Santa's Little Helper

"It has been... quite some time now, young one." a raspy yet soothing voice spoke, old but wise as the tone. "Yes father... I have been tinkering with your sled, trying to improve it for your trip this year." a voice dissimilar from the previous, young yet formal as it tightens for more, "You shouldn't be experiencing anymore turbulence during any blizzards or heavy snowfall, I've also taught the reindeers a few tr-" "Thank you! Young one, I am truly grateful, it seems that you have found a certain passion for such a talent." "... I wouldn't call it passion, father. Most of it is simply to give you a better and safer ride, there is no other reason for me to do it." "Never dismiss a talent that is a vibrant place for passion to reside, young one. Such a feeling is rare indeed, yet common in those who share a heart the same as yours, like I who found mine within people." he said with a smile and a deep giggle. "... Whatever you say, father," nonchalance dripped from his voice, "I still don't understand why you put such faith in them, they are greedy, cruel, and ungrateful. Anything but worthy of your passion." The old man let out a laugh, "Being my son for all these years, you still don't understand why I do what I do, not even through my wide smile and laugh during this time of the year." "Because I'm not you, father. I just don't get why they deserve such a privilege..." The old man giggled as he smiled at his son, standing beside him as he placed his hand on his shoulder. "That is why... I decided that for this trip... you are going to be the one to do it." The man's eyes jolted open, taking a step back, his father's hand fell off his shoulder. "Wait what?! You're kidding right?" "Hehe, I may come across as a bit of a joker but I assure you, my boy, I mean it." "Father! I don't even know how to deliver everything, let alone socialize with them! Believe me, this is a bad idea!" His father let out another laugh, "You're my son, you're going to be a natural!" He took a step forward and placed his arm around his son's shoulder. "Don't worry, I know it seems sudden, but perhaps after this, you'll finally find what you're missing." His son's gaze hovered the wooden floor, eyebrows defeated and his mouth craving to shout, yet he kept it. "And besides... you're not going alone." His son's eyes shot at him, wondering what he meant. "Someone will be with you — someone that knows the feeling similar to what I feel — someone who understands." "You'll meet her soon."