The Mall Santa
written by:
DG Hear

The Mall Santa By DG Hear

This story was edited by my friend, ‘Chantal' who always makes it a much better read. Hope you enjoy it and ‘Happy Holidays'.

I live in a medium-size town in the Midwest. I served four years in the army. When I got out, I went to college for two years and received my Associate Degree in Criminal Law. There weren't many jobs available, but I was able to land a job in security at the mall.

There was a lot of turnover in my profession, but I decided to stay with it and I became head of security in two years. I was happy, made a decent wage and was back home with my family and friends. Life was pretty good.

Ray Binning, the mall owner was also a veteran and gave me the job. I was to oversee twelve other people that worked security. We had both men and women; some wore uniforms and others dressed in street clothes. Ray came up to me the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and asked for a favor.

"Jeff, I need a big favor. The man we hired for Santa didn't pass the background check and I was hoping you would do the job for a week. We have some more applicants but I won't be able to get the background checks and paperwork done on them till next week because of the holiday," said Ray. He was speaking of Thanksgiving.

"Let me get this right. You want me to be the mall Santa until next week. Ray, I'm not exactly the Santa type person. I'm 6' 1" and weight 185 pounds."

"We have a costume that we can pad-up for you. My problem is I need to get through Black Friday and I need someone I trust. Needless to say I'll pay you extra, and can really use your help."

I had to laugh, but Ray was a good boss and he gave me a job when I needed it. I told him I would do this favor for him, but hoped he would hurry up and find another Santa. He promised me that he would hire a replacement by Wednesday of the following week.

I had just turned twenty-seven and moved back in with my parents after returning from Iraq. I went to school full time thanks to my military service. I took the two-year degree format option so I could get a job and support myself. I was in the military police while in the service, so taking Criminal Justice worked out good for me.

I have three older sisters who are all married and have kids so I know what it's like to be around children. As a whole, I like kids, but I want them to be well behaved. I knew my sisters would get a big laugh out of me being Santa. We would all be getting together on Thanksgiving and I would tell them the news.

My sisters have been trying to fix me up with dates ever since I returned from overseas. I know I'm a decent looking guy, and I work out almost every day at the gym located in the mall. It's just that I'm not ready to settle down; I haven't found the right woman.

My oldest sister, Donna, asked me what I was looking for in a woman. I told her I wasn't looking; if it were to happen, it would happen. My other sisters, Kim and Cindy, tell me that I would be a good catch, and whenever they invite me over for dinner or a party, there is always an extra woman there; as if I can't figure out what my sisters are doing.

I know they mean well and are looking out for their little brother, but I'm not little or young anymore. I have gone on quite a few dates, and actually have had sex with most of them, but I haven't felt the love in any relationships.

It's funny how my sisters see other women, and many times have told me the women were too easy. I told them I liked easy when it came to dating. They would yell at me, and I would laugh. You would think I had four mothers the way they watched over me.

****

On Thanksgiving, I told the family that I was going to be the mall Santa for a week, and everyone laughed. I tried to explain that it was a favor for Ray. We had to watch what we said, because a few of my nieces and nephews still believed in Santa, and we didn't want to ruin it for them. My sisters did say they were going to bring their kids by to see me at the mall.

I showed up for Black Friday not knowing what to expect. All my security personnel would be working extra hours until after Christmas. They did laugh when they found out I was playing Santa for a few days.

I have to admit that I wasn't ready for the onslaught of kids that appeared on the first day. We had a little Christmas village set up, and I had my own booth where the kids could come and sit next to me. It wasn't possible for the kids to sit on Santa's lap anymore. Just too many perverts out there.

We gave every kid a candy cane, and he or she could have their picture taken with me if they wanted. We charged three dollars for the picture, which I thought was reasonable. Thank God, I had two elves to help me. They controlled the line of kids that seemed never ending.

I have to say something about the kids. Some were as sweet as could be, and hardly asked for anything for Christmas. Then, there were the other kids that were nothing but brats. If I was a real Santa, they would have only gotten that lump of coal my parents said I would get if I was bad when I was younger.

The list of gifts sure changed. Almost everyone asked for electronic items. I believe most kids wanted their own phone. Some of the kids seemed so sweet; I really hoped they would get some of the things they asked for. I'd tell the kids that seemed bratty; they would have to be nicer if I was to come to their house. They'd usually mouth off to me. They'd say things like "I know you're not the real Santa and my Mom will get me whatever I want."

They were probably right, and their parents would buy them what they want instead of spending time with them and teaching them right from wrong.

My nieces and nephews all came by at different times. I could see my sisters laughing at me from a distance. The older ones said, "I know it's you Uncle Jeff. It's nice to know that you're helping Santa this year." The younger ones didn't know it was me. I have to admit it was fun talking with them.

I was really happy when the first day was over. I have to admit I was worn out. I can't tell you how many hundreds of kids came by to see Santa. Ray came by, thanked me and bought me dinner. I didn't get to eat until nine o'clock in the evening.

We set up hours that Santa would be in from ten in the morning until seven in the evening. It was almost eight when I saw the last kid the first night. I only took a fifteen minute lunch break since it was so busy, and I wasn't about to shut down the line on the kids that had waited to see me.

On Saturday, it was a lot more manageable. We learned from our mistakes the first day, and there were fewer kids, but you would hardly know it looking at the line.

