15. Second Christmas Blessings
15
Second Christmas Blessings
C HAPTER FIFTEEN
Daniel
I slowly blinked my eyes open, greeted by the soft morning light filtering through the curtains. The weight of Rosalind’s head on my chest anchored me in place, a feeling I never wanted to let go of.
“Morning,” I murmured, running a hand through her tousled hair.
“Morning,” Roz replied with a contented sigh, snuggling closer. “Can you believe it’s Christmas again?”
“Time flies when you’re having fun,” I teased, planting a kiss on her forehead. But deep down, I marveled at how fast the days had passed since she came into my life.
Her fingers traced patterns on my chest, a gesture filled with love and warmth. “So much has happened in such a short time, but it still feels like I’ve loved you forever. I mean, just think about it. You saved my life last Christmas, we got married in April, and now I can’t wait to meet our little one next year,” she said softly, her eyes shining with anticipation.
“Me neither,” I confessed, my heart swelling with joy and nervousness.
The thought of becoming a father both thrilled and terrified me, but having her by my side made it all seem possible. When I thought about the tiny life growing inside her, and I felt overwhelmed by the tremendous responsibility, Rosie’s serene face gave me the surge of hope I needed to believe we could do this.
As we lay there, wrapped in each other’s arms, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for every moment of peace and love. Every day was a new blessing.
With a gentle hand, I helped her sit up and swing her legs over the side of the bed. “Careful now, no acrobatics this close to your due date,” I joked, as I helped her stand.
Roz shot me a playful glare, her green eyes sparkling with amusement. “Ha ha, very funny, Doctor,” she retorted, feigning offense as she accepted my hand to steady her.
The scent of brewing coffee wafted from the kitchen, drawing us like a magnet. Boy, how I loved that coffee timer. As we entered, the cozy island apartment behind the clinic filled with the aroma of blessed caffeine. I busied myself with preparing breakfast, while Roz tried to get comfortable in a chair, adjusting cushions behind her back with a huff.
“Thanks, love,” she said, giving me a grateful smile as I placed a steaming mug of coffee in front of her. “You always know how to make my mornings better.”
I chuckled, flipping pancakes into the air to land perfectly in the skillet. “Well, that’s what happens when you have a master chef for a husband,” I teased, winking at her playfully.
We sat down to enjoy our meal, the clinking of cutlery and soft morning light creating a peaceful ambiance. “I still can’t believe it’s Christmas already,” Roz remarked, savoring a bite of her pancakes.
“Looking forward to spending the day with Joseph and my mom? I still can’t believe she’s going to cook a Christmas dinner. There’s not one Christmas meal I can recall that wasn’t catered.” I replied, reaching across the table to squeeze her hand.
“Don’t worry,” she smiled, her eyes lighting up with excitement. “I’m sure it’s going to be perfect. And even if it isn’t, I’m still happy she’s here. This will be our first Christmas together!” And from her smile, and the tone of her voice, I knew this fact was important.
Family meant everything to her, and bringing my mother into the fold had been her mission ever since they’d met at our wedding.
“True. I’m just as glad as you are. I think she’s settling down more these days. Now,” I added, “it’s time for your present.”
Handing her a small wrapped box, I kissed her cheek. “Merry Christmas.”
Her hands eagerly tore into the paper, revealing a delicate silver necklace with an intricate rose charm. “Oh, Daniel, it’s beautiful,” she exclaimed, holding it up to the light. “It’s so detailed, yet so delicate. Thank you, my love.”
“Only the best for my Rosie,” I replied, feeling a warmth spread in my chest at her genuine delight.
She handed me a medium package in return, her eyes dancing with anticipation. I unwrapped it to find a leather-bound journal. “For your thoughts and musings,” she explained softly. “To jot down all your brilliant ideas.”
“Ah, planning to keep my genius organized, are you?” I chuckled, already picturing the pages filled with scribbles and sketches.
“Someone has to,” Roz teased, nudging me playfully. “Now, about that walk along the beach...”
“OK, let’s get dressed, my dear,” I said, taking her hand as we returned to the bedroom to put on our cold weather clothes.
Grabbing our jackets beside the door, we stepped out into the crisp winter air. The salty breeze chilled our faces as we strolled down the beach, letting the sound of the waves crashing against the shore fill the silence between us.
Taking our time to enjoy the clear morning weather on this bright Christmas Day, we waved to a few other couples walking along the beach.
Rosalind and I stopped and stood at the edge of the beach in front of Joseph’s house, looking out over the water. All bundled up like two giant marshmallows in our winter gear, we just watched the waves roll in and out. Somehow, the rhythm of the waves drained any worries away. Nature’s magic, I supposed.
After a while, I asked, “ready to go?” Then I caught my scarf, pulling it tighter around my neck, as a stiff breeze almost tore it away.
Rosalind chuckled at my antics, her breath forming little puffs of cloud in the chilly air. “As ready as I’ll ever be. Lead the way, oh fearless guide.”
