Disclaimer: It's still the same.
A/N: Just enjoy it!
THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
Chapter 3
After half an hour and some wrong turns, they parked the car in front of the shelter downtown. Danielle hopped out and headed for the entrance. She obviously knew this place well.
Max jumped out of the car to follow here close. She hadn't gotten the impression that this guy was dangerous, but better safe than sorry she thought.
Logan sighed and followed Max who had been torn between running after Danielle and waiting for him.
Now she was impatiently waiting at the entrance, holding the door open for Logan to wheel through.
Danielle went inside and looked around. Every now and then someone passed her and greeted her, some giving the girl and the guy in her company an odd look, but nobody seemed intrigued enough to ask.
A huge Christmas tree with artificial lights stood in one corner. Across the large, clinical room a line had built, everyone carrying a tray. The people looked sad, cold and tired and Max had to swallow.
She looked at Logan, assuming he was even more shocked given that he didn't have to worry about something like that at all. But he seemed to have expected this somehow.
Suddenly Danielle turned around to Max to catch her attention, and then pointed at a small man, crouched over one of the tables in the back of the room. He was completely focussed on the bowl of soup in front of him.
"There's Buddy," the girl said, looking back and forth from Max to Logan, waiting for one of them to do something.
Max nodded. "Great, that was quick. Let's go." She preceded Logan who had to ask an old woman to move aside so he could fit through the narrow aisles between the tables.
Danielle shyly trailed behind them.
Max stopped right in front of the guy and looked down at him, waiting for him to acknowledge her.
Logan had stopped a little behind her and now smiled at Danielle who looked lost and scared. Out of an impulse he grabbed her hand and nodded encouragingly.
It took Buddy some time to become aware that there was someone towering over him and to tear his gaze from his meal.
He was utterly surprised to see this beautiful young woman stare at him angrily.
"How may I help you, young lady?" He tried not to show his shock.
Max cocked her head to the side "I was just wondering if you might be missing a package for Christmas?"
Buddy frowned, confused, and shook his head.
Max stepped forward and put her hands down on the table. Waving her head at Danielle she added. "May I refresh your memory by saying that this young lady is missing her mom, who was carrying a package for you," she hissed.
Buddy looked at the girl who was now standing close to Logan with his arm around her waist, stroking her back soothingly.
"I'm sorry. I don't know what you are talking about."
Max slammed her hand on the table furiously. "Her mom got arrested for carrying illegal drugs, which she didn't even have a clue were in the pack you gave her. Ring a bell?" she said just loud enough for him to hear.
Buddy swallowed hard and held his hands up. "Look, this was an accident. I didn't mean for her to be caught," he said in almost a whisper.
Max stepped back, crossing her arms in front of her. "Oh, you didn't? So how do you explain that to the poor girl? I tell you something. You're gonna come with us now to straighten things out, otherwise you won't even be able to use that spoon anymore," she said with a sweet smile.
Buddy looked up in panic. "I can't do that! They will keep me there and I won't get out again after a few days like Kelly will. I have a family to take care of!"
"What did you want with those drugs anyway?" Logan asked. He would not help that guy if he was dealing drugs on a regular basis, because then he deserved to be in jail.
"I...I just wanted to make some money, to buy presents for the kids, and provide them a decent meal for Christmas." Buddy explained miserably.
Logan looked at Max, trying to judge her reaction. For his part, he believed that guy. The way his eyes were shining with tears and the regret he saw there seemed genuine to him.
Max still wouldn't let go. "I know, times are tough, but that's no excuse getting an innocent woman into trouble. Why did you give the drugs to her anyway?" he asked, narrowing her eyes.
"This guy asked me to give them to this other guy, for good money. But then somehow police got wind of it, and I can't risk being caught with drugs again."
He looked up at Max pleadingly. "I'm not proud of my past, believe me. But it's there and with it, I would not have stood a chance if they found the drugs with me."
Max now smiled a sweet smile-in fact a little too sweet and cocked her head to the side. "I don't care about your past. I'm just trying to get this girl's mother out of prison, where she is held because of YOU! So are you coming or what?" to emphasize her point she stepped closer again, staring right at him.
He looked at Logan, totally anxious. "Please, I have kids at home. I can't do that!"
Logan raised his eyebrows. "You have to stand up for what you did. Sorry, man." Logan wheeled a little closer. "We'll see what we can do for you, after you've set the record straight," he added. In the back of his mind he made a decision, hoping he wouldn't regret it. "It's Christmas after all."
