Meanwhile, as they continued their walk back to the tunnel main, Vincent was thankful for this time, knowing it would give Devin an opportunity to become acquainted with Catherine and her Dad, and they with him.
And so with a smile in his heart, Vincent listened as the people he loved, made easy going, and pleasant conversation, with no one trying too hard. They were just people getting to know one another, who thus far had only one thing in common, and that was their love for Vincent.
As the dialogue progressed to events of the day, Vincent then thought to inform Peter, "Sam delivered your numerous packages for the children this afternoon.”
To which Peter acknowledged, “I heard, Sam was so excited he stopped by the office to tell me...but so you know..."
Upon hearing of Sam's efforts, in wonderment, Vincent butted in to say, “So Sam not only delivered your packages to us, he came to your office personally to tell you of the delivery?"
In response, Peter said, "That's right, but I want to tell ya..."
With much awe, Vincent once more pushed, saying, "Sam's devotion toward us, has been beyond expectations this season. Even with his own business, he manages to help us in any way he can.”
Vincent then guiltily added, "I am concerned we may have over taxed him of
late."
Meanwhile, upon hearing Vincent talk about Sam, Catherine at the same time began to feel a little guilty herself, because she had also asked a favor of Sam. She then thought of how Sam didn't make her feel badly about asking the favor, and knew without him, she never would have gotten Vincent's snow globe repaired in time.
Catherine then thought of what a giving person Sam must be, and suspected this must be true of all the Helpers, all caring giving souls, who willingly take time out of their own lives, to help enrich those of the tunnel community.
Catherine after all, could testify to this fact herself, because she knew one of them very well herself, namely Peter.
Meantime, Peter cut into Catherine's thoughts as he informatively attested, "Yes, yes accolades to Sam, but I'm trying to tell ya, the gifts are not just from me, they're from Charles too!”
Upon hearing all this for the first time, Catherine looked up at her sweet father, and asked, “You are giving presents to the children Dad?”
With a humbled smile, Charles shared with his daughter, “Well, when Peter told me it was something he enjoyed doing for the kids every year, I wanted to get in on the act too, so we teamed up. I wanted to surprise ya.”
With a shake of her head, Catherine replied, "Well you sure did!"
To which Peter then inserted, "In fact your Dad was so excited about it, he must have called me every day asking if our order from the Art Supply Store had come in yet!”
Charles laughed, as he confessed to what Peter had said, and then added, “Well thankfully everything got here in time.”
And because she wondered what the gifts were, Catherine curiously asked, “Ahem, may I ask what you two are giving them from the Art Supply Store?”
To which Charles took the liberty to answer his daughter with the question, “Remember when we met with Elizabeth, and she mentioned she had always wished she had extra materials to teach a real art class to the children?”
After Catherine said she did, Charles continued, “Well, Peter and I got the idea to give each kid an easel, pallet, and paints, and also get Elizabeth all kinds of supplies too, so she could have all that is required for that real legitimate class she spoke of.”
Peter then thoughtfully relayed, “When we talked to Jacob about this idea, he
seemed happy about it and said it would fulfill Elizabeth’s dream, as well as feed
the children’s creative appetites!”
Everyone agreed it was a great idea, and meanwhile Catherine looked up at her
Dad, and teasingly whispered, “All this going on, and I never heard a word
about it.”
To which Charles softly replied, “Well as I say, I wanted to surprise you too
honey. I know Elizabeth’s story touched you as well when she spoke about her
desire to formally teach the children, and so I hoped you would like the gift idea
Peter and I came up with.”
In response, Catherine warmly answered, "Well I sure do Dad.”
Loving the fact her big hearted Dad had reached out to this community in this way, Catherine lovingly looked at him once more, and his humbled nod explained all that needed to be said.
With an appreciative tone Vincent’s voice broke through the Chandler’s private “Father-Daughter” moment, when he informatively explained, "Thanks to Jamie, Brooke, Laura, and Mouse everything is wrapped and placed under the tree.”
With a bit of amusement in his voice, Vincent added, “In fact, Devin and I were with the children when Mouse and the girls rolled the heavy laden carts of gifts through the tunnel main to the Great Hall. Ahh, the look on the children’s faces was truly a sight to behold.”
To which Devin inserted, “Vincent’s right! I would have paid a million bucks to see those faces all lit up like they were.”
Devin then thoughtfully added, “Seeing the kid’s reaction today, the excitement, the anticipation, well it sure took me back to when we were boys...”
Devin then looked over at his brother and added, "Remember? We could NOT wait for Dr. Peter’s crate of goodies to arrive for us at Christmas.”
