Until We Meet Again

Chapter Seventeen: Christmas and Confessions

Finally, Christmas Day arrived! Allison couldn't believe it. Time had flown by so quickly. School was wrapping up faster than ever, with the second semester just around the corner. Their father continuing to pursue a divorce broke her and her mother's hearts. Last night, she had given her life to Christ. In one short week, she would be baptized with her sister, along with a few others who had received Jesus.

After Olivia finished her yearly "Santa came" announcement, her family began to open all the wonderful gifts from under the tree. As they unwrapped the gifts, Allison felt a bit sad. Even though Christmas had always been a stressful time between her mother and father, they both had always been here. It felt strange that her father wasn't here this year.

Her mother, sister, and she were currently driving over to the Wests' home. They had been invited over for Christmas dinner last night, and of course, they accepted.

The young teen was pulled from her thoughts when her mother pulled into the driveway. Allison gazed over at the house before her. Their home stood on a multicolored stone foundation, with beautiful landscaping and gardening, and opened from two double doors. It wasn't as big as her own house, but it was a far cry from small.

Having a dad that poured his life into his work all the time did have its perks, but Allison would trade the oversized mansion for a whole and happy family in a heartbeat. While helping Olivia climb out of the car, Allison peered over her shoulder in time to see two familiar faces chatting away. Her mother and Mrs. West! Even after all these years, it was like they picked up right where they left off. After finishing their mini-chat, Mrs. West's husband made his way out of the house. A smile was gently placed upon his lips.

"Hey, guys!" He waved, making his way over to greet the company.

"Hey, Mr. West!" Allison grinned and went in for a hug.

"Sweetie, you can call us Melanie and Charles."

"Okay, thanks!" Allison was thankful they weren't one of those stuck-up rich couples. Finally, they made it into the house. It was beautiful! Lots of art hung on the lavender walls. It had a French southern look, and it felt like home.

Her thoughts were soon consumed by the absence of a midnight-haired, bright green emerald-eyed boy.

"Kyle should be here any minute," Mrs. West commented as she ushered them into the dining room. As if on cue, Kyle bounded down the stairs, rolling right into the kitchen, oblivious to the Hayze family. Mrs. West rolled her eyes at her son's boyish actions.

"Allison, could you please go get Kyle? He's been so unaware of his surroundings lately." Allison chuckled lightheartedly at the woman's annoyance.

She quietly excused herself and took off toward the room she assumed was the kitchen. Their home was painted in bright, cheery colors, with a few Bible verses framed on the walls. She walked into the room and, to her amusement, her assumption was confirmed.

There in the middle of the kitchen stood Kyle himself, digging through the open fridge. He looked as though he was in no rush either. Allison contemplated the scene in front of her. Then a funny idea hit her. She snickered to herself while tiptoeing toward Kyle as quietly as possible. She paused not even a foot away when a teasing voice cut in.

"You are the worst 'sneaky' person in the world." How did he know it was me? Before Allison could voice her question, the deep voice continued, "Next time you're at the store, make sure you buy more waffles!" Allison grinned, realizing that he thought she was his mother. She playfully rolled her eyes and continued with her sneaky surprise. She crept a couple more inches, arriving just behind him. She softly tapped his shoulder.