A Princess for Christmas

Claire Castle

Copyright © 2019 by Claire Castle

All rights reserved.

This book may not be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission from the author, except for using small quotes for book review quotations. All characters and storylines are the property of the author. The characters, events, and places portrayed in this book are fictitious.

Trademarks: This book identifies product names and services known to be trademarks, registered trademarks, or service marks of their respective holders. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of all products referenced in this work of fiction. The publication and use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners.

Editing provided by: Lisa Cullinan

Warning: Intended for a mature 18+ audience only. It contains graphic language, explicit sexual content, and adult situations.

Created with Vellum Created with Vellum

To everyone who is brave enough to be their true self.

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

About the Author

Also by Claire Castle

1

HENRY

I bustled onto the busy bus and looked at my watch. Shit, I would either just make it or, more likely, be late again. An internal debate with myself ensued, Should I be even later than I already am and sweet talk her with a latte … or not? Meaning—I’d have to survive until 10:00 a.m. Nightmare first-world problem. Also, my boss Tess wasn’t very fond of me to begin with, so another late arrival would be highly frowned upon.

Skipping the coffee idea, I jumped off the bus and flew through the glass doors to the building. I felt my tie to make sure it was in place and then flattened my hair in the lobby mirror.

There was Christmas music playing and the perfectly placed poinsettias gave it a festive feel. I tried to cheer myself up with that thought. “Dammit, this elevator takes forever,” I said to no one in particular.

Finally I made it to the door of Scott & Associates, hoping I could slide into my office unnoticed. “Henry,” I heard a high-pitched voice call. Great, Tess was on the warpath.

Kill ‘em with kindness, I thought, as I entered with a smile and a skip in my step. “Yes, what can I help with?”

I’d worked as Tess’s personal assistant-slash-gopher for five years. It wasn’t exactly exciting, but it was a job. For about the billionth time, I wondered how I could get another one.

“Did you courier the file over to MacMillan & Company like I asked?”

“Yes, in fact”—I pointed to the inbox on her desk—“there’s the form to confirm that it went out.”

She stared at me and then the paper. I was worried that her laser stare would light it on fire.

“Okay, that’s all.”

My cue to leave, so I went back to my desk and closed the office door. Leaning back, I sighed, not for the first time. I should just quit, but there were bills to pay and Christmas was coming up. Add to that the small fact I’d never hear the end of it from my mother. Oh, did I not mention that Tess was also my mother? Since my dad left her, us, she liked to remind me how alone she was and that this was a family business. So, in some crazy, guilt-induced way, I felt compelled to stay. My mood could change pretty quickly when she acted how she usually did. It was ridiculous, yet I couldn’t handle the confrontation.

The family line of guilt-tripping really made no sense. I had no great aspirations to be an accountant as she was. I was perfectly happy with my job as an assistant, apart from my boss. Chuckling to myself, I decided to phone my best friend Caroline. It was just before 9:00 a.m., so hopefully she’d be awake.

A couple of months ago, her asshole ex, who I hated anyway, just disappeared in the night, leaving her and their darling ten-year-old son, Caleb, to fend for themselves. Who did that? He’d been the one working and paying the rent, while she was a stay-at-home mom, so when it happened, I told them they could stay with me until she got on her feet again.

It was a learning curve for me, since I was used to living on my own, but I’d do anything for her. She was my best friend and we’d always been there for each other.

The condo I lived in wasn’t large by any means, but at least it had two bedrooms. My mother was not impressed when my dad had sold it to me for a very good price. He told me he was sorry, that he’d been a terrible father, but that he was a lone wolf and needed to get away. Last I’d heard, he was hiking through the Appalachian Trail on a trek.

My mom blamed him, he blamed himself, and I was stuck in the middle. I swear, a decade ago we could have been on an episode of Maury.

“Hey, Caro. How are you?” I said when she picked up.

With no preamble, she replied, “Your mom has gotten to you that quick? It’s not even 9:00 a.m.”

I laughed. Dammit, she knew me too well. “What can I say? I already got the third degree about a package I sent. It’s as if she doesn’t think I’m capable of anything. I’ve no idea why—”

There was a knock at the door, so I said, “Gotta go. Have a good day.” And just like that, my voice changed into one that sounded fake yet professional. “Yes, okay, we’ll meet then.” I looked up and called out, “Come in.” I knew the walls were paper thin, and I was sure whoever was knocking heard me on the phone.

It was only Tess. I wasn’t sure what she could possibly want since the last time, a mere four minutes prior. I looked intently at my computer screen as if I was working on an important document. In reality, I was staring at my desktop background, featuring my favorite actor of all time in a Santa hat.

“Meeting at 4:30 p.m. with the Abrahams. You’ll attend.” It was posed not as a question but as a requirement.

“No can do.” I smiled sweetly. “I promised Caroline I’d take Caleb to soccer practice. Surely, you can handle it, Tess.” I knew that if I made it sound like she was the most capable, I’d have my way out. God, I really needed to get another job and not let her guilt trip me anymore.

She let out a huff and looked like she was about to speak, but then turned abruptly on her heel.

The rest of the day passed rather uneventfully. I put on a radio station that streamed Christmas songs all day and went about my work.

When I got home, Caleb was ready to go, so I took him to soccer and froze my ass off for an hour while I watched him play. When we returned, it was heaven to see Caroline had made food for us and perfect that we got to sit down together at the table for dinner. Before I had houseguests, I just ate at the kitchen counter or on the couch; at least the table was getting good use now.

“Caleb, how was your day? Anything new and exciting,” I said. We hadn’t talked much on the ride to soccer. Well, he had talked, but only about soccer and his teammates and the game.

“Well, the Christmas pageant is coming up. Mom is going to make my costume.”

I looked over at her and said, “Better you than me.” Then I turned to Caleb. “And what wonderful character will you be?”

“I’m going to be a Christmas princess. Mom will make me a green and red dress, and I’ll wear a crown. They gave me two lines to say in the pageant.”

“Wonderful.”

His enthusiasm was contagious as he spread his hands up and around, trying to imitate a princess twirl.

“Your mom is a great seamstress, so I can’t wait to see you up on that stage.”

“Yeah, wish me luck because we were given one whole week’s notice to create a unique costume. Can you believe it?” She sighed as Caleb cleared his plate, then went to do his homework in the living room. “How was the rest your day?”

“Well, it didn’t improve much after the call this morning. I’ll survive, I guess.”

2

TRAVIS

Being the costume designer for a local play with a limited budget was challenging yet rewarding. We were at one of the dress rehearsals for a rendition of The Nutcracker. It was just two weeks until Christmas and there was still so much to do. So many little details.

I stayed backstage to help people get into their outfits, check for fit, and make sure they had all their accessories. Inspecting the area, I rubbed my hands together, excited for what was to come. It would go by so quickly.

“Travis, come on and help me.” I ran over to one of the main actors to help pull the ribbons of her dress together.

“There,” I said, tying the final knot. “Looking good. Go get ’em.”

When there was a break in the rehearsal, I checked my schedule at the gay club, Queen of Hearts, where I sang and performed in drag as “Ms. Trav-esty.” Good, I still had two hours til I needed to be there. I’d do my Christmas rendition of It’s Raining Men, which always proved to be a hit. Plus, I’d have my friend and fellow drag queen, Marcus, to help. He could get me dressed, wigged, and made up in record time.

I peeked out the curtain and was ready for the next costume change. A hem had fallen down on the pants of the gorgeous male lead, and as he handed me them to sew up, I had to thank the heavens that I wasn’t making adjustments while he was still wearing them. Where would I look?

I made it to the club with only ten minutes to spare. “Sorry, sorry,” I told Mel, the manager. “Can you switch me around with someone?” I batted my eyelids at her. “Please?”

