Matt held up a Champagne bottle. “Let’s celebrate. It’s close to Christmas, and our last night together. I thought bubbles would be appropriate. Why don’t you put on some music? We’ll share a toast—for you and me.”

Jorden stared at Matt—then she grinned. “Why not? It’s a special occasion and you’re right—we never have this place to ourselves. I’ll put on an album.”

He poured Champagne into two small juice glasses.

“Here’s to you—to us—and this Christmas season and . . .” Matt stopped and didn’t finish the toast.

And many more, Jorden thought. She knew that would never be the case. This Christmas was it.

“You know . . . what I mean,” Matt hesitated—their eyes met.

Jorden clinked his glass as they sat down to enjoy the sparkling wine, the music, and the warm glow of the Christmas lights. A mischievous gleam seemed to shine from Matt’s eyes.

“What are you up to?” Jorden knew the look. He only meant trouble.

On the sly, Matt reached to the side of the couch and brought out a shopping bag.

“What’s do you have there?” Jorden tried to peek inside.

Matt grabbed the bag and lifted out a box wrapped in Christmas paper and placed it on the tabletop.

“But. . . I didn’t get you anything!” Jorden responded.

“Just open it.”

Excited, Jorden lifted the box by its ribbon. It felt light. She shook it—no rattles. She sniffed—no smells of chocolate. She tore into the Christmas wrap and yanked off the top of the box—a pink and white plastic football.

Matt howled, “You should see your expression. Fooled you. Now we can play touch football. What do you think?”

“You’re crazy.” Jorden laughed and juggled the lightweight football in her hands. At the same time she stood up and stepped into the kitchen. Twisting, she threw a fast pass at Matt. Agile, he caught the ball in midair but caught his foot on the coffee table and ended up sprawled on the floor.

“I’m sorry. Are you all right?” Jorden ran back to the couch and leaned down to help him.

Matt lifted his head—their eyes locked. “You’re too late.”

Hearing the tease in his voice and seeing the smile on his face, Jorden shoved him further down with her foot. “You’re awful.” She picked up the pink and white football and rotated the dual colors in her hands.

“Now I don’t feel bad I didn’t get you anything.” While Jorden played with the ball, Matt reached deeper into the bag and pulled out a much smaller parcel. Before she knew it, Matt placed another gift on the table.

“What’s this?” Jorden was captivated by a silver box. It was topped with an elegant bow; no Christmas wrap this time.

“Open it.”