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Time: Christmas Eve, 1987. Mason and Julia have gone to the mountains in search of their new friend, "Kris", aka Santa Claus, after he is accused of stealing toys. Mason and Julia try to locate Kris to bring him back to Santa Barbara in exchange for a deal that Keith worked out with a toy company for publicity. However, Kris has plans of his own...and makes sure that Mason and Julia become his overnight guests. After a meal, Kris sends them up to a bedroom since he has to make the rounds and says that Mason and Julia must not see him in action. It is a beautiful room with a large canopy bed and a fireplace. Following a talk about doing the right thing [regarding Mason's marriage to Tori, who has left town to get help with her drug problem, which is unknown to Mason] and loving without having to make love, Mason and Julia lay down to try and rest. What follows is a touching excerpt. I hope you all enjoy it, in the spirit of the holidays.
Mason and Julia lay next to each other on the bed, not touching, and above the covers. Above strains of It Came Upon A Midnight Clear, Mason breaks the silence with, "You awake?"
Julia confirms she is awake, and Mason replies, "Merry Christmas. It's past midnight, give or take a minute or two."
Julia smiles and remarks, "It's nice, isn't it?"
"What?" Mason asks, looking over at Julia.
Julia finally looks at Mason and it looks like her eyes are a bit bright. "The way that things worked out tonight. I know it can all change tomorrow but just for tonight, just for a minute, it's good to be calm...and content. And be with you. And not be ashamed of doing anything."
Mason takes in Julia's words, his eyes looking into Julia's. His voice quiet, as if not to break the peacefulness, he responds with, "Somebody once told me that temptation could be a blessing if used wisely."
Nodding and smiling a soft smile, Julia almost whispers her reply. "I guess it can."
She pauses and adds, "Merry Christmas." She still smiles.
"Merry Christmas, Julia." Mason replies.
Julia holds out her hand, which Mason takes in his own. In that moment, Mason and Julia seem to be happy and at peace, despite not being able to truly be together because of Mason's marriage. A moment later, Mason and Julia look at each other, having heard something. As Mason slips hos hand from Julia's, he gets out of bed and goes to the window. As he opens it, the snow is flying. In the air, sleigh bells can be heard. Julia walks up behind Mason and they gaze out in wonder when they hear an unmistakable voice shouting, "Ho, ho, ho. Merry Christmas everyone! Merry Christmas!"
Mason and Julia both look stunned. Mason suddenly says, "I think I just made my New Year's resolution!"
End