“Okay, fine, but you better sing your heart out then. And suggest people buy the Merry Mistletoe cocktail.”

“What? That’s not really a thing, is it? So tacky.”

The death glare I received made me eat my words.

“I mean, of course, Mel.” I cowered, then ran to the dressing room. Marcus practically dragged me in beside him. “What time do you call this?”

“The practice for the play ran late.” I shrugged. “Sorry, it won’t happen again. They need me. Anyway, ‘Dragon Mel’ is switching me, so we have a few extra minutes.” 

Marcus tugged, primped, squashed, and shoved me until eventually I was transformed from my usual black hair and blue eyes into “Ms. Trav-esty,” with my blond wig, sequinned dress, and flawless makeup.

“Fabulous, darling,” he said, pushing me out. I pinched my lips and grabbed the microphone from Mel. After I belted out my song and performed a choreographed dance to a Shania Twain number, I reminded the audience to try the Merry Mistletoe cocktail while not cringing. Then I made my rounds of the tables, talking to everyone and making jokes to a few of the men.

At last, four hours later, I made it back to the change room where Marcus was waiting. “Want to come back to my place?” he asked.

“Oh, darling,” I said, hugging him, “I better not. It was a busy day. I need to get my beauty sleep.”

“Oh stop! You’re only twenty-eight.” 

“Yes, and still working here when I really want to be a costume designer on a television show.” 

“Your time will come, my friend. At least you know what you want and have a dream. I have ten years on you and only this place to show for it.” 

“Oh, you love it.” I poked his ribs.

He smiled in return.

“See you later.” I hugged him and set off home while dreaming of being a respected costume designer for something amazing—maybe a historical movie—and creating outfits to fit the period. Instead, I was making outfits with little to no budget in my small town. They weren’t even paying me. I couldn’t blame them, they barely had any money as it was. And I loved it, regardless. The experience was invaluable.

Sighing, I decided I wouldn’t let it discourage me. I needed to get home and glue about a billion sequins onto a dress by tomorrow. How I was going to do that, I still had no idea. I’d have to pull an all-nighter, and I wasn’t getting any younger.

Stopping to grab snacks and cans of Red Bull, I took a deep breath and gave myself a pep talk. You can do this.

Into the night, I glued and placed the sequins in a beautiful celestial pattern. The hot-glue-gun burns were nothing and came with the territory, even if I was doing a lot of swearing and my neighbor came over to ask if everything was all right.

Around 2:00 a.m., I decided I better call it a night. The sequin bodice was almost complete, so I’d get a few hours’ sleep before I had to get back to the theater again with it. Maybe, just maybe, I could pull it off.

I lifted my head off my sewing table when I heard a buzzing. Shit, I’d literally fallen asleep in my seat. Good thing I’d set the alarm for 8:00 a.m. last night. I got up and noticed how rough I looked in the bathroom mirror. My hair stood on end and I had bags under my eyes. Time for a shower. I stripped down and stepped in, the water not too hot, because I hoped the coolness would refresh me. I could make it through today at the theater, and I wasn’t working after, so I’d catch up on my beauty sleep then.

Yes, that would work, I thought to myself and suddenly I’d gotten my second wind. I got dressed, made my hair look presentable, and added some blusher to my cheeks. Ready to go. I picked up the dress I’d just managed to finish and put it in a garment bag and zipped it up.

Prancing back into the theater, I smiled at everyone as I took the dress over to the director and opened the bag to show her it was ready. Backstage, I could take a small breather … until someone needed me. I whistled as I went into the back room. There were fabrics and an old sewing machine and costumes in various states of being created. Ah, I felt better now. I was with my people. Or fabric. Or something.

The next few hours continued in a whirlwind as people came in and asked me to hem, trim, or wrap all kinds of things. In the afternoon when everyone filtered out, I told the stage manager that I’d close up. I could sew in peace and try and finish a few projects without being bothered.

“You’re a lifesaver. Thanks.” He patted me on the back and went out.

I phoned the café next door to order my dinner, telling them I’d be over in about an hour. The owner must have known how I let time get away from me, for she offered to bring it over and would knock at the door when it was ready. I thanked her and hit End on my phone. One time I was due to pick up my food at 6:00 p.m., and when I didn’t show up, they assumed I hadn’t even ordered and it was a prank call. After apologizing profusely, I explained that I’d gotten so caught up in sewing and creating that I’d completely forgotten about my food order.

I promised myself I wouldn’t stay too long, because I did need some sleep, but some of the girls needed to have matching snowflakes sewn on the bodice of their bodysuits.

3

HENRY

I couldn’t believe how condescending my mother could be. And in a meeting she insisted I come to. As she glowered at me like I was a mosquito buzzing around her tent in the wilderness, it took everything for me not to roll my eyes when she made me wipe up the coffee that someone else had spilled on the table in the conference room.

My phone blared just then, in the sound of an elephant snoring. It was the SOS ringtone from Caroline for emergencies. I couldn’t even remember how we came up with it, but we were drunk, and it was funny at the time.

As I went to pick up the call, six sets of eyes from around the table and one set at the Powerpoint presentation stared at me.

“Sorry,” I mumbled and moved to get up just as Tess looked like she was about to grab my wrist and keep me from going. “Emergency.” I bent down and tried to be stealth as I walked out, figuring there’d be consequences later, but nothing I couldn’t handle. It was becoming a daily occurrence.

“Caro, what is it? Are you okay? Is Caleb?” I asked immediately. My fingers were crossed, hoping it wouldn’t be terrible news. All I could hear was heavy breathing. “Caro. Talk to me.” Trying not to panic, I waited for the reply.

“It’s just …” she sobbed. “Can you pick up Caleb at school? I was out in the snow,

walking to the grocery store to get us stuff for dinner, and before I knew it, I slid and fell. I’m at the hospital.”

“Oh, my god. Oh, girl, I’m sorry.” I tried to sound calm because I knew she’d need me.

“Yeah, it all happened so fast. My mom is here with me while I get the cast, but he’s at

school.”

“Okay, of course I’ll get him. Just get home safe, and then I can give you hugs.”

“Thanks, Henry. You’re the best. I love you. I’m okay, I promise.”

Taking a deep breath, I walked back into the meeting, explaining that I had to leave to help a friend in an emergency and then drove to Caleb’s school. I was known to be a bit of a worrier, so I tried to loosen my white knuckles from the steering wheel and not worry Caleb. I tapped the steering wheel as I sat outside his school. Okay, I could do this. For Caroline.

Caleb left the school and I waved to him as he walked to the car. “Hey buddy, your mom hurt herself so we’ll have to take good care of her.”

“Okay, Henry. Of course I’ll help, but what happened?”

“She fell on the slippery sidewalk, but she’ll be okay.” I ruffled his hair. “How about we order something for dinner. Pizza sound good?”

He smiled at me and raised his hands in the air. “Awesome.”

Back at the condo, Caroline was already there and, indeed, had her arm in a cast. “Hey, sweetie.”

Caleb ran up to hug her and then I did the same. “Thanks, guys. I got a bit of a fright, but it’ll be okay soon.”

“Any other injuries?” I asked her, trying not to sound too worried.

“My butt has seen better days, but they said I’ll be okay. It’s mainly the wrist.” She took a deep breath. “Let’s just act like everything is normal.” Then she rubbed Caleb’s head.

“Okay, you go sit down. Caleb and I are going to order pizza. You want your favorite?”

She sighed. “Great. That would be fantastic. I’ll just get some …”

“No, I’ve got it. Coffee, right?”

She merely nodded then went to move her hand and I heard her moan. Knowing how strong she was, I tried not to coddle her.

