5. A Christmas Fair
5
A Christmas Fair
C HAPTER FIVE
Daniel
“Good morning, Daniel. How did you sleep last night?” Rosalind’s cheery voice was almost more than I could take the next morning. “Not a morning person, are you?” She added with a chuckle.
“Not when I’m on vacation, and not before I’ve had my coffee.”
“You know there’s a small coffee pot in your room, right?” She reminded me of the amenities Linda had explained during my check-in.
“It’s not the same as an espresso.”
“Well, then look no further. Our own pub serves the best coffee varieties around. And if you’re hungry, I’d recommend the homemade biscuits and gravy.”
“Thanks, I’ll give that a try.” As I walked towards the pub entrance at the end of the lobby, she called to me and I stopped.
“Oh, Daniel!”
Turning around, I responded. “Yes?”
“Our town Christmas Fair starts this afternoon. Would you like to join me and my grandfather to check out the festivities when I get off work?”
Caught off-guard by another invitation, and to what appeared to be a family affair, I hesitated.
“Oh, come on. I promise you’ll have fun.”
“Your grandfather won’t mind me tagging along?” He’d seemed like a nice man when we’d met, but still. He might not take kindly to a virtual stranger joining their party.
“No, he won’t mind. He’s the one who reminded me to ask you. My grandfather loves to put people at their ease, and he thought you might enjoy the fair more if you didn’t go alone.”
“That’s very thoughtful of him. Please thank him for me.”
“I will. That’s my grandfather. He’s tough when he needs to be, but generous in all things. We’ve planned to leave from the lobby here at two. Will that work for you?” Her open smile and the tilt of her head as she waited for my answer intrigued me.
“Sure, I’d love to join you.” I nodded and waved, already thinking about the much-needed espresso and breakfast waiting for me in the pub.
I couldn’t say it was the best espresso on the island, but only since I hadn’t tried them all. But it was definitely what I needed, and one of the best I’d ever had. The biscuits and gravy, on the other hand, were perfect. Just the right consistency on the sausage country gravy, with just the right amount of salt and pepper. Poured over fresh baked, large, fluffy biscuits. Delicious.
I’d hit the jackpot when I’d picked Lonesome Bay Island for my holiday getaway. Good food, gracious people, and a Christmas fair.
Thinking of Christmas reminded me of my mother. I should call her before she sent out the FBI to find me. A bit dramatic perhaps, but she was a powerful woman and well connected.
Margaret Janene Westbrook, Madame to the staff, was a stern and commanding woman. Nearly sixty years old, she still carried herself with the same authority and grace she had all her life. I’d only ever seen her cry once. The day we found out, my father had died in a ski accident.
Forced to marry young in an arranged marriage, and against all logic, my parents had actually fallen in love.
Though my mother’s sense of duty and social status had caused her to be demanding and distant during my upbringing, she would turn to putty around my father. And he was the same around her. I never doubted their love for each other.
But my father was the only parent who showed me unconditional love. His loss hit us both very hard.
We buried ourselves in our work. I finished my schooling and started my residency. And my mother took over the family business.
Sometimes I think she was better at it than my father. His various business ventures excelled under her direction beyond all expectations. I believe that was due to her unrelenting dedication. I know he would’ve been proud of her.
Well, it was time to stop procrastinating, so I called.
“Hello, Mother. How are you?” I started when she answered the phone. Usually her secretary answered all her calls, but she had a private line just for me.
“Daniel? Where are you?” She demanded. No, ‘how are you’, back. Always right to the point.
“I’m sorry, Mother. Once the investigation cleared me, I had to get out of the city and away from those reporters. I’m waiting for the publicity to die down before I return.”
“So, where are you?” She repeated. My mother did not like being out-of-the-loop.
“I’m staying on Lonesome Bay Island for now.”
“Well,” she said, “maybe this situation has all been fortuitous. You know I’m looking to retire and I want you to train with me to take over the family business. What better time than right now?” She suggested.