As Max didn't give him another choice, Buddy slowly got up and grabbed the bag that he had left lying at his feet.
Logan and Danielle followed them, feeling the eyes of everybody in the room on their backs.
**
The made their way back to the jail and presented themselves at the entrance again. "Hi!" Logan grinned at the guard, noticing it was the same guy again.
"Listen, do you think we could talk to your boss? It's still about Kelly Watson. There has been some new development."
Max held Buddy in a tight grip and felt him tense. On some level she actually felt sorry for him, but then she looked at Danielle and then at Logan, she knew he had felt the same way for this poor man and would try to help him out of this mess, too. She couldn't really tell how he wanted to do that, but he would certainly find a way.
The guard rolled his eyes but didn't object this time. Wordlessly he punched in a number and handed the receiver to Logan.
Logan repeated his explanations and then handed the phone back. "He is awaiting us." He smiled at the guy once again.
The guard buzzed them through once more and pointed into the direction of the offices. Logan took the lead, Max, Buddy and the kid followed him.
It took Logan five minutes to clear things up; he explained the story as Buddy and Kelly had told it and the police officer turned out to be a friendly guy who accepted the turn of events almost immediately. "Well, if that's it, and Mr. Thomas is willing to sign this, I don't see why we should keep Mrs Watson any longer." He stood up to shake Logan's hand. "Thank you for helping clearing things up, Mr Cale."
Max stared at him open-mouthed. She had learnt how difficult and annoying dealing with the American police could be. Apparently Canada was a lot better off in that respect. Maybe she should consider moving here, would make her career as a thief a lot easier.
Logan shook hands with the officer and thanked him. Casting a sideway glance at Buddy, who looked like he was going to break down any minute, he added.
"You're going to keep him until he's put on trial?" Logan had made sure that it wouldn't be too much money to get Buddy out again, but he decided against announcing that immediately. Wouldn't be a bad thing to teach Buddy a lesson, he figured.
The officer nodded. "But if he is willing to provide us with enough information to nail down those dealers, I think he doesn't need to worry too much."
"See, officer, it's Christmas after all, and he's got family. How much will it cost for him to be free on bail?" Logan asked
"The common bail is 6,500 dollars. But you know, it's basically my decision right now." He grinned at Logan. "And I owe you something. I've been chasing that drug dealer for some time now. Maybe our friend can help us get some good information on him. Then I might be inclined to let him go until the trial."
"I'm sure he can be very helpful." Logan agreed, his eyes sparkling.
Buddy sighed thankful. The officer stood up. "Now let's go, get Mrs Watson out. Then we can sit down and talk." He said to Buddy.
He led the way back to the cells and instructed for the guard to open the door
Max and Danielle followed them. At Logan's smile and nod they had both seen that he had been successful, not that Max had ever doubted that, she realized, pride swelling in her chest.
Danielle started to tremble with excitement while she tightened her grip on Max's hand. Is my Mommy free now?"
"Yes, she is." Max smiled at her and shoved her through the now open door, encouragingly.
Kelly took he in her arms, sending a questioning look across to the small crowd.
"You are free to go," Logan explained. "And as your attorney I congratulate you." He winked.
Kelly smiled, tears of relief shining in her eyes. "Oh, thank you so much. Did you...?"
"We cleared some things up." Max explained. "And now let's get outta here!"
She quickly ushered them out of the cell and down the hallway. "We found Buddy," she filled Kelly in. "He confessed that it was his package."
Logan exchanged some more words with the officer, thanked him again and followed the women.
In the car Logan turned around to watch mother and daughter. "What do you say? We go to the Christmas market and have a Gluhwein after all that chaos, and then we can see at our hotel if they
have another room for tonight."
Max turned to him and grinned. She was inclined to ask the man next to her again what he had done with the 'real' Logan. He seemed so confident and relaxed. This journey had really done him some good.
He caught her look and frowned slightly, looking at her confused. "What?"
Kelly looked from her daughter at Logan. "I'm not even sure I can afford a Gluhwein." She blushed, hating to admit that.
Logan looked at her in the mirror. "No problem, the day's on me," he said, smiling.
"As long as I get to see some more of that market." he added jokingly.
"I can't..." Kelly started.