“Coffee coming up. And Caleb, what’s your favorite pizza, I don’t think I know.”

He looked at his mom, checking if it was okay. It was almost imperceptible, but I saw a nod. “Onions and pepperoni, please.”

I pulled out my phone and put in an order on the pizza app. “Okay, guys. It’ll be here in forty-five minutes.” Echoing his mom as I’d heard her say on so many other nights, “Off to do your homework.” He got up and went into my spare room, which we’d turned into their room.

“Thanks,” Caroline said. “You’re the best. I didn’t mess things up at work for you, did I?”

“Don’t worry about me. Are you sure you’re okay?” Trying to bypass that line of questioning, I sat down next to her and gave her a hug. “I’ll take time off work if you want. Oh, and how was it with your mother?”

“Look, I didn’t mention yours, so don’t mention mine. All in all, it was tolerable I guess. And no, don’t take time off work. She’ll bring Caleb to school and then he can stay in the library if you can pick him up when you’re done with work?”

“Oh, please … Why couldn’t you have said that I must take off two weeks?”

Laughing, she said, “You’d like it too much.”

“True story.” The doorbell rang and I went to get the pizza. Caroline had an interesting time eating with one hand, and I offered to cut it up into bite-sized pieces for her.

“No, I’m not a baby. I draw the line at that,” she said, trying to shove some stringy cheese in her mouth with little to no success.

Caleb chomped on his pizza, and then he suddenly put it down, stood up, and burst into some kind of song. He twirled and said, “Christmas comes but once a year” and then bowed.

Thoroughly confused, I tried not to look it and glanced at Caro, who seemingly was trying to clap. “That’s one of my lines for the pageant. Could you hear me okay? What about the speed of my delivery?” Caleb reminded me of myself when I was younger in some ways. I shook my head, not sure how to answer all the questions.

I jumped up. “Oh no, your costume! What’ll we do? You need it this weekend. Your mom will be out of action.”

Caroline pulled me down while poor Caleb looked so sad. “Calm down, Henry. You can do it. I’ll show you what needs to be done. We have it under control.”

“Do you not know me at all?” I said rather dramatically, even to my own ears. “Remember when I tried to make Christmas boxer shorts for the whole soccer team at school and ended up sewing them without any leg holes?” I straightened up and flattened my shirt down. “Okay, I’ve got this.” I paced back and forth by the table, my pizza getting cold.

Caleb raised his voice, which I’d never heard him do. “Sit down, Henry.”

Caroline seemed to agree with him. “Thanks, Caleb,” she said, then continued. “Henry, I can find someone else, don’t worry. Please, sit down. You’re tiring me out with all the pacing.” She half-hugged me then. “I love you, and it’ll all work out.”

“I don’t want you to have to worry about anything, that’s all.”

“I know, I know. And thank you.”

After clearing away the dishes and leftover pizza, we all sat down to watch some television. I Googled a few things on my phone and then asked where the start of the costume was.

She’d obviously given up on trying to talk me out of anything or couldn’t be bothered with what I had in mind as she pointed to the hall closet. That worked quite well in my favor.

After I pulled it off the hanger, I kissed them both and said I had to go out. “Don’t wait up for me. Caleb, look after your mom.”

I briskly walked out to the car and put the dress in the passenger seat then drove a few blocks away to the local theater. The online newspaper had told me they were doing a Christmas play and what days the rehearsals were. I hoped I could still catch someone, since, according to the paper, they’d only finished about an hour before.

4

TRAVIS

Bang, bang, bang could be heard coming from the main door, and I realized my dinner must be here. I jumped up, grabbed my wallet, and headed to the front. Pulling it open, I expected to see the adorable old lady, Harriet, who had taken my order over the phone. She was the usual delivery person.

Instead, I opened the door to the most gorgeous man I’d ever seen. Maybe it was over the top and dramatic, but I couldn’t help it. The structure of his cheekbones was glorious, emphasized by his beautiful lips and purple hair.

“Oh, hey,” I said incoherently. “Twenty-two fifty, is that correct?”

He looked around, obviously baffled, and then shivered.

Shit, should I ask him in? But he’d only come from next door. “Um, you look cold. Would you like to come in?”

That seemed to be the cue because he bustled past me into the foyer. “Oh, thank you. I just, ugh, I need to make this perfect for my best friend’s son. He puts on a brave face and I want this costume to be special for him this Christmas. I’d love to give him the most wonderful gown for the pageant. And Caroline—” Suddenly he stopped. “Oh, crap. There I go with the verbal diarrhea. Quite literally.”

The laughter burst out of me at that, even though I really had no clue what he was talking about. I couldn’t stop as tears ran down my cheeks. “Let’s start again.” Then, there was another knock. He was about to speak, but I put one finger to his beautiful lips—

“Hold that thought.” Opening the door, Harriet held steaming hot white boxes out to me. I paid and thanked her and then turned around to the stranger I now had in front of me.

I put the boxes down to the side and my stomach growled.

“Oh, your dinner … and your stomach. I should just go. This was a bad idea,” he said.

“No, come on to the back with me. Let me put this on a plate and we’ll chat.” I stuck my hand out. “Let’s start over. I’m Travis. And you are?” I looked over at him politely, awaiting his reply.

He looked shell-shocked and then blinked and seemed to snap out of his reverie. “Okay, okay, sorry.” He moved the heaps of fabric he held from one hand to the other. “I’m Henry.” 

I closed my eyes for a moment. His voice sounded melodious to my ears. When I opened them again, he was staring directly at my lips. I licked them, slowly and purposefully, and then sat down, straightening up.

“Great to meet you, Henry. Sorry about, you know, thinking I should pay you and all that. How can I help you?”

“Well, my wonderful best friend’s kid wants to be a princess in the pageant. I need to give him this gift. To make it special and right.” 

He smiled at me and it was the most splendid thing. Some insane urge made me want to kiss him, but I resisted. How crazy would that be?

“Anyway, Caroline was going to sew it, but she broke her wrist.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry.” I put my hand on his. Instead of pulling it away, he let it sit there.

“Thank you. I was really worried, but she’ll be okay. She offered to show me what to do, but I’m terrible at sewing. So, I came here, hoping someone could help me?” He flashed that smile at me again, and I swear I would have gone camping with him if he’d asked. And the closest I’d ever gotten to camping was a hotel with a pool. “I need to make this perfect. Sort of as an early Christmas gift to Caleb.” 

Looking at Henry, I could see love and determination in his eyes. There was also a bit of sadness, I thought.

“Okay, you’ve got your man.” Shit, did I really just say that? I glanced quickly at him, but he seemed unfazed. “I’m the costume designer for the community Christmas play. So, I’m all yours.” Jeez. Foot in mouth. Again. I really shouldn’t be allowed to talk.

“Aren’t … I mean, are you sure? You must be swamped with all the work you already have going on.” He started to get up.

We only had this fleeting moment, but I felt a connection. I couldn’t let him leave, even if he was right, I was overworked and overwhelmed. “No, well … yes, I do have a lot to do here, but we’ll make it work. Stay and chat while I eat, and we’ll go from there.”

He nodded, so I turned on some background Christmas music and then ate before my stomach decided to embarrass me. “Now, you may not be a seamster, but a hot glue gun can be your friend.”

He still seemed unsure, so I took both his hands in mine. “You’ll be helping me, and I’ll help you. It’s a win-win.”

“Thank you. I can’t believe you’d do this for me. I’m so grateful, but I don’t want to put you out.”

I smiled. “It’s Christmas.” Then I finished eating and pulled out my sketch pad. “Tell me what you have in mind to make it the best ever.”

