Free Forsaking All Others by Linda Hudson-Smith Page A

him where to, he told her Paris, the magnificent City of Light.”

Chapter 5
    W ith both families seated near the Christmas tree in the Harrington town house, holiday sounds by Nat King Cole played softly in the background. The tree lights and fireplace were in service. Dozens of red and green candles burned brightly, adding a dash of cinnamon and spice scents to the fresh pine.
    The two families were having a grand time viewing photos from past vacations. Many pictures had been taken when the kids were younger. Jessica moaned at how pudgy she had been in her preteen years. Weston wasn’t happy about the numerous photos clearly capturing his acne.
    Jennifer gushed over all of the pictures of her, especially those including Samuel. Her parents had started taking him on family trips after they’d been dating a couple of years. Jennifer would’ve been miserable without him. Sahara and Roman had closely chaperoned the young couple, carefully monitoring all their activities away and at home.
    To share something special with Jessica, Weston excused himself and asked her to come along. The couple entered the unoccupied bedroom and it surprised her to see the spacious room filled with toys and other presents. She turned questioning eyes on him. “What’s all this? How did it get here?”
    Weston picked up a sweet-looking baby doll and hugged it to himself. “Our dads helped me out when you ladies were shopping. I need some help wrapping these presents. Can I count on you?”
    With no children in their group, Jessica gave him another puzzled look. “Of course, but who are these gifts for?”
    Weston’s eyes suddenly glistened with moisture. “We’re taking them to an orphanage. Something I do every year. I delivered gifts to orphanages in Harlem and the Bronx before leaving New York.”
    Jessica was totally bowled over by Weston’s altruistic spirit, her mouth agape. “What a glorious and loving gesture. Why do you do this?”
    â€œJust something I truly enjoy. When I’m home, a couple of my buddies and I dress up like Santa on Christmas Eve and then make a visit to the orphanages to pass out presents to children and employees. We leave the majority of the gifts for discovery on Christmas morning.”
    Jessica rushed across the room and threw her arms around Weston’s neck. She then pinched him. As he reacted to the pain, she laughed heartily. “Sorry, but I had to make sure you were real. You amaze me. I can’t express how I feel about this. God is no doubt smiling on you.”
    â€œGod inspires me. All the glory goes to Him.”
    â€œI’m so impressed. Well, enough of this. Let’s get these presents done so you can deliver them. Where are the wrapping paper and ribbons?”
    Weston opened the clothes closet and pulled out large bags of decorative Christmas paper and a bunch of assorted bows. “Think we should ask the others to help?”
    â€œDuh! If we don’t, it’ll take us a few days to do it all. I think everyone would love to help. It’s a worthwhile cause. Let’s go ask.”
    Weston pulled Jessica to him and gave her a warm hug and kiss. “I knew I could count on you. Thanks, sweetheart, just for being you.”
    â€œYou’re the one who deserves the thanks. You keep earning favorable points with me. I never dreamed you’d turn out to be this special.”
    â€œI know why that is. Sorry I was so mean to you. Do you think maybe I had a serious crush on you and didn’t know how to show it?”
    â€œI guess that’s possible, but we’ll never know for sure. It’s a really nice thought.”
    â€œIt is. I can show how I feel about you without scalping you, leaving you without a shadow of doubt.”
    â€œAnother nice thought. Let’s get the others before we get into some serious showing and telling. I have the desire to kiss you breathless.”
    â€œOh,