The Centerpiece
I opened the door. Mick walked in trailing a girl. “I come bearing gifts: libation and decoration,” he said handing me the bottle and nodding at the girl. He clapped me on the back. “Happy holidays, Bro.” “Back at ya.” “This is Shelly.” “Hi.” “Hello, Shelly.” “Man! Something smells good.” “Bird will be out in about an hour. Just have to do a bit of last minute decorating.” We were in the kitchen. I unwrapped the bottle. Vodka. Some obscure name I’d never heard of, much less pronounce. I splashed a couple of shots into glasses, we tossed them back, then I poured a couple of doubles on the rocks. ...