“We aim to please. Kids, jump up in Santa’s lap and the adults can sit on each side.” I pulled out two stools. “Let me hear a big Merry Christmas.”
We had a steady flow of customers over the next few hours. Sherry called in to let me know she was running late. When she showed up at noon instead of ten, I was past ready to get a break. I grabbed one of my other wigs from my elf bag and stuck it in my purse.
“I’ll be back in fifteen minutes.” I darted away before they could stop me.
“Hey, Brad, I need a chicken sandwich this time, and a salad.” I pulled my wallet out. “I’m treating myself to a soda, too.”
“Wow, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you order this much food,” Brad teased. “How you gonna fit in that elf outfit?”
“Oh, stop. If I can’t fit in this outfit, it’ll be your fault for leaving me food every night.” I wiggled my elf ears. “See you tonight.”
I took my food and sat on the floor in front of the big Christmas tree. The chicken sandwich was exactly what I needed today. I decided while I sat there eating that I’d offer to cook dinner. If I was being honest, it would be nice to have a home-cooked meal, even if I cooked it.
I’ll stop by and ask Kim what she thinks.
I finished off the food and laid back on the floor to look up at the tree.
I’ve seen this view of the tree before. Oh, I should take a picture of this. It’ll be my secret clue.
I checked my watch. I had less than five minutes to get back to the workshop. I pulled the cell phone out of my purse from my lying position. I snapped a few pictures and sent one.
“Paige, what are you doing down there?” Toby asked. “Did you know there’s a line at the workshop?”
“Nope, but I know now. My break is just ending.” I pulled my red wig off and popped on the green wig. “I’m on my way. Is my wig straight?”
“Looks good to me. I like that you change your wig throughout the day.” Toby dropped that comment, then walked off.
In the short fifteen minutes I was gone, the line had grown and Sherry was all out of sorts. She whispered a thank God when I joined her. I patted her back and took over.
“Is everyone excited to see Santa?’ I called out to the line. “Come on, let me hear you yell ‘Santa!’.”
The kids yelled while the parents covered their ears. I handed Sherry the candy cane bucket and sent her to pass them out to the people standing in line.
“When is the autograph book special starting?” the next mom in line asked. “I thought it was today, but now I’m thinking it’s next weekend.”
“Honestly, I haven’t heard anything about it, but I can make a phone call.” I gestured for her group to join Santa.
I made a show of calling the office to ask. I didn’t expect someone to answer, since they never did, but when a lady’s voice answered, I stuttered.
“Hi, this is Santa’s elf at the workshop. I have a family here asking about a special.” I waited for the non-helpful response.
“The special is starting today. Someone was supposed to explain everything this morning,” the lady said. “Tell your customers to save their receipt and come back in thirty minutes.”
“Okay, then what?” I asked.
“I’ll come down myself and explain it to you,” the lady said. “My name is JoAnn. Did any of the posters get put up about this?”
“No ma’am, nothing at all.”
Chapter 18
Asher
Maybe you haven’t tried the right kind of rice? Why would I say that?
My old cell hadn’t responded in hours and I was so preoccupied checking for a response that I wasn’t paying the proper attention to the baby party.
“What’s going on in that head of yours? I know it’s hard for you to think straight under all that long hair.” Sawyer pulled my hair. “I’m glad to see you finally cut at least some of that hair of yours.”