A/N — short and sweet today, but I'm also updating Once in Forever so lots for you to read. Hope you enjoy! And remember, if you have suggested prompts for this series or for the 2022 Holiday Fest, drop me a review or a note. xoxo — kals
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Name: Jingle Bells
Setting: Post-season 5; generally canon
Prompt: Jingle Bells
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Mike groaned as he heard the by now very familiar sound of halting piano notes floating through the open window. "Why is Frankie playing Jingle Bells in July?"
Pouring herself a cup of coffee and then holding out the pot to Mike, Maddie chuckled. "Standard piano primary." When Mike gave her a blank look, she added. "Only five notes, easily played with one hand and a familiar tune. Meaning it's in every beginner piano book."
Mike took the offered coffee. "Do you play?"
"No," Maddie replied instantly, before her face wrinkled. "My mother was a piano teacher. She tried everything to get me to learn. It just never clicked. Then I turned thirteen and that was that."
Mike could hear the tinge of sadness in Maddie's voice. He could even imagine the scene — a younger Maddie yelling I hate this! at her frustrated mother, before storming off and never touching a piano again. Moments that Maddie would likely give anything to get back. He waved his mug at her. "I've seen you fly. You might not have enjoyed learning, but I bet all of that practice helped strengthen your hands."
Maddie's eyes remained unfocused, her mind on something else, likely her parents. "Maybe."
Mike pressed on. "Think you might be willing to play for me one of these days?"
This time her eyes focused on his, a coy smile crossing her face. "Maybe. What do you think of hot crossed buns?"
Just then, Frankie transitioned from Jingle Bells to Happy Birthday. Mike groaned, then noticed the smirk on Maddie's face. "What?"
Maddie tipped her head towards the Green's house. "I was the one who gave Kara the books. I was just thinking about what comes next." She grinned. "You're going to love it."