The Older Generation

Reunited - Lyn

It was Christmas Day.  Most of us were surrounded by family.  Most have received their Secret Santa gifts.  Most of us were happy.  But I couldn't stop thinking about going home.  I was alone.

Maya brought Will here.  George and Ray were watching TV.  Lilly had Lou with her and Wu and Garms (yes, he doesn't mind) both had Misako.  Julius went to see his parents.  I was in the corner, feeling completely forgotten.  Invisible.  I couldn't help but worry that this was my first Christmas at the monastery, away from my hometown Jamanakai Village.  Without the Robisons and the people that cared and loved me.

Lilly caught my eye, gave Lou one last kiss and walked towards me.

"Hi," she said shyly.

I felt a bit sorry for her too.  I gave a quick smile and made it fade away.

"I just wanted to say that I'm your Secret Santa, Lyn."

"Ok then, do you have a gift?" I tried to say not rudely.

"Oh right, it's waiting for you behind the doors," she added, pointing to the wooden doors of the monastery.

I wandered off to the doors and pulled them open to find the biggest surprise ever.

"Hi Lyn," Blake said cheerfully, "Merry Christmas!"

I twisted my arms around my brother's neck.

"How did you come here?" I cried, "Are you alright?"

"There was this gal called Lilly and she came to the village to find me, and well... it doesn't matter as long as I'm here now.  I've missed you, sis.  And I'm great, thanks," he said, hugging me back.

I heard Lilly's footsteps moving closer to us.

"Hey you two - come inside!"

We followed her inside, Blake closing the doors behind him.

I turned to Lilly, "I can't express how happy I am.  Thanks so much for all of this."

"Well, when you mentioned it, I knew it meant a lot to you," Lilly smiled, "I've discussed this with Wu and well... Blake wants to stay for a few days here.  Wu's given him some extra clothes but if you're not ok with him staying - "

"Are you serious?!  I'd love that!"  It was Lilly's turn to receive the hug, "I can't thank you hard enough, Lilly."

"Any time - now go and lead Blake to your room.  He'll need a lot of catching up."

"Thank you so much," I started walking but then I turned back.

"Merry Christmas Lilly!"

"Merry Christmas, Lyn."