Vincent nodded as their captive audience listened to them, and he replied, “Yes, there would be extravagant amounts of peppermint sticks, gumdrop nougats, cut rock candy, fudge drops and peanut brittle..."
And then Devin added, "Not to mention a gift for each and every one of us hoodlums."
Waving off his generosity, Peter said, "I did what I could, besides I enjoyed it! You kids made it fun giving, the way you appreciated everything."
Thoughtfully, Vincent went on to say, "Yes that is true, we did appreciate your kindness..."
And then Devin noted, "And although your gifts always had an element of fun, you made sure they were educational in some way too.”
Thoughtfully as Vincent thought back on what Devin had said, he addressed Peter directly as he continued, “I remember one Christmas in particular, you gave us each a..."
To which Devin also chimed in, and at the same time, both he and Vincent said, "...Chemistry Set.”
Everyone laughed at the brothers, because of their whimsical delivery, and Peter did too, but then he cringed as he recalled, "Yes well, perhaps that was not the best idea I’ve ever had.”
To which Devin laughed as he recollected, “We had mini explosions going on all through the tunnels that Christmas, and Father kept telling us to be careful, foretelling that “Someone is going to lose a finger, an eye, or something!"
And then as Devin glanced at Vincent, they both shared a look, because in fact there was more to the story than what they cared to tell in front of Peter!
And so in order to spare Peter's feelings, Vincent finished up the story, saying, "Needless to say, eventually the chemistry sets were absconded, and outlawed!”
Nodding it was true, Peter admitted, “Jacob was a bit ticked at me for giving those sets to you kids, but hey, how could I know you guys would figure out how to make a harmless chemical dangerous with a little baking soda!”
Everyone laughed at Peter’s comment, and the talk continued on a bit more about other gifts Peter had given them as children, and upon hearing Vincent reminisce with his brother like this, well this gave Catherine some insight into Vincent's boyhood.
Yes, Catherine loved listening to them talk of their life here in the tunnels, and as she glanced up at Vincent when he spoke, she saw a happiness in his eyes she had never seen before. And it was because Vincent had his brother home, his someone to connect with, his someone who knew him better than perhaps anyone else in this world.
Catherine often thought that must be a wonderful feeling, having a sibling to share all the same memories, and it was clear to her how happy it made Vincent.
Lovingly she then thought, of how having Devin home, has made everything complete for a truly blessed Christmas for them all.
After their reminiscing died down, Catherine linked her arm with Vincent’s, and unassumingly surmised, “I'm sure if Lou had sent word about my order from Mr. Smythe you would have told me.”
Regretfully, Vincent had to say no, as of yet, no word from Lou, and yes, he would have told her immediately if he had.
To which Charles thoughtfully noted, “Hmmm, seems you placed that book order quite some time ago.”
With a nod of acknowledgment, Catherine replied, “I did, right after I received Brigit's Christmas Card telling me her new children's book was published, but unfortunately, my order was lost, so Mr. Smythe had to put my order through again. He said he would do his best to get them in time for Christmas. So I am sure he did all he could.”
As Vincent listened, he commiserated with Catherine, and then shared, "You know, even though "A place for the forgotten Children" is a children's book, I am most anxious to read it myself. Brigit wrote during the time she spent with us, she was inspired by our world, and by the way we love and care for abandoned children. Brigit said she wanted to somehow honor the Tunnel's spirit, with extreme care not to betray us in any way."
Upon hearing Vincent say he'd like to read the book too, Catherine smiled to herself, because she knew when her order does finally come in, there will be a book for Vincent in the box too!
Meanwhile, because Devin wondered who this Brigit was, he asked, "Now who is Brigit?"
And so Vincent in reply, gave Devin the low down on his good friend Brigit O'Donnell , and all about of how she became friends to him, and to MOST everyone of the tunnels, Pascal, Jacob, to Charles her legal consult, AND without getting into all the drama, she eventually became friends with a very forgiving Catherine as well."
To which Devin with a shake of his head, "Well believe it or not, even though Brigit O'Donnell is a literary figure...I know who she is because of her Dad. Yeah, I heard all about her Dad's political struggles in Ireland when I was over there...and he just died while here in the states didn't he?"
With a solemness, Vincent replied, "Yes you are right, he did pass, right after All Hallow's Day."
Impressed by Vincent's connection to a famed writer, Devin said, "So you actually know the renowned Brigit O'Donnell. Well here I am surprised, yet not surprised you would connect with someone of her stature little brother."