Max shut her up immediately. "Sure you can. This guy's loaded." She winked at her. "He pays for me all the time. No shame in that." She nudged Logan's shoulder playfully.
"Pay attention Max, this might be taken the wrong way!"
That earned him a smack upon the head from Max. "You shut up. You're supposed to be driving!"
Kelly giggled. "You're a nice couple."
"Oh, we're not..." the two of them started in immediately, then both broke into a laughing fit.
"Oh sorry, I assumed. I mean you look so...I don't know..."
Logan drove back to the Christmas market, slowly he knew his way through the town he realized.
He parked the car and they all climbed out, Danielle clinging to her mom happily.
They fought their way through the crowds. Tomorrow was Christmas Eve and more and more people tried to lift their Christmas Spirits by a visit to the Market.
Max was the one to keep her bearing and let them straight to a booth that sold Gluhwein and hot chocolate. She ordered for all four of them and then held out her hand for Logan's wallet, smiling sweetly at him and then winking at Kelly. "See, it's really easy."
"Thank you." Kelly said shyly. "And thank you for helping me in the first place. I don't know what I would've done..." she looked from Max to Logan thankfully.
"You're welcome." Logan smiled and held up his cup. "Cheers."
I'd never thought anybody would do something like that. I mean, you don't even know me!"
Max shrugged. "Logan's been like that forever. He can't help himself. And it kinda rubbed off on me, I guess."
Logan smiled at Max cockily. "You don't know me that long, do you?"
"I know enough." She stuck out her tongue and giggled. The alcohol already made her feel warm.
"What will happen to Buddy now?" Kelly asked confused.
Logan took another sip from his cup before he answered. "He'll give the police some information about the real bad guys and in exchange for that they'll release them on probation until the trial," he said pleased.
"Just like that?"
"Well I guess the chief was in a good mood, because of Christmas." Logan shrugged.
They finished their drinks, and then took another tour of the market, taking their time at all the colourful booths.
Logan watched Max in awe and didn't notice Kelly throwing glances at him from time to time. This guy had it bad for Max!
And she had also seen how Max treated him, how her eyes shone when she talked to him.
Danielle had long lost interest in the adults. She was always ahead of them, exploring all the tinsel people were offering. Her eyes were shining.
"I feel so bad for not being able to give her the Christmas she deserves." Kelly suddenly said thoughtfully, watching the girl try one of the toys.
Logan took Kelly by the arm and pushed her aside. Then he held out some money. "I know you don't like this, but she doesn't need to know."
Kelly looked at him confused, shaking her head. "I can't accept that, I..."
"It's not for you." He looked at her pleadingly. "She deserves a great present, don't you think? And I really can afford it."
Kelly shook her head. "You have done so much already. I can't take the money. Logan shrugged and put back the money and said. "Well in that case...I have no other choice than..." he turned around, grinning and waved for Max to come closer. Then he whispered something into her ear.
She nodded and smiled, then blazed off with a quick. "See you in a bit."
Kelly looked at Logan questioningly, but he shrugged it off. "You'll see." he said. "Now how about something to eat? I'm starving."
Kelly smiled. "I guess you heard my stomach rumbling. I can't say no to that."
Logan grinned. "Great, lead the way."
They called Danielle and waited for her by the booth that sold sausages.
When they had finished their food, Danielle asked where Max was. As if on cue Max appeared, face all red and smiling happily. "Task accomplished." she exclaimed, pointing in the direction of a big Christmas tree that was leaning against the back of the neighbouring booth.
"Danielle, you wanna pick out some stuff to decorate it?" she asked.
"All we need now is decoration and we are gonna have a fun evening decorating it."
Kelly stared at the tree and then back to Logan. "You mean..?"
"What's Christmas without a tree?"
"Well, I guess...thank you."
She bent down out of an impulse and gave him a kiss on the cheek. Logan looked a little startled. He was not used to people treating him like that
Max and Danielle headed off in search for some decoration, while Logan got out a fifty dollar note. "Now what is Christmas without a present and a good meal?" he offered.
"I can't believe it. I guess you're our own personal Santa this year."
Logan blushed slightly. "I just think everybody should be happy for Christmas." Thinking back to his miserable mood just a few days go, he added. "If it's that easy to make you happy, I'm glad to help."
Max and Danielle finally found again, both carrying bags and smiling from ear to ear. Logan had convinced Kelly to buy a real present for her daughter and so they returned to the car chatty and relaxed.
