Dad for Christmas
Today I left the shop, arms laden with gifts, and hurried towards the nursery to pick up my son. Id managed to get presents for my parents, but still had to figure out what Timothy wanted under the tree this year. As I dashed through the chilly streets of Birmingham, I couldnt help but worry about giving Timmy the childhood he deserved. I was constantly torn between work and home, determined not to let my little boy feel neglected, hoping to offer him only the best.
Id raised Timmy alone. His father and I had last spoken nearly six years ago, when hed decided he wasnt ready to be a dad. After that, I never tried to reconnect, and when Timmy asked about his father, I told him his dad was working away somewhere to support us. It always felt like a cowardly lie, but I couldnt bring myself to tell him the truth.
Timmy watched for me at the window. When he spotted me rushing past, he grinned and waved his small hand, then scurried to fetch his coat.
Hello, Natalie Finch! His keyworker, Mrs. Nina Rogers, greeted me warmly as we entered. May I have a word?
Of course, I replied, instantly feeling tense.
We had a child psychologist in today, for a lesson. The children were asked to draw the Christmas present they wanted most. Heres Timmys drawing, she said, handing me a sheet of paper.
I glanced at my sons work and my heart sank. Hed drawn a sparkling Christmas tree, beside which stood a tall, strong man labelled, in childish handwriting, Daddy.
Whats so unusual about that? I shrugged, trying to stay calm.
He wants his father for Christmas. Dont you think thats a bit concerning? Mrs. Rogers continued. The psychologist suggested you speak with Timmy about his dad. Maybe its time he knew the truth.
Thank you, Ill talk with him, I said, taking Timmys hand and leaving the room.
Mum, are you upset with me?
Why would I be? I smiled at him.
Because of Daddy
No, darling. Not at all
The rest of the evening, I wrestled with how to tell Timmy the truththat he didnt have a father and, most likely, never would. I regretted ever telling him his father was away working, but I couldnt find the words. Sleep finally claimed me with my mind still unsettled.
The next morning, as soon as we stepped into nursery, Mrs. Rogers hurried towards us.
Good morning! Did you speak to Timmy about his father? she asked, her tone a little sharp.
Dont worry, everythings fine with Daddy! I responded, forcing a smile. Hell be coming home for Christmas, just for a few days.
Honestly, I had no idea why I liedperhaps just to get her off my back and out of my life.
Mum, is it true? Will Daddy come? Timmy asked, his little face glowing with hope.
Yes, sweetheart. Its true
Outside, the reality of my words hit me. What have I done? How could I promise Timmy something that wont happen? I sat down on a park bench and tears spilled out, overwhelmed by the hopelessness of it all.
Excuse me, can I help? came a gentle voice.
I looked up and saw a young man in uniform, his eyes full of concern.
No, thank you. Really, Im fine. I dont need the police, I said, turning away. Why couldnt people just leave me alone?
Actually, Im in the Army, not the police, he laughed awkwardly. Sorry to intrude.
Oh, whats the difference? Could I not sit here alone for five minutes? I snapped.
I only stepped over because you looked upset. I cant stand seeing women cry. Would you join me for a coffee? They say a decent cup and a bit of chocolate can fix anything.
You wont take no for an answer, will you? I couldnt help but smile.
Nope, absolutely not. Come on, lets grab a coffee and chat.
I found myself accepting. Maybe it was his calm kindness, or the sense that he was someone steady and reliable.
Half an hour later, over cappuccinos and chocolate biscuits, I was chatting easily with Gregory Wright, who turned out to be a lively and witty conversationalist. There wasnt a dull moment with him.
So, thats how I managed to get myself tangled up with this imaginary Daddy. Honestly, it was just to put Mrs. Rogers in her place. You should see how she looks down her nose at me, I finished.
Oh, thats rough. I hate when people pry into personal lives. Greg mused. You know, Natalie, maybe I could help.
How? I asked, surprised. Marry me?
He laughed. No, not marry. But I could pretend to be your husband for the holiday, just for Timmyand for everyone else, really.
I dont know That sounds like madness.
But isnt pretending Daddy will visit for Christmas a bit mad too? How will you explain to Timmy if his father doesnt show up?
I suppose youre right. But why do you want to help? I asked.
Last Christmas, I spent the whole night alone. Most of my mates have little ones and celebrate in tight family circles. I ended up on my own. This year, I tried to get onto a Christmas duty rota, but the schedule was already set months ago. If Im honest, I really want to avoid another lonely New Years Eve, Greg admitted.
Why not visit your parents?
Theyre up in Yorkshire, and itd take days there and back. Im due back on duty the fourth.
Well, in that case Lets give it a try.
On New Years Eve, as agreed, Greg rang our doorbell. Timmy had been glued to the window all morning, desperately waiting for Daddy. Greg entered, smiling and dragging a big bag, took off his coat, and strode into the living room.
Come on, sonlets open some presents! he winked at Timmy.
He pulled a beautiful tea set from his bag.
Its lovely! Is that for Mummy? Timmy asked.
Thats rightyou got it! And heres one for you, Greg handed Timmy a huge box of Lego bricks.
Oh wow! Mum, look! Dad got me LegoIve wanted one for ages! Timmy squealed with delight.
You didnt need to spend so much! We agreed not to go overboard with expensive gifts, I whispered later.
Nonsense, Im thrilled to give giftseven if its just once a year! Greg laughed.
The day flew by. I focused on cooking while Timmy couldnt leave Gregs side, building with his new Lego. The next day, we all visited the city Christmas tree and went ice skating. Three days rushed past in a blur of fun and laughter, but soon it was time to say goodbye. While Timmy slept peacefully, Greg and I stood in silence by the door, neither of us pleased with the moment.
Well, I should be off
Thank you, for everything, I managed, holding back tears.
Greg closed the door quietly behind him, and I slumped onto a bench, crying. I wanted so badly to ask him to stay, but I couldnt. We agreed on three days; how could I reveal Id fallen for him so quickly?
A sudden knock at the door startled me. Maybe hed forgotten something?
Do you mind if I stay? Gregs voice was soft.
For how long? Dont you have work tomorrow? I asked, unsure.
Forever
Timmy appeared sleepily from his bedroom, rushing into Gregs arms.
Daddy, are you leaving again?
No, son. Daddys not going anywhere. Hes staying with us now, I said with a smile.
Yay! Will you take me to nursery tomorrow?
Of course, Timmy. Ill take you every day now! Greg grinned, wrapping his arms around his new family.
