Christmas at Miss Gloria's felt like a black movie of the week. There was Motown and Elvis Christmas music playing over the stereo. The aroma of delicious food filled the air and kids were playing with various toys.
JC was in the kitchen putting the finishing touches on dinner along with Vanessa's grandmother and Miss Gloria.
Tyrone and Ginger were playing with handheld video games that Phonso had gotten them. Scotty and his other brother and sisters were laughing and talking.
Vanessa grinned at Jalissa.
"Thank you for coming."
Jalissa sipped eggnog. "Thank you for inviting me." She was smiling and Vanessa knew that it was a smile that came from the heart. Jalissa felt comfortable.
"What do you think about my Dad?" Vanessa asked her.
"He's good-looking. He gets along good with th