TBC…
Please review!
A/N: Just enjoy it!
THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
Chapter 3
After half an hour and some wrong turns, they parked the car in front of the shelter downtown. Danielle hopped out and headed for the entrance. She obviously knew this place well.
Max jumped out of the car to follow here close. She hadn't gotten the impression that this guy was dangerous, but better safe than sorry she thought.
Logan sighed and followed Max who had been torn between running after Danielle and waiting for him.
Now she was impatiently waiting at the entrance, holding the door open for Logan to wheel through.
Danielle went inside and looked around. Every now and then someone passed her and greeted her, some giving the girl and the guy in her company an odd look, but nobody seemed intrigued enough to ask.
A huge Christmas tree with artificial lights stood in one corner. Across the large, clinical room a line had built, everyone carrying a tray. The people looked sad, cold and tired and Max had to swallow.
She looked at Logan, assuming he was even more shocked given that he didn't have to worry about something like that at all. But he seemed to have expected this somehow.
Suddenly Danielle turned around to Max to catch her attention, and then pointed at a small man, crouched over one of the tables in the back of the room. He was completely focussed on the bowl of soup in front of him.
"There's Buddy," the girl said, looking back and forth from Max to Logan, waiting for one of them to do something.
Max nodded. "Great, that was quick. Let's go." She preceded Logan who had to ask an old woman to move aside so he could fit through the narrow aisles between the tables.
Danielle shyly trailed behind them.
Max stopped right in front of the guy and looked down at him, waiting for him to acknowledge her.
Logan had stopped a little behind her and now smiled at Danielle who looked lost and scared. Out of an impulse he grabbed her hand and nodded encouragingly.
It took Buddy some time to become aware that there was someone towering over him and to tear his gaze from his meal.
He was utterly surprised to see this beautiful young woman stare at him angrily.
"How may I help you, young lady?" He tried not to show his shock.
Max cocked her head to the side "I was just wondering if you might be missing a package for Christmas?"
Buddy frowned, confused, and shook his head.
Max stepped forward and put her hands down on the table. Waving her head at Danielle she added. "May I refresh your memory by saying that this young lady is missing her mom, who was carrying a package for you," she hissed.
Buddy looked at the girl who was now standing close to Logan with his arm around her waist, stroking her back soothingly.
"I'm sorry. I don't know what you are talking about."
Max slammed her hand on the table furiously. "Her mom got arrested for carrying illegal drugs, which she didn't even have a clue were in the pack you gave her. Ring a bell?" she said just loud enough for him to hear.
Buddy swallowed hard and held his hands up. "Look, this was an accident. I didn't mean for her to be caught," he said in almost a whisper.
Max stepped back, crossing her arms in front of her. "Oh, you didn't? So how do you explain that to the poor girl? I tell you something. You're gonna come with us now to straighten things out, otherwise you won't even be able to use that spoon anymore," she said with a sweet smile.
Buddy looked up in panic. "I can't do that! They will keep me there and I won't get out again after a few days like Kelly will. I have a family to take care of!"
"What did you want with those drugs anyway?" Logan asked. He would not help that guy if he was dealing drugs on a regular basis, because then he deserved to be in jail.
"I...I just wanted to make some money, to buy presents for the kids, and provide them a decent meal for Christmas." Buddy explained miserably.
Logan looked at Max, trying to judge her reaction. For his part, he believed that guy. The way his eyes were shining with tears and the regret he saw there seemed genuine to him.
Max still wouldn't let go. "I know, times are tough, but that's no excuse getting an innocent woman into trouble. Why did you give the drugs to her anyway?" he asked, narrowing her eyes.
"This guy asked me to give them to this other guy, for good money. But then somehow police got wind of it, and I can't risk being caught with drugs again."
He looked up at Max pleadingly. "I'm not proud of my past, believe me. But it's there and with it, I would not have stood a chance if they found the drugs with me."
Max now smiled a sweet smile-in fact a little too sweet and cocked her head to the side. "I don't care about your past. I'm just trying to get this girl's mother out of prison, where she is held because of YOU! So are you coming or what?" to emphasize her point she stepped closer again, staring right at him.
He looked at Logan, totally anxious. "Please, I have kids at home. I can't do that!"
Logan raised his eyebrows. "You have to stand up for what you did. Sorry, man." Logan wheeled a little closer. "We'll see what we can do for you, after you've set the record straight," he added. In the back of his mind he made a decision, hoping he wouldn't regret it. "It's Christmas after all."
