The Christmas Bells

Arnold peered out in the cold sky from his comfortable bed and got up to open the curtains. He was 11 and preparing for his Math Exam. His parents insisted that he woke up early as they believed that morning was " The perfect time to clear the mind and study well ".

The following day, it was Christmas Eve, and adding to his stress was the fact that he would have to gift his annoying elder sister, Megan, a gift, as said his family`s tradition. He had planned to gift her a jack-in-a-box, as a prank, but thought better of it when he remembered his dad was wonderful at giving some tough slaps. Suddenly, he heard his name being called and felt elated and euphoric as he thought that his presence had been acknowledged. When he turned around, he saw Megan`s classmate & bio partner, Raymond Roberts. Raymond held out his hand, smiling, and said, "Hey, Arnie, what are you thinking ?" Arnold said, "Hi! I am thinking about my present for Megan, you know, on Christmas Eve. Can you help ?" Raymond replied," Well, you get her something useful. Something she can use well, for a long time. Hey, how `bout a pair of earmuffs? I saw a couple of `em at the new Accessories shop near the Town Square." 

Arnie, clearly delighted, said, "Gee, thanks a million, Raymond !! I sure owe you, big time. I will just ask dad. Goodbye, and thanks again." Raymond said it was his pleasure to help his classmate`s brother and also told him to buy a pink earmuff. 

Arnie ran around the side of the house, yelling, "Dad! Dad! " Soon, his father heard him out, agreed to his request, and bought a Fuchsia-colored earmuff. 

The next day, in the evening, their ceremony started. Arnold presented Megan with the earmuff, and she was clearly joyous for such a gift. She thanked him quite a lot of times. And also asked him to buy him an Earmuff again, next year. 

"MERRY CHRISTMAS !!" All of the family cried, in unison, and with feeling.