Christmas Admirer - 4. Chapter 4

On the ninth day of Christmas my true love gave to me …

The Sound of Music quote was a little corny, even for him, but the ‘brown paper package tied up in string’ was very sweet. And it was filled with my favorite things. A small teddy bear dressed as Dracula, warm fluffy socks, a box of mac and cheese, the unscented soap I prefer but was unable to buy anywhere in town and the next book in a sci-fi series I’ve been reading.

Searching online I found the jackpot, it wasn’t something I had to order but I would need some help putting it all together. And there was only one person that would be able to do that.

“Nicholas! What brings you here my boy? Keirnan isn’t home.”

“I know, I’m here to see you.”

“Well, what I can I do for you?”

Talen led me into the kitchen and poured us both some tea. He always seemed to have tea ready when I came over. “You’re not in ay trouble are you? You’re Aunt is well?”

“No no, we’re all fine. It’s about Keirnan’s Christmas present.”

“Finally picked something out have you?”

“Yes, but I need you’re help with it.”

I pulled the pages I had printed out, only a little nervous. After he read them over he studied me for a minute before responding.

“You sure about this? This is a very big deal. Do you recognize the significance?”

“Of course. I love him, Talen, I’m very sure.”

“I have never doubted your love dear boy. If you’re sure, I will help you. You ready to go now?”

“Thank you Talen.”

“Anything for my boys.”

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On the tenth day of Christmas my true love gave to me...

The first two maps led to the location of our births, the next was the location of the council headquarters where we first met. After that was mine and his houses side by side, then the clinic where he almost died. The school where we got together and the cabin our families go to on vacation in the summer were the last two. The maps were arranged neatly in a picture frame with a red string connecting each. It was a map of our lives together and I couldn’t wait to continue it.

If I could ever get this stupid box wrapped! I ripped the paper off and threw the ball at the door. Which of course opened at that moment and my paper ball hit my Aunt right in the face.

“Sorry, Auntie!”

“It’s fine, Nick. I should be aware of flying balls when entering a room. What has you so frustrated?”

“This stupid paper will not cooperate! I’m trying to wrap Keirnan’s present.”

“This it here?” I nodded and bit my lip. When I had told my Aunt about my idea she studied me the same way Talen had, but didn’t question it. “It turned out very nice. It’s beautiful, Nick. I won’t ask if you’re sure, I know how you feel about him. Just… You boys are being safe right?”

“AUNTIE!”

“I’m just saying… pregnancy may not be an issue but there are other dangers…”

“Oh god, Auntie, please! Do not do this, I beg of you.”

“Just promise me you’re being safe.”

“We’re not… I mean we haven’t… but when we do… don’t worry Auntie.”

“Well, I’ll admit I’m surprised. You too have seemed pretty hot and heavy.”

“Auntie!” I let out a deep sigh, so mortifying. “We agreed to take things slow.”

“Good. Now then, let me show you how to do this.”

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On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me…

The frame must have been at least 20X30 and the pictures spanned our entire life together. Pictures of us as kids, with Shay. With Talen and Auntie. Pictures with the gang from school and some other council members we were friendly with. But mostly it was pictures of us. Smiling and laughing and cuddling. Some were even candid, taken by some mysterious figure hidden behind the camera. A few of us cuddled up half asleep or seemingly staring into each other's eyes. So many wonderful memories we’ve shared.

That night I couldn’t sleep, I was to anxious. My mind jumping back and forth between excitement over my gift idea and fear he wouldn’t love it. I sat at my desk and stared at the pictures. We’ve been together a long time, even if it wasn’t official. Our lives have been so thoroughly intertwined together and I couldn’t see that changing anytime soon. With a small smile on my face I crawled into bed to sleep. Keirnan would understand how much this means to me. He would know without a doubt, I’m in this till the end.