Only Three Months to Live
by Victor Thomas
Chapter 9
Keeping Leif's Christmas a secret from him was not easy, especially since more and more people found out about the party. Everyone was careful not to talk about it around him because they knew the party was moving to November this year. It was the biggest conspiracy in Chouteau ever.
"They know something is wrong with me," he said as we walked toward the cafeteria.
He was drawing more attention in school than usual. That was no doubt partly due to the Christmas plans, but even more so because of his appearance and obvious fatigue. Even if no one knew what was wrong with him, they would have suspected something was wrong from his appearance alone.
"You are very pale," I said.
"Yeah. I've lost nearly ten pounds too. I know I look like crap."
"You look beautiful to me."
He smiled.
"It's okay. I was never hung up on my appearance."
"You could be. You're gorgeous."
"If I ever was gorgeous, I'm not now."
"Nope, you're still gorgeous."
"We will agree to disagree." He frowned. "I'm worried about mom. This is hard on her. She tries not to let on, but I've heard her crying."
"Yeah, I'm sure it's hard on your whole family, but especially your mom. It's hard on all of us who love you."
"Are you sorry you didn't walk away when I told you I was going to die?"
"Not one bit. I love you."
"I don't deserve you."
"You deserve someone better than me."
"There is no one better."
"I disagree," I said.
"Then we'll have to agree to disagree again. You've made this easier for me, Owen."
"How?"
"By being you."
I gazed at him. He meant it. I didn't know what to say, so I said nothing.
I joined the line while he went to our table. By the time I sat down beside him with my tray of roast turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, and roll, one of my friends had already brought him his tray. We all worked to help him now, but I walked with him between classed the most often.
"My classes this morning were so boring! I should be getting paid for this. I want out of here. Beam me up, Scotty!" David said.
"What would you do if he did?" Keaton asked.
"Live out my fantasy."
"Maybe Star Trek is real. Maybe it's like that movie…" I said.
" Galaxy Quest ," Leif said.
"I love that movie. The best part is when that kid finds out it's all real and says, 'I knew it!'" David said.
"I bet your real fantasy is that Star Trek is real," Taryn said.
"Yes! I would like that more than sex."
"I never thought I'd hear a boy say he likes something better than sex," Paula said.
"If Star Trek was real that would be better than sex, but otherwise sex is number one," David said. "I could have all the sex I wanted on the holodeck. If only I could have sex in real life."
"Now you sound like a typical boy."
"Don't worry, most of us haven't had sex, with two notable exceptions," Taryn said.
Everyone looked at Leif and me. I blushed slightly.
"I bet they're animals in bed," David said, no doubt trying to make me blush more.
"Owen is. He's insatiable," Leif said without so much as a grin.
Taryn looked at me and raised an eyebrow. Leif yawned.
"Are you okay?" Paula asked.
"Not entirely. School is exhausting," Leif said. "I think I won't be coming much longer. I thought I should let you know."
He appeared very tired. Paula looked ready to cry, and I felt like I was on the verge of tears myself. I fought my tears back. They would not help Leif.
"You will let us know ahead of time, won't you? You won't just… not show up one day," Keaton asked.
"I'll let you know, but I think Friday will be my last day."
My face paled. It was Tuesday, November 6 th . That only left three more days. We were so close to the end.
"On Friday, I'll bring cookies, not to celebrate that it's your last day in school, but…" Paula trailed off.
"That will be great," he said, smiling.
I fought it as hard as I could, but I couldn't hold the sadness and pain back anymore. I began to cry. Leif drew me close with one arm. I knew everyone was looking at me, not just our little group, but everyone nearby. I didn't care. It was nothing compared to what was soon to come.
"I'm sorry," I said wiping my eyes as I fought to get myself under control.
"It's okay. It means you love me."
When I looked up, all of our friends had tears in their eyes. Paula cried silently.
"I know this is hard for all of you," Leif said. "It would be hard for me if one of you was dying. Thank you for sticking with me. Thank you for being my friends."
He cried then. I hugged him close. Paula, Taryn, David, and Keaton gathered around us and hugged us too. The kids around us grew quiet, but didn't stare. I was glad they knew what was happening. I wanted this to be as easy for Leif as possible. I was proud of my classmates for their compassion and kindness. I sensed that everyone was trying not to make Leif uncomfortable.
This was not a happy day for me. Leif would attend CHS for only three more days. We had three more lunches together in the cafeteria and three more days of meeting at his locker. Next Monday, I would return to school, but he would not. My life as I knew it would change drastically and would never be the same anymore. It always seemed as if things would go on and on forever, until the end drew near. I didn't know if I could bear school without him. If I couldn't stand him leaving school, what was I going to do when he died?
