at home. Have you seen ‘Gone with the Wind?’ I believe it’ll be playing at the theater through the holidays. Think about it. And don’t forget to buy me something great.
Your loving brother,
Brock
***
Brock could always make her laugh, so why was she crying? And a movie sounded great. Dena hiccupped. She sat for a length of time remembering warm fuzzy thoughts about home, Brock and Susan. Finally she picked up Susan’s letter.
***
December, 1939
Dear Dena,
I have so much to tell you! First Sally Johnson got married over Thanksgiving. She’s pregnant! Five months! Ralph Johnston is the father. She went from being a Johnson to being a Johnston. Can you imagine that? Ralph is two years older and is in the service—not sure which one. Also, I’ll be graduating this spring with Grant! I have more than enough credits, and Dad said I could. Why hurry? I think Grant’s going to ask me to marry him at Christmas. Shhh—he hasn’t talked to Dad yet. At least, I hope I get a ring; we’ve talked about getting married in the spring. Isn’t that wonderful? Will you be my maid of honor? And do you think Emily will be a bridesmaid? No, I’m not asking Donna. We aren’t speaking. She has other, better friends. So be it. I have Grant.
Thanksgiving was great. Lots and lots of people came. Brock was home. I had to “badger” for you. When are you coming home? When are finals? Mother is busy getting ready for Christmas. Said she would write later. Can’t wait to see you and stay up all night talking, just like old times.
Love, Susan
***
Oh my! Oh my! Dena leaned into the pillow then sat back up just as quickly. Susan’s getting married. Grant and Susan have dated for three and a half or maybe four years now. Of course, they have always been friends; no, they’ve been best friends. They understand each other totally, just as my parents do. Dena bit her lip. Susan is getting married. Oh, I can’t wait to go home! Tears dropped. She wiped them on her sleeve. I guess this is what’s called tears of happiness.
“Dena,” Emily’s called. “Dinner’s ready.”
“Coming,” she answered, putting her letters and Mr. Graves’ envelope on her dresser. She saw no red or puffy eyes. No one must know how much she missed home. As she entered the dining room, everyone was waiting.
Polly came in with dinner. It was one of her favorite meals—roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy and peas.
“Polly, this is great,” Stuart said. Polly smiled.
“Isn’t this Dena’s favorite meal?” Uncle Walter asked Polly; she nodded.
Something is going on. Dena leaned back, looking from one grinning face to another. What’s all of this about my special meal? Why is everyone acting so mysterious?
“Dena, Polly has fixed your favorite meal tonight because we decided to make this Dena night.” Uncle Walter continued between bites. Then he added with a mischievous tone, “Now let me see. What could dessert be?”
Dena frowned as Emily continued with casual chatter. Dena laid her napkin in her lap, glancing from one face to another. Each face had a set expression, like a poker face as her dad called it. No one was telling.
“Semester grades are not posted yet, Dena,” Emily finally said, glancing at her dad. Her eyes glinted. She couldn’t wait any longer. “But because we work in the dean’s office—well, here’s yours.”
Dena took the envelope.
“Open it, dear,” Aunt Doreen said. Dena carefully tore open the edge, unfolded the paper, and scanned down the page. The words seemed to jumble together. She read it again, slower.
Highlighted was the A found next to her name for the three classes she had taken. “Dean’s honor roll” followed. She looked up, momentarily speechless. Finally she found her voice.
“Did you get your grades?” Dena looked at Emily and Stuart. They both waved their grades.
“A’s: Just like you. Honor roll.” Emily beamed. “So we decided to celebrate.”
“And we chose you to be the center of the celebration,”
Stuart interrupted.
“Oh,” Dena managed. She glanced around. Aunt Doreen nodded. Uncle Walter beamed proudly. Now she understood the mystery.
“And Dena,” Uncle Walter stood slowly, embellishing the moment. “I know that it’s early for Christmas gifts, but we …well …” He stopped in mid-sentence as he looked at his wife and smiled secretively. Aunt Doreen returned his smile. “We want to give you this little gift. But only if you promise to return.” He handed a small oblong box to her. It had a dark purple bow fluffed to its fullest on top of lavender satin-like paper. It was beautiful. Dena looked up with her large green eyes. Her lip quivered. Return? Did he mean return it? Why?
“Open it,” they all said. Emily giggled. As Dena undid the bow and gently pulled at the tape on one end. She carefully opened the package. She didn’t want to tear the paper. As she lifted the lid she saw a ticket, a round-trip ticket to Colorado. It read “December 14, 9:23 a.m., pier 2.” She carefully held it. Tears trickled. The fourteenth was just a few days away. Dena looked at Uncle Walter questioningly. He nodded. “I sent a telegram to your parents yesterday when I purchased the ticket.”
Dena got up and walked around to each person, hugging them. Even Stuart allowed her to hug him. Polly dabbed her eyes with her apron. Dena hugged her too. She was so happy she couldn’t speak. Mother and Dad know I’ll be home by the sixteenth. She hugged Uncle Walter again and whispered, “Thank you.”
“Dad, I do believe Dena is speechless.” Stuart’s eyes twinkled. He turned to Dena and stated, “Remember, I’m eating mine and your share of butter pe
can. Now, Dena, no badgering.”
“I don’t badger.” Her eyes sparked. Six days. She happily licked the last of the butter pecan off her spoon. Dena closed her eyes and silently said a small prayer. Thank you, LORD, for my families. Dena knew she was very lucky to be surrounded by this love. Through blurred eyes she smiled at each family member. Tomorrow I’ll slip my wrapped presents under the tree unnoticed for everyone here.
“Aw … you didn’t leave me any,” Stuart announced, plaintively looking into her empty ice cream bowl.
“Since when did you start liking butter pecan enough for a second helping?” Dena asked.
“Since I found out it was your favorite.” he answered, playfully. Emily giggled behind her napkin, pretending to dab the corners of her mouth.
“Now who’s badgering.” Dena feigned a fierce look.
Everyone laughed. The conversation turned to Christmas and how much each looked forward to it. Dena delighted in the warmth. She would really like to be here when they opened their presents. Then a frown clouded her eyes. Her chin puckered slightly. Maybe we can exchange gifts early. I would really like to be here when they open my gifts. I’ll ask.
“Oh my goodness,” Aunt Doreen said, glancing at the mantle clock. “Look at the time.” Dena hurried to her room. She needed to wrap her presents. As she reached her door, Aunt Doreen called from downstairs. “Dena, you forgot your ticket.”
Oh my, she made an about-face and ran to the bottom of the stairs. Aunt Doreen handed her the ticket and box.
“Thank you. And…uh…could we have my Christmas exchange before I leave?” Dena looked expectantly at her aunt, waiting for her answer.
“Why I think that’s a great idea, dear. I should have thought of it.” Aunt Doreen answered. “Now you run on up to your room and get everything ready.”
Dena’s eyes glittered with anticipation. She couldn’t wait for each one to open their gifts. Laying the box and ticket on her dresser, she stared at the envelope from Mr. Graves. Dena opened it and removed a Christmas card. Two bills floated to the floor. She read the card: “Merry Christmas,” Mr. Graves. And then she stared at the two twenty dollar bills. Slowly picking them up, she smiled.