I saw Mama Kissing Santa Claus
LJ layed in bed, excitement and anticipation for the upcoming day keeping him from peaceful slumber. He could hear his parents talking in the living room, but was not sure whether to investigate. His curiosity getting the better of him, LJ carefully and quietly slipped out from under his covers and tiptoed to his bedroom door.
He put his ear to the door for a moment, hearing his mother's voice. He thought he heard her singing but put the thought away. LJ knew that his mother never sings. He gently opened the door, scampering down the hallway to the top of the staircase to overlook the living room. Beneath him, LJ observed two figures bantering back and forth. Both clad in red, one appeared to be his mother. The other figure was a stranger to the young man, yet the fuzzy suit with white trim looked oddly familiar. A deep, jolly voice gave away the man's identity.
Holy cow! It's Santa Claus! The boy thought, his eyes brightening with excitement. He did his best to stay hidden. He did not want to get caught out of bed after bedtime. Christmas Eve would be the worst time to get put on the naughty list.
He sat quietly at the top of the stairs, listening to the ensuing conversation, allowing the occasional silent smile with some of the audible comments. Ha! Even Mom gets on the naughty list! There was a bout of silence followed by a gentle rustling sound. LJ looked back over the edge of the stairs. The sight made surprise and confusion come over his face. Holy cow! Mom's kissing Santa Claus! My mom's kissing Santa Claus! He ducked back behind the cover of the stairs, not sure if he should go back to his room or wait to see what else could happen. Opting to stay, LJ looked back on the unfolding scene. "Santa" started guiding the pair toward the stairs. Oh no! What if Mom catches me? LJ scurried back to his room, hiding behind his door. Through the crack he left in the door, he watched his mother and "Santa" stumble down the hallway to his parents' bedroom.
LJ spun around to face the room he shared with his brother. Raph rolled over. "LJ, what are you doing? Mom's gonna catch you out of bed and you won't get any christmas tomorrow."
"I wouldn't worry about Mom right now."
"Why not? She's probably on her way up right now to check on us."
"Uh, no she's not. I just saw her and I think she's a little occupied. Get this, Mom was kissing Santa Claus."
"No way!" Raph replied in disbelief.
"Yes way! I think he's still here, too!"
"Come on, no one gets to see Santa on Christmas Eve! He's too busy delivering toys!"
"I know what I saw whether you believe me or not!"
The boys were too busy arguing to hear their mother coming down the hallway. Spinelli swung the door open. "Leonardo Joseph Detweiler! Why are you not in bed?"