She couldn’t be sure, but Diane, in particular, started greeted Eve with a knowing and extra friendly smile. But Eve didn’t mind. She was not ashamed or concerned. As long as both Clair and Eve focused on their respective jobs and maintained proper decorum, there was no cause for concern.

  Their dating life was their own private business.

  Eve sauntered over to the desk to greet her colleagues.

  “Good morning, Clair. And hi there, Diane. How was the evening shift?” Diane shook her head and shrugged, hinting a bit of frustration. “Oh, it was a busy night! There were a few emergencies, and a young teenage girl was admitted for alcohol poisoning. I mean, it’s the holidays, right? Everyone is out partying all week!”

  Clair turned to Diane and said ruefully, “Yeah, everyone except us. We just get to experience the aftermath.”

  Eve commiserated, “Boy, do I hear that! I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed a night that ended in a hangover, but I can tell you the last time that I had to treat a patient who did!”

  Diane turned to ask, “So, what are you two doing for the holidays?” Eve glanced at Clair, who gave Eve a questioning

  glance. Eve felt stumped for an answer. It seemed that Diane did know about her and Clair like Eve suspected. Eve didn't want to put Clair on the spot or out their relationship if Clair wasn't ready. But at the same time, Eve felt excited about her plans with Clair.

  “Um, I-I think I might be going to the movies? I mean, considering I have Christmas Eve o for the first time ever in my nurse's career, I may just want to relax and take it easy,”

  Eve answered, trying to keep her voice light and diplomatic.

  Diane then turned to Clair. “Oh, isn't that interesting!

  Clair, didn't you tell me that you were going to do the same on Christmas Eve?”

  Clair looked at Eve and then at Diane. “Um, sorry? What do you mean?”

  Diane waved her hands in front of her. “Remember?

  Didn't you tell me about your annual Christmas Eve tradition of seeing a show at the Carlisle? It stuck in my head because I thought it sounded so sweet and festive. I just can't remember the name of the movie itself…” Diane tilted her head thoughtfully as she tried to recall the title.

  Simultaneously, Eve and Clair answered at once, “Miracle on 34th Street?” Just as the words escaped their mouths, Eve and Clair looked at one another in surprise and then at Diane. Oops! So much for keeping our plans discreet, Eve thought.

  Diane exclaimed, “Yes, yes, that's it! Gosh, what a great holiday classic.” Diane smiled as she continued to assemble her belongings. Casually, she then asked, “So, are you both going to see that movie?”

  Eve and Clair exchanged looks. Eve waited for a non-verbal cue from Clair, to which Clair shrugged. Eve saw this motion as a sign to agree. “Um, yes, we are. Yeah, we, uh, we decided that we both wanted to see that movie, so that's,

  like, what we are doing.” Oh my god, Eve. Could you sound more awkward right now?

  Then to Eve's complete surprise, Diane remarked, “Oh, that is so nice! You know, my daughter recently came out as a lesbian, and she is spending Christmas with her new girlfriend too.” Diane looked back and forth between Eve and Clair and whispered quietly, “I always thought that you made a cute couple. I noticed the way you two look at one another. I think it's great! But don't worry, I won't spill the beans. Your business is your own. I am just happy that you both have each other during the holiday season.” With a wink and a wave, Diane left the reception desk. “See you later!”

  In shock, Eve and Clair looked at one another, and then they burst into laughter.

  14

  After Eve left to start her morning rounds, Clair settled into her o ce routine, feeling delightfully surprised. Like Eve, Clair was slightly shocked to discover that Diane knew they were dating. However, Clair was amazed at the fact that it didn’t seem to bother her as much as she thought it would. Besides, she had worked with Diane for close to three years, and she felt that Diane was genuinely happy for her and Eve. Clair felt as though a weight had been lifted from her shoulders.

  The main reception area was bustling with patients amidst Forest Vale Hospital sta , who were decked out in festive accessories. Since today was the last shift before her vacation, Clair decided to wear her favorite ugly Christmas sweater. While Clair still required a neck brace after her accident, the cozy sweater made her feel as though she was adding to the holiday spirit.

  Taking a sip of her co ee, Clair swiveled in her chair towards the filing cabinet when she saw Priya approaching her desk.

