You're the Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me

Chapter 3

Chrissy and her grandmother drove to Dean's home, and Chrissy carried in a homemade cake while her grandmother followed behind her with candy for the children.

Dean answered the door and was dressed in khakis, loafers, and a white shirt. Chrissy smiled upon seeing him. Soon, the children ran to greet her and Noni, as Chrissy referred to her.

Chrissy looked around for Dean's wife, but Dean quickly said, "She's not here. Went to her sister's," he muttered.

"Oh, I hope we aren't putting you out."

"Of course not. The kids were anxious to see the candy lady again and if you'd be so kind, I could use some help with Gail-ey here," he passed her the baby.

Chrissy's Noni played with the older children while Chrissy held Gail and talked to Dean. After a long while of making small talk and Dean seeming unlike his usual self, Chrissy finally burst, "Are you okay?"

"Is it that obvious?"

"Yes. The house itself makes it obvious. When did she leave?"

"About a week ago. She drinks... I don't know what to do. I've had to cancel my gigs because there's no one here with the kids, but that's our only income..."

"I'll watch the kids."

"Chrissy, I have no way to pay you."

"I don't need paid."

"Chris-"

"Dean, I'm serious. I have a job at Macy's. I make good money. Noni works in the bakery, and we make wine. Really, we're fine. I don't need the money."

"I don't want a handout because I just told you my sob story."

"Well, Dean, one day you're going to be famous. When you are, you can buy me a mansion," she laughed.

He smiled back at her, "Is it too much to ask if you'll watch the kids tomorrow night?"

"Not at all. Should we come here?"

"Yes, that's fine. Chrissy, why are you doing this? You barely know us..." Dean said as tears brimmed in his eyes.

"My mom was an alcoholic. Drank herself to death... I only had my Noni... I was just about Craig's age when I found her."

"Oh my God..." Dean stepped closer to her and gave her an awkward side hug.

The rest of the evening was pleasant and the children insisted on playing a game after dinner. Finally, after Chrissy's dessert was served, everyone began to say goodbye. Dean told the children that Chrissy would be babysitting them the next night.

Chrissy and her grandmother got in the car to go home, "Principessa," Noni said, calling Chrissy by her nickname of 'Princess.'

"Hmm?"

"That nice Italian boy like-a you."

"Noni! He's married."

"Where his wife then? Leave behind her babies?" Nonni scoffed.

"Noni, we're friends. That's all."

"I better see you two together before I die."

"Oh, Noni..." Chrissy groaned.