"Are you sure you want to do this?" I asked Leif as Taryn and I walked with him toward his home.
"Hey, I'm leaving school soon. You two are not. I'm going to be your tutor until I can't anymore. I'm going to help you as much as I can while I can."
"We should be helping you," Taryn said.
"You are. It may seem odd to you, but ordinary things like tutoring you are important to me, not more than ever. I know I don't have much time left so every part of life has increased in value for me. I've always appreciated and enjoyed everything, even mundane things, as much as I can, but now it all means so much more than it ever had before. Walking with me now and letting me tutor you are wonderful gifts you're giving me."
Taryn smiled and said, "I'll do anything for you. You know that, don't you?
"Yes, and I appreciate it. You're a good friend, Taryn."
I cleared my throat like a little kid wanting attention. Taryn laughed.
"Yes, you too, Owen," Leif said, kissing me.
We arrived at Leif's familiar house and entered. We stopped in the kitchen first to raid the cookie jar and refrigerator, and then continued to his room.
"What are you guys doing?" Grayson asked from the door.
"Studying, so if you don't get lost, I'll make you learn algebra," Leif said.
Grayson squealed and ran away.
"Hmm, I wonder if I can use math to get rid of Chad," I wondered out loud.
Oddly, I enjoyed our tutoring session, even algebra, because it was time with Leif. I especially enjoyed the few minutes alone with my boyfriend when Taryn departed to use the restroom. We mad out the entire time he was gone.
"Uh… I can get lost for a while or I can leave," he said when he reentered and we were making out.
"No, we were merely taking a break," Leif said after his lips parted from mine.
"I'd like that kind of break, but I doubt I'll ever find a guy interested in me."
"You will," Leif said.
"I don't think I have much to offer."
"Yeah, take a good look in the mirror sometime. You're hot," I said.
He actually blushed.
"Arrgh! No more compliments!"
"Yes, that was very cruel of us," I said.
"We'll try to control ourselves," Leif said.
We began studying again, but all too soon our time was up. Why did it always seem that time was running out now?
I kissed Leif and then Taryn and I departed. I sighed as we walked down the front walk. He gave me a quick one arm hug.
"I can't even imagine how hard this is for you," he said.
"It's harder than anything I've ever faced before. I try not to let him see how hard, but it's getting more difficult to hide."
"I don't know if I could do it."
"You could and you are."
"Yes, but it's worse for you."
"Yeah, but I knew what I was getting into. When I first tried to kiss Leif, he stopped me and told me about his tumor. He told me he was going to die and gave me the chance to walk away. I knew that by staying I was letting myself in for a heap of pain."
"Did you consider walking away?
"No, I didn't. I already loved him. I wasn't in love with him as I am now, but I loved him and I wasn't about to walk away. Even if I wanted to, I couldn't have. Can you imagine how horrible it would have been for him if I had? I could never do that to anyone."
"You're a really good boyfriend."
"I'm just me. Dating Leif is no selfless act. Even a short time with him is incredible. Knowing what is coming is hard, but I wouldn't give up the time I've had with him for anything. Three months is far better than nothing. I wish we could have a whole lifetime together, but I'll take what i can get. I just… I don't think I'm going to be able to make it when he…"
I began bawling, not just crying, bawling. Taryn stopped and held me. the boy who used to be my nemesis comforted me.
"I'll be here to help you through it. The others will as well. I will do anything I can to help you get through it. Anything."
It took me a while to stop crying, but I finally managed it. I wiped my eyes.
"Thanks, Taryn."
"Just don't… well, you wouldn't think of joining him, would you?" he asked with obvious concern.
"No. I'll tell you something, but I prefer you keep it to yourself. When Leif and I met, I was trying to kill myself."
His shocked expression was clear.
"You were trying to kill yourself? Why?"
"My life sucked. No one liked me and I had no friends. I thought my big brother hated me. Everything seemed so horrible that killing myself seemed the only solution. I had a noose around my neck and was getting ready to jump off the bleachers when Leif came and talked me out of it. He kind of did this Titanic thing and told me he'd have to jump too, only there was much more to it than that."
"I was a part of making your life suck, wasn't i?" he said.
"Yeah, you were, but only a part."
"I'm really sorry."
"Hey, you're a wonderful part of my life now. You help make my life not suck. It's funny, I was attracted to Leif before he saved me, but I had him pegged as a stuck-up golden boy who had everything. I was completely wrong about him."
"He's the nicest guy I've ever met. He does appear to have everything until you find out his secret."