“I haven’t decided if I’m giving up my practice yet. However,” I added before she could interrupt me, “I am currently weighing different options. I called to tell you, though, that I’m staying on the island for Christmas. I know you have that fundraiser you’re working on, and I didn’t want you to do anything for me.”
“You’re not coming home for Christmas?” She sounded appalled, yet also slightly relieved. The holidays were always crazy with fundraisers for her favorite charities, so we didn’t spend a lot of time together anyway. She just worried about how it would ‘look’ to her society friends if I didn’t show.
“Just tell everyone the truth. They’ll understand wanting to get away from the press after all that controversy.” Anyone in my mother’s circle of friends had money. And most people with money had dealt with the press. They would understand more than the people in my world.
“Very well, Daniel. But I expect to see you home after New Year’s Eve. We can discuss the business then.”
I sighed before replying. “I love you Mother, Merry Christmas.” I was not looking forward to our ‘business’ discussion.
“Merry Christmas, Daniel. I love you.” And without saying goodbye, the line went dead. Although my mother often appeared unemotional to those who didn’t know her, I knew she loved me. Not because it was the one endearment she allowed us to say to each other. I knew because the one person who’d known her best had told me. My father. And he’d never lied to me.
The crisp December air nipped at my cheeks as I stepped out of the hotel to take a walk on the beach. I loved my mother, but conversations with her never left me feeling relaxed. Usually, they had the opposite effect, and I didn’t want to show up tense for the Christmas Fair.
The scent of hot cocoa and cinnamon rolls drifted through the air, mingling with the sound of laughter and cheerful chatter. As I walked down to the dock, I could see the booths going up all along the street and down along the beach.
Looks like everyone’s getting into the holiday spirit, I thought, watching as locals bustled around, adorning their stalls with twinkling lights and colorful decorations.
As it turned out, I didn’t make it to the beach. I found myself caught up in watching the bustle of the fair coming together. Having lost all track of time, I suddenly realized I was almost late to meeting Rosalind at the hotel.
All was not lost, though. I’d exchanged my tense mood for one of anticipation and excitement to explore this fair with Rosalind.
She was waiting in the lobby, ready to go, with Joseph and a beagle at her side. I raised my eyebrow in question as I looked at the dog.
“Daniel, meet Mack. Mack, say hi to Daniel.” The little dog gave a happy yip and ran around me with his tail wagging. “You didn’t get to meet him the other day, but he usually goes everywhere with my grandfather.”
Speaking of her grandfather, I leaned in to shake his hand. “It’s good to see you again, sir.” He held out his hand, and I met it with mine, giving his hand a firm shake.
“Joseph will do just fine.” He replied with a smile. “We’re glad to have you along. You’re in for a treat. This is our biggest celebration of the year.”
“Yes. Christmas is a big deal around here,” Rosalind added, her tone filled with pride. “It’s a time for the whole town to come together and celebrate.”
“Seems like a lot of work,” I observed, admiring the dedication of the townspeople. I’d watched them earlier, setting up and stocking booths, hanging wreaths, and stringing Christmas lights across the square.
“Hard work always pays off when you see the smiles on everyone’s faces,” Rosalind replied, a smile playing on her lips. “Speaking of which, are you ready to experience the best Christmas fair of your life?” She added, her eyes alight with anticipation.
“Absolutely,” I replied, feeling a warmth spreading in my chest. Maybe this Christmas would be an unforgettable one, in all the best ways.
“Let’s start with some carnival games,” Rosalind suggested, leading the way to a row of colorful booths. “Let’s see who will win a prize first.”
I chuckled, feeling a flicker of competitiveness ignite within me. “Should we place a bet?”
“Sure. Loser buys dinner.” Her wicked grin made me wonder if she’d set me up.
It turned out, though, Joseph won the first prize. Apparently, good vision was not a necessity when it came to the ping-pong ball toss over the fish bowls.
“Grandpa! You got one in.” Rosalind cheered, as she pointed out the ball to the carnival worker. “Do you want a goldfish, or a stuffed toy for Mack?”
“Mack? You want a toy?” He asked the dog, who promptly yipped his approval for that choice.
We tried our luck at the ring toss with no success. Then at the balloon darts. For safety’s sake, Joseph did not take any part in that game.