He pulled out some sort of taffeta in red and green. It looked horrible to me, but I bit my tongue. “Well, his mom got him this, but …”

Trying not to sound too forward, I echoed him. “But …? Tell me your own ideas if this doesn’t match.”

“I kinda envisioned an Ice Princess. Pretty silvers and blues.” His hand gestures went every which way and I tried not to laugh.

I wiped my mouth with a napkin and then did what I do best. Putting my pencil to paper, I sketched a long, flowing dress that had a sequinned bodice with the skirt made up of a feather-like flowing fabric that would just touch the floor.

“Or can it be more like a gown but with the changing colours? Does that make sense?”

“Ah okay. Less feathers. More like one piece.” I erased and sketched a more flowing garment. “What about this?” We changed and discussed and edited the design until it was a stunning costume, one fit for a princess.

“We did it, Travis.” He held his arms up to high five me and then gave me a hug. “Thanks a million.”

Holding him a bit longer than was probably acceptable, I let go and looked at the time. “Wow, it’s 10:00 p.m. already.”

“No way. Time flies when you’re having fun. So …”

I sensed a question on the tip of his tongue, but I wasn’t sure what he would say, so, I waited.

He continued, “I better get back home. I have to work tomorrow. But thanks for all your help. If you have time, I’d really like to treat you to lunch tomorrow, but unfortunately, it would have to be near my office. The Serafina Café is a great little place. Have you heard of it?”

“Yes! And I’d love to,” I said before he’d even finished. After we decided to meet at noon tomorrow, I waved goodbye to him, locked up, and literally fell into bed when I made it home.

When I woke up, I smiled thinking of Henry and the night before—and now I had to squeeze in meeting him for lunch. I was supposed to be at the theater all day for another dress rehearsal, but I was already making up some excuses in my head. After all, I was always there. And I wanted to see Henry again.

5

HENRY

I had snuck in the door late last night, hoping I didn’t wake Caroline and Caleb. I really didn’t know where the time had gone, but I couldn’t seem to leave the dynamic Travis. He had such grace, and the way he described everything with such enthusiasm …

On a whim, I’d invited him to lunch. Now I sat in the café and waited. And waited. Looking at my watch, I realized I only had forty minutes left before Tess would be on the warpath. Damn, I really thought he would come.

The waitress came over and I ordered my BLT sandwich. Shrugging my shoulders, I guessed we’d just have a working relationship. Last night, it had seemed like he wanted to get to know me too. Sure, we’d just met, but I sensed something that couldn’t be explained.

Just as I was taking my first bite, I sensed movement out of the corner of my eye. Looking up, it was Travis. I couldn’t contain my smile.

“Hey, what’ll you have?” I asked. “Sorry, it’s so rushed. My boss won’t let me be late.”

“No, no—” He pushed his hand through his hair. “It’s my fault I’m late. There was an emergency at the theater.” He rolled his eyes. “An emergency in the main actor’s eyes, at least.”

I waved the waitress over.

“The BLT please. Thank you.”

I grinned.

“What?” he asked.

“No, nothing … Just that I ordered the exact same lunch. What was the emergency?” I made air quotes as I said it.

“Oh, look at that!” Travis laughed, then he continued, “He tells me that the pants for his outfit need to be re-made because he doesn’t look”—he leaned in so only I could hear—“well-endowed enough in them.”

I burst out laughing. “You’ve got to be kidding. Wow.”

“I know, right? So, I was just leaving to meet you when I was told by a stagehand that Eduardo needs me to wait. Long story short, that’s how I ran late. I felt so bad and was worried you’d think I wasn’t coming.”

“Well, I’m glad you’re here now. The food shouldn’t be long.”

“Where do you work at?”

I pointed down the street a bit. “It’s the building over there with the double glass doors. Long story, but I’m a personal assistant for a not-very-nice boss.”

“Aww, I’m sorry to hear that. I do the theater stuff but that’s just because it’s as close as I can get for now to my dream job. I also perform drag over at Queen of Hearts.”

My head jerked up. “Really? I’d love to see you sometime.”

“You’ve been?” he asked, sounding surprised.

“I haven’t in awhile,” I admitted. “I’ve gone for some of my friends’ birthday parties.” I finished eating and leaned back.

“My stage name is ‘Ms. Trav-esty.’” Travis proceeded to do a royal wave.

“That’s good.” I chuckled. “And I really wish I didn’t have to go back to work. Do you think going-Christmas-shopping-but-not-for-you is a suitable excuse?”

His laugh went right through me. “That bad?”

“It has its moments, I’ll tell you that. Speaking of which, I have to get back. Can we meet at the theater to work on the dress? Just so it’s a surprise. My friend’s living with me til she gets back on her feet.”

“Want to come to my place? The only thing is, I do have a shift at the club as well. So it’d be a bit later.”

He paused as the waitress came over with the check. Then we got up and walked out to the sidewalk.

“Maybe I can come and see you perform, and then we work on it?” Snowflakes were falling lightly on us and on instinct, I pulled Travis under the awning in front of the café. His face was close to mine, and looking into his eyes, I admired their beauty. I pulled his collar up higher for him. “Can’t have my chief seamster getting a cold now.”

He held my gaze, not looking away. “Thank you.” Then he moved to kiss my cheek.

I let out a sigh.

Travis got his wits about him before me and stepped back, brushing down his coat. “Okay, that sounds fantastic. I start at the club at 7:00 p.m., so any time after that.”

“Great, I’ll be there.” I waved good bye to him and the rest of my day passed much more quickly as I thought about tonight.

At the end of the day, I went to pick up Caleb—leaving early, much to Tess’s chagrin—and asked him how his day was.

“It was a great day. We got to practice for the pageant too. I’m so excited.” I loved seeing him happy. “Is Mom okay?”

I rubbed his hair. “Yes, she’ll be okay. And I’m taking care of your princess costume. Are you the only princess?”

“I think so. There’s a squid, a unicorn, and a squirtle.”

I looked over at him and then back at the road. “What the, I mean, what is a squirtle?”

“It’s from Pokemon.” He rolled his eyes. “Don’t worry, Henry, you can’t know everything even though you’re an adult. What movie should we watch tonight?”

“You can watch whatever you and your mom want. I’ll be out at my super-secret-princess project.”

“Aww, you don’t need to leave to do it, do you?” he whined.

“You’ll get to see the finished product, I promise.”

Caroline was waiting for us back at the house, and with some miraculous feat of nature, dinner was on the table.

“Hi guys, how was your day?” She walked over to hug Caleb and then me. “I thought we could eat dinner and then put the Christmas tree up. What do you say?”

I couldn’t help the grin that spread across my face. “Oh, I’d love to. Can we do it this weekend though instead? What do you say?”

Caroline only smirked at me and said “sure” before going back to her dinner. I knew that meant I’d get a “talking to” later. I changed the subject quickly. “How on earth did you make us this deliciousness with only one arm?”

She attempted to do some weird robot move and I laughed. “I’m still capable, you know.”

Pointing my fork in Caroline’s direction, I was about to question her, but let it go.

Then she said, “Okay, fine. It was delivered.”

“Ha, I knew it. Tasty though, so thank you.” After we enjoyed our meal, I got up and took all the plates over to the dishwasher and then went to jump in the shower. I was overly excited to see Travis perform.

Back in my room, I spent far too long trying to decide what to wear. I finally settled on a denim button-down shirt with dark jeans. With one last glance in the bathroom mirror, I made sure my hair looked good then took my black leather jacket out of the closet.

As I walked out to grab my keys and wallet, Caroline whistled at me. “Looking good, stud. Where are you off to?”

I let out a strangled noise and was about to make something up when Caleb saved the day. “He said he’s going to work on my extra-special, super-duper costume.”