"Yeah, he taught me life is worth living. I'm not saying my life is all sunshine and rosed now, but I understand what a huge mistake I almost made, would have made without him. He saved my life. I made friends because of hi and I learned that my big brother loves me. Leif has totally changed my life. No matter how bad things get, I won't kill myself. It would be throwing away everything he's given me."
"I'm glad. Losing him is going to be bad enough. Losing you would be worse."
He paused and I thought he was going to say more, but he remained silent and we walked on.
I never thought I'd utter these words, but Friday came too quickly. When I met Leif at his locker before first period, I was keenly aware that this was the very last morning he would meet me here. Monday morning, I would come to my locker like always, but he would be absent. My entire day was the same. I kept thinking; this is the last time I'll… whatever. It was as if I was dying too. A part of me wished I could die at the same moment as him to escape the pain, but life was too precious to throw or wish away.
Lunch was the hardest of all. This was it. This was the last time Leif would ever eat lunch with us. As I walked toward the table with my tray of lasagna and bread sticks, I spotted him already seated and eating. The next time I approached the table; he wouldn't be there. I wished I could make this lunch last forever.
"Hey," I said as I sat down.
"Hey," Leif said.
My boyfriend looks so tired. Part of me wanted to beg him to keep coming to school so I could see him that much more, but that was selfish. He could not keep coming to school. Another part of me was frightened by his fatigue. It meant the end was drawing near.
"Now that we are all here, I believe someone said something about cookies," Leif said.
Paula grinned and pulled out individual bags of cookies, which she handed out. His contained twice as many as everyone else's bag. I took one of the frosted sugar cookies out and tried it.
"Wow, this is good. It's so buttery," I said.
"They are beautiful too. You must have spent hours on these," Leif said, examining a cookie shaped and decorated like a dolphin.
"They took a while."
"Thank you, Paula. These are wonderful," he said.
Everyone thanked her.
I did my best to enjoy my last lunch in the cafeteria with Leif, but it was one of the hardest things I ever had to do. I wanted this lunch to be as pleasant as possible, but it was hard to pretend to be happy when I felt like crying.
Everyone knew his secret now and he knew that they knew. One kid after another came up and said, 'goodbye.' Some merely came and touched him on the shoulder. It had been this way all morning as we walked in the hallways. It made him smile.
If it hadn't been for Paula, Taryn, David, and Keaton, I fear it would have been a too quiet lunch despite the interruptions, but they managed to joke and laugh, which made it easier for me. I knew Leif was sad, but he was the most upbeat of all of us. How could he do that? This was his last day ever in CHS. He was facing death and yet he remained positive. He is the strongest person I had ever known.
Lunch ended too quickly. None of us wanted to get up and leave. We knew that when we did, we would never all sit together again. David, Taryn, Keaton, Paula, and I would be back on Monday, but Leif would not be here. I didn't know how I could face that.
We left the cafeteria together and split off one by one until only Leif and I remained. I never thought I would want time to slow while I was in school, but that's exactly what I wished for now. I wanted every moment of walking him to class to last forever. I even wanted my classes to last forever because I knew he was near.
I walked to my own class alone after walking him to his. The hallways were still crowded, but I felt oddly isolated. I pushed the feelings aside as best I could and thought instead about tonight. Leif and Taryn were staying over. The purpose was to keep Leif from seeing any of the preparations for Christmas at his house, but I was thrilled to have more time with him. I was greedy for that time. I wanted all of it I could get.
I met him at his last period classroom at the end of the day and slung his backpack over my shoulder. We walked together to my locker where Taryn was waiting on us.
As we slowly walked to one of the rear entrances, I noticed Leif gazing into classrooms as if trying to fix them in his mind. He paused for several moments in the cafeteria, looking around with a sad smile on his face.
"I'm going to miss this," he said.
His words were enough to break my heart. Taryn, my former bully and tormentor, looked as if he might cry.
Kids said 'goodbye' to Leif as we walked through the hallways. Everyone was touched by his approaching death now. I never knew my classmates had such compassion.
He touched the door frame as if saying goodbye as we exited through the rear door. The football team poured out of another exit and began to run toward their cars, but one of them spotted Leif and came back to give him a fist bump. Others noticed and Taryn and I watched as they all came to say goodbye to him. A lot of them didn't even know him, but they'd learned he was once a football player like them.
He watched the last of the players jog toward the parking lot, no doubt remembering when he was a football player back in San Diego. He was saying goodbye to so many things.
We walked along slowly. He no longer had the strength to move fast and none of us were in a hurry. This was our last walk home from school together. There were so many lasts now I couldn't stand it.
We stopped at our normal benches. We sat longer than usual, but as always, I waited patiently until he was ready to move on. I t was pleasant sitting and holding his hand, even with Taryn beside us.