It was mid-afternoon when a little curly red-haired girl came up and sat down next to me. She probably was around five years old, and as cute as a button. I felt like I knew her, but couldn't figure out why. I would surely remember a little girl who was this cute and so very pleasant.

"Hi Santa, I'm Jessica but you probably already know that." She was so sweet.

"...and what would you like for Christmas, Jessica?" I asked.

"I would like a daddy for Christmas," she said calmly.

I was stunned. What was I supposed to say to a little girl like this? Oh my God! Now I realized why she looked so familiar. She looked just like my best friend, Sharon, from grade school.

I need to tell you the story about Sharon and me:

The Buckley's were our next-door neighbors when I was a kid. Sharon and I hung around together all the time. We started kindergarten and went through a lot of grade school together. We played and our families even took vacations together. She was my all-time best friend.

I never thought of her as a girl, but as my buddy. We fought now and then, but always got over it. Usually we always did boy stuff but every now and then, she wanted to play house or act like a girl. I usually went along with her because she was my best friend. She said she wanted to be a nurse when she got older.

One time we were at my house and she said we were getting married. I remember telling her as long as we didn't do the yucky stuff like kissing. My mom laughed and asked us, "Are you going to have children?"

Sharon said we were going to have two kids. I looked at her and said we were going to have three; I had to one-up her. She responded with, "Ok, you have three and I'll have two." That's the way it was with Sharon and me; we were always able to work things out.

When we were eleven, Sharon came over and said they were moving to the suburbs. Her Dad got a promotion, and they would be moving before school started back up.

I was devastated; my best friend was moving away. I remember the day they left. I hugged Sharon and we both cried. My Dad told me men don't cry, and I ran in the house. My Mom felt sorry for me and said maybe someday we could visit the Buckley's, but it never happened.

Life for me after that day seemed different. I can't put a finger on it, but it was as if I had lost the only person that I cared for. My sisters told me to get over it; they didn't understand. My parents told me to stop mopping around, that I would have other friends.

They were right, but I never felt that close to any other girls. I dated in high school, but never had that same feeling towards anyone. I guess I just wouldn't let them get that close; at least into my heart.

I enlisted in the army and spent most of my time overseas. I spent two tours in the war zones and became a MP, military police. I thought it would prepare me for a job after getting out of the service.

When you spend time putting your life on the line, it changes you. It makes you realize what's really important to you. I can't tell you how many times I thought about Sharon and what might have been. What was she doing now, and even wondered where she lived.

I went to community college after my tours of duty. I entered the Criminal Justice program since it just seemed natural to me. The job market was tight but since I was good in my field, and a veteran, it improved my chances of finding a decent job.

As I have already mentioned, Ray Binning gave me the job in security at the mall and after a year, I was head of security. It was a good job, paid well and I didn't have to take many unnecessary chances. I didn't have to put my life on the line all the time.

****

So, here I was playing Santa, and this little girl, Jessica, tells me she wants a daddy for Christmas.

I did my best to explain to her that Santa brings toys and clothes to good kids at Christmas. A daddy would be something that she would have to talk to her mommy about.

She smiled at me. "I know you're not the real Santa but I figured you might talk to him and maybe he could send a nice man to my house to meet my mommy. Can you at least talk to the real Santa and ask him for me?"

What do you say to a little girl? I figured the best I could do was tell her I would mention it to the real Santa, but that it might be a bit too late for this year, and that maybe next year it could happen. I felt like I was in the movie, ‘Miracle on 34th Street' where the little girl wanted a house for Christmas.

I gave Jessica a candy cane, and she had her picture taken with me. As she left, I tried to see if I could see her mother, but it was so crowded that all I saw was the back of a red-haired woman wearing a black coat and a hat. For the rest of the day I couldn't get the little girl out of my mind. Who was she? Who was her mother? Where was her father?

I tried to forget about her, but I couldn't. I even asked the elf who took the pictures to give me a print of the little girl with the red hair. I told her it was my niece so I wouldn't look like a stalker.

Over the next couple of days I became obsessed with who this little girl was. I asked my mom and sisters if they had ever seen Sharon Buckley since they moved away many years ago. No one had seen her.

I went over to talk to my sister Cindy. She was an elementary school teacher and I showed her the picture of Jessica and asked her if she knew the little girl.

"Who is she, Jeff?" my sister asked.

I told her the story and that I was wondering if she could find out anything about the girl. I mentioned that I wanted to tell the girl's mother what she had asked for.

"Jeff, that's like stalking, what's the matter with you?"

"I'm sorry, Cindy! I just feel I have to do this. I don't know why. Can you just see if she is in your school? She would be in kindergarten, I would guess. Please, I'm not going to do anything crazy, I promise."

She said she would do it, against her better judgment. Cindy called me a couple of days later and said the little girl was Jessica Dilly; she wouldn't tell me anymore.

Ray had found me a replacement Santa, and I was back at my regular job. In a sense I kind of missed the kids; at least those that weren't brats. I was in my office looking through phone books, looking for someone named Dilly. I couldn't believe I was this obsessed over one little girl.

I knew the city and looked for any Dilly's that would be in the school district where my sister taught. There were twenty-two Dilly's in the district alone, and that was if they had a phone number listed. One name stuck out like a sore thumb. It wasn't even a name; it was a letter, S. Dilly.