  With a smile, Priya asked, “Good morning, Clair! How are you feeling today? I love your sweater, by the way.”

  Clair’s eyes glanced down at her top and then back up at her supervisor. “Oh, thank you very much! I am feeling much better.” Clair pointed to her neck. “I still have to wear this silly thing for a few more days, but otherwise, I am doing okay.”

  Priya nodded empathetically. “Good, that’s great to hear, Clair. Well, as you know, we still need to complete your evaluation, and since today is your last day before your Christmas vacation, why don’t you join me in the o ce later this afternoon?”

  Clair replied, “Yes, of course. I really appreciate you rescheduling my assessment. I’ll be ready whenever you are.”

  “Excellent. So, let’s say three o’clock this afternoon? I will send someone over to relieve your desk, and then you can join me in the o ce.” Priya presented Clair with a stack of folders. “For now, could you kindly file these away?”

  Clair grabbed the beige-colored paper files from Priya.

  “Certainly. See you at three o’clock today.” She watched as Priya turned to head back down the corridor. Clair felt relieved to have her evaluation before taking a few days o .

  It was not as though Clair was concerned about her job, but she preferred to have the assessment over and done with so that she could enjoy Christmas Eve with her lover.

  Clair hummed to herself as she fantasized about her and Eve returning back to Clair’s house after the movie, sitting underneath the brightly lit tree. She thought about kissing Eve passionately, snuggling together as they sipped hot cocoa. She was excited to have Eve spend the night and to wake up to celebrate Christmas morning with her.

  Clair had plans to have Christmas dinner with her parents, who lived on the outskirts of Forest Vale. Clair was not out to her family, although they were surprisingly supportive regarding her divorce from Gary.

  Clair felt that her parents were so frightened by her depression that they wanted to give her comfort and personal space. At the time, Clair’s therapist suggested taking time to heal before coming out, and Clair wholeheartedly agreed. It seemed like too much pressure for Clair to take on, and as the years went by, Clair felt content maintaining some personal boundaries. Besides, Clair had not dated anyone whom she considered necessary enough to introduce to her family.

  Until she met Eve, Clair’s encounters with women had been casual and certainly not significant enough to create upheaval between her parents. But Clair felt that her relationship with Eve was di erent. Hmmm, I wonder if I should ask Eve to join us for Christmas dinner?

  Just as Clair was considering her options, she saw Eve strolling towards her desk. Immediately, Clair perked up.

  Smiling, Clair greeted her, feeling her face blush slightly with excitement. “Hey. How is your day going?”

  Eve sighed and ran her fingers through her hair. “ I just have a lot on my mind. Could you please pass me Mr.

  Brownstone's record? He is returning this afternoon, and I would like to review his information before we run his tests.”

  “Of course, let me pull that up for you.” Clair turned towards the plastic tray, which held a pile of folders. Looking back, she said to Eve, “I'm sorry you are having a stressful morning.”

  Eve shook her head. “It's okay. Um, listen, what time do you have a lunch break? I was wondering if you wanted to meet quickly in the cafeteria? I could be free in an hour if that works for your schedule?”

  Clair bobbed her head enthusiastically. “Yes, I would love to. Oh, and I almost forgot. I am having my evaluation with Priya at three o'clock today.” Clair beamed, “Aren't you

  excited that today is your last shift before you have two whole days o ? ”

  Eve chuckled softly to herself. “Yeah, I am. Sorry, I am just a little distracted right now. I got some…some stressful news last night. I will tell you about it at lunch, if that's cool?”

  “Of course, no problem.” Clair responded with concern.

  AT ONE O'CLOCK, Clair walked to the hospital cafeteria, where she was pleased to see Eve already waiting for her. She took her place in the lunch line and waved at Eve.

  While in line, Clair grabbed a Saran-wrapped sandwich and an apple and brought it over to the cash register to pay.

  Clair then sauntered over to Eve and plunked herself down in the empty chair. Smiling at Eve, Clair said quietly as she playfully bit her bottom lip. “God, I wish I could kiss you right now!”

  Eve grinned and replied under her breath, “Me too. You look so adorable in your Christmas sweater, by the way.”

