Samantha thought how sad it was that you never really knew when you’d run out of time with the people you love in life. She was just going to love them with all her heart, as if it were the last time.

“I’ve had panic attacks since I was a child. I don't know if it’s stress; the doctor says stress, anyway.”
“Well, maybe I can help you with that while you’re here, darling. I know some wonderful alternative therapies instead of pills. Doctors never really cure anything, they just put Band-Aids on.”

Macy was aghast. “FREE? How do they make money giving away free things?” Conner groaned amicably.
“It's not about the money, Macy. It's about the spirit of Christmas.”

The choir began singing “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”, and Macy felt her heart lurch. The carolers were all dressed in green and gold and three smaller children had bells which they rang in accompaniment. Macy couldn't help but smile from ear to ear.

Macy looked at the cat nobody wanted. She felt like the human version. “I’ll take him.”