All I could think of was Sharon Dilly. Could Sharon Buckley now be Sharon Dilly? The little girl wanted a daddy for Christmas; where was her father? Was her mother divorced?

I had to wonder if I was just going crazy. Was I making up a story, and putting all the characters the way I wanted it to be to fit my story? Should I call this woman, if the S. stood for a woman? What should I say? I was really getting myself in a frenzy.

I told my sister Cindy what I found out, and she told me I was crazy. She said wished she'd never told me Jessica's last name. I asked her for one more favor and if I were wrong, I'd drop my investigating.

"Okay, if you promise to drop this crazy idea. I love you Jeff and you're my little brother, but I don't want to see you get into trouble. What do you want me to find out?"

I smiled at Cindy and gave her a hug. "I need to know if Jessica's mother is Sharon Dilly and if she's divorced."

"Do you honestly believe she is Sharon Buckley? What if she is? You haven't seen her in what? Seventeen years!"

"Please Cindy, I'll drop it if it's not Sharon or if she's married, I promise."

****

Cindy came into my office at the mall a couple of days later. To say I was surprised to see her would be an understatement.

"Jeff, you need to stop now," said Cindy.

"Her name is Sharon isn't it? Is she married?"

"Jeff, her name is Sharon and her husband was killed in an auto accident before Jessica was born. I talked to Jessica's teacher who is a friend of mine. Jeff, I don't want to see you get hurt."

"I'm not going to get hurt, I promise you. I won't mention you, or where I got the information, it's just something I have to see through. I love you, sis and I know you understand; I'll be fine."

I wasn't sure how to proceed. If it was Sharon Buckley, how would she react? Would she even remember me? I knew I was walking on eggshells here. If it wasn't Sharon Buckley, I would be looking pretty stupid. I decided the best thing to do would be to call first.

If it was the Sharon I knew, it would be much easier than talking to a complete stranger. I got up the courage to call and got an answering machine. I thought it best not to leave a message. Later that evening I decided to try to call again.

The phone rang and my stomach began to churn. A female voice answered the phone. "Hello!" came across the phone.

"Hi there!" I said. "I'm sorry to bother you but I was looking for Sharon Dilly."

"This is she, how may I help you?"

"Well, actually I was looking for an old friend I haven't seen in years. By any chance are you the former Sharon Buckley?" I said very nervously.

There was quite a pause and then the voice asked, "Who is this?"

"I'm sorry! My name is Jeff Warren and I was looking for a Sharon Buckley."

"Oh my God! Jeffery! Is it really you?" the voice replied. It was full of emotion.

I knew I had tears in my eyes. "Yes, it's me." I answered.

"How did you get my number? How did you find me? My God! I have so many things to ask you. Where do you live and work?"

"It's a long story and I would like to come and see you. We can talk about it then."

"I'd love to see you again. Are you married? Do you have a family?"

"Easy, Sharon! First, I'm not married and have no children. I moved back in with my parents after returning from Iraq. I went to college and work at the mall as head of security."

"I always go to the mall. Did you see me there? I had a call on my answering machine from the mall. Was that you?"

I was now laughing. "I saw your back and met your daughter, Jessica. She reminded me of you when we were little. She seems like a sweet little girl."

"I don't understand. How did you talk to Jessica at the mall?" She almost seemed worried.

"I was playing Santa when she came up and sat down. She looked so familiar to me, and I couldn't figure out why. Then it dawned on me. She reminded me of you."

"Jeff, that sounds a bit creepy. I don't know what to think."

"Sharon, I just got this feeling that she might have been related to you. I used a few contacts, and got your number. Honestly, if it hadn't been you, Sharon I was going to forget about it. You have to believe me!"

"I believe you, Jeff but what made you want to contact me? If I had a daughter; that means I was probably married. Why would you contact a married woman?"

"Sharon, I'm not sure how to say this, so I'll just come out and say it. Jessica said she wanted a daddy for Christmas. That's it! She said she knew I wasn't the real Santa, but would I pass the message along to the real Santa."

"My God! I can't believe this!"

"It's true Sharon!"

"I believe you; it's just that my daughter wants a daddy for Christmas. She told me she asked for something special, but wouldn't tell me what it was. I'm so embarrassed."

"What did you tell her?" asked Sharon.

"I told her I would tell the real Santa but that she should talk to her mother about it." I knew I was smiling and Sharon could probably tell.

"It's not funny, Jeffery!" I knew she was smiling too.

"Well, that's the story. Can I come and visit you?"

"This is crazy, but I would like to see you again. I've always wondered what ever happened to you. How about Saturday evening? Can you stop by then?"

"That would be great! Let me take you to dinner and we'll talk over old times. You can bring Jessica if you like."

"She would ask too many questions." I could hear Sharon lightly laughing. "Do you need my address? I figure if you found my phone number then you know where I live."

****

I was at her door Saturday evening. I was nervous; it's been so long since I've seen my old friend. When she opened the door, I knew I had tears in my eyes. I had never been so happy to see someone in my entire life. She looked so beautiful, all dressed up and those curly red hair that I always remembered.

