Mrs. Claus parked on the other side of the street from a faded lime green apartment building where all of the units had white doors that led directly to the outside walkways like a motel. It had clearly seen it’s best times back in the 70’s. It was a perfect place to come and go without anyone really paying much attention as most of the residents were students.
Don Julio was waiting on the sidewalk and waved when he saw them. They got out and walked over to meet him.
“Hey, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, how ya doing’?” asked Don Julio.
“Good, you?” asked Mrs. Claus.
“Enough chit chat. What’s our status?” asked Mr. Claus.
“Goldie wrote that they were on the way,” said Don Julio.
“Is anyone in the apartment?” asked Mr. Claus.
“Negatory,” said Don Julio.
“He’s got a woman we are looking for. So there was no sign of her?” asked Mr. Claus.
“Nothing, but the blinds were drawn,” said Don Julio.
“And no vibes?” asked Mrs. Claus.
“Like how you mean?” asked Don Julio.
“Of the pointed hat kind,” said Mrs. Claus.
“Oh, no, nothing like that,” said Don Julio.
“So when do we expect them?” asked Mr. Claus.
“There they are,” said Don Julio and pointed toward the Toyota pickup slowing down to a stop.
“So, Don, what is Rainbow Sherbert up to?” asked Mr. Claus.
“It’s Don Julio and I promised your wife to let this story unfold. She said you would appreciate it more that way. Be patient- we’re nearly there.”
“I’m feeling like a mushroom here,” said Mr. Claus.
“Be patient dear,” said Mrs. Claus.
The old Toyota pickup double parked just in front of them.
###
William stood up as the pickup slowed down and saw Mr. and Mrs. Claus along with Don Julio on the sidewalk in front of the apartment building.
“Alright Mr. Sherbert it’s time for the big reveal,” said Leroy.
“Big reveal? All I wanted was some tacos and you guys ruined that. I don’t know nothing about a reveal,” said Rufus.
“Let’s see what you got hidden in that secret pad of yours,” said Leroy.
“You won’t find anything,” said Rufus trying to act calm.
“We’ll soon know. At the very least I am interested in some of your MLP swag Mr. Pony Bro,” said Leroy.
“Everybody out. Let’s see what this guy has been up to,” said William.
They hopped out of the bed of the pickup and started up the walkway. Leroy kept hold of Rufus’s elbow just to make sure he didn’t do a runner.