“Yes, so I must go.” I hugged both of them and took a deep breath when I got outside. I sure wasn’t cut out for this living-with-people thing, I thought. It was one date—or was it even a date?—with Travis, and I wasn’t used to explaining my every move. Of course, if anything came of it, I’d tell her: Maybe when he kissed me on the lips. If he kissed me was probably more accurate.

It had changed since I’d last visited the club. There were framed photos of pinup girls and drag queens on all the walls. Small tables dotted the area in front of the stage with a bar at the side. It was classy and had been upgraded from the previous 1980s décor.

Walking to the bar, I ordered one of the drink specials. Merry something. It sounded good enough to me. I loved trying new concoctions. Some music started as the lights went down, so after a quick search for a table, I moved to the one I found in the corner.

A dark-skinned male told us to welcome Ms. Trav-esty to the stage and everyone clapped. Then Travis strutted out in a beautiful skintight dress, a blue wig, and stunning makeup. She caught my eye and I couldn’t help the smile that I directed straight at her. She looked absolutely magnificent.

Focused on the stage again, Ms.Trav-esty burst into song as backup dancers joined in behind her. It was a naughty rendition of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Then she strutted back and forth on the stage, singing an upbeat song I didn’t recognize. I clapped along and applauded when she finished.

A couple of hours—and another drink—later, Travis appeared at my table. He had changed back into a hoodie and jogging pants.

“I feel so overdressed,” I said, laughing.

“Wait a minute …” he said, in an overdramatic tone. “Did you get forced into ordering this, this drink? I’ll get you something else. Name your poison.”

“What? Ah, it’s actually really delicious. Cranberry juice and vodka with a hint of something else.”

“Oh, really?” His shoulders slumped over.

I handed him the glass. “Here, try it and see for yourself.”

He took a sip and licked his lips. “Wow, you’re right.”

“What’s with the slumped shoulders then?”

“Oh, I’ll kinda owe my boss an apology later. Forget that. Let’s get going, glue gun extraordinaire.”

“Uh, are you sure I can handle it?”

“The burnt fingers just come with the territory. You can handle that, right?” I paused, not sure what to say.

“For Caleb. Think of that.”

I rubbed my hands together. “Let’s get going then.” We walked side by side for a few blocks.

“This is me.” Travis moved to the side for me to walk up some stairs. It was a nice apartment with cozy furnishings, costumes in various stages of completion, and sketches on the walls. A sewing machine and a dressmakers dummy stood in one corner.

Covering it was a red gown. I walked over and touched the fabric. It was soft and luxurious. “Wow, you’re so talented. This is amazing.”

“Thanks. It’s for someone’s winter wedding in January. I’m almost done. I’m not sure about the red, but it’s what the bride wanted.”

“No, I hear you. Seems strange. What’s the weirdest creation you’ve been asked to make?”

“Let me get us some hot chocolate first.”

I followed him into the kitchen where he pulled out two mugs and hot chocolate mix.

“I just make what the customer wants,” he said in a very serious voice. “The customer is always right.” Then he burst out laughing as he put the kettle on.

“I picked the right person for the job of helping me then.” I smiled at him cheekily.

“Do you give that smile to all the guys? ’Cause I’m sure they’re like putty in your hands.” He poured the powder into our mugs. “And excuse me, Henry, I don’t quite remember any picking.” He smiled, letting me know he was teasing.

“Touché, ‘Ms. Trav-esty.’”

Travis opened another cupboard and a whole variety of sprinkles, marshmallows, cinnamon, and other toppings appeared. Then he took out whipped cream from the fridge. I watched and tried not to lick my lips.

“Now, here are your choices. What would you like?” He made our drinks—mine with marshmallows—and we sat down. “Okay, we can break for thirty minutes, then I crack the whip.” He laughed, and took a sip of his drink.

“Okay, so anyway, the strangest thing I think was maybe the old woman who wanted a toy made. She said it was for a grandchild, but I’m sure it was for some strange sex fetish. I mean, she pet it in a very weird fashion.”

“No way. That’s really crazy.”

“You’ve got some.” He pointed to the corner of my lip and then leaned in. I could feel his breath near my cheek. The air around us changed.

“Are you going to lick it or brush it off?” I asked, giving him either option.

Then his tongue slowly slid out as he licked the whipped cream from my lip. I froze in place and then moved ever so slightly towards him. Slipping my tongue out, I felt his soft lips against my own. They were somewhat warm from the hot chocolate.

He moved his hand up to my cheek and pulled me closer. The kiss was everything and I melted into him. When we parted, he leaned his forehead on mine.

Quietly, I heard him whisper my name, and then he sat back. “Well, if you think that’ll get you out of using the glue gun, you’d be wrong.”

Laughing, I stood up and pulled him up too. We worked into the night, laughing and joking. Travis showed me the fabric he’d picked up. It was perfection. While he cut and sewed, he laid out the bodice for me to work side by side with him and showed me where to place the glittery blue and silver sequins that would add to the costume.

Looking at the time, I saw it was past midnight. Shit. “Dammit, I didn’t realize the time.”

“Just stay over,” he said.

I swung my head around, with my jaw dropped. I could feel my cheeks heat.

“You are adorable. No, not sex … yet. Just sleep. Actual sleep. We can work on some more in the morning before I have to go, and then afterward, you can do whatever you have going on tomorrow.”

“Oh, we’re putting up the Christmas tree.” I glanced around. “Yours isn’t up yet either.”

I pointed to the corner where the box with the artificial tree sat, and stacked next to it were the boxes of lights and tinsel. “It’s been so hectic with the play and working. But I’ll get around to it. There’s no doubt about that. Now, are you staying or leaving?”

6

TRAVIS

Touching my lips, I could still feel Henry’s on them. The way we just connected and had laughed and bantered so fast was something I couldn’t explain. But I wasn’t about to question it. Maybe having the dress to focus on helped.

I thought back to last night. Poor Henry had started with the glue gun, and when he’d gotten glue on one of his fingers, he managed to stick another finger to it somehow. I tried pulling them apart and wound up with some on me. Luckily, I’d gotten it off quickly. Then we ended up in a fit of giggles.

As we continued, it was evident we worked well together.

He told me about his mom and how annoying she was, and then all about Caroline’s idiot ex. I shared with him my dreams of becoming a costume designer, and how I became a different person in drag and could express myself through the songs and performances.

Making jokes with Henry, I learned that he didn’t take everything seriously. I’d found out he really colored his hair purple to bother his mom at first, but now he actually loved it. I had to laugh. When I asked why he still worked there, he said even though he was a grown man, it was a guilt trip thing.

There was a light knock at my bedroom door. I stretched and sat up. “Come in.” Henry walked in and handed me a cup of coffee and sat on the end of the bed.

“Here’s your energy, so we can keep going?” He made it sound as if it was a question.

I took a sip of coffee and put it to the side. “Ah, that’s good. Thank you. And I’m ready when you are.”

“Do you think we’ll get it done in time? I don’t want to impose on you since you’ve got so much going on. And you haven’t even put your tree up yet.”

I looked at Henry and motioned for him to come closer to me. “We’ll get it done. I promise. I always do after all. And”—I paused—“with you here, it didn’t even feel like work. It was the best night.”

He leaned over to hug me and rubbed my back. “For me too.”

The rest of the time he helped me pin the bodice and the skirt section, then I started sewing it together.

“I’ll have to get to the theater. But hey, just let yourself out whenever you have to go.”

“Really, what if I rob you or something? You’re just going to leave me here?”