To which Vincent noted, "Yes...a surprising crossing of paths to be sure..."
So as the entourage continued onward, Mouse ran up to Vincent, and said, “This note is for you Vincent.”
With a bit of a guilty demeanor, Mouse coyly asked, “Good news I wonder?”
As Vincent read the note, a smile came to his eyes as he answered, “Yes Mouse, very good news.”
Vincent then did a double take looking back at Mouse, as he noted the strange grin on his face.
And although Vincent thought he looked peculiar, he then turned to Catherine so he could relay the wonderful news to her, saying, “Yes, very good news...this note is from Lou, and well Catherine...it appears your gifts have arrived.”
With joy and tearful wonderment, Catherine said, “Imagine, just in time for Christmas!"
As Catherine thought back on Mr. Smythe asking her to believe in Christmas miracles, she dreamily pondered aloud, "Hmmm, Christmas miracles really do happen...”
Catherine then snapped back to reality, and eagerly questioned, “So what do I do now? Where can I pick up the books?”
To which Vincent thoughtfully determined, “Well, I was just thinking about the most expedient manner to retrieve the package. You see Catherine, the entrance is quite far from this point, and Father IS waiting for us to join him for the procession to the Great Hall, and so I was thinking if Mouse wouldn't mind…”
Vincent then turned to Mouse and noted, “You travel faster than anyone I know..."
But because Mouse knew Vincent was faster than even him, he butted in to say, "Cept for you!"
Tipping his head in agreement, Vincent without disputing this fact, continued to ask, "...since you are a formidable second, would you run ahead, retrieve the box, and make sure Catherine’s gifts are placed under the tree, ahead of the community's arrival at the Great Hall?”
With a wide grin, Mouse proudly declared, “Already did!”
Suspiciously Vincent looked at his pixilated buddy, and then at his note, and back at Mouse again, and it didn't take but another second before Vincent realized Mouse had read his personal correspondence, AGAIN!
And so with a bit of an annoyed look upon his face, Vincent fanned the note and asked, "Mouse did you read this before I did?"
Shyly Mouse admitted he had, but then he hurriedly explained, “Label said “Smythe’s Books,” and you said Catherine was waiting for books, so knew better get them under the tree before the party. Got help from Laura, Jamie and Brooke too! They wrapped 'em up!”
Pretending to be annoyed for a moment longer, Vincent then patted him on the back, and happily declared, “Mouse, once again I must admit it was a good thing you read my message before I did. Good job my friend.”
Mouse expelled a sigh of relief, because he had gotten affirmation from his hero, that he had made the right decision! And so as Mouse beamed from ear to ear, everyone laughed and commented about the exchange between the two, everyone that is except for Catherine, who was so overjoyed she was speechless! She could hardly believe it! Her gifts for the children had arrived in time for Christmas, and are already under the tree!
And so after Catherine finally re-gained her composure, she stepped up to Mouse, and with much gratitude said, "Because you and the girls did all that for me Mouse, I can now give Christmas gifts to the children.”
To which Mouse humbly replied, “Knew you couldn't do it in time, and we wanted to help you, made us feel good, besides kids want presents at Christmas.”
With a tearful smile, Catherine replied, "Well you are right on all counts Mouse, I couldn't have done it, and yes...children do want presents at Christmas...thankyou so much."
With a slight shuffle of his feet, Mouse told Catherine she was welcome. And meantime as everyone witnessed this sweet exchange between them, hearing Mouse, a sweet unencumbered soul, convey life’s simplest of truths, of how it made him feel to be helpful to another human being...well, they were all affected as an awe settled upon their hearts, as it reminded them what Christmas was about.
And so now with Mouse walking along with this uplifted entourage, they also picked up Pascal who was on his way to the Tunnel main. And as he was greeted with open arms, he walked along side Devin, to whom warmly said, “Merry Christmas my friend.”
So as they neared the tunnel main, festive greetings rippled through the community as they came into site. And after Jacob welcomed Catherine, Charles, and Peter with a cheerful embrace to each one, Jacob declared; “Now we can depart.”
The Tunnels were filled with the sound of both Christmas Carols and joyous conversation as the community walked to the Great Hall. And by now of course Lin and Henry’s baby news had spread through the crowd, and Catherine and Vincent were relieved they no longer had to keep what they knew, a secret any more and were able to express their joy for them openly now.
Yes, Dr. Wong beamed as he boasted how excited he was his lineage was soon to be expanded with the birth of this baby, and added, “First Wong to be borne in America!”
