"Captain Hawkins, it is 8 AM. I want my daughter back," said Annette, standing on Edward's front porch with a determined expression.
"Merry Christmas to you too. Won't you come inside? Mikaela's just getting ready," said Edward, inviting her in.
"I have been forced, against my will to keep this archaic holiday, so no, thank you. I'll wait here," said Annette.
"Merry Christmas, Mom," said Mikaela, coming to the doorway, clutching her teddy bear to her chest, while her backpack was on her shoulders.
"Come, Mikaela," said Annette, grabbing Mikaela by the arm and pulling her across the driveway.
"Mom! I can walk!" protested Mikaela, freeing herself from Annette's grip.
"Had fun?" asked Annette, a vicious bite in her voice.
"Yes. I had fun!" said Mikaela defiantly.
Annette steered Mikaela into her house, and slammed the front door shut.
"Now, let's have some breakfast," said Annette with a forced civility that sent a shiver down Mikaela's spine.
"Mom? Are you ok?" she asked.