We hugged and I never wanted to let go. I stepped into her house, which was beautiful. As she went to get her coat, I glanced around and could tell she lived well. We went to dinner at the Red Lobster and asked for a corner booth so we could catch up on our past.

She had taken Jessica over to one of the neighbors earlier. She said Jessica had a best friend there and they often took turns watching each other's kid. Later I found out Jessica's friend was a boy in her class. His name was Gene. It reminded me of Sharon and me growing up.

I couldn't stop looking at her. All I could think about was how much I missed her. We ordered drinks and began talking about our pasts. We laughed repeatedly about our antics while growing up. After that and during dinner she told me about her life.

After high school, she went to college to become a nurse. She wanted to be a nurse ever since she was a little girl. During her senior year in college, she also worked at the local hospital and was in training. She met a doctor and began dating. He was nearly ten years older than her, but she felt she loved him. He asked her to marry him and she said, "Yes".

She then stopped talking for a few seconds and I could see tears in her eyes. "Harold was killed in an automobile accident six months after we were married. I was pregnant with Jessica at the time. Needless to say, she has never seen her father. I tell her he was a good man, but the truth is, he was with a prostitute when a semi-truck broadsided his vehicle. They were both killed in the accident."

"I'm so sorry, Sharon. I didn't mean to bring up any bad times for you."

"It's okay! I was always able to tell you anything. I really needed to talk about it. I know you noticed the nice house and furnishing. He was a good surgeon, and of course, I was left with his estate. Other than my parents, I've told no one about his past.

"I was his second wife. He told me his first wife cheated on, him but the truth came out after we were married that he was the cheater. I met his ex-wife at a party, and didn't believe her at first. She told me he didn't like kids, and she had an abortion. It was the worst thing she had ever done. Shortly after that, she caught him with other women.

"Anyway, I tell Jessica that her father was a good man and a surgeon that helped save people. I know people talk about him behind my back but it's okay. I don't date much; I guess I don't trust most men, besides I have Jessica. Enough about me; tell me about your life."

"I dated in high school, but was never serious about anyone."

"What kind of girls did you date?" Sharon was smiling. I would really like to know.

"Why? What difference does it make?" I asked.

"I always figured you liked women with big boobs. You always stared at them. Kind of made me feel self-conscious. I pictured tall blondes with big boobs and short skirts." Sharon was almost laughing.

While growing up, Sharon was average height; on the thin side but had a nice figure now. She wasn't big breasted but looked pretty good from what I could see through her dress.

"To be honest with you, I dated a lot of women since high school. I joined the Army, did two terms in Iraq, came home, and went to community college for a couple of years. Got the position at the mall and that brings us up to now."

"That didn't answer my question. What type of women do you prefer to date? Sharon repeated. "You're twenty-seven, how come you never got married or engaged?"

"I never found the woman I'd like to spend the rest of my life with. I began dating girls with red hair. Don't ask me why, I really don't know."

I didn't tell Sharon that in the service most of the woman were dark hair and on the thinner side. It was just about sex and like most every young man; I'd fuck anyone that was willing. I fucked them young and old, married or single. It didn't make much difference. I usually paid for it, sometimes with the husband watching.

For me, sex in the service was just fucking and trying to get off. I didn't want to get attached to any woman. I did feel sorry for many of them, but wasn't about to marry them and bring them home.

I knew I had stopped talking and Sharon brought me back out of my haze.

"Hey, Jeff, are you okay? You don't have to tell me if you don't want too."

"I'm sorry, I was just thinking about your question. After I left the service, and went to college, I did date some big-busted women, both blonde and brunette. I guess I just never got close enough to any to where I felt a special bond."

"Do you have a girlfriend now?" Sharon looked me right in the eyes, and waited for an answer.

"No, my sisters and other friends are always trying to fix me up with their friends. The women are nice, but I'm looking for that special woman."

We almost had a trance going between us when we were interrupted by the waitress asking us if we would like dessert. It broke the trance and Sharon said she needed to get home. She was going Christmas shopping and needed a few more gifts.

"I'll take you shopping!" I said. "I know the mall better than anyone." I know I was smiling.

"A man that likes to shop. You've got to be kidding me," said Sharon while smiling.

"I'm not that big on shopping, but I like being with you." We looked at each other but neither replied. I paid the bill and we headed to the mall.

Christmas was less than two weeks away. I was pretty much done, but I had never really put much thought in my gifts. I always kept the receipts so they could take whatever I bought them back.

We entered the different stores and I was really having fun. I would peek around the racks and scare Sharon. I would also sneak up behind her, wrap my arms around her and pull her to me. She smelled and felt so good.

She would laugh and say, "Jeff, Stop it! Do you want me to call security?"

We stopped and shared a cinnamon pretzel on the way out. I remembered as kids we shared everything; it was as if I was ten all over again. As I pulled into her driveway, she told me she had a wonderful time. I asked her if I could see her again.

"Of course, Silly, but it's Christmas time and I'll be pretty busy. Call me and we'll see what we can work out."

I walked her to the door and gave her a hug, turned around and waved goodbye. When I got home, my mom was there and asked me about Sharon. I told her all I knew and she said I should invite her over for Christmas.

Two days later, I called Sharon and asked her over for Christmas dinner. I mentioned that it was my mom's idea, but I would love for her to be there. I felt both sad and surprised when she told me she couldn't make it; that she already had other plans.