"If you guys want to make out, I can look the other way," Taryn offered.
"Maybe we like to be watched," Leif said.
"Kinky."
Leif laughed.
"I'm surprised we never got busted for PDA at school," he said.
"If I kissed a guy at school, I'd get busted for sure," Taryn said.
"Do you have anyone you especially like?" Leif asked.
"Yeah, I do."
He didn't volunteer to tell us who and we didn't pry.
"Well, I hope you get to kiss him lots and lots," Leif said.
"Me too, just not too soon."
"I'm sorry for sitting here so long, but I'm really tired, guys."
"We don't mind. Owen, do you think you can carry my backpack too?" Taryn asked.
"Well, yeah," I said, a little confused.
He handed me his backpack and then kneeled down in front of Leif, facing away from him.
"Climb on."
Leif grinned and did so. Taryn stood with little effort. He was exceedingly strong.
"I like this," Leif said. "You should have thought of this before."
I walked beside the pair, carrying three backpacks. I had never thought of giving Leif a piggyback ride, but then I wasn't nearly as built as Taryn, and when we were alone, I would have been carrying him and two backpacks. I don't think I could have managed it.
With Taryn carrying Leif, it didn't take long to reach my house.
"Okay, homework first," Leif said.
Taryn and I didn't argue. While he would not be physically attending CHS, he had elected to keep up his studies at home. I don't think I would have done that, but then again, I guess I couldn't know what I'd do unless I was in the same situation as Leif.
Taryn was actually pretty smart. He was more intelligent than me and caught on to things more easily. Thanks to Leif, I'd discovered was no dummy either. I had just never really cared before. He made me care. His love of knowledge was contagious. I even read books ow simply to read them. Who would have thought that? Mom was sure happy about that.
We had Hamburger Helper cheese and macaroni for supper. I knew Leif was accustomed to much better, but if he minded, he didn't let on for a second. Taryn loved it, which reminded me that we were rich compared to his family. I needed to have him over more often.
After supper, Anthony and Chad joined us in a game of bullshit at the kitchen table. We had a blast. Chad, as always, loved calling out 'bullshit.'
"I think I need to lie down," Leif said after we'd played a good long time.
I looked at the clock. It was only seven thirty p.m.
"You guys continue. I'll be back," I said.
Him and I walked upstairs.
"Here, use my bed."
"I can lie down on the floor."
"No, you are using my bed. No arguing."
"Yes, sir."
He was very tired, so I helped him undress. When he was down to only his boxer briefs, he slipped into bed and I tucked him in.
"I love you," I said.
"I love you too."
I leaned over and hissed him gently on the lips. Then I kissed his forehead. He fell asleep before I left the room.
I returned downstairs, upset. He was getting so weak. It meant that what time I had left with him was quickly slipping through my fingers.
"Is he okay?" Taryn asked.
"He's asleep," I said.
I closed my eyes and fought to keep from crying. I never used to cry, ever. Now I felt like crying all the time.
I felt someone hug me and opened my eyes to see Taryn.
"I won't say things are going to be okay, because we all know they won't be, but like I said before, I'm here for you and so are your other friends. I know that won't make all the pain go away, but you aren't alone.
He released me and smiled. Chad hugged me next.
"I wish I could make him better," he said.
"I know you do, buddy."
"You've been very brave, you just have to keep on being brave for Leif," Anthony said.
"I'll try, but I don't feel very brave."
"You are. I don't know if I could handle what you're dealing with right now. You're strong, Owen. Don't forget that."
"Think of the Christmas party tomorrow. Leif will freak out when we take him," Taryn said.
"Yeah," I smiled. "I almost can't believe it's happening. Think of it, the biggest Christmas celebration in Chouteau is being moved for Leif."
"More than that is being done. There is something we have kept from you," Anthony said.
"What do you mean?"
"Let's go outside."
The four of us stepped into the living room. Anthony nodded to mom and she joined us. We stepped out onto the porch and I couldn't believe my eyes.
"Wow!" I said.
Up and down the street, one house after another was decked out with Christmas lights. Even our porch had lights, not many, but it was still beautiful.
"Everyone did this for Leif?" I asked.
Mom nodded. I began to cry, but this time it was from happiness. Leif truly was going to have Christmas after all.
"All we need now is snow," Chad said.
"It's a little warm for that," mom said.
"It looks like Christmas even without snow," Taryn said.
We stood looking at the lights for a long time before going back inside. Suddenly, I felt like a kid waiting for Christmas morning.
