When Sophie opened her eyes, a wide smile came across her face. He's coming today.It was December 24. Sophie remembered standing over Robert with her hand on his shoulder as he booked today's flight. He should be leaving for the air port in a couple of minutes.
Sophie got out of bed and put on her maroon slippers and robe, these had been last years Christmas gifts from Robert. Even though she wasn't really catholic, they still celebrated Christmas, for Roberts's sake. Last Christmas had been spent in Rhode Island with Robert's family. His parents, sister, her husband, and their two children were there. Sophie loved being part of a family again. After the death of her grandfather she was scared she was alone, but that had changed within a matter of twenty four hours. Even though Robert's parents hated the French, they still respected Sophie. Sophie and Jill, Robert's sister, got along great.
This year it was Sophie's turn to host Christmas. Sophie's best friends Florentine and Pier were coming to cook dinner, Sophie wasn't the best cook. Her grandma and brother were also coming. Nothing was about to spoil her holiday. Then the phone rang.
"Hello?"
"Hi Sophie"
"Robert, are you on your way to the air port?"
"Yeah, um Sophie,"
"What's wrong?"
"One of my old friends, Vittoria, surprised me by showing up at my door step last night. Do you mind if she comes?"
"Of course she could come; it's not a big deal, why do you sound so solemn."
"Nothing, I just feel bad inviting two strangers to your house."
"Two?"
"She has a little girl."
"Oh how cute, how old is she?"
"She's um,sixteen months."
"How cute, see you soon."
"Er, I love you."
"Love you to, bye."
Sophie hung up the phone, how magnificent, Sophie smiled. She loved children especially babies. I must get them a gift. Sophie called her grandmother Marie.
"Grandma," She said in French.
"Princess, how are you."
"I'm great grandma."
"Did Robert come yet?" Her grandma was talking funny.
"He's on his way, he's bringing a friend. Well two but,"
"Who?"
"I don't no, his friend and her daughter. On your way could you pick up a gift for a woman probably my age and a sixteen month old baby?"
"Why of course, I'll be there in a couple of hours."
"Thanks. Bye."
Sophie sat on her brown leather couch and gazed upon the Christmas tree. It was fake, but still beautiful. She remembered when she was little; her grandfather had never put anything under a tree, except for a puzzle. Sophie could remember running around the house finding clues with little gifts attached, like chocolates, or a bow. The gifts would get more spectacular as the clues got harder until she came to the final most gorgeous gift. Her grandfather would laugh his deep laugh when she found her gift. She missed him dearly. I wish you were here. She sighed as a single tear came down her cheek.