Rosie grins as her cheeks flush the color of candy apples. I’m almost tempted to see if I can turn her a shade brighter by kissing her in front of everyone. But she probably wouldn’t find it as amusing.

“Nice to meet you,” she squeaks, “Um, Merry Christmas.”

Aunt Talia beams and embraces her. Rosie looks a bit startled but hugs her back and seems appreciative. The rest of the extended family introduces themselves and tries to make her feel welcome. At last Mama approaches.

She takes Rosie’s shoulders, kisses her once on each cheek, and says, “Welcome, Rosie. From what I hear you’re a lovely young lady.”

Mama winks at me. It’s a wink that means I should talk about someone or something else every once in a while. When she lets Rosie go, I slide my arm around her again. That’s when Pop comes out of the kitchen with a mug of hot cocoa.

“What a beautiful girl! Good job, my boy!” he pushes the mug into Rosie’s hands and whispers with a smile, “If it doesn’t work out, I’ve got four other sons.”