Taryn and I talked and watched TV until nearly eleven, then crept quietly upstairs and slipped into sleeping bags on the floor. Leif didn't stir. He was out cold. When Anthony went to bed a little later, he was as quiet as a mouse.
I was truly excited the next morning, but didn't get up for a while because Leif was still sleeping. When he finally began to stir, Taryn and I got up. We all dressed and went downstairs for breakfast, leaving Anthony, who was still snoozing.
Chad was already eating oatmeal. Mom dished out some for all of us. Leif looked rested and cheerful and that filled me with happiness.
"I'm sorry about conking out so early last night, but I was so tired I couldn't stay awake," he said.
"It's fine. We spent the rest of the night telling embarrassing stories about you," Taryn said.
Leif laughed.
The party was scheduled to begin at noon and we had slept in late enough we didn't have much time to get ready. We took turns in the bathroom.
"Are we ready to go?" mom asked when we finally gathered in the living room.
"Where are we going?" Leif asked.
"You'll see," I said.
When we walked outside, the sky was cloudy and there was a definite chill in the air. I was pleased because it was more Christmas like than warmth and sunshine.
We all piled in the decrepit family car and headed for our destination. Luckily, the Christmas lights on the houses we passed were not obvious since they were off.
"There are still some autumn leaves. Aren't they beautiful?" mom said as we drove through town.
"I love fall leaves. I love each season. Christmas is my favorite, but I love them all," Leif said.
A few minutes later, we turned into the long drive of the Granger Farm.
"Look at all the cars," Leif said. "What's going on?"
There was no sign of Christmas outside. The barn was outlined in lights, but they weren't turned on. Everything was hidden inside the large area where the yearly party was held.
There were a few people outside. One little girl yelled, "merry Christmas," but her mother covered by saying, "that's next month, sweetheart."
Leif laughed.
When we entered the open door of the barn, he stopped and stared. There was a huge tree in the middle of the space, decked out with hundreds of ornaments and lights. Garland and lights were everywhere. Music played softly and the scent of balsam pine mingled with that of sugar cookies and turkey.
"What is this?" Leif asked.
"It's Christmas," I said.
He gazed into my eyes with astonishment and actually started softly crying. People began to approach, kids from school, teachers, people from the town and countryside, and Leif's own family. Everyone wished him a merry Christmas, even the little girl whose timing was a bit off.
"Who did this?" Leif asked, gazing around in wonder.
"Owen."
He turned to me and grinned.
"Having Christmas early was my idea. It kind of took off from there. I didn't do any of the actual work."
"No surprise there," Keaton said.
"Funny!"
Leif hugged me tightly.
"Merry Christmas," I said.
He kissed me, then I took his hand and led him toward the tables of food.
"I can't believe this," he said.
"You couldn't come to Christmas, so Christmas came to you."
"Stop holding up the line, squirt. Move it," said his older brother, Ryland.
Leif smiled. We grabbed plates and picked out meat balls swimming in barbeque sauce, little bologna salad sandwiches, turkey, dressing, and more. It was impossible to try everything and there was an entire desert table to explore.
I led him to a table. Taryn, Paula, David, Keaton, Grayson, and Chad joined us. Everyone in the barn ate, talked, and laughed. After a few minutes, Noah stopped at our table. I didn't know him well, but I had met him recently and recognized him immediately.
"Hello, Leif. It's nice to meet you. I'm Noah Granger."
Leif stood up.
"This is incredible. Thank you so much."
"We only did what we always do. We merely did it a little early this year."
Leif hugged him, and Noah hugged him back. He then moved on and Leif returned to his seat.
Christmas isn't a day. It's a feeling and we had captured it. It truly was Christmas on that November day.
We hit the deserts next. As with the rest of the food, it was impossible to try everything, but we did our best. We chose Christmas cupcakes, peanut butter and chocolate fudge, divinity, and holiday sugar cookies. Everything was delicious.
When we were fully stuffed, I took his hand and we examined the tree. It was filled with lights.
"The Granger's have this party every year?" he asked.
"Yes. Mom said it started out small and grew and grew until it became this."
"Wow, and I get to experience it, thanks to you."
"Thanks to a lot of people. You think I snuck out and cooked all this food last night?"
"You know what I mean."
"Yeah."
"Thank you. I love you."
"I love you too."
We kissed.
"Get a room," Chad said between bites of a brownie.
"Get lost," I said.
He laughed and took off with Grayson.
We mingled for an hour, then Noah banged on a bucket to get everyone's attention.
"Some students from the school, as well as members from local churches will be singing Christmas carols out by the bonfire for those who want to come listen or join in."
"Let's grab some hot cocoa and go listen," Leif said, clearly delighted.
