Conley picked up his major gift for Brian from the jeweler’s. Brian finished the painting for Conley in time to wrap it and get it under the tree on Christmas Eve, as well as giving the house a thorough cleaning, with Conley’s able assistance. They also added some festive touches to the living room—candles, a holly wreath over the fireplace, and a St. Nicholas figurine Brian had found in a shop close to work. “It reminds me of one my parents used to put on the mantel when I was a kid so of course I had to buy it,” he explained.
Conley had gone home when they finished, telling Brian he had to clean his place, which desperately needed it, and promising he’d be back bright and early the next morning.
Christmas arrived, sunny with lightly falling snow. True to his word Conley showed up at ei
