Because of his severe stutter, Atticus never fulfills his childhood wish to make a joyful noise onstage at Christmastime. Now going by AC, the same problem isolates him with only his cat Spud for company as he forgoes the holiday season and personal, meaningful relationships altogether.<br><br>On their way to pass the yuletide in Mexico, AC and Spud encounter a stranded band who call themselves The 12 Drummers Drumming. Though AC tries to resist the urge to help, he’s somehow convinced to drive them back up north in his van to ensure they make their Christmas Eve gig.<br><br>AC immediately rates each guy, figuring on a one in twelve chance to at least score a holiday hookup. As he spends time with each, he sees them in less superficial terms. Sparks ignite, and by the time Christmas Eve arrives, AC has a whole new reason to believe in Christmas magic and romance.

12 Drummers Thumbing

Traffic was light. They were making good time, until suddenly, AC had to stop behind two other cars. They sat, and sat, and sat, with nothing but the red glow of taillights in front and tall black tree shadows on either side. There were no stars. No moon. The night didn’t care it was almost Christmas, the season for sparkle and light.


Spud must have thought he was being called. After a good forty minutes on Carlton’s lap, he moved back over to rest at AC’s hip. “C-c-comfy o-o-ver there?”


“Shh.” Even though things were going better than expected with the 12 Drummers Drumming, the stress brought on by trying to converse was still ripe. There was also guilt now, concerning the stupid ratings book in the glove box. AC wished he could toss the frigging thing in the trash. They were good guys, all of them, so far.


Chapter 19