Raine Collindale
January 13, 2021 5:36 AM
Belated Christmas Presents by Raine Collindale
It was a substantial number of weeks into January when a mottled grey owl tapped jauntily on Professor Xavier’s window, landing happily on whatever looked like the most important pile of papers when it was let in and singing out a cheerful hellooo.Attached to its leg was a small envelope in which were contained two photos, one page of modern art, and a short letter – if he had not recognised the handwriting from the outside, the copious misspellings evident from the opening words would likely clue him in as to who was in the attached photos before the rest of the message did.
Dear Proffessor Xavier,
Seems like “January” overherd us and didn’t want to risc that wed change our minds and call her that. She was born on 28 dicember, so we’re calling her Noelle.
Dante was rite that she’s a girl tho, and is probly never gonna shut up about that (but he’s already a really good dad – tho we kinda knew that already from how he is with Summer).
I’m sorry its taken me so long to wright and tell you. Babies are hard work (but she’s grate).
The picture is from Summer cos I told her she otta do a 'thank you' letter for coming to visit. She says it's you and Dora. I think she mostly just sticks stuff she likes the feel of, but she always insists it is something.
Raine (and family).
The interpretation of Professor Xavier and Dora was certainly abstract, and seemed to consist of a large number of feathers, some scraps of felt, and coarse washing up sponge, the latter two items cut up in random, jagged shapes, and all glued to a piece of sturdy card. The two photos were a close up of Noelle laid inside a Christmas wreath, her tiny face screwed up and sleeping. She was wrapped in a green blanket, and a little shock of dark hair poking out from under a red hat, so she looked rather like a giant holly berry – or at least well matched with her name and surroundings. The other photo showed her and Summer sitting on Dante and Raine’s laps, all smiling and waving.
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Raine Collindale
Belated Christmas Presents
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