As Max didn't give him another choice, Buddy slowly got up and grabbed the bag that he had left lying at his feet.
Logan and Danielle followed them, feeling the eyes of everybody in the room on their backs.
**
The made their way back to the jail and presented themselves at the entrance again. "Hi!" Logan grinned at the guard, noticing it was the same guy again.
"Listen, do you think we could talk to your boss? It's still about Kelly Watson. There has been some new development."
Max held Buddy in a tight grip and felt him tense. On some level she actually felt sorry for him, but then she looked at Danielle and then at Logan, she knew he had felt the same way for this poor man and would try to help him out of this mess, too. She couldn't really tell how he wanted to do that, but he would certainly find a way.
The guard rolled his eyes but didn't object this time. Wordlessly he punched in a number and handed the receiver to Logan.
Logan repeated his explanations and then handed the phone back. "He is awaiting us." He smiled at the guy once again.
The guard buzzed them through once more and pointed into the direction of the offices. Logan took the lead, Max, Buddy and the kid followed him.
It took Logan five minutes to clear things up; he explained the story as Buddy and Kelly had told it and the police officer turned out to be a friendly guy who accepted the turn of events almost immediately. "Well, if that's it, and Mr. Thomas is willing to sign this, I don't see why we should keep Mrs Watson any longer." He stood up to shake Logan's hand. "Thank you for helping clearing things up, Mr Cale."
Max stared at him open-mouthed. She had learnt how difficult and annoying dealing with the American police could be. Apparently Canada was a lot better off in that respect. Maybe she should consider moving here, would make her career as a thief a lot easier.
Logan shook hands with the officer and thanked him. Casting a sideway glance at Buddy, who looked like he was going to break down any minute, he added.
"You're going to keep him until he's put on trial?" Logan had made sure that it wouldn't be too much money to get Buddy out again, but he decided against announcing that immediately. Wouldn't be a bad thing to teach Buddy a lesson, he figured.
The officer nodded. "But if he is willing to provide us with enough information to nail down those dealers, I think he doesn't need to worry too much."
"See, officer, it's Christmas after all, and he's got family. How much will it cost for him to be free on bail?" Logan asked
"The common bail is 6,500 dollars. But you know, it's basically my decision right now." He grinned at Logan. "And I owe you something. I've been chasing that drug dealer for some time now. Maybe our friend can help us get some good information on him. Then I might be inclined to let him go until the trial."
"I'm sure he can be very helpful." Logan agreed, his eyes sparkling.
Buddy sighed thankful. The officer stood up. "Now let's go, get Mrs Watson out. Then we can sit down and talk." He said to Buddy.
He led the way back to the cells and instructed for the guard to open the door
Max and Danielle followed them. At Logan's smile and nod they had both seen that he had been successful, not that Max had ever doubted that, she realized, pride swelling in her chest.
Danielle started to tremble with excitement while she tightened her grip on Max's hand. Is my Mommy free now?"
"Yes, she is." Max smiled at her and shoved her through the now open door, encouragingly.
Kelly took he in her arms, sending a questioning look across to the small crowd.
"You are free to go," Logan explained. "And as your attorney I congratulate you." He winked.
Kelly smiled, tears of relief shining in her eyes. "Oh, thank you so much. Did you...?"
"We cleared some things up." Max explained. "And now let's get outta here!"
She quickly ushered them out of the cell and down the hallway. "We found Buddy," she filled Kelly in. "He confessed that it was his package."
Logan exchanged some more words with the officer, thanked him again and followed the women.
In the car Logan turned around to watch mother and daughter. "What do you say? We go to the Christmas market and have a Gluhwein after all that chaos, and then we can see at our hotel if they
have another room for tonight."
Max turned to him and grinned. She was inclined to ask the man next to her again what he had done with the 'real' Logan. He seemed so confident and relaxed. This journey had really done him some good.
He caught her look and frowned slightly, looking at her confused. "What?"
Kelly looked from her daughter at Logan. "I'm not even sure I can afford a Gluhwein." She blushed, hating to admit that.
Logan looked at her in the mirror. "No problem, the day's on me," he said, smiling.
"As long as I get to see some more of that market." he added jokingly.
"I can't..." Kelly started.
Max shut her up immediately. "Sure you can. This guy's loaded." She winked at her. "He pays for me all the time. No shame in that." She nudged Logan's shoulder playfully.
