Then whispered, "Nobody's made me a Christmas present in years."
Clara's eyes filled.
For several seconds, neither spoke.
Then Gabriel cleared his throat.
"I've got something for you."
She looked surprised.
"You do?"
He nodded.
"Wait here."
He went upstairs.
Returned carrying a small wooden box.
It was polished smooth.
The edges were carefully joined.
And a simple flower had been carved into the lid.
Clara stared.
Gabriel placed it in her hands.
"I made it."
She looked toward him.
"For me?"
He smiled faintly.
"Unless Jasper's taken up collecting jewelry."
She laughed.
Then opened the lid.
Inside lay a silver hair comb.
Simple.
Delicate.
Decorated with a small blue stone.
Clara's breath caught.
It wasn't expensive by eastern standards.
But it was beautiful.
She touched the comb with trembling fingers.
Gabriel looked embarrassed.
"I saw it at the general store. Thought it might suit you."
Tears filled her eyes.
"It's lovely."
He nodded awkwardly.
"Good."
She lifted the comb.
Then looked toward the small carved box.
"You made this too?"
"Yes."
Her eyes filled further.
Gabriel looked concerned.
"Did I do something wrong?"
Clara laughed through tears.
"No."
She stepped closer.
Then stopped.
For a moment, she seemed uncertain.
"May I hug you?"
The question made Gabriel's chest tighten.
He stared at her.
Her face was open.
Hopeful.
Afraid.
And for the first time, he realized how carefully she'd begun asking permission before touching him.
He set the wrapping paper aside.
Then opened his arms.
Clara stepped forward.
He held her.
Gently at first.
Then more firmly.
She rested her cheek against his chest.
For several seconds, neither spoke.
Gabriel could feel her trembling.
He lowered his chin toward her hair.
The scent of soap and fresh bread surrounded him.
He closed his eyes.
For months, he'd imagined what it might feel like to hold his wife.
Now she was there.
Warm.
Real.
Trusting him enough to lean against his chest.
He felt something shift inside him.
Not all the hurt disappeared.
But the loneliness loosened.
Clara whispered, "Merry Christmas."