We did just that. While we were inside, keyboards, guitars, and other instruments had been set up. Noah Granger stepped up to one of the microphones.
"Merry Christmas everyone, especially Leif," he said, looking straight at us.
"Merry Christmas!" everyone called out.
"The group will be performing some old Christmas favorites and some new songs. Feel free to join in."
Some two-dozen people began to sing Winter Wonderland .
Leif turned and gazed at me.
"Is this a dream?"
I shook my head.
"Wow!"
We sat on a hay bale near the fire, holding hands and listened to the performers. He grinned from ear to ear and often sang along. The performers sang several more songs, including, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree , and other more traditional songs.
Finally, the choir sang Silent Night . Leif began to sing. I joined him. So did Taryn, Paula, David and Keaton. Leif's family, my family, and most of the crowd sang as well we finished and then everyone clapped.
"This is the best Christmas ever," he said, hugging me.
My eyes met his moms over his shoulder and she mothed the words, "thank you."
"Hello again, Leif," Noah said.
"The music was beautiful," Leif said.
"We try to do this every year and we couldn't miss this. This is my husband Erik," Noah said, as another handsome man approached.
"It's wonderful to meet you, Leif."
I had met Noah and Erik briefly when we had sat down with them to plan this Christmas party. Both men were in their early twenties and very handsome. They had been together since they were our age.
"Wow, it must be wonderful to be married," Leif said.
"It is," Erik said, taking Noah's hand.
Leif then took my hand and smiled at me.
"I see you have someone special in your life too," Erik said.
"Yes, I do."
Leif grinned at me and I felt special. I think I might have blushed.
The party continued. We returned to the barn to snack on goodies, listen to recorded Christmas music, and drink hot cocoa.
Later, we took cups of hot cocoa and walked outside. He took my hand and we walked around the barn and then up around the old two-story farm house.
"It must be wonderful to live in a place where so much living has occurred. Think of it. I bet generations of Granger's have lived here and there are generations more to come. I like connections to other people like that. You know the old quilt on my bed? I don't know who made it, but it was sewn by hand. Sometimes at night, I think about the person who spent hours and hours quilting it and all those who have used it over the years. It makes me feel connected to them," he said.
"That old worn-out thing?" I said, teasing him.
"Yeah, it's worn, but that's what I like about it, evidence of use."
"Whatever you say," I teased.
He punched me in the shoulder.
"Let's go back in. I'm getting cold and I need to sit," he said.
I pulled him close and we walked back into the barn. We found a seat near one of the heaters that kept the space warm. I brought him more cocoa and Christmas cookies and we sat, listened to the music, and talked with friends. We had done it! We had created Christmas.
"This has been wonderful and I don't want to leave, but I think I need to go home. I want to thank Noah for the party again before I do," he said.
We stood and walked toward Noah where he stood talking to our moms.
"I'm getting very tired so I need to go home, but I wanted to thank you for all this. You don't know how much this means to me. Thank you," Leif said, hugging Noah.
"You're welcome, and merry Christmas, Leif. Erik is fixing a lot of Christmas goodies for you and your family. We'll send them with your mom."
"Thank you."
"I'll see if Anthony and Chad are ready to depart. If not, I'll run you boys' home and come back for them later," mom said.
"We can drop them off if they want to stay. Grayson and Chad seem to be enjoying themselves," Leif's mom said.
While mom tracked down my brothers, we spotted Taryn gazing at the tree and headed toward him.
"Are you ready to go?" Leif asked. "If not, I'm sure my mom will take you home later."
"It's an awesome party, but I'd like to come with you, if you don't mind," he said, looking from one of us to the other.
"Of course we don't mind," I said.
Leif nodded.
Soon, Leif and I were in the backseat while Taryn rode up front with mom. I was eager for my boyfriend to see his next surprise. I had nothing to do with it and the idea never even occurred to me, but when they heard his story, the people of the town joined in to truly make it Christmas in Chouteau. Leif got his first hint of what was to come as we hit the edge of town.
"Wow!" he said as mom slowly drove down Main Street. "Look at all the lights and decorations."
We soon came into the residential area.
"Look!" he said. "There's another and another."
He looked at me and grinned.
"Welcome to Christmas in Chouteau."
Mom drove slowly all-around town so he could see the decorated homes and store fronts. She made sure to pass our house as well, even though we only had a very few lights up.
It was almost like being in one of the Hallmark movies he loves so well. Taryn turned in his seat and we smiled at each other. This truly was Christmas.
I slept in the next day. Taryn, David, Keaton, Paula, and I were going over to Leif's in the early afternoon for a small Christmas party that included only us, but this morning he was having Christmas with his family.
