There were wrapped presents on the old library table, and homemade bells hung from the window blinds. They’d cut egg cartons apart, folded aluminum foil over the small cups, strung them on red and green yarn, and tied red ribbon around them. They had just finished another batch of caramel popcorn, adding pecans to it this time. The house was infused with buttery, sugary smells. Lydia’s face was glowing, her hair gleaming smoothly in the lamplight. She confided in Sarah, whispering behind a hand raised to her face, that she felt guilty, but this Christmas she was simply going all out. She had spent almost thirty dollars for a set of Legos for Ben, she confessed. Sarah stepped back, surveyed Lydia’s face, and said that was fine, absolutely, not extravagant at all. They made a double batch of Rice Krispie treats and decorated them with green and red icing, for Aaron, the toddler.