“Okay, I’ll take the dress with me as hostage.” I laughed. “I’ve hidden all the good stuff anyway. No really, it’s fine. Hey, just so you know, I loved seeing you in the audience, and uh, I want to see you again, okay? I mean, even after we finish the dress.” Looking up at Henry, I couldn’t decipher the look on his face or guess what his response would be.

“Me too. I know it’s fast, but it just seems right, doesn’t it?” He hugged me tight before I left.

* * *

The day passed in a blur: sewing and fixing and fitting costumes. I loved the adrenaline but would be happy when the shows were over.

I traipsed back home thinking I should have gotten Henry’s number so we could text each other. There was a strange glow from the window. Oh fuck, I thought, what if there’s a fire. Had he made himself breakfast and not turned off the stove? What if he lit a candle when I had a hard-and-fast rule about no candles in the house? All those crazy scenarios ran through my head.

I took the stairs two at a time and opened the door. I gasped, putting my hands up to my mouth. The tree was up and looked beautiful. It was covered perfectly with tinsel and sparkly lights. I walked over to the kitchen island where there was a note.

Travis,

I’ll let you add your ornaments, but you’d said you didn’t have time to set it up yet. Hope you like it.

Henry.

555-6210

I pulled my cellphone out of my jeans and dialled the number on the piece of paper. My hands were shaking and I tried not to let the tears flow. I knew it was silly.

It rang a few times before he picked up. “Hello.” It sounded like there was a commotion in the background.

“Oh, hey, it’s me, Travis. Did I catch you at a bad time?”

“Hey, everything okay? And no, not a bad time at all. We’re just trying to put the tree together. Every part looks the same. And someone threw popcorn at me. Do you want to come join us?”

“Oh crap. I wish … Wait, actually, okay. But I phoned because I wanted to thank you. Thank you for the gift of putting the tree up. You really did that for me?”

“So glad you like it. Yes, well, I know you’re busy, and your place looked like it could use some Christmas.”

“It really made my day. It’s just beautiful.” Henry gave me his address, and I felt butterflies in my stomach as I ended the call. Immediately I dialled Marcus.

“Hey, Trav. What’s up?”

Usually we’d flirt or have small talk, but instead I burst out, “Can you please cover for me tonight with Mel? I’m going to call in sick, but if she asks, could you just say you know that I am?”

“Well”— he made me wait—“only if you really have a better reason than that for bailing.”

He got me, that was for sure. I laughed. “Well, there’s this guy. You know how busy I am, and he invited me …”

“A man? Go, go. But tell me all about it the next time we work together.”

“I promise, you know that. Thanks, Marcus.”

I got dressed, then painted my nails blue, added a bit of eyeliner, and messed up my hair. When had I taken a night off? When had I wanted to? I pushed those thoughts aside. I couldn’t feel guilty for calling in sick one night.

I pulled out one ornament and held it up to the tree, then I took a selfie with it and texted it to Henry.

On my way. T x

7

HENRY

Smiling at the text, I put my phone away and rubbed my hands together. “Guys, I just got a message from my friend”— I could feel myself blushing—“well, maybe he’s sorta-kinda my boyfriend.”

“Oooh boyfriend. You’re blushing,” Caro teased me.

“Yes, so be nice. He’s going to come help us decorate. That’s okay right?”

“Don’t be crazy, of course it is. And it’s your place. The more the merrier. As long as it’s not your mother or my ex.”

“Truer words have never been spoken. Now let’s listen to some Christmas music.”

The doorbell rang and I ran to answer it like an excited school kid.

“Who’s the adult here?” Caleb cajoled me. Then turned to his mom. “Oh, sorry.”

I laughed. “It’s all good.” Opening the door to Travis, I smiled. “You look spectacular.” Giving him a chaste kiss, I pulled him into the condo. “So happy you could make it.”

“This is my best friend, Caroline, and her son, Caleb.” If I was the type of person to overthink things, I’d worry about him meeting my family so to speak, but no, these were the most important people to me, so that was all that mattered.

He bent down to speak to Caleb and my heart about melted. “Oh my. I’ve seen your dress for the Christmas pageant. It’s wonderful.”

“Really? Cool. I’m so excited.” He held Travis’s hand for a moment. “I love your nails.” Then he pulled him to the tree. “Look, this is Henry’s tree.”

I let them be alone a for few minutes and Caroline was smiling at them too. “He’s a keeper,” she whispered.

“I’ve only known him a few days, don’t be ridiculous.”

“Hey, when you know, you know. I can see it.” She walked over to the kitchen and then called out to Caleb. “Come on, buddy. Help your mom get some drinks for everyone.”

We all sat down while Travis asked about Caroline’s wrist and she insisted he sign it. Then we continued to work on the tree and the room was filled with laughter and Christmas cheer.

While Caleb added the final ornaments and the traditional star, I wrapped my arm round Travis’s waist and leaned my head on his shoulder. “I’m glad you could make it,” I murmured to him and planted a quick kiss on his cheek.

“Now, for the traditional post-Christmas tree treat.” Caleb went to the fridge and pulled out a large trifle. He looked giddy.

Caroline said to Travis, “This is our tradition, and Henry kindly let us do it here.”

I nudged him. “Yes,” I said, “and all I ask is for a very large bowl.”

“Ha ha, you drive a hard bargain then. I’ll keep that in mind.”

We sat at the table and Caleb seemed enthralled with Travis. I loved it. Caroline ate slowly with her one hand, just soaking everything up. That was her way. She was able to watch and learn things without saying a word.

Caleb listened to all his stories about the club, although I noticed he kept them very PG. I learned a lot about him too, like how he’d started sewing at a young age and would make crafts to sell at Christmas when he was younger.

Under the table, I let my hand rest on his thigh. A small gesture, but he looked over at me then and gave me that radiant smile.

* * *

Suddenly the weekend was over far too quickly. Dreaded Monday arrived, and I went to deal with Tess the best I could. I decided I needed a change, a big one, after Christmas. I would tell her then. But for now, I would enjoy the Christmas season and not let her get me down.

Texting Travis was the highlight of my day. He couldn’t meet for lunch today but said if I stopped by the club, he’d make sure to see me at his break. Wild horses couldn’t keep me away.

I was still picking up Caleb after school, and today it was back to the soccer pitch. I stood at the sidelines and tried not to freeze my ass off. Instead, I focused on poor Caleb out there in only a shirt and shorts, while I had on fourteen layers.

I wasn’t really paying attention when there was some sort of altercation at the side of the field. I looked to see what was going on and realised Caleb was in the middle of it. The coach soon noticed and ran over. Not being his parent, I thought I’d wait before I decided on what to do.

Caleb ran over to hug me with tears in his eyes. I bent down. “Caleb, what is it? What happened? Were those boys mean to you?”

“I just want to go.”

“Okay, okay. Wait right here. I’ll tell your coach.” I ran over to him and explained that Caleb wanted to go home. He said he’d phone Caroline later.

The atmosphere in the car was tinged in awkward silence. “Um, Caleb, I’m here if you want to talk about anything.” That was greeted with silence as he crossed his arms over his chest.

The normally short drive seemed to take an eternity, and as soon as we got home, he slammed the door and ran up the stairs. Caleb wasn’t one to display anger, so that was a bit disheartening.

By the time I made it into the condo, he’d gone into his room I guessed. Caroline was standing in the kitchen and I went over to her.

“What happened?” she asked in a calm voice instead of panicked. That was why she was the parent, I thought.

“Well, he was playing the game and then I saw a bunch of boys over in a corner of the field, but I couldn’t tell if they were fighting. I didn’t see everything, but they must have said something upsetting, because the next thing I knew, the coach was splitting it up and Caleb demanded we come home. And he wouldn’t talk to me in the car. I’m worried.”

She pat my arm. “Thanks for bringing him home. He’ll tell us when he’s ready.”