The first thing that entered my mind was that she had another boyfriend, which she hadn't mentioned. I think she could tell the slight hurt in my voice, and told me that she was having dinner with her parents and other relatives.

I felt a bit more relieved and asked her if I could see her on Christmas Eve since we wouldn't be together on Christmas. She and Jessica could come over and see Mom and Dad as well as my sisters and their families. We always had a big get together on Christmas Eve. I didn't tell her about our gift exchange because she probably would have refused to come over.

I talked to her twice before Christmas Eve. My family was excited that Sharon and her daughter were coming over. I had to laugh when Cindy said she gets the credit if the two of us get together.

"So, is it alright for me to tell her you got the information for me?" I asked Cindy.

"I don't know about that. Let's wait and see. I still think that was a crazy idea." We both laughed.

Christmas Eve:

I went over to pick up Sharon and Jessica. I rang the doorbell and Jessica answered it. "Are you Mr. Warren," the pretty, little, curly-red-haired girl said to me.

"Yes I am," I replied. I didn't want her to know that I had already met her; after all, I was Santa. Sharon did tell me that she had a long talk with Jessica about life, dating, marriage and her finding a daddy. I did mention to Jessica that she could call me Jeff.

"Mommy's still getting ready. Would you like to come in and sit down? Mom said to talk to you till she was ready." I had to laugh on how forward this little girl was.

I sat on the couch and Jessica sat on the chair across from me. She was one pretty little girl. I asked her about school and her friend Gene. She talked a mile a minute telling me everything she did in kindergarten.

I couldn't help thinking how much she was like her mother.

Sharon came into the room looking as beautiful as can be. Both she and Jessica had the curly red hair. "Are you sure it's ok for us to come to your family gathering?" asked Sharon.

"My God, yes! You are just like family; only we've been separated for a number of years," I replied.

We got in my car and as I was driving, Jessica asked how we were family and she never met us. I listened to Sharon explain how we grew up together, and were best friends. Jessica kept asking questions, and Sharon did her best to answer them. I was busy driving and laughing.

When we arrived at the house, most of my family was already there. Everyone started greeting each other and Sharon and Jessica looked like they just belonged there. My sisters introduced their families and Jessica went and played with the rest of the kids.

There was a lot of talking about what everyone was doing, and Sharon talked about her life and the loss of her husband. Cindy quickly changed the subject to happier times. We all had drinks and ate the snacks that mom had prepared.

Sharon had brought a plate of cookies that she and Jessica had made. She looked at me and laughed; she knew what I was thinking. When we were kids, she would always try to cook and bake things. I was her tester, and most of her baked goods might have looked good but they tasted terrible.

I would always put on my game face and eat some of the concoctions she made. "They're good Jeff, I have learned to cook over the years," said Sharon. I couldn't help but smile.

My sisters would pull me aside and mention how nice Sharon was. I had to keep telling them that I knew that, I just didn't want to move too fast and take a chance on losing her.

"I'm pretty sure she really likes you, Jeff," said my sister Kim. "God knows why," she said as she laughed. "Her daughter seems like a sweetie too."

"I get it, Kim! I really do. I just don't want to blow it."

My sisters were making me a bit uncomfortable. I know they meant, well but I was going to take it slow and easy. After all, I'd never as much as kissed Sharon in my whole life, not even as a kid.

It was time to open presents. We all drew names and bought for the name we drew. I got one of my nieces and bought her a very nice doll. It wasn't some cheap doll but a collector's edition. Jenny, collected dolls.

Sharon felt out of place and told me she wished she had known about the gifts. She would have brought Jessica something to open. She might not understand why she didn't get anything.

"Don't worry! I got it covered. I bought her a couple of gifts to open." Sharon smiled at me and squeezed my hand.

Jessica was patiently waiting until her name was read. "To Jessica from a friend of Santa Claus," my Dad read the nametag and handed three big gifts to Jessica.

She smiled as she opened her gifts. I had bought her an ambulance, a dump truck and a truck with a crane attached. She was as happy as could be; it nearly brought tears to my eyes. Everyone was smiling.

"You bought my daughter trucks?" asked Sharon. I wasn't sure if she was happy or confused; she didn't seem mad.

I told her, "When we were kids and played in the sand, you always took my trucks. You said your parents bought you girly things, and you liked boy toys. Since Jessica is so much like I remember you being, I thought she would like some trucks."

Sharon smiled and with tears in her eyes, she hugged me.

Jessica stood up, came over, hugged me, and thanked me for the trucks. She said her friend Gene would be jealous. Her trucks were bigger than his were.

"Jeff, the card said you know Santa. Did he talk to you about anything?" asked Jessica.

I knew what she was thinking, and so did Sharon and my sisters. They all knew that she had asked Santa for a daddy. I had to figure a way to answer this one.

"Yes, I work at the mall and I talked to Santa. It wouldn't be right for me to tell you what we talked about." I stopped for a second to smile at her and put her at ease. "You do have to understand that he can't give every child everything they want for Christmas." Many want real trains and cars; things they can't possibly have. Other kids ask for things that affect other people. All that has to be considered." I didn't know if I explained it well or not.

She smiled at me, "I understand, Jeff, mommy told me the same thing. Thank you for the trucks."