It wasn't quite mid-November, but it truly felt like Christmas. I had my gift for Leif wrapped as neatly as I could manage. I had used some very, very old wrapping paper I found at the resale shop for a quarter. It was green with Rudolph from the old Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Christmas special on it. Mom had helped me wrap red ribbon around it and create a bow.
Taryn showed up after lunch as planned and we walked to Leif's house together carrying our gifts. When we arrived, Grayson let us in.
"Leif is resting, but he will be down in a few," he said.
"Is he okay?" I asked.
"Yes. He wanted to make sure he didn't tire out too quickly while you were here. We spent this morning opening presents. There's a lot of food. Mom was going to cook, but the Granger's sent over leftovers from the party yesterday."
"There were leftovers? I thought I ate everything," Taryn said.
We put our gifts under the tree and checked out the buffet Leif's mom had set up. Taryn grabbed a cupcake and I took a cookie.
"How can you guys eat? I'm going to explode," Ryland said as he entered the room.
"Because they didn't stuff themselves like you did this morning," Grayson said.
"Did Leif have a nice Christmas?" Paula, who had arrived before us, asked.
"He had a great Christmas," Leif's mom said. "It truly felt like Christmas. It was the same as if it was December 25 th . I want to thank all of you for coming up with the idea. I'm ashamed I didn't think of it myself."
"It was Owen's idea, not ours. As for not thinking of it yourself, you have a lot on your mind," Paula said.
"Yes, I do," she said sadly.
Grayson hugged her.
Leif came downstairs a little later and by that time everyone had arrived.
"Just getting up? You do sleep late," David said.
"Ha, ha! I took a nap because I wanted to spend time with you."
"You're stuck with us for the rest of the day. What would you like to do? We brought presents," I said.
"You shouldn't have brought me anything."
"We wanted to do it," Keaton said.
"I actually have gifts for all of you too. Let's watch a Christmas movie before we open them," he said.
We watched not one, but two holiday movies on the huge TV in the living room before opening gifts. Leif's entire family joined us and it was like being in a theatre. First, we watched The Christmas Cottage , which made Paula and Leif's mom cry, and then On Strike For Christmas , which made us all laugh.
"I love Christmas movies. There are so many to watch it's hard to work them all in," Leif said.
"When I was a kid, we only had Miracle on 34 th Street , and It's a Wonderful Life ," Leif's dad said.
"I thought they only had silent films back then," Leif said.
"Watch it kiddo."
Leif grinned.
"Let's open presents. I can't wait anymore," Leif said. We all gathered around the Christmas tree. "Let me give out mine first."
He rummaged under the tree. He pulled out a big box wrapped in red paper decorated with candy canes and handed it to Taryn, who tore the paper away and opened the box. He pulled out a warm winter coat with a hood, leather gloves, and lots of Christmas candy, including a box of dark chocolate covered cherries.
The chocolate covered cherries were to become a theme.
"Leif, this is way too much! We only made you things," he said, looking overwhelmed and slightly distressed.
"I love giving presents. It's the best part of the holidays for me. All of you have given me a Christmas I would have missed. I can't begin to tell you how happy you've made me, so no more objections. You're going to accept my present or else!"
"He's like a belligerent Santa," Ryland said. "If you don't accept his presents, he will beat you up."
"Thank you, Leif," Taryn said, hugging him.
It was a perfect gift. Taryn was wearing the same jacket he always did and I was willing to bet he didn't have a winter coat.
"Here is one for you, Paula," Leif said, handing her a much smaller box wrapped in red paper decorated with Christmas trees.
She opened her present and pulled out a beautiful and warm looking red scarf, a bottle of perfume, Christmas candy, and a box of dark chocolate covered cherries.
"How did you know I wanted this perfume? It's exactly the kind I hope to receive for Christmas."
"I have elves," Leif said. "Now, David next."
He handed David a gift wrapped in red and green plaid paper. He opened it to find Christmas candy and dark chocolate covered cherries and something that made my eyes go wide.
"Oh wow!" he said.
"What is that?" Paula asked.
"It's an original series tricorder."
"What series, and what is a tricorder?"
"You're hopeless. Absolutely hopeless! Only the best series ever. Star Trek, " he said.
She smiled. I think she knew and only asked to agitate David who had a series Star Trek obsession.
"Tricorder. This is vintage, right? They haven't made these since the 1960's," David said.
"Yeah, I found it on eBay."
"This is amazing! Thank you, Leif."
David hugged him and grinned broadly.
"This is for you, Keaton," Leif said, handing him a box wrapped in blue paper covered with snowmen.
