Special Chapter 4: Hello, Santa!

“Miss, your phone’s ringing,” Flora informed Audrey as she handed her the phone.

“Thanks,” Audrey replied and got down the ladder. She was decorating the tree she bought the other day for Christmas. Since it was going to be Asher's first Christmas, she wanted it to be special. "Oh, it's Tristan," she mumbled, seeing the name flashing on her screen. It had been a while since they talked. The last time was at her farewell party before she moved to the country.

“Hi, Audrey!” He greeted her as soon as she answered the call.

“Hey there, Tristan,” Audrey said, smiling warmly.

“I hope I'm not interrupting anything,” Tristan said in his smooth voice. “I just wanted to let you know that I'll be visiting on Christmas with a special gift for my godson. I've missed him so much!”

Audrey smiled, happy for her son, who would get a visit from his only godfather. But then she sensed something was up when Tristan didn't change the topic.

“Audrey, I was hoping we could catch up,” he said.

Audrey hesitated. She could smell trouble, and it made her uneasy. “Tristan, I really don't think that's a good idea,” she said, trying to keep him at arm's length.

“But Audrey,” he pleaded. “I just need to see you. I think I'm doomed.”

Audrey sighed heavily, knowing that Tristan was bringing trouble with him no matter what he did or said.

“What happened?” She asked, hoping it wasn't related to asking her to date him or giving him a chance to prove his love, because Audrey was certain she wouldn't be able to give a positive reply.

“So, it started when I made a detour on my way home from your farewell party... I found this bar on the way back and checked it out…” Tristan started.

Tristan told Audrey what happened, omitting the part where he woke up in a stranger's bed, only telling her that the woman he met in the bar had kept pestering him ever since.

“Did you do something? She wouldn't be so persistent unless you did something to her, right?” Audrey sighed when Tristan went silent. “Whatever it is, you should try to talk to her. Ah, I have to go now. See you soon,” she hung up and continued doing her unfinished task.

The day before Christmas, Tristan arrived. Audrey welcomed him warmly and offered a guest room she prepared for him, which he liked.

“Thanks for letting me come,” Tristan said shyly. He thought he would regret his idea of coming over for Christmas, but Audrey said she would be glad to have him join in.

“It's not a big deal. Asher's grandparents couldn't make it this time so... anyway, the more the merrier, isn't it?” She laughed and continued showing him around the house.

Tristan wanted to ask about Shane when he noticed the latter seemed nowhere to be found, but immediately dismissed the thought and enjoyed the tour instead.

On Christmas Eve, Audrey and Flora had cooked up a feast for dinner. Everyone sat around the table enjoying the food and each other's company, laughing and sharing stories. Even baby Asher joined the laughter while lying in his crib next to his mother's seat.

“Look at this little guy laughing so cutely.” Tristan reached out to tickle Asher's foot.

Suddenly, they heard a knock on the door.

“I'll get it,” Audrey volunteered and left her seat. She hurriedly went to answer the door, and as she opened it, there stood Santa Claus himself.

“Shane?” Audrey couldn't believe her ex-husband would do such a thing for a surprise. “You should have called in advance if you're coming,” she said, opening the door wide to let him in.

“It wouldn't be a surprise then,” Shane replied and winked at her. “So, what do you think?” He asked and turned around in front of her to show off his outfit.

“It doesn't suit you,” Audrey commented and shrugged. “Come on in, everyone’s in the kitchen,” she said and led the way.

“Hey,” Shane pulled her by the arm. “Is it terrible?” He asked with puppy-dog eyes. “I walked around like this from the airport.”

Audrey couldn't help but chuckle at his ridiculous Santa suit. “I think you look ridiculous, but it's good to have you here,” Audrey said with a smile.

“Merry Christmas,” she greeted.

“Merry Christmas,” Shane smiled and greeted Audrey back. He went towards the kitchen and all eyes were on him as he entered, especially Tristan's, who was shocked at the sudden turn of events.

“Everyone, this is... Santa Claus,” Audrey announced with a laugh. “He has brought us gifts!” Everyone cheered in delight and Shane smiled as he handed over presents one by one to each of them. Of course, Tristan was not included.