Advent stories
Secret Santa.
It was the third year of them doing ‘Secret Santa.’ Brought into the twenty first century using technology and an ‘App’ to ensure the secret part of the bargain. The selection process was therefore randomly done, a ceiling on price had been agreed and an occasion devised to ensure everyone was present at the distribution. It just remained for the amalgam of friends to go out and find something.
The evening had been wonderful for them all to be together again. Rarer since some had children and others had moved. The meal was delightful. The group eased back into the gentle humour they had always enjoyed.
It was time for the presents. An array of wrapped articles, ready to be presented.
The recriminations and fall out from the ‘gifting’ lived long. It was a combination of factors. One item had been seen before at a previous event. That raised the hackles. But the catalyst that lit the blue touch paper of venom and anger was the second-hand chocolate fountain. The recipient was unable to conceal their chagrin and displeasure, and the item did not even make it home, redistributed on the journey back, past the tip.
Secret Santa next year, anyone?
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