Hope's Toy Chest by Marissa Dobson

Wrapping her arm around him, she clung to him. “Kelly’s going to be in the same position, and right now all that matters is giving her a few memories that don’t completely involve being stuck in the hospital.”
    “That’s what this is all about.”
    “Tomorrow is their Christmas and I want everything to be perfect.” She let her head fall against his chest, breathing in his cologne, allowing it to relax her. “Let’s eat. Santa will be here shortly and I have to tell him my Christmas wish.”
    It was time she began to live her life again. She wanted to love and be loved by someone. Not someone, only Le.
    Circumstance had brought them together this Christmas because they both needed each other. It was possible to have everything they wanted in life. He could have his career, she could continue with Hope’s Toy Chest, and there was plenty of time left over for love. No one would understand their needs and careers as the two of them did.
    This Christmas was about love. For them and for the Cooks.

Chapter Eleven

     
    Kingsley leaned against the wall, keeping out of the way as Santa reached down and scooped Jessica out of bed with great care, placing her delicately on his lap. Santa obviously had years of experience lifting sick children; he gave her the support she needed to stay upright, minding the IV lines.
    “Thank you , Doctor Mathews, this is just what she needed. Look how happy she is,” Kelly whispered to him before returning to her daughter’s side.
    “She’s right. Look at Jessica glow with excitement.” Chelsea stood next to him with her camera in hand, documenting every moment for Kelly.
    He nodded, content things were going as planned. Assuming Jessica’s fever didn’t return, they could have their Christmas celebration. He’d spend the night right next door just in case anything went wrong. Not that he thought it would—as long as Kelly made sure Jessica didn’t overdo herself.
    “Merry Christmas , Jessica.” Santa ran his hand over Jessica’s back, soothing her as they waited for another coughing fit to pass. “What can Santa bring you for Christmas this year?”
    Le sucked in a breath , waiting, praying her wish was something they could give her. If she asked for a cure it might break what little spirit he had, because that was one thing they didn’t have, and wouldn’t for quite some time.
    “Come on , sweetie, tell Santa what you want,” Kelly urged her daughter.
    “ My tiger.”
    “Honey, Santa wants to know what he can bring you. That tiger is at our house.”
    “Tell me about this tiger.” Santa smiled down at her through his thick white beard.
    “It’s huge and soft. I want to cuddle with it.” Jessica paused and a let out a deep yawn. “I feel safe with it. Please , Santa.”
    Santa glanced at Le before nodding. “I’ll see what I can do, but is there anything else you’d like?”
    “A new doll, one with pajamas like I’m always stuck in. Dresses make me miss going shopping with Mommy.”
    “Well , before Santa leaves, Mrs. Claus has something special for you.” Santa cleared his throat and in stepped Grace dressed in a red velvet dress to match Santa’s suit, even a black belt around her waist. Her hair was hidden under a wig, whitish gray to complete the outfit.
    “Santa tells me you have a sweet tooth, so I brought your favorite chocolate cake. ” Carrying the cake, Mrs. Claus neared a wide-eyed Jessica.
    “Chocolate cake.” She glanced back to Le. “Can I , Doctor Mathews?”
    “If you’re going to share with the rest of us. After all , it’s Christmas.” He smiled at her as Chelsea handed Kelly plates and silverware.
    “Let’s eat.” She smiled and forced herself farther up on Santa’s lap. “Thank you, Santa and Mrs. Claus, this is the best Christmas ever.”
    Le couldn’t help but think that if a miracle came to pass, it really would be the best Christmas. Otherwise it had a twinge of sadness hanging over it. How would Kelly handle