And because Henry was in a festive mood, and didn't want to make a big deal of it, he privately whispered to his wife, "First Pai too!"
The two expectant parents shared a giggle, and then Lin squeezed her husband's hand, as she gratefully whispered back, "Thank you for not raining on Grandfather's parade Henry...you are the sweetest man."
Humbly, a flushed Henry said, "You are welcome dear wife...you are welcome...but sometimes it is not easy!"
Meanwhile, as the entourage walked along, Catherine caught sight of the trio of girls, Jamie, Laura and Brooke, and so as she and Vincent met up with them, Catherine sweetly told them, "Merry Christmas!"
Beaming from ear to ear, the girls all replied, "Merry Christmas Catherine and Vincent!"
Responding gallantly, Vincent replied, "Merry Christmas."
And then Jamie expressed, "We are so happy you and your Dad are here Catherine!"
To which Catherine excitedly replied, "I am too, everything looks so festive and everyone is so joyful..."
Catherine then thankfully continued, "...and girls, Mouse told me you wrapped up my gifts for the children...thanks so much."
The girls all giggled, and responded how happy they were to do it for her, and of how they actually had fun hiding from the kids while they wrapped!
And then Laura excitedly signed, "Oh and the book has a beautiful cover...wait until you see it Catherine!"
To which Catherine anxiously answered back signing, "I can't wait to see."
And then Brooke eagerly added, "Oh and we used the really pretty red wrapping paper, and red ribbon which was included with the books."
With wonder, Catherine asked, "Mr. Smythe even provided the wrapping too?"
In reply Jamie said, "Yeah, we had some brown paper we were gonna use, but when we opened the box and saw the pretty red paper...dah no brainer, we of course used the red!"
Though she appreciated the girls decision, Catherine felt inclined to say, "Whatever paper you would have used, I would have loved it, and I am sure it would have looked lovely."
It was then Brooke thought to say, “Oh yeah, there was a note in the box too...I saved it for you, oh here it is.”
As Catherine accepted the note, she privately read, “Dear Catherine, Here's something to ponder, this book has been sold out for weeks...yet here is your order! Christmas Miracles? Merry Christmas, Fondly, Mr. Smythe”
Upon noticing the stunned look on Catherine's face, Vincent asked, "Catherine? Is something wrong?"
As Catherine showed Vincent the note, she then answered, "I wouldn't say wrong, but you tell me, maybe the words stunning, awesome, miraculous or remarkable would work..."
After reading the note, Vincent tipped his head, and in agreement said, "Yes stunning, awesome, miraculous and remarkable indeed!"
Well, as they trekked on, the younger children excitedly gravitated to Vincent and Catherine. And so lovingly, Vincent picked up little Natalie to carry in his arms, and Catherine held the hands of both Joseph and Samantha.
It made Catherine feel so good they had both so naturally slipped their hands into hers, and in not wanting to make too much of it, she simply smiled up at Vincent, conveying how happy she felt the children were this comfortable with her.
So meanwhile, upon the children's arrival, Lin mentioned how much she loved the Christmas Card design this year.
To which Vincent proudly looked at the children and gave them all full credit, explaining, “As per tradition, the children did all the art work, however, this year's design was Natalie’s idea.”
And because Vincent thought Lin would enjoy hearing Natalie's reason behind her choice, from Natalie herself, Vincent asked her to repeat why she had chosen the Little Drummer Boy.
Quizzically she looked back at Vincent, and declared, "You know why Vincent! Did you forget already?"
With a smile in his eyes, Vincent looked downward in an attempt to mask his amusement, then as he looked back at Natalie, he clarified, "Yes, I remember, however I was hoping you might share your reason with Lin and Henry."
As Natalie said, "Oh I see!" She then looked to Lin and Henry, and answered, “Well, the reason I liked the drummer boy cuz; he shared his talent with baby Jesus, cuz that was all he had, just like Father tells us to do, share whatever we have."
As Lin heard the sweet reason, she instinctively touched her growing belly, and told Henry, "I hope we can teach our child to be so kind Henry..."
With a nod in agreement, Henry assured his wife, "With certainty, because of your kind heart alone, we shall."
Meanwhile because Peter and Jacob were following behind, they overheard little Natalie's response. And so Peter teasingly whispered, “Hey, it looks like someone is listening to ya around here, uh Jacob?”
With emotion Jacob nodded, and said, “Appears so.”
And it was then they arrived at the Great Hall...
...and with the doors open wide, this year’s Christmas Tree was on full display, and it was so very beautiful.