With a mock bow, I gestured towards the path behind us, leading to Joseph’s house. “Behold, fair maiden, the treacherous journey ahead.”
She rolled her eyes playfully, taking my hand. “I fear no danger by your side, oh noble knight.”
We started walking, our footsteps leaving imprints in the leftover snow remnants from the last storm. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore followed us, a soothing melody that accented our conversation.
“Remember that storm last year?” I asked, glancing at Rosalind. “When we got snowed in?”
Rosalind nodded, a fond smile playing on her lips. “How could I forget? You saved my life.”
“I wouldn’t go that far,” nudging her with my elbow, I added. “Mack found you, and I’m sure Joseph would’ve woken up had I not been there.”
She laughed, her eyes sparkling with mirth. “Maybe. But you were the one who brought me in before I froze.”
“I watched you while you slept, and was kicking myself for not having the courage to see I’d been falling for you all along.” I joked, squeezing her hand. “But look where we are now.”
Rosalind’s gaze softened, her expression turning tender. “Yeah, look where we are now.”
A seagull soared overhead, its cry blending with the gentle rush of the waves.
“Whoa,” I exclaimed as Roz suddenly stumbled, and I reached out to steady her. “Careful there, love. Can’t have you falling and scaring our little one.”
Roz chuckled, a melodious sound that never failed to lift my spirits. “I’m fine. Just got caught off-guard by this little kicker.” She placed my hand on her belly, and I felt a tiny flutter against my palm.
“Wow,” I whispered, my heart swelling with wonder. “He’s quite the kicker.”
Awe filled her voice as she said, “that’s our baby’s way of saying ‘hello’.”
I couldn’t stop smiling when she talked about our baby. “Hey there, little one. It’s your old man here. Can’t wait to meet you.” I said as I rubbed her extended belly.
We stood there for a moment, lost in the magic that connected us, and the life growing inside her. The future seemed brighter than ever, and full of endless possibilities.
“Imagine all the adventures we’ll have together,” Roz mused, her eyes shining with excitement.
“Absolutely,” I agreed, my mind already drifting to thoughts of teaching our child about the wonders of the world. “We’ll show our children everything, from the secrets of the ocean to the beauty of the stars.”
Roz beamed at me, her love and faith in our future clear. “I can’t wait to see you as a dad, Daniel. You’re going to be incredible.”
Her words touched something deep within me, quieting the doubts and fears that often plagued my thoughts. She always knew what I needed, exactly when I needed it.
As we walked up the steps to Joseph’s house, the notes of a familiar Christmas tune floated through the crisp winter air. Roz’s hand in mine felt warm and comforting.
“Sounds like they’re having a jolly time already,” I remarked, glancing sideways at Roz.
“Definitely. Let’s not keep them waiting,” she replied with a smile, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
The porch steps creaked under our weight as we ascended the stairs. The music growing louder with each step. Then laughter from inside mixed with the melody, creating a sense of joy that enveloped us.
“Ready for some holiday cheer?” I whispered to Roz, a playful glint in my eye.
“Always,” she answered, squeezing my hand gently.
Pushing open the door, the warmth inside hit us almost instantly, wrapping us in a cozy embrace. The scene before us was a picture of happiness. The twinkling lights, the aroma of festive food, and the sounds of Christmas.
“Welcome!” Joseph’s booming voice greeted us, his face alight with joy. “Come on in, you two. We’ve been waiting for you.”
“Merry Christmas, Grandpa,” Roz chimed in, her voice filled with affection as she hugged him tightly.
“Merry Christmas, Rosie. Daniel, it’s good to see you,” Joseph added, clapping a hand on my shoulder. “Merry Christmas.”
“Merry Christmas.” I replied, feeling a sense of belonging wash over me. This house had become our second home since we visited here so often.
The air was thick, with the scent of roasting turkey and freshly baked pies. As we entered the kitchen, Joseph’s Beagle, Mack, wagged his tail excitedly, sniffing around for any dropped treats.
“Margaret, you shouldn’t have gone to such trouble,” Rosalind said in surprise, eyeing the spread of delicious dishes that lined the table. “But it all looks and smells delicious. Merry Christmas.” She added as she leaned in for a hug, trying to avoid a dripping ladle.
“It’s Christmas. Let me spoil my family a bit,” Margaret replied. Her tone was softer than usual, a hint of warmth in her eyes, especially when she looked at Roz’s rounded belly.
“Trust me, we’re not complaining,” Roz added, a mischievous smile playing on her lips as she sampled a piece of Apple Crumb Cake.
“You can’t argue with a pregnant woman when it comes to food,” I chuckled, giving Mom a hug. “Merry Christmas, Mom.” My mother had loosened up a lot after finding out about the baby. Things like hugs were becoming commonplace now. Becoming a grandmother was my mother’s dream, and I welcomed the changes taking place.
