She was a stripper, usually went by Nicolette (but around the holidays, she went by Holly or Noelle.) We shared a cigarette down on the East Side. She told me about the Naughty Nutcracker-- a sex act that can't really be described in words. She had to draw a diagram on a diner napkin. I still don't understand some parts of it, but I remember her saying how it killed a man once, in Tennessee. How it's illegal in twenty-three states. How, if it's executed perfectly, you have this perfect moment where all the good memories sparkle like a Christmas tree, full of gifts and candy. And there's this slight taste, like nutmeg, in the back of your throat. A reminder. You believe in Santa Clause, and Jesus holds your hand for a moment. We finished the cigarette, and I took her story-- wrapped it in the shiny paper and left it under the tree. For you. -- S. E. De Haven