You're welcome, Brian. Sorry you got to read them in the wrong order. But yeah, my chapter note was meant to advice readers that reading this story before Christmas Stars and Stripes, might be an advantage. I'm delighted you liked this story so much, it was my first attempt at a true short story - but of course I couldn't resist the temptation to return to the characters.
I'm sorry, min ven, about not alerting you to this story before, particularly since reading the sequel spoiled the surprise at the end of this story. But I'm glad you enjoyed it even so. If you click on the name of an author or on the Stories tab on their profile, you'll get a complete list of their stories. Thanks for reading.
“I’ve got a Christmas present for you.”
“But you already gave me one.”
“Yeah, an official gift to be opened in front of parents. This one’s different.”
Eddie watched as Connor dug into his backpack and produced an oblong box wrapped in black and gold striped print paper. Oookay. Creative wrapping paper, if not very Christmas-y. Most likely another of the silly gag gifts Connor liked to present him with, although he rarely wrapped them so nicely.
“Hmm, is this why you dragged
This chapter was a roller coaster with the win and the party followed by the shocking announcement. We all hope Tony will be able to pull a rabbit out of the hat.
Helena is a kind and sensible girl. She'll make sure Ollie gives Todd the benefit of the doubt.
I love those chapters with games in them, especially the discussion between the coaches and Peter's evaluation of the game with the players. Eric needs to stand up to the stupid sponsor.
This was a simmering chapter with the issues of Dave and Charlie, but at least Tood took the plunge. Now he just has to come clean to Ollie. I like Peter being devious and so focused on improving his team.
I think one of the reasons I didn't comment on this chapter when I first read the story was partly due to me starting to get annoyed with Alex. However, what he did here was pretty mild compared to the annoying friend he developed into later.
Of course Deon's gobsmacker at the end was a major distraction too.
I've worked my way through most of the Christmas stories, and I managed to leave enough comments to overtake you, Lisa. Ready to take up the challenge and catch me again?
It's a good story, but I felt there was some important parts missing. I keep wondering if Josh's dad is gay and that's why he broke up with his wife and why she reacts so badly when Josh comes out to her. There is no excuse for her, and that letter is like a knife to his aching heart. She should have sent it to him once he was settled and happy with his dad, not while he was still emotionally fragile and wanting to run back to her. Doing it now is emotional blackmail especially the wanting to be forgiven.
I liked the flashbacks, because it gave us some respite in the chill settling in our hearts over the tragedy. But at least they died together. The only downside to that may be that the murderer could escape justice. But I shall chose to imagine they got found out.
I don't think James is in love with Adam, but he does love him as a friend. I think the dream was a symbol of Adam having to say goodbye to his dream of them being lovers. The story portrayed the fear and anguish about the risk of loosing his friend, and he did save James' life. I liked that it didn't turn into a cliché at the end with James also being gay. Him being straight but aware and OK with his friend's feelings was a lot more realistic and satisfying, even if it's sad for Adam.
I can't help wonder if they died together in the snow, falling asleep in their drunken stupor. But maybe instead of becoming snow angels, they lived and became boyfriends instead ?