Chimney Surprise

by Christopher Dabrowksi

Something rattled and fell, raising a billowing cloud of black dust.

I was sure it was a burglar, but... it's Christmas, maybe it's Santa Claus.

However, it wasn't him, even though the characteristic colors, hat, and gift bag matched.

It was a stunning woman instead—yes, a little soot-stained and coughing because she had inhaled it, but even without that, her beauty knocked me out.

"Hey, I am Snowflake" she finally spoke up. "I'm a Santa substitute. He overdid it at the gym and had a heart attack."

I was stunned, oh she handed me a gift.

"Thanks," I mouthed.