To be continued
Chapter Twenty-Six
: )
And so with a smile in his heart, Vincent listened as the people he loved, made easy going, and pleasant conversation, with no one trying too hard. They were just people getting to know one another, who thus far had only one thing in common, and that was their love for Vincent.
As the dialogue progressed to events of the day, Vincent then thought to inform Peter, "Sam delivered your numerous packages for the children this afternoon.”
To which Peter acknowledged, “I heard, Sam was so excited he stopped by the office to tell me...but so you know..."
Upon hearing of Sam's efforts, in wonderment, Vincent butted in to say, “So Sam not only delivered your packages to us, he came to your office personally to tell you of the delivery?"
In response, Peter said, "That's right, but I want to tell ya..."
With much awe, Vincent once more pushed, saying, "Sam's devotion toward us, has been beyond expectations this season. Even with his own business, he manages to help us in any way he can.”
Vincent then guiltily added, "I am concerned we may have over taxed him of
late."
Meanwhile, upon hearing Vincent talk about Sam, Catherine at the same time began to feel a little guilty herself, because she had also asked a favor of Sam. She then thought of how Sam didn't make her feel badly about asking the favor, and knew without him, she never would have gotten Vincent's snow globe repaired in time.
Catherine then thought of what a giving person Sam must be, and suspected this must be true of all the Helpers, all caring giving souls, who willingly take time out of their own lives, to help enrich those of the tunnel community.
Catherine after all, could testify to this fact herself, because she knew one of them very well herself, namely Peter.
Meantime, Peter cut into Catherine's thoughts as he informatively attested, "Yes, yes accolades to Sam, but I'm trying to tell ya, the gifts are not just from me, they're from Charles too!”
Upon hearing all this for the first time, Catherine looked up at her sweet father, and asked, “You are giving presents to the children Dad?”
With a humbled smile, Charles shared with his daughter, “Well, when Peter told me it was something he enjoyed doing for the kids every year, I wanted to get in on the act too, so we teamed up. I wanted to surprise ya.”
With a shake of her head, Catherine replied, "Well you sure did!"
To which Peter then inserted, "In fact your Dad was so excited about it, he must have called me every day asking if our order from the Art Supply Store had come in yet!”
Charles laughed, as he confessed to what Peter had said, and then added, “Well thankfully everything got here in time.”
And because she wondered what the gifts were, Catherine curiously asked, “Ahem, may I ask what you two are giving them from the Art Supply Store?”
To which Charles took the liberty to answer his daughter with the question, “Remember when we met with Elizabeth, and she mentioned she had always wished she had extra materials to teach a real art class to the children?”
After Catherine said she did, Charles continued, “Well, Peter and I got the idea to give each kid an easel, pallet, and paints, and also get Elizabeth all kinds of supplies too, so she could have all that is required for that real legitimate class she spoke of.”
Peter then thoughtfully relayed, “When we talked to Jacob about this idea, he
seemed happy about it and said it would fulfill Elizabeth’s dream, as well as feed
the children’s creative appetites!”
Everyone agreed it was a great idea, and meanwhile Catherine looked up at her
Dad, and teasingly whispered, “All this going on, and I never heard a word
about it.”
To which Charles softly replied, “Well as I say, I wanted to surprise you too
honey. I know Elizabeth’s story touched you as well when she spoke about her
desire to formally teach the children, and so I hoped you would like the gift idea
Peter and I came up with.”
In response, Catherine warmly answered, "Well I sure do Dad.”
Loving the fact her big hearted Dad had reached out to this community in this way, Catherine lovingly looked at him once more, and his humbled nod explained all that needed to be said.
With an appreciative tone Vincent’s voice broke through the Chandler’s private “Father-Daughter” moment, when he informatively explained, "Thanks to Jamie, Brooke, Laura, and Mouse everything is wrapped and placed under the tree.”
With a bit of amusement in his voice, Vincent added, “In fact, Devin and I were with the children when Mouse and the girls rolled the heavy laden carts of gifts through the tunnel main to the Great Hall. Ahh, the look on the children’s faces was truly a sight to behold.”
To which Devin inserted, “Vincent’s right! I would have paid a million bucks to see those faces all lit up like they were.”
Devin then thoughtfully added, “Seeing the kid’s reaction today, the excitement, the anticipation, well it sure took me back to when we were boys...”
Devin then looked over at his brother and added, "Remember? We could NOT wait for Dr. Peter’s crate of goodies to arrive for us at Christmas.”
