Hearts In Rhythm Read online

  “Did I tell you the good news?” Allie asked

  “No. What?”

  “I got enrolled for the spring classes. I start January 9.”

  “That’s awesome, Allie.”

  “Yes, now that the insurance has come through to pay Samuel’s medical bills, I can put the money I’d saved towards tuition.”

  Allie looked up and caught Brandon staring at her. His head was resting on his chin and his eyes bore into her.

  “What?” she said with a giggle.

  His mouth turned up at the ends.

  “It’s just that I think you’re amazing. I know I’ve never told you how proud I am of you.”

  She couldn’t keep from blushing.

  “So since you don’t need extra money now, does this mean I need to look for another drummer?”

  “Not on your life.”

  “Mama! Mama!” Samuel called.

  Brandon and Allie jumped up and ran in. Samuel had made his way into the living room and was sitting before the Christmas tree already busy with the toys that sat out in the open.

  The excitement roused Gail and she came stumbling into the living room tying a robe around her middle.

  “It looks like someone has been a good boy,” she said.

  She saw Brandon and said good morning. He poured her a cup of coffee and they sat on the couch watching as Samuel ripped open his presents.

  * * * *

  Wrapping paper covered the floor and Samuel was busy exploring all the newness when Brandon snuck off to his car and came back with an armload of gifts.

  “More presents?” Allie asked.

  “Yes, but these are for you two.”

  He walked over and handed Gail a gift.

  “You got something for me?”

  She opened her present and pulled out a gold chain with a heart pendant.

  “Thank you Brandon.”

  “Now, it’s your turn,” he said handing Allie a gift.

  “I got you something, too.” She dug around under all the paper debris and found his gifts.

  Brandon opened his first and found a Rolling Stone magazine that Allie had specially made with his face smiling from the front.

  “Just in case,” she said.

  Brandon had gotten Allie a framed copy of the lyrics to the song he had written for her.

  “You deserve to be happy,” he said leaning over and kissing her deeply.

  * * * *

  Allie pulled the golden turkey from the oven and brought it to the table where Samuel, Brandon, and Gail sat. The passed the food and said grace. This year, there was so much to be thankful for. Allie teared up while Brandon prayed and said a silent thank you of her own.

  After the meal, Allie leaned back in her chair.

  “Oh, I’m stuffed.”

  “But you’ve got to make room for dessert,” Brandon said rising from the table to retrieve the desserts he’d brought.

  He sliced the pie and handed Allie a piece, “I hope you like rhubarb pie.”

  She threw her head back and laughed.

  “My favorite.”

  - The End -