“Are you sure?” I asked, sounding doubtful.

“Yes, now please come and help me get that measuring cup out, will you?” she said pointing to a high cabinet over the sink.

“Sure. I’m worried about him.”

“Me too. But he needs his space right now. Believe me.” She continued to one-handedly dish out some pasta and I went over to help.

“Should I cancel working on the dress tonight? I can stay with you both.” I looked at her, trying to decipher what her response would be.

“No, of course not. He’s so excited about that dress.”

Just then, he came out of the guest room and said, “No, forget the dress. I’m not being a princess anymore.” His eyes were blotched, but he’d stopped crying.

I had no idea what the response to that should be: Agree with him? Ask why? Say no, you’re wearing it, it’s a special gift?

Caroline walked over to him and pulled him to the kitchen table. I stayed on the periphery while they talked but could overhear them. She pulled his hands into hers. “Honey, now what’s going on? Is this because of what happened at soccer?”

He only nodded and didn’t say a word at first. Then he started to speak, quietly at first. “They said … they told me that boys don’t wear dresses, and I would look horrible … and I had to quit soccer if I was going to wear it. They were really mean.”

It broke my heart as I listened to him. Kids could be so, so mean. Horrible.

“One hundred percent they have nothing to do with you playing soccer. I think the coach is phoning me soon anyway.” She looked up to me for reassurance. I merely nodded. “You know, they’re just bullies and most likely jealous of you. Remember last year when those boys were mean to your friend Austin?”

Caleb nodded. “Yes, I threw my book at them and hugged Austin to make sure he was okay.”

“So how is this different?” She was obviously leading the conversation but letting him come to his own conclusions.

He stared into space for awhile, obviously thinking it through. Then he turned to me. “Well, I was glad you were there, Henry.” Turning back to his mom, he continued, “I should have thrown something at them!” He laughed and then we all did.

“Okay, should we eat something and then we can talk some more?” Caroline said. I think we all let out a sigh of relief. I dished out the pasta but we mostly ate in silence, all in our own thoughts.

An idea came to me and I excused myself and went into my room. I dialled Travis’s number. He might be on stage already, but I wasn’t sure.

“Hey, how are you?” I heard lots of music and commotion in the background.

“Oh, are you already performing your act?”

“What is it? You sound panicked.” It sounded like he’d moved somewhere quieter.

“Caleb is, was bullied, and they’re telling him he can’t … that he’s … and he shouldn’t wear a dress in the pageant.” Gasping, I was speaking in incoherent partial sentences, I knew.

“Leave it to me, I’ll be there in an hour.” And he hit End before I could say anything else. I knew deep down in my heart that I trusted him implicitly, even if it was fast. I went back to dinner and waited.

Caleb ate slowly but joined in the conversation a little bit, so I had hope. I told them about somehow managing to photocopy my tie while at work, and Caroline told us how it was interesting trying to get things done with the cast on.

Shortly after dinner, the doorbell rang and I got up to open the door. Ms. Trav-esty was there in all her glory with a blond wig, fake eyelashes, and a green gown that sparkled in the light. And behind her was someone I didn’t know, but dressed just as on point.

“This is Marcus. Marcus, this is my friend, Henry. So, Caleb needs to see us strut our stuff, right?”

I merely nodded. That was definitely the short version, but we had no time for a longer one anyway. I went with it and opened the door for them. “Caleb, Caroline, some friends of mine are here to do a show for you.”

Music blared from a miniature CD player—who knew those still existed—and I sat on the sofa with them to watch the performance. I was mesmerized, watching them as their alter egos in their stunning gowns.

They did their best to strut around in the small space and danced their hearts out to Footloose as it came on.

I glanced over at Caleb to see the first smile on his face since his game. He followed them as they swayed around and did choreographed dance moves. I caught Caroline’s eye and she mouthed “Thank you” to me.

After they took a bow, they gathered round Caleb, pulling him up. “Come join us.”

His eyes widened and then he got up. He quickly picked up the moves they showed him, and when they all collapsed together on the sofa, laughing, I predicted a new friendship.

8

TRAVIS

“You look wonderful,” Caleb said, gently touching my dress. “Thank you for coming over.” Proving once again he was much smarter beyond his years, he went over to Henry and hugged him. “Thank you, too, Henry.”

“Why don’t we have ice cream,” Henry said. He looked over to me. “Can you guys stay?”

I looked at Marcus, and he nodded.

Caleb asked us all kinds of questions. We joked around and then stayed to play a board game. Caroline was wonderful and kidded around with us. When Marcus asked about her wrist, she made some joke about it happening while waiting on Henry hand and foot. Laughing at his expense was great in only a way close friends could do.

Caroline and Caleb got up and said they should get going to bed. It had been a long day and night. She hugged us both and murmured a thank you.

I bent down to Caleb. “Can’t wait to see you in your dress at the pageant.”

He looked at Henry, then back at us. “You’ll be there?”

“Of course we will.”

The smile he gave me was magnificent.

Caleb left and I heard Henry tell Caroline not to wait up. He went to his room and came back out with an overnight bag. Outside in the hall, he said to us, “I can’t thank you guys enough. Let’s get you guys back to work, then I’ll tell you what happened later. I’ll come to your place to work on the dress, Trav?” he asked.

I couldn’t help it, I needed to touch him. Anything. As I leaned in to kiss him, Marcus said, “Get a room already.”

“Hey, I offered to share my changeroom with you when you started, or I’d have one.”

“Very funny. Okay, let’s go.”

At the club, Henry sat down near the front but at a quiet-ish table to the side. I would do a song and then go and sit with him. We talked and laughed and enjoyed the night.

Later, I finally got out of my wig and dress. I’d worked an extra hour since I left earlier. Wiping off my makeup, Marcus came in behind me.

“That was really something you did for him, for them, you know.”

I shrugged my shoulders. “I would have done it for anyone.”

“No, you would not, and you know it.” He rubbed my shoulders. “Hold on tight to that one. I can see you guys have something good.”

I put my hand on his on my shoulder. “Thanks, Marcus. I will. That means a lot.”

Going out to get Henry, I couldn’t erase the smile from my face. “Come on, my man, let’s get out of here.” I pulled him out of his chair and continued to hold his hand as we went out to the street. It was cold, but at least the snow wasn’t falling. “Will we walk and get some fresh air, or do you want to get a cab?” I asked him.

“Let’s walk.” As we continued down the road, he cleared his throat. “Caleb was bullied today at soccer for wanting to be a princess in the pageant.”

“Some kids can be so horrible, can’t they?” I rubbed his back. “I’m really sorry.”

“Yeah, so then he said he didn’t want to be a princess anymore.” Sighing, he continued, “No, not that he didn’t want to be, that they said he can’t be. My heart was breaking for him.” He turned to me. “That’s why I thought … it’s why I called you. So, thank you. It helped, for sure. Let’s get back the two days we lost when he wanted to be a princess.”

Without discussing it, we both picked up our pace on the way back to the apartment. “I have something to show you. Let’s get in from the cold.” Pulling him in behind me, I covered his eyes and moved him forward towards my dressmakers dummy. “Okay, open your eyes.”

Henry gasped and clapped his hands together. “Oh, it’s wonderful. You did it.” Turning to me, he gave me a kiss and then went to touch the dress.

“We did it,” I corrected him. “Doesn’t it look stunning? I think it’ll sparkle on the stage when he’s under the lights.”

“Okay, maybe I helped a little, but really it was all you.” As Henry looked into my eyes, his mouth was set in a straight line, a serious expression on his face. “I’m really, really glad I came by the theater that day.” He draped his arms over my shoulders, and I leaned in to kiss him.

