Summary

Chapter 12

Laura has Maurice help her decorate her apartment for Christmas. She invites him to her family's home for the holiday, after learning that his family don't do anything for Christmas. He tells her that kids like him know about Christmas and what's supposed to happen, but that when you grow up in the projects, you know you can never have it, so they just don't think about it.

Up until now, the only Christmas present Maurice had ever received was a white stuffed teddy bear from the year before. He went to the Salvation Army for their charity Christmas meal. A volunteer had told him to pick out one thing under the tree, and that had been his choice. This year, he receives plenty of clothes and things he needs. Laura also gives him a remote-controlled car, which was on the top...