"You're welcome, Sweetheart," I replied.

Dad grabbed a card out of the tree. "To Sharon from an old friend." She looked over at me, and I smiled back.

In the envelope were two tickets to the biggest New Year's bash in Columbus, Ohio. It was held at the Sheraton Inn and was usually sold out eight months before the event. They always had big name entertainment, and it was even shown on television; it was that big of a gala.

My boss Ray at work had gotten them through his contacts. He told me they were a gift for me since I did him the favor of playing Santa Claus when he needed it. I decided to give them to Sharon and hoped she would ask me to go with her.

It would be overnight and we would be staying at the Sheraton Inn. I wasn't sure how she would feel about it. The room did have two queen size beds, so we wouldn't necessarily be sleeping together.

"My God! Jeff, where did you get these tickets? This is the biggest New Year's gala in Ohio." She smiled at me. Then she said it, I knew she would. "I wonder who I could ask to go with me."

I didn't say a word but Jessica spoke up. "Mom, you should take Jeff, he gave you the tickets." I could have kissed that little girl.

"Jeff, would you like to escort me to the New Year's gala in Columbus?" asked Sharon.

"It would be my pleasure," I replied. Needless to say, my family all seemed happy about it.

On the way home to Sharon's house we discussed the party and we did mention the separate beds. She said she trusted me, and besides we were adults now. We decided that we would go earlier in the day and dress for the party later in the evening.

At the door, I gave Sharon our usual hug, and told her I would see her next week. I picked up Jessica and hugged her. She put her arms around me and kissed me on the cheek. I believe there was an unspoken bond building between us and she knew it.

"Thank you for everything, Jeff. Merry Christmas!" said Jessica.

"Merry Christmas to you too, Sweetheart." Our bond was building.

The week after Christmas was busy at the mall, mostly returns and people looking for special deals. The more people, the more we had to keep our eyes open.

I called Sharon every couple of days. She said it was very busy at the hospital, and she had to work late since she asked for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day off. Either her parents or her neighbor watched Jessica. Sharon said Jessica was asking all kind of questions about me. It just made me smile, our bond was working.

New Year's Eve:

I stopped by first thing in the morning to pick up Sharon. Needless to say, she wasn't ready. Jessica and I had a bowl of cereal together while her mother was packing her suitcase.

Jessica was telling me all the places she would like to go. It was normal things that most kids like. The zoo, amusement parks, and ball games were some of the places she mentioned. She said she would like her best friend Gene to go along.

I told her that I liked all those places too, and maybe we could go together. She said I would have to take her mother with us, which I agreed was a good idea.

Sharon came into the kitchen, and I told her that Jessica made me breakfast and that we were making plans for the spring and summer. Jessica told her about all the places we were going to go, and that she could come along. She even told her that I agreed that she could bring her friend, Gene, along.

Sharon just kind of shook her head, not saying much of anything. I couldn't believe she had two suitcases for one overnight stay. She told me she needed everything that she was taking. It was time for me to just shake my head.

We dropped off Jessica at her grandparents' house and I went in to see them. It was good to see them again. I always liked the Buckley's; they treated me like their own son. Sharon was their only child.

Mr. Buckley told us to have a good time, but to behave. It made us both laugh. Sharon hugged Jessica and we headed to Columbus. To be honest, I didn't know what to expect. Only time would tell.

I pulled up to the Sheraton Inn and the valet took our car. They brought in our suitcases and waited while we checked in. We headed up to our room and talked about having lunch and maybe going for a swim. They assured us that the water was always eighty degrees.

We decided to go to the pool first. I changed in the bathroom and Sharon in the bedroom area. We decided I would get the bed closest to the door. I asked her if she was ready before coming out of the bathroom. She had on a two-piece suit with a robe over it.

The hotel supplied the robes and I slipped one on as we headed to the pool. There were quite a few people there but I could only look at one person. She looked beautiful in her blue bathing suit. I'm sure other men as well as the women near the pool were looking at her also.

I told her how beautiful she looked. She laughed and we got into the water. I know most women would worry about their hair but Sharon's hair was naturally curly and she told me after it dried it would pretty much fall back into place.

We spent about an hour in the pool and hot tub and headed back up to our room to change clothes for lunch. Again, I went back into the bathroom to change.

As we headed down to the restaurant, we went by the party room that was being set up for the evening. It was gigantic! They were putting party favors on all the tables and the band was beginning to set up. We were getting excited as we headed over for lunch.

While eating lunch, Sharon noticed a couple of doctor friends and their female companions in the restaurant. They waved and the doctors came over and said hi to Sharon. They were there for the gala also, and asked us if we would like to join them that evening.

We cordially accepted and told them we would see them later. Sharon explained that one of the doctors, George, transferred to one of Columbus' hospitals last year. He was with his wife Beth. Harry, the other doctor, was still in her hospital. The woman he was with was one of the nurses and her name was Chris.

"Jeff, I need to tell you that I dated Harry a few times after the death of my husband. It was after Jessica was born; we dated for about six months. I just want you to know. I was always able to tell you anything and I want to keep it that way."

"Sharon, you can always talk to me. Anytime, anywhere, I still consider you my best friend ever," I replied.

"It's just that Harry is a player and I'm not interested in that kind of man. I don't even know why I'm telling you this." She shook her head.