Vincent nodded as their captive audience listened to them, and he replied, “Yes, there would be extravagant amounts of peppermint sticks, gumdrop nougats, cut rock candy, fudge drops and peanut brittle..."
And then Devin added, "Not to mention a gift for each and every one of us hoodlums."
Waving off his generosity, Peter said, "I did what I could, besides I enjoyed it! You kids made it fun giving, the way you appreciated everything."
Thoughtfully, Vincent went on to say, "Yes that is true, we did appreciate your kindness..."
And then Devin noted, "And although your gifts always had an element of fun, you made sure they were educational in some way too.”
Thoughtfully as Vincent thought back on what Devin had said, he addressed Peter directly as he continued, “I remember one Christmas in particular, you gave us each a..."
To which Devin also chimed in, and at the same time, both he and Vincent said, "...Chemistry Set.”
Everyone laughed at the brothers, because of their whimsical delivery, and Peter did too, but then he cringed as he recalled, "Yes well, perhaps that was not the best idea I’ve ever had.”
To which Devin laughed as he recollected, “We had mini explosions going on all through the tunnels that Christmas, and Father kept telling us to be careful, foretelling that “Someone is going to lose a finger, an eye, or something!"
And then as Devin glanced at Vincent, they both shared a look, because in fact there was more to the story than what they cared to tell in front of Peter!
And so in order to spare Peter's feelings, Vincent finished up the story, saying, "Needless to say, eventually the chemistry sets were absconded, and outlawed!”
Nodding it was true, Peter admitted, “Jacob was a bit ticked at me for giving those sets to you kids, but hey, how could I know you guys would figure out how to make a harmless chemical dangerous with a little baking soda!”
Everyone laughed at Peter’s comment, and the talk continued on a bit more about other gifts Peter had given them as children, and upon hearing Vincent reminisce with his brother like this, well this gave Catherine some insight into Vincent's boyhood.
Yes, Catherine loved listening to them talk of their life here in the tunnels, and as she glanced up at Vincent when he spoke, she saw a happiness in his eyes she had never seen before. And it was because Vincent had his brother home, his someone to connect with, his someone who knew him better than perhaps anyone else in this world.
Catherine often thought that must be a wonderful feeling, having a sibling to share all the same memories, and it was clear to her how happy it made Vincent.
Lovingly she then thought, of how having Devin home, has made everything complete for a truly blessed Christmas for them all.
After their reminiscing died down, Catherine linked her arm with Vincent’s, and unassumingly surmised, “I'm sure if Lou had sent word about my order from Mr. Smythe you would have told me.”
Regretfully, Vincent had to say no, as of yet, no word from Lou, and yes, he would have told her immediately if he had.
To which Charles thoughtfully noted, “Hmmm, seems you placed that book order quite some time ago.”
With a nod of acknowledgment, Catherine replied, “I did, right after I received Brigit's Christmas Card telling me her new children's book was published, but unfortunately, my order was lost, so Mr. Smythe had to put my order through again. He said he would do his best to get them in time for Christmas. So I am sure he did all he could.”
As Vincent listened, he commiserated with Catherine, and then shared, "You know, even though "A place for the forgotten Children" is a children's book, I am most anxious to read it myself. Brigit wrote during the time she spent with us, she was inspired by our world, and by the way we love and care for abandoned children. Brigit said she wanted to somehow honor the Tunnel's spirit, with extreme care not to betray us in any way."
Upon hearing Vincent say he'd like to read the book too, Catherine smiled to herself, because she knew when her order does finally come in, there will be a book for Vincent in the box too!
Meanwhile, because Devin wondered who this Brigit was, he asked, "Now who is Brigit?"
And so Vincent in reply, gave Devin the low down on his good friend Brigit O'Donnell , and all about of how she became friends to him, and to MOST everyone of the tunnels, Pascal, Jacob, to Charles her legal consult, AND without getting into all the drama, she eventually became friends with a very forgiving Catherine as well."
To which Devin with a shake of his head, "Well believe it or not, even though Brigit O'Donnell is a literary figure...I know who she is because of her Dad. Yeah, I heard all about her Dad's political struggles in Ireland when I was over there...and he just died while here in the states didn't he?"
With a solemness, Vincent replied, "Yes you are right, he did pass, right after All Hallow's Day."
Impressed by Vincent's connection to a famed writer, Devin said, "So you actually know the renowned Brigit O'Donnell. Well here I am surprised, yet not surprised you would connect with someone of her stature little brother."
To which Vincent noted, "Yes...a surprising crossing of paths to be sure..."
So as the entourage continued onward, Mouse ran up to Vincent, and said, “This note is for you Vincent.”