"Pay attention Max, this might be taken the wrong way!"
That earned him a smack upon the head from Max. "You shut up. You're supposed to be driving!"
Kelly giggled. "You're a nice couple."
"Oh, we're not..." the two of them started in immediately, then both broke into a laughing fit.
"Oh sorry, I assumed. I mean you look so...I don't know..."
Logan drove back to the Christmas market, slowly he knew his way through the town he realized.
He parked the car and they all climbed out, Danielle clinging to her mom happily.
They fought their way through the crowds. Tomorrow was Christmas Eve and more and more people tried to lift their Christmas Spirits by a visit to the Market.
Max was the one to keep her bearing and let them straight to a booth that sold Gluhwein and hot chocolate. She ordered for all four of them and then held out her hand for Logan's wallet, smiling sweetly at him and then winking at Kelly. "See, it's really easy."
"Thank you." Kelly said shyly. "And thank you for helping me in the first place. I don't know what I would've done..." she looked from Max to Logan thankfully.
"You're welcome." Logan smiled and held up his cup. "Cheers."
I'd never thought anybody would do something like that. I mean, you don't even know me!"
Max shrugged. "Logan's been like that forever. He can't help himself. And it kinda rubbed off on me, I guess."
Logan smiled at Max cockily. "You don't know me that long, do you?"
"I know enough." She stuck out her tongue and giggled. The alcohol already made her feel warm.
"What will happen to Buddy now?" Kelly asked confused.
Logan took another sip from his cup before he answered. "He'll give the police some information about the real bad guys and in exchange for that they'll release them on probation until the trial," he said pleased.
"Just like that?"
"Well I guess the chief was in a good mood, because of Christmas." Logan shrugged.
They finished their drinks, and then took another tour of the market, taking their time at all the colourful booths.
Logan watched Max in awe and didn't notice Kelly throwing glances at him from time to time. This guy had it bad for Max!
And she had also seen how Max treated him, how her eyes shone when she talked to him.
Danielle had long lost interest in the adults. She was always ahead of them, exploring all the tinsel people were offering. Her eyes were shining.
"I feel so bad for not being able to give her the Christmas she deserves." Kelly suddenly said thoughtfully, watching the girl try one of the toys.
Logan took Kelly by the arm and pushed her aside. Then he held out some money. "I know you don't like this, but she doesn't need to know."
Kelly looked at him confused, shaking her head. "I can't accept that, I..."
"It's not for you." He looked at her pleadingly. "She deserves a great present, don't you think? And I really can afford it."
Kelly shook her head. "You have done so much already. I can't take the money. Logan shrugged and put back the money and said. "Well in that case...I have no other choice than..." he turned around, grinning and waved for Max to come closer. Then he whispered something into her ear.
She nodded and smiled, then blazed off with a quick. "See you in a bit."
Kelly looked at Logan questioningly, but he shrugged it off. "You'll see." he said. "Now how about something to eat? I'm starving."
Kelly smiled. "I guess you heard my stomach rumbling. I can't say no to that."
Logan grinned. "Great, lead the way."
They called Danielle and waited for her by the booth that sold sausages.
When they had finished their food, Danielle asked where Max was. As if on cue Max appeared, face all red and smiling happily. "Task accomplished." she exclaimed, pointing in the direction of a big Christmas tree that was leaning against the back of the neighbouring booth.
"Danielle, you wanna pick out some stuff to decorate it?" she asked.
"All we need now is decoration and we are gonna have a fun evening decorating it."
Kelly stared at the tree and then back to Logan. "You mean..?"
"What's Christmas without a tree?"
"Well, I guess...thank you."
She bent down out of an impulse and gave him a kiss on the cheek. Logan looked a little startled. He was not used to people treating him like that
Max and Danielle headed off in search for some decoration, while Logan got out a fifty dollar note. "Now what is Christmas without a present and a good meal?" he offered.
"I can't believe it. I guess you're our own personal Santa this year."
Logan blushed slightly. "I just think everybody should be happy for Christmas." Thinking back to his miserable mood just a few days go, he added. "If it's that easy to make you happy, I'm glad to help."
Max and Danielle finally found again, both carrying bags and smiling from ear to ear. Logan had convinced Kelly to buy a real present for her daughter and so they returned to the car chatty and relaxed.
TBC…
Please review!