December 24, 1987

The King Residence-Maplewood Drive

The fire crackled in the fireplace as Lee and Amanda sat snuggled on the couch in the living room. The only light in the room came from the fire and the Christmas tree lights. She nestled in closer to him and he squeezed her tightly against him.

"I'm really glad you shaved your beard" she said in a husky tone. "I missed your face."

"I missed it, too. Feels much better with it gone."

Dotty entered the room carrying a tray.

"I brought you two some pie from dinner and some cocoa."

"Thanks, Mother. I hope you weren't too disappointed that we kept Christmas Eve small this year. I just wanted to spend it with my family and Lee."

Dotty smiled softly as she looked down at her daughter.

"I am not disappointed at all. And Amanda….Lee IS family. I'm afraid he's stuck with us."

Lee smiled and felt his cheeks grow a bit red.

"You're right, Mother. He is." Amanda said with a big smile.

Dotty looked down at Lee and Amanda and sighed a very happy sigh.

"I love you both, my darlings!"

"GIVE IT BACK! IT'S MINE!" came roaring from upstairs.

"Oh, they're at it again." Amanda said.

"STOP BEING SUCH A BABY!"

"Lee, are you sure you know what you're getting into by being part of the family?"

"I do and you couldn't get rid of me if you tried."