Chapter 69

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As silly as Vic felt all decked out in the Santa suit, it was worth it to hear the cheer that rose up among his coworkers’ children when he stepped into the garage where the company held its dinner. Vic raised a hand to wave, and the crescendo of noise rose to a deafening roar. “It’s Santa!” someone shouted, and another child shrieked in pure joy. “Mommy, Santa’s here, he came!”

Beside him, Matt pointed out, “Didn’t I say you looked convincing? I feel like I should’ve worn green. I could’ve been your assistant.”

Vic grunted. “You’d be a cute elf.”

“See?” Matt cried, triumphant. “I always thought the same thing. If I could’ve just convinced Santa…”

“When you were sixteen,” Vic reminded him.

Matt slapped his arm playfully. “Shut up. Sixteen isn’t too old.” At the arched look Vic threw his way, Matt slapped him again. “It isn’t!”

“Did you believe in the Tooth Fairy, too?” Vic teased. “The Easter Bunny?”