With a bit of a guilty demeanor, Mouse coyly asked, “Good news I wonder?”
As Vincent read the note, a smile came to his eyes as he answered, “Yes Mouse, very good news.”
Vincent then did a double take looking back at Mouse, as he noted the strange grin on his face.
And although Vincent thought he looked peculiar, he then turned to Catherine so he could relay the wonderful news to her, saying, “Yes, very good news...this note is from Lou, and well Catherine...it appears your gifts have arrived.”
With joy and tearful wonderment, Catherine said, “Imagine, just in time for Christmas!"
As Catherine thought back on Mr. Smythe asking her to believe in Christmas miracles, she dreamily pondered aloud, "Hmmm, Christmas miracles really do happen...”
Catherine then snapped back to reality, and eagerly questioned, “So what do I do now? Where can I pick up the books?”
To which Vincent thoughtfully determined, “Well, I was just thinking about the most expedient manner to retrieve the package. You see Catherine, the entrance is quite far from this point, and Father IS waiting for us to join him for the procession to the Great Hall, and so I was thinking if Mouse wouldn't mind…”
Vincent then turned to Mouse and noted, “You travel faster than anyone I know..."
But because Mouse knew Vincent was faster than even him, he butted in to say, "Cept for you!"
Tipping his head in agreement, Vincent without disputing this fact, continued to ask, "...since you are a formidable second, would you run ahead, retrieve the box, and make sure Catherine’s gifts are placed under the tree, ahead of the community's arrival at the Great Hall?”
With a wide grin, Mouse proudly declared, “Already did!”
Suspiciously Vincent looked at his pixilated buddy, and then at his note, and back at Mouse again, and it didn't take but another second before Vincent realized Mouse had read his personal correspondence, AGAIN!
And so with a bit of an annoyed look upon his face, Vincent fanned the note and asked, "Mouse did you read this before I did?"
Shyly Mouse admitted he had, but then he hurriedly explained, “Label said “Smythe’s Books,” and you said Catherine was waiting for books, so knew better get them under the tree before the party. Got help from Laura, Jamie and Brooke too! They wrapped 'em up!”
Pretending to be annoyed for a moment longer, Vincent then patted him on the back, and happily declared, “Mouse, once again I must admit it was a good thing you read my message before I did. Good job my friend.”
Mouse expelled a sigh of relief, because he had gotten affirmation from his hero, that he had made the right decision! And so as Mouse beamed from ear to ear, everyone laughed and commented about the exchange between the two, everyone that is except for Catherine, who was so overjoyed she was speechless! She could hardly believe it! Her gifts for the children had arrived in time for Christmas, and are already under the tree!
And so after Catherine finally re-gained her composure, she stepped up to Mouse, and with much gratitude said, "Because you and the girls did all that for me Mouse, I can now give Christmas gifts to the children.”
To which Mouse humbly replied, “Knew you couldn't do it in time, and we wanted to help you, made us feel good, besides kids want presents at Christmas.”
With a tearful smile, Catherine replied, "Well you are right on all counts Mouse, I couldn't have done it, and yes...children do want presents at Christmas...thankyou so much."
With a slight shuffle of his feet, Mouse told Catherine she was welcome. And meantime as everyone witnessed this sweet exchange between them, hearing Mouse, a sweet unencumbered soul, convey life’s simplest of truths, of how it made him feel to be helpful to another human being...well, they were all affected as an awe settled upon their hearts, as it reminded them what Christmas was about.
And so now with Mouse walking along with this uplifted entourage, they also picked up Pascal who was on his way to the Tunnel main. And as he was greeted with open arms, he walked along side Devin, to whom warmly said, “Merry Christmas my friend.”
So as they neared the tunnel main, festive greetings rippled through the community as they came into site. And after Jacob welcomed Catherine, Charles, and Peter with a cheerful embrace to each one, Jacob declared; “Now we can depart.”
The Tunnels were filled with the sound of both Christmas Carols and joyous conversation as the community walked to the Great Hall. And by now of course Lin and Henry’s baby news had spread through the crowd, and Catherine and Vincent were relieved they no longer had to keep what they knew, a secret any more and were able to express their joy for them openly now.
Yes, Dr. Wong beamed as he boasted how excited he was his lineage was soon to be expanded with the birth of this baby, and added, “First Wong to be borne in America!”
And because Henry was in a festive mood, and didn't want to make a big deal of it, he privately whispered to his wife, "First Pai too!"