“Merry Christmas, Daniel. Why don’t you two sit down in the living room and visit with Joseph until the food’s ready?” And she shooed us out of the kitchen, and out from underfoot.
Rosalind would’ve offered to help in the kitchen, but her belly made getting around in the small space very difficult.
Joseph settled in his chair by the fireplace, his presence radiating comfort and love. “So, catch me up. How are things going at the clinic?”
As we chatted, with Margaret going back and forth and adding her comments and questions, the time just flew by. When the last timer went off, we were directed to find our places at the table.
Between the kitchen counter and the table, not much space remained open. Food covered nearly every surface.
Joseph gave the blessing, and we started passing dishes.
As we dished out the helpings of ham, turkey, stuffing, green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy, and many more, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Filled with light-hearted banter and shared memories.
Between bites, I caught Roz stealing glances at me, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. It filled me with a warmth that rivaled the crackling fire in the hearth.
“Everything tastes amazing, Mom. You’ve outdone yourself,” I complimented, savoring each mouthful.
“Thank you, Daniel. It’s a pleasure to see my family enjoying a good meal,” she replied, a softness in her gaze that spoke volumes.
As the night wore on, the chatter turned to the baby, our future plans, and the joy ahead.
“Well, the apartment is fine for now, but we’re thinking of looking for a house after the baby comes. We may even have to build if nothing’s available, and if that’s the case, then we’ll want to get started as quickly as possible.”
“Before we talk about building houses, I have something to share,” Margaret announced, her eyes dancing with mischief.
Roz and I exchanged curious glances, wondering what surprises she had up her well-tailored sleeves.
“First, I’ve decided to retire and move to the island permanently. I want to be close to my grandchild,” Margaret revealed, a genuine smile gracing her features.
“Really?” Roz gasped, her eyes widening in pleased shock. “That’s amazing news!” With her mother and grandmother gone, Roz was hoping for some help with this first child.
“Indeed, it’s time for me to slow down and enjoy life, and this beautiful island with all my family is the perfect place,” Margaret added, her tone filled with resolve.
“Welcome to the island retirement club, Margaret,” Joseph chuckled, raising his glass in a toast.
“Thank you, Joseph. Now, for the second surprise,” Margaret continued, her gaze shifting between Roz and me.
I felt a prickle of curiosity at her words and the secrecy, wondering what more she could possibly unveil on this eventful evening.
“Daniel, you’ll be taking over the family’s holdings, as we’ve already agreed. But you haven’t seen everything yet. How much would you estimate our holdings at, from the little you’ve seen?” Her question took me off-guard, so I needed a moment to answer.
“Well, just going off what I’ve seen? I would say, maybe ten million?” As large as that figure was, most of the value would be in long-term assets, not cash or anything that could be turned over quickly. Still, it was impressive.
“Not bad. That’s a closer estimate than I expected. However, it’s not even close to our total holdings.”
“OK, I’ll bite. What’s the total value of our holdings, including the businesses I haven’t worked with yet?” Her hesitancy was getting on my nerves. Why not just say it?
“Try multi-billions. Yes, that’s billions with a ‘b’.” Margaret dropped the bombshell, watching our reactions closely.
My mind reeled at the revelation, the weight of such responsibility settling on my shoulders. Billionaire? It was a title I never thought would be associated with my name.
“Is this some kind of holiday joke, Mom?” I asked, trying to process the enormity of her announcement.
“Absolutely not, Daniel. This is real,” Margaret affirmed, her expression serious yet showing a hint of amusement.
Roz’s eyes widened in disbelief, and a slow smile spread across her face as she squeezed my hand under the table. “I can’t believe it. This just turned into something out of a fairy tale. What will this mean for us? For our family’s future? Are we really billionaires?” Her voice trembled with excitement and wonder.
What would this mean for our future? For our child or God willing, the ones to come? So many thoughts ran through my head, but one popped up in front of the others.
“Let’s build a family compound! Somewhere we can all be close and share moments like these.” I suggested, my mind already racing with architectural plans and visions of a home filled with laughter and love.
Roz’s eyes lit up with excitement, her trust in me unwavering. “I love that idea, Daniel. A place where our families can grow together, and where our child can run free by the ocean.”
“What do you think of that idea, Mom?” I asked, knowing she already had something in mind.
“I agree with you both. In fact, a similar idea crossed my mind, and I’ve already purchased a large plot of land with beach access. So, all we have to do is agree on the plans, and find a builder.”
I looked at Roz, and she looked at me. “Let’s get designing!” She cheered.
And as the plans came together, everyone chipped in their ideas. We began to design The Westbrook Estates on Lonesome Bay Island.
A home for generations to come, and a home the entire island would be proud of.
Space for our growing and extended family, but without damaging the beauty of our island.
Now that money was not an object, ideas flowed, not just for our home, but also for the community.
And another dream grew on a new Christmas Day.