Christmas with Queen 2019

Advent Day 10

Jingle Bell Rock - John

The pavements have turned into death traps due to the ice that was now covering them. All I needed was to get a Christmas card for my little brother and I really wasn't in the mood to risk my life for a bit of paper. Still, I went into the town to finish off my Christmas shopping. I like to get my shopping done as quick as possible as I have always been prepared. I almost kicked myself when I realised I forgot to get him a card.

I passed a busker in the street as I was on my way to the card shop. He was playing a dark brown guitar and I managed to recognise the tune of 'Winter Wonderland'. His head was bopping to the beat as he watched his own fingers dance in the strings. He momentarily looked up and we made eye contact, I smiled at him and my heart fluttered a bit when he smiled back before focusing back to the guitar. I watched him for a while longer, taking notice of his defined facial features and small curls on the top of his head.

I placed a £5 note in his guitar case which he had laid by the side of him. There were some coins in their from previous onlookers.

"Thank you" He gave me that smile again

I nodded before going off to do my shopping. Nothing exciting happened whilst I was shopping. Apart from the fact that the card I bought was cheaper than what it said on the tag. Anyway, it was perfect for my little brother - it had different coloured Christmas stockings in rows.

I walked back out into the street and found that guy still busking. I should really be getting home but my body just would not allow it. I felt this weird connection to the stranger which I didn't know how to describe. Was it pity because he was on the streets? Was it a physical connection because he was attractive? Did I just feel bad because people were just ignoring his talent as they walked past? Did they not appreciate it?

I decided to take action. This guy deserves more money than what he is getting, so I'm going to help. I've always been a pretty good singer, I grew up in the local church choir so I know how to hit a note.

"Do you have a mic?" I questioned the guy

"Uh Yeah. Do you sing?" He asked

"Just a bit. Trust me, I want to help you get more attention" I smiled

"Alright but I'll warn you, attention isn't my strong point" He looked down shyly

"Don't worry" I patted his shoulder as he passed me the mic, "What are you going to play for me Sir?" I tilted my head

"Er...Jingle Bell Rock" he picked up his guitar and began to play

Before I knew it I was singing along...

"Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock,
Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring,
Snowing and blowing up bushels of fun,
Now the jingle hop has begun."

A few people's heads turned. Time to take it up a notch and really grab their attention.

"What a bright time, it's the right time,
To rock the night away,
Jingle bell time is a swell time,
To go gliding in a one-horse sleigh"

Some more people stopped, and a crowd began to gather. This was so exciting!

I sang some more, "Giddy-up jingle horse, pick up your feet,
Jingle around the clock,
Mix and a-mingle in the jingling feet"

Now the people were putting money in the guitar case, just like I did earlier. I saw some others sing and dance along. I was happy to be able to help this guy. I could hear him thanking everyone for their donations, it was truly heartwarming.

I finished up the song, "Mix and a-mingle in the jingling feet,
That's the jingle bell,
That's the jingle bell,
That's the jingle bell rock!"

The crowd dispersed as I put the mic back and went to talk to the guy with the guitar.

"I don't know what to say. Thank you so much!" He beamed

"No worries, it was a pleasure. You're a really talented guy and I am just happy to help. You deserve a good Christmas" I smiled

"I was recently made redundant and I haven't been able to find another job. Being a single dad makes it harder because I have others depending on me. This is the only money I get. I can get my boys some presents now!" He looked down to the money

"Have an amazing Christmas - your name is?" I quizzed

"John. And you?" He asked back

"Y/n"

"Thank you so much y/n. How could I ever repay you? You've been a Christmas miracle!" John smiled so brightly

"Oh I don't need to be repaid love, just have a great Christmas with your boys" I told him

"Thank you! I better get some gifts!" With that, he gave me a kiss on the cheek and ran off in the direction of the shops.

"Merry Christmas John" I muttered happily to myself