The two expectant parents shared a giggle, and then Lin squeezed her husband's hand, as she gratefully whispered back, "Thank you for not raining on Grandfather's parade Henry...you are the sweetest man."
Humbly, a flushed Henry said, "You are welcome dear wife...you are welcome...but sometimes it is not easy!"
Meanwhile, as the entourage walked along, Catherine caught sight of the trio of girls, Jamie, Laura and Brooke, and so as she and Vincent met up with them, Catherine sweetly told them, "Merry Christmas!"
Beaming from ear to ear, the girls all replied, "Merry Christmas Catherine and Vincent!"
Responding gallantly, Vincent replied, "Merry Christmas."
And then Jamie expressed, "We are so happy you and your Dad are here Catherine!"
To which Catherine excitedly replied, "I am too, everything looks so festive and everyone is so joyful..."
Catherine then thankfully continued, "...and girls, Mouse told me you wrapped up my gifts for the children...thanks so much."
The girls all giggled, and responded how happy they were to do it for her, and of how they actually had fun hiding from the kids while they wrapped!
And then Laura excitedly signed, "Oh and the book has a beautiful cover...wait until you see it Catherine!"
To which Catherine anxiously answered back signing, "I can't wait to see."
And then Brooke eagerly added, "Oh and we used the really pretty red wrapping paper, and red ribbon which was included with the books."
With wonder, Catherine asked, "Mr. Smythe even provided the wrapping too?"
In reply Jamie said, "Yeah, we had some brown paper we were gonna use, but when we opened the box and saw the pretty red paper...dah no brainer, we of course used the red!"
Though she appreciated the girls decision, Catherine felt inclined to say, "Whatever paper you would have used, I would have loved it, and I am sure it would have looked lovely."
It was then Brooke thought to say, “Oh yeah, there was a note in the box too...I saved it for you, oh here it is.”
As Catherine accepted the note, she privately read, “Dear Catherine, Here's something to ponder, this book has been sold out for weeks...yet here is your order! Christmas Miracles? Merry Christmas, Fondly, Mr. Smythe”
Upon noticing the stunned look on Catherine's face, Vincent asked, "Catherine? Is something wrong?"
As Catherine showed Vincent the note, she then answered, "I wouldn't say wrong, but you tell me, maybe the words stunning, awesome, miraculous or remarkable would work..."
After reading the note, Vincent tipped his head, and in agreement said, "Yes stunning, awesome, miraculous and remarkable indeed!"
Well, as they trekked on, the younger children excitedly gravitated to Vincent and Catherine. And so lovingly, Vincent picked up little Natalie to carry in his arms, and Catherine held the hands of both Joseph and Samantha.
It made Catherine feel so good they had both so naturally slipped their hands into hers, and in not wanting to make too much of it, she simply smiled up at Vincent, conveying how happy she felt the children were this comfortable with her.
So meanwhile, upon the children's arrival, Lin mentioned how much she loved the Christmas Card design this year.
To which Vincent proudly looked at the children and gave them all full credit, explaining, “As per tradition, the children did all the art work, however, this year's design was Natalie’s idea.”
And because Vincent thought Lin would enjoy hearing Natalie's reason behind her choice, from Natalie herself, Vincent asked her to repeat why she had chosen the Little Drummer Boy.
Quizzically she looked back at Vincent, and declared, "You know why Vincent! Did you forget already?"
With a smile in his eyes, Vincent looked downward in an attempt to mask his amusement, then as he looked back at Natalie, he clarified, "Yes, I remember, however I was hoping you might share your reason with Lin and Henry."
As Natalie said, "Oh I see!" She then looked to Lin and Henry, and answered, “Well, the reason I liked the drummer boy cuz; he shared his talent with baby Jesus, cuz that was all he had, just like Father tells us to do, share whatever we have."
As Lin heard the sweet reason, she instinctively touched her growing belly, and told Henry, "I hope we can teach our child to be so kind Henry..."
With a nod in agreement, Henry assured his wife, "With certainty, because of your kind heart alone, we shall."
Meanwhile because Peter and Jacob were following behind, they overheard little Natalie's response. And so Peter teasingly whispered, “Hey, it looks like someone is listening to ya around here, uh Jacob?”
With emotion Jacob nodded, and said, “Appears so.”
And it was then they arrived at the Great Hall...
...and with the doors open wide, this year’s Christmas Tree was on full display, and it was so very beautiful.
To be continued
Chapter Twenty-Six
: )
| I |
| rrr |
| Destiny of my Heart! By Sharon Holtz Chapter Twenty-Five _______________________________________ |
