Santa’s Coming (High Five Novella #1)

Chapter 17 Christmas Morning

Wednesday, December 25th

“Shit,” I scold myself, realizing I’m still naked under the blanket and that Ben will be home soon. I run upstairs, put on my festive flannel pajamas, and begin my motherly duties. It isn’t Christmas morning without cinnamon buns fresh out of the oven. After setting it to 375 degrees, I make myself a winter blend of coffee. Staring outside, a blanket of snow covers the world, making this Christmas morning feel like a scene from a postcard.

Last night was … unexpected. A little adventure, a secret tryst with “Santa,” a moment of adult fun. It was a thrilling encounter, one filled with passion and intensity, so out of the ordinary for my usual routine life. The experience was electrifying, a much-needed break from the monotony of motherhood.

I got my Christmas wishes: a foot massage, a great night’s sleep, and being railed by Santa. Even though I passed out on the couch, my many, many orgasms aided my slumber. A smile grows on my face, reliving last night’s memories.

I hear the lock unlatch from the front door. I smile, walking toward the door, excited to see Ben and grateful Nicholas locked up before he left.

“Mom!” Ben screams, entering the house. “Santa came!” he squeals, eyeing the presents.

I nearly spit out my coffee. He sure did . I laugh internally.

“Wait!” I command. “Take off your boots.” He throws off his coat and boots in a hurry before running over to the tree. “Where is your overnight bag?” I ask, looking at his pile on the floor.

“Right here,” my ex says, standing in the doorway.

“Thanks.” I give him a polite smile. “What about his presents?”

“Ben, tell your mom what Santa left for you at my house.”

“Tickets to WWE!” He smiles, then goes back to shaking presents.

"Look at you," I say with a hint of sarcasm, genuinely surprised that he got Ben a thoughtful gift.

“Give Dad a hug goodbye,” he says to Ben, who runs over to hug him. “Merry Christmas, Em.”

“Merry Christmas.”

With the door clicking shut, I look at my son. “Open them,” I encourage. The room quickly fills with the sound of rustling wrapping paper and my son’s delighted squeals, his face aglow with the magic of the season.

Watching Ben, I can't help but feel a surge of pride. I’ve poured my heart and soul into making this Christmas special for him, embodying the spirit of Santa in every possible way. His happiness is my greatest gift, a reminder that every effort and struggle is worth it. Yet, there’s a tinge of sadness, a small reminder that as a single mom, there’s often no one to fill my stocking, no one to think of me.

I glance at the mantle, expecting the usual—my stocking, limp and empty. Except there’s something peeking out. My heart flutters with surprise and curiosity. I get up to see what’s inside.

“FU-fa la la off,” I sing, catching myself from letting out a naughty word.

There’s an elegantly sealed envelope, the handwriting on it unfamiliar yet warm. Inside is a handwritten note, an invitation from Nicholas for a dinner date at my convenience. This gesture, simple yet profound, sends my heart racing.

Mixed emotions churn within me—excitement, hope, a twinge of fear. This offer signifies that last night meant something more to Nicholas and, importantly, to me too. It’s a chance to step out of my role as just a mom, a chance to be Emily, the woman who really likes this guy named Nicholas. For the first time in a long while, I feel seen and valued.

I tuck the card away, my mind buzzing with the possibilities it holds. It’s a symbol of potential companionship, of being cherished and appreciated. My mind buzzes with excitement for what the future might hold with my not-so- saint Nick. For now, though, my focus returns to my son, his joy and laughter filling the room and my heart.

I take out my phone to capture these precious moments to preserve the memory of my son’s fifth Christmas morning. He smiles, proudly showing me all his new toys. In a quiet moment, I change Santa’s contact to Nicholas O’Malley in my phone. As my son busies himself with his new toys, I take the opportunity to text my friends. They are going to freak out when they hear about what happened last night. Opening the BFF group chat, I begin typing.

Emily: Merry Christmas! Santa came … all over me last night.

The two of them compete, sending me little clips of people falling over and other hilarious GIFs. I laugh. My heart is so full at this moment. It’s clear—it’s time for me to step back into the dating world.

Opening the text thread with Nicholas, I’m reminded of our merry banter. He’s brought so much fun into my life, a refreshing change. I tap out a new text.

Emily: Good morning, Santa. I hear it’s your off-season. Keep the red suit at home. I’d love to spend more time with Nicholas and get dinner soon. Maybe on New Year’s Eve?