"Because we're best friends! Let's leave it at that."

After lunch, we took a tour of the Inn and stopped to pick-up a souvenir for Jessica. It was just a little bear with a ‘Happy New Year' ribbon on it. Like most kids, Jessica loved stuffed animals.

To pass some time we drove to one of the malls and walked around for a while. I'm not a shopper, but just being with Sharon was good enough for me. Deep in my heart, I knew I loved her but didn't want to admit it, or push her in anyway. I kept telling myself we were just best friends.

We headed back to the motel, and we began to get ready for the party. Sharon asked to use the shower first. I told her I would take a walk and come back in about twenty minutes to give her some privacy.

When I got back, she had her undergarments on, an old blouse and sweat pants. "Is that what you're wearing to the party?" I asked, knowing she just slipped something on.

"What! Of course not. I wasn't going to run around in my bra and panties in front of you."

"I wouldn't mind," I said with a big smile on my face. She smiled and slapped me on the arm. I grabbed it like it really hurt. She just shook her head.

I took my shower, shaved and slipped on my suit pants before leaving the bathroom. When I stepped out Sharon was standing there in a beautiful blue gown. She looked so stunning.

"My God! You're so beautiful," I blurted out.

I think it caught her by surprise, but she thanked me. To break the tension she told me I should finish getting dressed unless I was going without a shirt. After getting dressed, we headed down to the party. We found her doctor friends and they introduced me to their dates.

The Party:

We were having a great time at the party. We snacked and had quite a few drinks. The band played and we danced. I wasn't a great dancer but I was having fun. I danced with Beth and Chris as well as a few other women near our table. Quite a few men asked Sharon to dance and I danced with their dates. I have to admit that Sharon was the best-looking woman there; at least in my eyes.

I could tell this Harry fellow still had feeling for Sharon, but at least he didn't push it. The last thing I would want to do is embarrass Sharon. She seemed to control the situations with the men.

My feelings for her were becoming stronger and stronger throughout the night. I could tell she was having a wonderful time but didn't know how she really felt about me.

At midnight, everyone started kissing everyone. Women were grabbing me, kissing me and yelling ‘Happy New Year'. I lost Sharon in the body of people. Finally, it calmed down just a hair and she came to me.

"Happy New Year, Jeff," she said.

We kissed for the first time in our lives. It wasn't a quick peck like all the women were doing. It was deep passionate kisses. It was like two lovers kissing, not caring what anyone else thought. After about the third kiss, we separated slightly. I could see tears in her eyes but wasn't sure what to make of it.

"I really like you, Jeff. I had to tell you."

I kissed her again, then told her I felt the same. We continued having fun at the party and did still dance with others. Later, after saying goodnight to her friends, we went up to our room.

After going back to our room things became a bit tense again. I went into the bathroom and took off my suit and put on pajama bottoms. Sharon changed in the bedroom into her pajamas.

I came out of the bathroom and we faced each other in our pajamas. I leaned over and kissed her. She kissed me back. Without saying anything and looking into her eyes I reached up and began unbuttoning her pajama top. She didn't stop me.

Her skin was white with freckles on her chest. Her breasts were medium size but she could go without a bra if she wanted to. Her areoles were large, and reddish in color, matching her hair. As I rubbed her nipples, they began to get hard. I sucked them for a minute and then dropped to my knees.

I pulled down her pajama bottoms and blue panties and saw her red bush, trimmed and neat. She lifted her foot and I pulled her pajama bottoms and panties off her leg. She was still standing near the bed totally naked with her eyes closed. She moved her hands to the back of my head.

I put my hands on her ass and pulled her red muff into my face. I pushed hard against it and kissed her on her muff over and over. I stood up and picked her up in my arms. It startled her at first, but she put her arms around my neck as I carried her to the bed.

We kissed passionately over and over again. I couldn't get enough of my childhood friend. I worked on her breasts kissing and sucking on them. Her nipples getting hard and resembling pencil erasures. God, I loved sucking on her tits.

She moaned how much she liked it. The more she moaned, the more I sucked. I sat up and she spread her legs; I moved my hand over her muff and gripped her pussy hard letting two of my fingers enter her. She was so wet and ready.

"It feels so good Jeff," she said.

I kept squeezing and finger fucking her. She began to buck up and down against my fingers. I believe she was having mini orgasms. "Take me Jeff! Take me now, I need you so much," she cried out.

I slipped off my underwear and rubbed my cock against her pussy opening. My cock slipped into her wet pussy like a hot knife into butter. God! She felt so hot. I pumped hard, knowing I wouldn't last long.

After only about five minutes I said, "Honey, I'm sorry but I have to come," I want you so badly."

"It's okay, I'm ready too." She pulled my ass hard into her as we both came. I know I screamed out, "I love you so much", as I came. The funny thing is I meant it. I knew I really did love her.

We rested a while and cuddled before falling asleep. Late in the night, I woke up and realize it wasn't a dream, and I was cuddled up to her ass. I began to get a hard-on and pressed it against her. She rolled over on her back and lifted her leg so I could enter her.

We just fucked slow and easy. We made it last for a long time and I felt myself ready to come and began shooting my load deep in her. I felt her pussy gripping my cock and knew she was coming also. When her pussy stopped pulsating I pulled out of her and we went back to sleep.