  “Thanks! I think it really brings out the color of the neck brace, right?” Clair joked.

  “Oh absolutely; it really is the perfect accessory!” Eve and Clair shared a laugh as Clair began to unwrap her sandwich.

  Before taking a bite, Clair asked, “So what's going on with you? You looked so stressed out this morning. It wasn't because of Diane, was it?”

  Eve shook her head, “No, no. I am not bothered by Diane knowing about us.” Eve narrowed her eyes for a moment.

  “Are you?” Swallowing a mouthful of bread and meat, Clair replied, “No, not at all.”

  Eve looked down at her hands, which were folded on the table. “So, I got a letter that my triplex is being sold. I need

  to move out in two months.” Eve looked up and said in a sarcastic tone, “Great timing, huh? Like, this is all I need during the busy holiday season.”

  Clair put down her sandwich and immediately put a comforting hand on Eve's forearm. “Oh honey, I am so sorry to hear that! Gosh, that sure is crappy timing!”

  Eve blinked and rubbed her tired-looking face. “Yeah, you’re telling me! God, I haven't moved anywhere in over three years. And with the city changing so much with all of these new condo buildings, rental options are becoming scarcer. Especially looking for somewhere that will allow me to keep Peaches.”

  Clair looked at Eve with sympathy. “Listen, I am here to help you. And if you need a place to crash in between, you are always welcome at my place.”

  Eve patted Clair's hand that rested on her arm. “I know, and thank you. I really appreciate that.” Eve leaned back in her chair and stretched out her arms in front of her. “I don't know, but I will figure it out. For now, I just want to enjoy the next two days o , and I can focus on looking for a new place after the holidays.”

  Clair looked at Eve, feeling bad for her. Eve's schedule was very hectic, and with the long hours that she put in at the hospital, she knew it would be di cult for Eve to look for a new place to live. An idea suddenly crossed Clair's mind, although she wasn't sure if she should say it out loud.

  Clair began, “Um, Eve, I thought of something, but I don't know if this will sound crazy or not.” Eve looked at her and smiled coyly. “What's on your mind?”

  “Well, I mean, we have only just started dating, and I know we are still getting to know one another but…would you ever consider moving in with me? I mean, even if it's just temporary while you look for another place or…” Clair's voice trailed o with a hint of uncertainty.

  Eve looked tenderly at Clair and gently laughed. “Wow, you are such a lesbian. That would be a classic U-Haul move!” Eve toyed with her hands and thought for a moment,

  “I think that is a possibility I could consider. So far, everything has been going great with us, and I really love our honesty and communication.”

  Eve leaned towards Clair, peering deep into her eyes. “I think my only concern is that I don't want to rush anything too quickly. I truly believe that we have a future together and I want to make sure that we are careful with each step. But if things between us continue the way they have been, I feel that could be a definite possibility for us.” Eve searched Clair's face. “Is that okay?”

  Clair nodded, “Yes, absolutely. And what you say makes sense. I want to build a strong foundation with you, and I agree that it takes time and patience. But I also want you to know that you have a place in my home if you want it. I own my home—it was granted to me in my divorce—so it's a viable solution. Plus, I would love the company and Peaches would be very welcome. I love cats.” Clair toyed with the Saran wrap, bunching it up into a translucent ball.

  Eve smiled, “Anyway, I'm still planning on sleeping over tonight when I’m finished with my shift. I can't wait to wake up beside you and to enjoy a full day o together!”

  “Oh, me too! It's just not Christmas without my Eve!”

  Clair joked, and Eve groaned, “How did I know you were going to say that?”

  EVE CONTINUED to lounge lazily on Clair’s couch while Clair buzzed around in the kitchen, preparing dinner. Last night, Eve had driven to Clair’s house after her last shift before her holidays. Even though Eve did not arrive until after

  midnight, she was pleased to see that Clair had waited up for her.The couple spent the time kissing and holding one another as they took turns exploring each other’s body, pleasuring their most intimate spots. To Eve, it felt so nice to slow down and savor the quiet moments as the night bled into the wee hours of the morning.