“I’m really glad that you did too. Now let’s cuddle because the next few days will be hectic.”

“You always have the best ideas.” We went into my room and got under the covers. We were both exhausted, so I pulled him in close to me and drifted off to sleep.

I woke to hear voices but couldn’t fully make out what was being said. I stretched out, realizing Henry was no longer next to me. Slowly, I sat up, and then the door opened and he came in with tea and toast.

“Here you go. To start your day off.”

“I heard voices,” I mumbled, taking a sip of the tea.

“Oh, so I was talking to Caroline. She said that Caleb woke up in the night and told her he wasn’t going to listen to those boys on the team. He wants to say his lines with pride, as a strong, beautiful princess.” He grinned.

“I’m so happy. That’s so wonderful. You can give him the best gift.”

“For sure. There’s two showings—2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Saturday. I know you’re really busy but …”

“I do have the play at the theater too. But I’ll make it work. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

“Perfect! I saw your tree. It looks really beautiful with the ornaments. Feels like Christmas. What’ll you be doing for Christmas Day?” He glanced at me, sounding unsure. “You don’t have to work, right?”

“No, actually I made sure I’d have off Christmas week after this busy season. I hadn’t thought much about it. Marcus might come over.”

He put down his toast and moved my cup and plate from my hands. “Why don’t you guys come to my place? There’ll be me, Caroline, Caleb, and maybe my mom. Meaning, I’ll invite her, but she usually never comes. And that’s probably better for everyone’s sanity.” His eyes lit up and my face mirrored his.

“Oh, my goodness, that would be fabulous.” I hugged him tight. “Okay, well, I’ve got to get to the theater, then I have a two-hour window before I go do my set. So, should I come by with the dress to drop it off for Caleb, and just make sure it fits perfectly?”

“You’re the best. Okay, and I’ll make sure there’s some dinner ready for you. And soon you’ll have time to relax.”

“Yes, I can’t wait, but you know, I don’t mind being busy. But something has to give. I think I want to focus more on sewing and alterations. Maybe do less at the club or something. But who knows what the future holds.” I went to get showered and dressed. Coming back in, I gave him a hug and kiss. “Okay, let yourself out whenever, and I’ll see you tonight.”

Something had changed, I thought as I walked to the theater. I wanted to spend more time, actually, all my time, with Henry—to have more than just a few hours sandwiched into long days. Sure, the Christmas play would be over soon, but then there’d be another one in the new year. I was always busy and thought it was because I wanted to be, or was it that I never really had someone I wanted to spend more time with? I pushed those thoughts to the side for now as I got closer to the theater.

The sidewalks were busy with bustling shoppers. I took a moment to take in the twinkling lights and the snow dusting the trees that lined the sidewalk. This really would be a Christmas to remember.

As soon as I entered, I was pulled every which way. Someone needed a hem fixed and somehow there was a lost costume. I asked if the actor had maybe worn it home—after all, it was practically pajamas, but no luck. When I got to the costume room, I found it had fallen behind a counter and was told I’d saved the day by finding it again.

Tomorrow the play would start its one-week run. I sat at the back as they did a final run through and waited for any unforeseen issues. Then I looked at my schedule and noticed that I worked on the Saturday of Caleb’s play, but not until night, so I could make the 2:00 p.m. showing. Texting Henry, I let him know.

Before I knew it, it was time to go. My stomach growled but I knew there’d be delicious food at Henry’s. I zipped home and got the dress and then grabbed a cab to Henry’s house. It would not be easy to walk there with a large garment bag in tow.

I rang the doorbell and felt anxious and excited all at once. I wanted Caleb to love it and feel proud to wear it, but I also knew that his peers could be vicious and cruel. If he could rise above it, this would be the most perfect Christmas gift.

“Can I see it? Can I see it?” I heard Caleb say before I’d even got through the door. I let out a breath and couldn’t even articulate how happy it made me to see him so happy and excited about it. I knew now my nervousness had been for him. Partly for the dress and the pageant, but more for this little guy who didn’t deserve to be trodden down at Christmas and made to feel inferior.

“Of course.” I draped it over the sofa and gave Henry a kiss and then hugged Caroline. “Henry, we need music for the big reveal.” He quickly pulled out his phone to try and find some drumroll music.

As I pulled out the elegant ice colored dress, I heard Caleb gasp and looked at his face. He was smiling ear to ear. Then he ran over to hug me and then Henry. “This is the best Christmas present ever.”

I tried to hold back tears, but it didn’t work very well. And soon Henry was crying too. Caroline merely handed us both tissues. Caleb went back to try it on, and we had a moment to talk.

“Thank you both. Henry, that dress is stunning, even more beautiful than what I was going to create. And Travis, to you and your friend for coming over as your drag queen selves,” Caroline said then continued. “Caleb couldn’t stop talking about it and said that he won’t let the bullies get to him. I talked to his coach and the boys will be reprimanded. So it all will work out. I think it was tough, but he’s a tough cookie.”

Just then, Caleb walked out with the dress on. With an elaborate bow he stood in front of us and did a twirl and then blew us a kiss. “I am Caleb. Princess of the winter world of Snowy Land.”

He ran over to us and gave us all hugs. “I love it. Thank you.”

We sat down to eat some food and then I had to get to the club and sing my heart out.

9

HENRY

The last week had been such a whirlwind. Caleb was perfect in the play and the bullies hadn’t said anything again. One boy who was also in the play even complimented his costume and couldn’t believe how boring his own was.

Right now I was focussed on getting everything ready for our Christmas Day meal. Shopping in the busy grocery store had been quite close to a nightmare, but now it would be worth it to have everyone here who’s important to me. Tess had advised me she’d be seeing her distant friend who was visiting. Probably for the best since we rubbed each other the wrong way.

Food was in the oven, and Caroline and I had exchanged gifts and watched Caleb open his. At the moment, the smells of the turkey, stuffing, and roasted potatoes enveloped my senses, and Christmas music played in the background.

It was the best day ever as we laughed and ate and drank too much. I cuddled on the sofa with Travis and couldn’t have been happier.

“Travis, this is for you.” I picked up the big box from under the tree. Thank goodness for rush ordering online, I thought.

His eyes lit up and then he smiled as he opened the box that held a brand new sewing machine. He looked over at me. “It’s … this is too much.”

“Do you like it?” I asked.

He nodded and hugged me tight. Then he stared at the box and caressed it. “This is the best ever,” I heard him exclaim. “Oh wait, I have something for you too.” He jumped up and went over to the bag he’d come in with.

I opened up the box and tissue to see a ton of sequins and a glue gun. I looked at him and laughed.

“I wanted to ask you if you’d continue to be my glue gun sidekick?” He winked at me.

I stood up and pulled him with me, hugging him in the middle of the room. “Yes, I would love to.”

After Caleb and Caroline had gone to sleep, we stayed by the Christmas tree. I put my foot under my thigh and turned to face him. ”Travis, I know these last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind, but I want to thank you for everything. Not just creating the perfect gift for Caleb, but for coming into my life.”

He started to speak, but I put my finger to his lips. “Let me finish, okay? I want to be with you, to see where this goes.” Kissing him, he melted into me and under the twinkling lights, I poured every emotion into that kiss.

“Henry, the best thing that’s ever happened to me is seeing you at the theater door when I tried to pay you for my dinner.”

About the Author

Claire Castle grew up surrounded by books. She has loved reading for her whole life. Her true love is romance and HEAs. When she’s not reading or writing, she can be found wearing comfortable leggings, drinking mocha, and petting her west highland white terriers. She loves collecting mugs and paperbacks of her favourite stories.

I love to hear from readers. Please feel free to email me at: claire_castleauthor@yahoo.com

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