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He kisses the top of my head “I already told you, Katyusha, your family is mine”

I ainst him, unable to help myself When he’s kind like this, it’s difficult to ree

The dinner is a jovial affair The dishes are plant-based, low in saturated fat and sodiurains The menu theme is Mediterranean, which includes a spread of baked artichoke, ratatouille, sundried-toarlic, basil, and mint The dessert is strawberry soup served with paper-thin, dairy- and gluten-free ginger tuiles

Dr Hendricks—or Williaive us time alone to catch up From how much she talks about hiether

We roup is diverse, with ether for a feeeks has created a camaraderie that’s obvious in their banter

Megan is ten years older than e is a veteran ns a cattle far a florist shop in the new year I enjoy the lively conversation and e froet about the awful reality of Alex’s life and how it has impacted mine

After dinner, we have hoe by the Christe has us all in stitches with his impersonation of Billy Mack’s “Christmas Is All Around” from the movie Love Actually

By bedti

I givetears of laughter froht”

Alex regards hs

“So did I,” Mom says

“Alex and I have a gift for you”

“Oh, honey You shouldn’t have” Waving a hand around the space, she says, “This is already too ift I could’ve asked for, not tothe trip must be for you”

Taking her hand, I open the door and drag her inside “Come on”

“You didn’t think we’d co us inside

“Shall I close my eyes?” she asks with a squeal

I laugh “It’s wrapped You can look” Taking the first gift fro, I hand it to her

She shakes it and turns it on all sides “What is it? I have no idea what to guess”