Despite my initial hesitation, Rosalind’s infectious enthusiasm spurred me on, and before I knew it, I was holding a fluffy teddy bear triumphantly.
“To the host goes the prize,” I grinned, handing the bear to Rosalind.
“Aw, thank you, Daniel! He’s adorable,” she exclaimed, hugging the bear close. “Now, how about we grab some food?”
“Sounds good to me.” I said as my stomach grumbled in agreement, and Roz smiled.
“Mack and I agree,” Joseph added, and Mack gave a yip.
“Let’s get you two settled at a table first, and we can pick up our drinks on the way.” Rosalind stopped at a booth and ordered drinks. Then she led Joseph to a table to save seats for us while we went back for the food.
“You’ve got to try these sandwiches,” Roz suggested. Her eyes sparkling with anticipation towards the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling Tri-Tip sandwiches and fries.
“Lead the way,” I replied, falling into step beside her as we made our way through the bustling crowds.
The scent of sizzling meat and savory spices filled the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and music. It was a sensory overload, but in the best possible way.
As we waited in line, Roz turned to me, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “So, Daniel, have you ever tried Tri-Tip sandwiches from a fair before?”
I shook my head, feeling a flicker of curiosity. “Can’t say I have. Are they any different from a restaurant?”
“Absolutely,” she confirmed with a grin. “You’re in for a treat.”
We finally reached the front of the line, and collected our sandwiches and fries, the warm paper bags nestled in our hands.
“Here we go,” Rosalind announced, cheerfully, setting down the bags. “Food’s served!”
“Ah, thank you, my dear,” Joseph nodded appreciatively, his smile warm.
“Thanks for saving us seats,” I said, grateful for their thoughtfulness, and because all the tables were currently full.
“Anytime, lad,” Joseph replied, patting my shoulder warmly. “Now let’s dig in before these sandwiches get cold. I wait all year long for these.” He tore the bag open on one side, turning it into a makeshift plate for the wrapped sandwich and fries inside.
“Here are some napkins.” Rosalind announced, setting some by each now open bag.
As we enjoyed our meal together, we were surrounded by the festive energy of the Christmas fair. With a band playing nearby, and a sense of belonging settling in my heart.
“So, Joseph, do you spend all your days sneaking food to this little rascal?” I jested, nodding towards Mack, who wagged his tail in response. Both he and Rosalind had slipped the dog some food. Mack didn’t beg, but he made sure he was close by, just in case.
Joseph chuckled, his eyes twinkling. “Mack here has quite the appetite, just like someone else I know.”
“Hey! I can’t help it if fair food is irresistible,” Rosalind defended playfully, nudging me with her elbow when I laughed.
“Speaking of fair food, these sandwiches are delicious,” I remarked, taking a bite and savoring the flavors.
“Family recipe,” Joseph said proudly, knowing the family who made them. “Passed down over generations, they say.”
“That’s a secret worth keeping,” I replied, genuinely impressed.
“Absolutely,” Joseph agreed. “It’s the little things that keep us connected to our roots, isn’t it?”
Rosalind watched our exchange with a smile, her eyes shining with fondness. I turned to her, eager to include her in the conversation. “What about you, Roz? Any family recipes you’re willing to share?”
Her face lit up. “For Christmas? Only the best turkey and stuffing recipe, ever! From my grandmother.” She added, a little misty eyed as she glanced at her grandfather.
“She was a wonderful cook.” He added. A pensive smile on his lips.
There was a moment of silence, as both appeared lost in old memories. Then the band started a new song, and Rosalind jumped up from her seat and grabbed my hand.
“Come on, Daniel! It’s time to dance,” Roz’s voice was playful, her eyes dancing with mischief as she tugged on my arm.
I hesitated, feeling self-conscious in this unfamiliar setting. “I’m not much of a dancer, Roz. You should probably ask someone else.”
She just grinned, undeterred. “Nonsense! It’s all about having fun. Trust me, you’ll enjoy it.”
With a mix of reluctance and curiosity, I let Roz lead me to the dance floor. The music pulsed through the square, urging us to move.
