The Christmas Child by Linda Goodnight

him an amused glance.
    Prichard smiled, too. “Yes, he is fond of the dog. For a child who can’t speak, he can make his wishes very clear. I think we can all agree that the best thing for Davey at this point is to be in an environment where he feels comfortable and safe. From all appearances, that’s with one of you. So, if the plan is acceptable to all parties, Davey will remain here temporarily. We’ll file this as an emergency placement and take care of the details as we go.”
    Relief came swiftly, a surprise because Sophie hadn’t realized how anxious she’d been. God always worked things out, didn’t He? “Other than finding Davey safe in Kade’s garage, that’s the best news of the day. Thank you, Howard.”
    â€œWhat was this plan of yours?”
    â€œSchool.”
    â€œYes, school is an issue. With his special needs, testing and paperwork will be required. We’ll have to start from the beginning and do a complete battery, including IQ, placement, hearing, vision.” He sighed and straightened a conservative blue tie. “Everything.”
    â€œLet me talk to my principal. I think we can work this out. With only three weeks remaining until Christmas break, I’m going to suggest that Davey be allowed in my classroom to help with the annual cookie project. At various times throughout the day, the special-needs department can pull him out for preliminary placement tests and make suggestions for after the holidays. I can pick him up each morning and bring him back each evening.”
    Kade shifted toward her, eyeing her curiously. “You don’t have to do that.”
    â€œI want to. If it’s okay with him. What do you say,Davey? Would you like to go to school with me and have fun with some other kids?”
    A frown appeared between Davey’s blue eyes. He looked to Kade.
    Kade lifted his palms in a helpless gesture. “School’s a given, buddy. Everyone goes.”
    Davey shook his head back and forth and shrugged. The adults exchanged looks. Kade bent to the child. “Haven’t you been going to school?”
    Davey shook his head no.
    â€œNever?”
    Another no, accompanied by a very worried expression in eyes as blue as a cornflower crayon.
    Kade’s jaw flexed. He blew out a gust of air. “Well, that puts a new spin on things.” He placed a hand on Davey’s shoulder. “No sweat. Sophie will take care of you. Right, Miss B.?”
    Sophie smoothed the top of Davey’s hair and let her hand rest there. The once-matted moptop was silky smooth and clean, thanks to Kade and Ida June. “Absolutely. You can go to school with me and I’ll take care of everything from there. Okay? I don’t want you to worry one bit. It’s Christmas time! The best time of year. Worrying is against the rules at Christmas.” With more cheer than she felt, she playfully tapped his nose. Davey rewarded her with a rubbery, close-lipped grin. “We’ll have so much fun, making and decorating cookies and getting ready for the Bethlehem Walk and the Victorian Christmas events. You’re going to love those. You might even want to be in the parade.”
    Davey’s eyes widened at the mention of a parade. He nodded eagerly.
    â€œWell, it’s all settled, then,” the social worker said. “The pair of you seem to have the situation in hand, soI’ll leave you to work out the details. Call me if any problems arise.” He handed Kade a business card. “I’ll be in touch Monday.”
    As soon as the other two men left and Davey was busy wrestling Sheba for a chew toy, Sophie said, “I should go.”
    â€œWhy?”
    The blunt question surprised her. “I don’t know.”
    â€œThen stay.” He shoved off the doorjamb he’d been holding up. “Davey.”
    Oh, right, for Davey. Of course, for Davey. What was wrong with her? “Saturdays are