Church at Christmas

Carrie held John's hand as they both sang 'Silent Night' in the front row of the church. After the service, she got the usual requests. Potluck on Wednesday. Belated congratulations for her engagement. Admiration of her ring. No, can't make it to Bingo tomorrow, she needs to go to New Mexico to help out a family member. John went to do his own small talk, before coming back followed by Tommy Robinson. Tommy was 6'8, barrel chested from years as a NFL lineman and the founder of a construction company. He was African-American, 57, with milk chocolate skin. He was rich and a good client of John's. He was also a political kingmaker in the Panhandle, and he was thus important to Carrie's goal of maximizing John's potential.

"Barbie, you remember Tommy from the Christmas party." Carrie kissed Tommy's cheek and hugged him, smiling brightly. "Tommy and I were just talking about our shared pain of having both lost wives, and the renewal in my life from finding you." Tommy's wife Harriet had died six months prior.

"So let me know if you have a friend that likes old geezers like me." Carrie caught John's eye, mouthing 'Cassie.' She beamed.

"You just might be in luck, Mr. Robinson ..."