  Since both Eve and Clair were generally early risers (an unavoidable, occupational requirement for working in a hospital), it pleased them both to sleep in, relishing the delicious sensation of cozy sleep and warm cuddles. Eve thought to herself, Ah! This is exactly what the holidays are for!

  At one point, Clair rolled over and opened her eyes, noticing the clock. “Oh my goodness, it’s already noon. We slept the entire morning away, babe!” Eve continued to snuggle her naked body against her lover. “Mmmm, how lovely! I could stay in bed with you all day, gorgeous!”

  Clair stretched her body, splaying out on the mattress, like a cat. “Well, I think I am ready to get up and move around a bit. But don’t rush. Maybe I’ll head into the kitchen and make us some co ee. Would you like that?”

  Eve blinked her eyes a few times as she tried to clear the cobwebs from her head. “Oh, that would be so nice. Yes, I’d love some co ee. Do you want any help?”

  Clair stood up and threw on an over-sized t-shirt over her luscious curves. “You can stay in bed if you like. I’ll get it.”

  Turning to give Eve a playful grin, she added, “You always bring co ee to my reception desk at work. Today, I want to be the one to take care of you.”

  “Come here,” Eve said, with outstretched hands. Clair took a few slow steps towards Eve. Eve leaned closer and pulled Clair to her, kissing her softly on the lips. “Merry Christmas Eve”

  Clair returned the kiss and replied, “Merry Christmas Eve, Eve! ”

  The couple spent the remainder of the afternoon enjoying the rare pleasure of being lazy together. But it was nearing dinner time, and Clair was looking forward to exchanging gifts before the two women headed out to the Carlisle Theatre. Eve called to Clair from the living room. “Hey, babe!

  What time is the movie again?”

  Above the din of clanging pots, Clair replied, “It starts at nine o’clock.” Clair then came into the living room, wiping her hands with a dishtowel. “I thought we could eat in a few minutes and then sit under the Christmas tree for a bit while we enjoy dessert. I have a gift for you.” Clair glowed with joy.

  Eve was so happy to see Clair in such good spirits. Ever since the accident, Clair seemed much more grounded and content.

  “Sure, that sounds awesome. Do you want any help in the kitchen?” Eve asked.

  “Nope, I’m fine, but thanks. I love to cook, and the kitchen is my happy place!” Clair said happily.

  Clair returned with two plates, and the couple dined together in the living room surrounded by festive lights and brightly colored Christmas decorations. They watched from the window as large snowflakes pelted onto the ground.

  “Wow,” Eve remarked. “It’s like a true winter wonderland outside!”

  After they finished eating, Eve helped Clair to clear the plates. In the kitchen, Eve noticed a ceramic bowl that contained a warm, cinnamon-scented dish. “Oh, wow, what's that?” Eve asked, pointing to the item.

  Clair proudly exclaimed, “It’s homemade plum pudding! I made it last night before you came over after work. I wanted to have it ready for us for this evening, so I threw it in the oven to warm it up as I made dinner.” Clair grabbed a knife

  and put on a pair of oven mitts. “Why don’t you sit down, and I will bring us out a slice?”

  Eve returned to the living and took a seat in front of Clair's Christmas tree. For the first time in many years, Eve felt as though she had a traditional Christmas moment, made even more magical by her lover's presence.

  Eve and Clair spooned the deliciously moist pudding into their mouths, scraping their dessert plates clean. “Oh, wow!

  That was really incredible! Where did you learn to make that dish?”

  Clair wiped a small crumb from the corner of her mouth.

  “It's actually my mother's recipe. She makes it every year on Christmas Day, and I thought it would be a yummy dessert to share with you tonight.” Clair then leaned over to kiss Eve, her breath scented by the sweet spices from the pudding.

  Eve swallowed her last bite. “So, you are having dinner tomorrow with your parents, right?”

  Clair looked down and nodded wordlessly. Eve carefully asked, “What time did you need me to leave your house tomorrow? Anytime is fine for me; just let me know.”

  Clair shrugged and looked up at Eve. “Honestly, I don't want you to leave. Um, I was considering asking you if maybe you wanted to join me at my parent's house tomorrow for Christmas dinner? They are pretty old at this point, but they are lovely. I am sure they wouldn't mind the company.”