A collection of humorous holiday-related short stories
Holidays are never the same when Zukie Merlino is around. Totally tactless and seriously snoopy, Zukie celebrates her way through the year in this collection of holiday-related short stories. 'Zukie's Holidays' contains six new stories, plus 'Zukie's Witch' and Zukie's Gift,' which were previously published under their individual titles in e-book format.
Excerpt
From 'Zukie's Valentine':
“You’re going to do what?” Lou stared at his cousin in dismay.
“I’m going to pretend I’m a Colonna’s employee, just for tomorrow, so I can keep an eye on the checkout.”
“And then what?”
“Well, when this person shows up and tries to grab the envelope, I’ll get them.”
“And what precisely will that involve? Are you planning to take some rope along so you can tie them up, or are you just going to slug them and then sit on them?”
“Lou, this isn’t funny. Nico and Tony are really worried. If they don’t stop this guy in his tracks, he could try it somewhere else.”
“I understand that part,” Lou said patiently. “What I don’t understand is why you’re getting involved in the Colonnas’ problem.”
Zukie put her hands on her hips and faced Lou. He took a prudent step backward.
“I’ve bought stuff at Colonna’s for years. I used to go with Ma when I was too little to see over the counter. I went to school with Nico and Tony. They’re not just guys who run a nice deli; they’re friends. Paesanos. They’d help me if I had a problem, so I’m helping them.”
Lou stopped himself from applauding this speech.
“OK, if you insist. But be careful.” Lou smacked himself on the forehead. “What am I saying, telling you to be careful? You never are. I should have said: Don’t do anything you’ll regret later.”
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