When I woke up in the morning, she had already taken a shower and had on a bath robe. She looked at me and said we needed to talk. It started to bother me. I hope she didn't think it was all a big mistake.

"Jeff, did you mean all the things you said last night about loving me? Most of it was in the heat of passion, and I need to know for sure."

"Yes, I meant everything I said. I realized I was in love with you from the day I came by your house. I didn't want to say anything because I had no idea about how you felt."

"How do you know you love me? I mean we haven't seen each other in years and you really don't know me. Maybe you're just infatuated with the little girl who used to live next door."

"Believe me, I know you. You have to understand that I have been all over the world and with dozens of women. I know the difference between fucking and making love, infatuation and real feelings. I never let myself get that close to women. I mean falling in love with them.

"I can't say that about you. The minute I saw Jessica in the mall something clicked. I don't know what it was. Maybe it was just the miracle of Christmas, but I love you regardless of how you feel about me."

She had tears in her eyes. "Jeff, I was afraid you might not feel the same as me. I thought I really cared for you, but when you kissed me at midnight, I knew without a doubt that I was in love with you." She leaned over and kissed me again.

"Make love to me, Jeff." She slipped off the robe and was naked underneath. She pulled the covers off me; I was still naked in bed. I was getting hard almost instantly as she straddled me; my cock slipping right into her.

With my cock buried in her, we were rubbing pelvis to pelvis. The look on her face was telling me she was loving it. She leaned over and kissed me. Then sat back up, I rubbed her nipples to hardness; I had both hands on her breasts as she came. It made me come also.

She rose up and I could see our joint juices running down my cock. She came down hard again as I shot my last load deep in her. After we rested a few minutes, I got up and headed for the shower. Two minutes later I had company; she leaned forward as I took her from behind.

****

On our way home, we talked. We decided that we were much more than friends with benefits. We began dating regularly. I would stop over at least twice a week and usually watch a kid's movie with Jess. Jessica told me I could call her that.

After she went to bed, it was cuddle and sometimes make love time with Sharon. Both of our families kept asking us if we were going to get married. We would look at each other and told them, "Maybe, someday."

Someday happened in February. It was Saturday and we were going to take Jess to the movies. I was sitting on the couch talking to Jess while we waited for Sharon to finish getting ready. Jess climbed up on my lap and asked if she could ask me a question.

"Sure Honey, you can ask me anything. I'll always do my best to answer your questions."

"Do you believe in Santa?" she asked.

"As a matter of fact I do. I talked to him before Christmas. I mentioned that to you."

"Did he tell you I wanted a Daddy for Christmas? Be honest with me, Christmas is over."

I was a bit nervous. "Umm...yes he did."

"Then he sent you to my house didn't he?"

"I guess he did. Why are you asking me these questions, Jess?"

"That means that he sent you to my house to be my new Daddy. I know you love Mommy and Mommy loves you. How come you haven't asked Mommy to marry you so you can be my Daddy?"

"Have you talked to your mother about this?" I asked nervously.

"Yes, and she said you were waiting for the right time. This weekend is Valentine's Day and that seems like the right time to me. It‘s for people who love each other, you know."

"So, what do you want me to do?" I asked with a smile on my face.

"We can go to one of the stores in the mall, buy Mommy a ring and ask her to marry you." The thing was, Jess was serious.

Jess got off my lap, and I told her we would do it. Sharon came out of the bedroom looking as good as ever.

"OK, what are you two planning? asked Sharon.

"We're going to the mall to see a movie, Mom, you know that," replied Jess.

The three of us went to the mall and headed to the jewelry store. Sharon asked what was going on.

"I want to look at rings. Which ones do you like?" I asked Sharon.

She pointed to some she liked. I asked to see one of them and I knelt down on one knee inside of the store and said, "Sharon, we've been best of friends our whole life. Will you marry me?"

Before she could answer, Jess said, "I did like you said Mommy, say yes." I have to admit that I was a bit surprised, but Sharon did say yes and everyone in the store clapped as well as a number of bystanders. We kissed, I pulled out my credit card and paid for the ring, then we headed over to the food court. After that to a movie of Jess's choosing.

Sharon told me Jess had approached her the day before, and she had asked why we hadn't gotten married. She told Jess that she should ask me, and didn't believe she would do it. She said she was somewhat embarrassed but happy she did it.

We did get married a month later. We wanted a small wedding, but many people said they wanted to be there so we rented a hall. Jess told everyone that she had asked Santa for a daddy for Christmas and that he sent me to see her mom.

I guess if you look at it through her eyes, she was telling the truth. Maybe there are more miracles going on at Christmas time then we realize. It's hard to believe that it's just a coincidence that I played Santa for a few days and met a cute little who turned out to be the daughter of the best friend I had when I was growing up.

Even stranger that I looked for her mother and found the love of my life. Jess will be having a little brother in about six months. Mom asked us how many kids we wanted and we still haven't agreed if it will be two or three. All I know is I couldn't be happier.

Oh, I forgot to mention that Jess is now legally my daughter. The adoption papers went through last week. She got her Christmas present from Santa after all. Now we plan on doing all the things she wanted to do as a family. Yes, the sweet little red-haired girl has me wrapped around her finger.

Thank you for reading my story Comments are welcome and appreciated DG Hear