Unexpected Gifts. Holly Jacobs

      Zac knew he should reprimand his irrepressible sister, but she stood there grinning and practically radiating happiness. He couldn’t muster up even a small tsk of disapproval.

      She ran a hand over her brow. “Phew. I’d rather the principal talk to Mom and Dad any day of the week. They’re pushovers. Zac, he’s tough.”

      He laughed. “Yeah, that’s why you’re coming to me for a ride somewhere, because of my world-renowned toughness?”

      “Zac, I say you’re tough in front of people so they won’t catch on to what a marshmallow you are.” She fished in her pocket and pulled out a small thing to twist her wildly curly hair into a ponytail.

      “So, where are we riding to?” he asked.

      “I was sort of hoping you’d drive me over to Grove City’s outlets after I finish my morning shift. They’re having a preholiday sale, and I’d really like to go do some early Christmas shopping.”

      “Mom and Dad said you could go?”

      She shook her head. “I’m going to ask after I have everything set up. It makes it harder for them to say no if I have all my bases covered.”