Chapter 3

Ivan silenced him with a look.

“Sorry,” Skip said, still stifling a snicker.

The big man put on his costume. The tee shirt fit like a second skin, emphasizing his immense chest and biceps. The white fur trim of the pants’ cuffs came only to his knees, leaving a gap between pants and boots so Ivan’s hairy, muscular legs were revealed. He tried on the fluffy white beard but tossed it aside. It was too itchy. They would just have to accept a red-bearded St. Nicholas. He put on the Santa hat.

“Whatcha starin’ at?” Ivan growled.

“Well, you’ve gotta admit you’re one of the most unusual Santas ever.”

“Ya think I’m gonna be happy paradin’ myself around in this getup?” Ivan snarled through gritted teeth.

“No. But I’m not too thrilled about doing this either.”

“At least ya look like an elf!” Ivan said bitterly.

Skip looked slightly hurt at the remark.

“Sorry,” Ivan said when he realized the effect his words had had on the small man. “Why are ya doin’ it then?”