Still don't own.
:}
Christmas was fast becoming one of Jade's favorite holidays, a complete reversal from her youth, where her best gift ever was a hard day helping her grandfather destroy some stuff with a hammer. Only, in the time since, she'd fallen in love, more than once, settled down, found a career she loved, and was honestly happy. Spending holidays with her love, her new family, had become a bright spot in her memory, and she loved to share that joy.
"That red will look great on you." The man who'd spoken was about her age, with enough bravado to approach a beautiful woman in a store and open a conversation. "It contrasts your complexion, and… Wait, you're Jade West, aren't you?"
Jade bit down the first six reactions. She'd become a producer and writer of movies, a position that made her famous among some people, but invisible to the general population. Not bad for her first decade out of high school. However, while plenty of people would know who she was, Jade gave the man credit for not recognizing her. Her fool proof disguise, looking just like she always did, had so far fooled everyone. "It's not for me." Was her response. "Don't get me wrong, it's a beautiful leather jacket. Just, this is a motorcycle jacket, and I prefer other cuts."
"So, who're you buying that for, if it's not you?" The man asked. "Miles." His hand extended, and for the briefest moment, Jade imagined cutting it off. Only, it was the shopping days before Christmas, and she knew to give even men like him some slack.
"My wife." The words came out with precision, letting the man know this was his chance to back out without trouble.
"Wait, you're married?" The shock was hurtful, even though she hadn't exactly advertised her wedding. "Wait, your gay?"
"There a problem with that?" Jade shot back. "I'm married, and my darling wife loves her motorcycle. And before you ask, she got rebellious as she became famous… Yea, my wife is a name you may have heard of, if I was the kind to drop a name. Anyways, her bike is red, and she could use a new jacket to go with it. So, I'm buying her the jacket as a "thank you for putting up with my chiz" present, disguised as a Christmas present."
Miles watched the semi-famous goth for several seconds. "If I say you're just telling tales, I'm an insensitive lout, but it I accept that you're at least bi, then I'm the guy trying to cut into an existing relationship. Unless you're looking for a third, for one wild night…" He let that hang.
"Not interested in having a man anymore." Jade said. "But if we did decide we wanted one, any chance you've met one?"
"Ouch." Miles looked hurt, but composed himself. "I suppose I deserve that."
"That and more." Jade smirked. "Look, I'm gonna go buy this, then head out. Why don't you just consider the lesson, find a better way to approach women if you don't wanna be alone on Christmas. Bye."
As Jade walked away, Miles spoke into his watch. "Okay, confirmed Jade West is married, and to a woman. Process of elimination says it's Tori Vega. Only, we now know for sure that motorcycle she was seen with is hers. Not bad for playing the fool, right?"
:}
This needs to be expanded, but I don't feel it, so I'm posting it as is as my Christmas entry to tales. Review, and hope it made you think.