As’ad took a length of garland and followed them to the table. “This will go on top of the leaves?” he asked. Pepper grinned. “Uh-huh. And we need to have candles. Really tall ones. They’re the prettiest.” She set down her leaves, put her hands on her hips and looked at him. “How come you don’t know this?” “We don’t celebrate Thanksgiving here.” Her blue eyes widened. “But you have to.” “They weren’t discovered by pilgrims,” Nadine told her. “America was the new world. It had to be found.” “It was lost?” Pepper asked. “In a manner of speaking,” As’ad said. “It’s a celebration unique to your country. Although I believe the Canadians also celebrate Thanksgiving, but on a different day.” He waited while the two girls straightened out the leaves, then he set the garland on top. It was attractive, he thought. Very festive. Kayleen would like it. The surprise would make her happy. He imagined her throwing herself at him, and him pulling her close.
