Holiday Ambition

Laughter faded, then altogether stopped. Tinny Muzak cascaded from the ceiling above. Children in strollers coughed and fidgeted. Parents peered, faces stricken.

He sat, alone, free from his parents, unfazed by their screams as they rushed to the fountain. His father wrenched a bobbing body from the water.

Santa would bring him all that he wanted this year. After losing his little sister, perhaps toys would be some consolation. Maybe he'd even get a piece of candy.

His turn was coming.

Santa wouldn't mind that his jeans were wet.