My sympathies grow for Oscar with each new flashback, kudos for creating such an interesting and complex original character.
Georgie was so thoughtful to play Santa, can't wait for Joni's reaction to the box monster. :D Loved the Spuffy interaction. Fantastic chapter!

Author's Response: The complex villian is best, isn't it? But I haven't found one yet that can compare to Spike. So I thought I'd try making him. Joni's room should be full to the brim soon...what will she do with all that *stuff*? :-) G;ad you liked the tender moments. Those two have so much time to make up for...