Keaton unwrapped it to find the dark chocolate covered cherries and Christmas candy everyone else received. Several Justin Bieber CD's and a signed shirtless photo of Justin Bieber.
"How did you get this?" Keaton asked, staring at the photo.
"I got to meet him about a year ago. He signed that for me. I know you like him."
"I can't take this. It's yours."
"No. I want you to have it."
"Thank you so much, Leif."
Keaton hugged his as well.
"That leaves Owen. You're actually going to get your present after I'm gone," he said. I swallowed. I didn't like to hear him talk about being gone. "I thought you could use my TV, DVD player, and all my movies."
I began to shake my head.
"Leif…"
"I said no arguing. Don't make me get rough." He smiled. "I also got you this."
My boyfriend handed me a box wrapped in red paper covered with teddy bears. I opened it to find the candy everyone received, but also a very small box. Inside was a gold chain.
"This is too expensive," I said.
"No, it's not and I wanted you to have one exactly like mine."
I often noticed his chain. It made him look extra hot.
He came over and put the gold chain around my neck.
"Sexy," Keaton said.
I blushed, then hugged Leif tightly.
"I love you," I said.
"I love you too."
We gave our gifts to Leif. He was delighted with David's gingerbread house, Paula's hand knitted cap and scarf, and Taryn's incredible diorama of Santa's workshop, which everyone oohed and ahhed over. He must have worked hours and hours on it.
"Here is mine. Merry Christmas, Leif," I said.
"Merry Christmas, Owen and everyone," he said.
"I love the Rudolph paper," he said as I handed him his present.
He opened it and grinned before pulling out his teddy bear.
"He's perfect," he said, hugging him.
"I made him myself. Keaton's grandmother helped me, but I made him. The only part I didn't make is the cap and scarf. She knitted those," I said.
"Yeah, and when he says he made the bear he means he cut the material, sewed it, and stuffed it," Keaton said.
"Wow! That's incredible! You truly made this. I love it!"
Leif not only hugged me, but he also kissed me. When I looked into his eyes I could tell he was truly happy.
"Now, I want to play a game. It involves Christmas presents," Leif said. He pulled out a box with several small wrapped packages in it. "We draw numbers to see who goes first, second, and so on. You can keep the present you open or if you like something someone else has unwrapped, you can take it from them and they can then pick a new gift out of the box or take one that someone else has, and so on. The only gifts that can't be taken are those that have already changed hands that round. It's a lot of fun."
His dad brought around a bowl with numbers and we all drew one.
"Who is number one?" Leif asked.
"I am," his dad said.
His sons laughed. Being number one was obviously not good in this game.
He picked out a small package and unwrapped it to reveal fake dog shit.
"Well, I'm fu… screwed," he said.
We all laughed.
Paula picked out a gift next. Mr. Ulbrich held out his fake dog shit.
Come on, you know you want this."
She shook her head and unwrapped her present to find a box of peppermint tea. Ms. Ulbrich was next. She took Paula's peppermint tea. Paula still didn't want the dog shit, so she got to open another present, which turned out to be a pair of sexy boxers with shiny red Christmas ornaments on a hunter green background.
"You're going to look good in those!" Grayson said.
We kept going and it became obvious that the goal wasn't so much to get what one wanted, but to take away from others when they wanted, which made the game hilarious. I had a one-pound Hershey bar for a bit, but was soon holding sunglasses, which wasn't as good, but not bad. Every time a new number was called it almost always resulted in a whole round of gift stealing. It toon an amazingly long time to work through everyone. Leif ended up with the sexy boxers, which I hoped to see him in soon, and I ended up with a tin of cashews. Taryn walked away with the fake dog shit. He was pleased and said he had plans for it. Everyone had a great time.
"That game is even more fun with more people, but I love it," Leif said.
We watched yet more Christmas movies and ate our way through the rest of the afternoon and evening. We didn't wrap up the day until after ten p.m. Leif looked exhausted at the end of the party, but also extremely happy.
"This has been the best!" he said as we all stood at the door.
Taryn was wearing his new coat and I fingered my gold chain.
"Merry Christmas, Leif," Paula said, as she hugged him.
We each took a turn. I went last and received no only a hug, but a kiss with tongue. He grinned at me mischievously.
"I'll wear those boxers the next time you come over," he whispered in my ear.
I could feel myself growing hard, but luckily my coat was able to conceal the evidence.
"I have goodie bags for everyone. We have too much food. These are leftovers of the leftovers of the Granger Christmas party," Ms. Ulbrich said.
We all thanked her and then departed, loaded down with holiday goodies. It was only when I got outside that I remembered that it wasn't exactly Christmas day. Our mission was accomplished.
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