As we danced, I stumbled a bit, my movements stiff and awkward at first. Roz laughed, her joy infectious. “Loosen up, Daniel! Just follow the music.”
I focused on relaxing and following Roz’s steps, listening to the rhythm of the music. Gradually, I found my footing, mirroring her movements with more ease.
“You’re getting the hang of it!” Roz encouraged, her smile bright and encouraging.
I couldn’t help but notice the genuine happiness on her face, the way her eyes sparkled with delight. It felt like watching a flower blooming in the sun.
There was something special about this moment, about her, that drew me in. I noticed how soft her touch felt against my skin, yet warm as well. And the way the Christmas lighting made her green eyes shimmer. Now and then, I’d feel a jolt of electricity when her body brushed against mine during our dance.
The music slowed down for the next song, and Roz and I stepped closer and swayed. Her green eyes met mine, sparkling with a mix of playfulness and something deeper. “You’re not half bad, Dr. Daniel,” she teased, her voice light.
“Thanks to your expert guidance,” I replied with a small smile, feeling a warmth seep into my chest that had nothing to do with the festive atmosphere around us. What was happening to me?
Roz beamed at me, the Christmas lights above casting a soft glow over her features. “I’m glad you think so. You needed a break from brooding.” She added.
I chuckled, the sound of my laughter feeling foreign, having just returned to me in the last few days. The months before had been totally devoid of any humor. “Brooding? Is that how I come across?”
“Sometimes, a little,” she teased, nudging my shoulder lightly.
“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to be broody. It’s just been a tough year.”
“Don’t apologize. I’m glad you’re here, Daniel. It’s been nice having you around.”
Her words touched something within me, a part of myself I’d kept guarded for a long time. And we gazed into each other’s eyes until the song ended. Lost in the moment and each other.
As the music ended, so did the moment, and Rosalind stepped back. “Well, we better get back.”
I nodded and followed her back to the table.
As we approached Joseph and Mack, I couldn’t help but notice the contented smile on Joseph’s face. His weathered features softened by the joy of the evening.
“Back already, you two? Did you have a good dance, Daniel?” Joseph asked, a lilt in his voice.
“Joseph, I think I might need some more practice, but Roz here is an excellent teacher,” I said, giving Roz a playful wink.
“She gets that from her grandfather.” He joked.
“He’s not kidding.” She said with a laugh. “Grandpa can cut-a-rug. I learned everything I know from him.”
He waved off her compliment, and she just shook her head as she started gathering the trash from our meal.
As the night wore on, we wandered through the streets. People greeted Joseph and Rosalind everywhere we went.
I’d been to many parties throughout my thirty-eight years, but I’d never been to something like this. The open air, the decorated booths, the handshakes and backslaps, and most of all, the smiles.
They could be a rowdy bunch. All yelling and waving at each other, like they hadn’t seen each other in years, instead of days or weeks. But it was a cozy kind of rowdiness. They welcomed strangers as friends and made every day feel like a celebration.
I wondered how it would be to live here and be part of this diverse community. And if I lived here, would Rosalind and I be friends? Or could we be something more?
If I returned to my old life, I knew Rosalind would never come. But if I was part of this community, I wouldn’t want to leave either. I understood they were a package deal.
And as we walked along together, Roz slipped her hand through my arm, a gesture so natural that my heart skipped a beat. Could I be falling for this vibrant, caring woman so soon? Was that wise after all I’d just been through? Was that even fair to her?
I stole a glance at Roz’s face. Her eyes were lit up with genuine joy, her laughter ringing out like a bell in the crisp night air. In that moment, surrounded by the festive atmosphere and the twinkle of Christmas lights, I couldn’t help but feel drawn to her magnetic energy.
Could this young, beautiful, amazing woman fall for an emotional mess like me?
Turning back to view the Christmas fair, the night sang with possibilities.
The possibility of a whole new life opening up before me if I was daring enough to take it. And strong enough to give up what I already had.
I needed to search deep to decide on the right path for me.
Because once I chose, there would be no going back.