Thursday, June 12, 2014

Fresh Start: Sweet Scent of Gingerbread



"I love the sweet scent of gingerbread cookies baking in the oven," Mel said to himself, as he opened the door and entered the kitchen, quietly. "I'm counting down to Christmas!"

Mel was not young anymore, but finding a new wife at his age was proving to be a wonderful experience for him. Betty never ceased to amaze him. She was full of love and energy.

"Life is so good now," he thought. "Why did I ever wait so long?"

This would be their first Christmas together. Mel was determined to make it a happy one for his new bride. 

"I have made so many mistakes, in the past, but never again." 

"Silent night, holy night." Betty hummed softly, as she rolled out gingerbread cookie dough on the kitchen counter. Her back was towards him.

Mel had gotten up early, shoveled the driveway and then went Christmas shopping. Betty had been sound asleep. He carefully placed all of the presents that he had purchased on the kitchen table. He decided not to say anything, just to let her find them. Wrapped perfectly, he knew she was going to love them. Mel waited a moment, to see if Betty had heard him.

"You'll be pleasantly surprised." 

He headed into the living room without making a sound.

Moments later, Betty turned around and discovered the gifts.

Mel smiled inwardly, as he heard her first words.

"Oh my, Mel, you should not spoil me like this!"

"Why not, my love? I don't have anyone else to spoil now. My children are all grown up. They have homes and families of their own. You are my family now." He got up, gave her a tender hug and kissed her. "I love you so much." 

Betty could not do anything with her hands covered in cookie dough. "I want to heal all of your hurts and make you feel at home here."

"I didn't get your present yet," said Betty, apologetically. "But I will."

"You are my best present ever," said Mel. "Besides that, this is a fresh start for both of us and we are going to do it right this time."        
        

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