Page 24 of Christmas With My Ex

Downstairs, the lobby is buzzing with holiday cheer. Kids are running around, parents chasing after them, and there’s a big Christmas tree in the corner twinkling with lights. It’s almost sickeningly cheerful, but admittedly, it feels better than the depressing silence of my room.

I spot a sign for the next activity.

Chai Tea-Making Class, 10:00 AM

I laugh under my breath but also realize it is perfect for me. I can do something crafty and then enjoy my hard work. Just silly enough to get me out of my own head.

I make my way over to the small group gathered near the fireplace, each person clutching a tiny recipe card. It hasn't quite started, but everything is setting up.

I browse the coffee mugs. This might be the best part, we get to keep the cool stoneware mug. "These are all hand thrown by artisans here in Telluride. Aren't they stunning?" I woman asks beside me.

"They really are. I'm so glad I came down for this."

Already I'm feeling better. Being out and talking to other humans is good for my soul.

The woman in the apron claps her hands together, smiling at the small group. “Welcome, everyone! Make sure you grab a mug. Today, we’re diving into the world of chai tea—a beverage that’s not only delicious but also steeped in rich history.”

She gestures to the assortment of spices spread out on the table in front of us. “Chai actually originates from India, where it’s been enjoyed for centuries. The word ‘chai’ means ‘tea’ in Hindi, and traditionally, it’s a blend of black tea, milk, spices, and sweeteners. Each region in India has its own unique version of chai, with different combinations of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and peppercorns, giving it that warm, comforting kick.”

She pauses, picking up a small jar of cardamom pods. “Originally, chai was used more for its medicinal properties, with the spices offering various health benefits—like aiding digestion, improving circulation, and boosting energy. Over time, it became a beloved comfort drink, not just in India but across the world. These days, chai is more than just a cup of tea—it’s something people turn to when they need warmth and comfort. Kind of like a cozy hug in a mug.”

I like that. I could use a hug in a mug.

She smiles warmly, her enthusiasm contagious. “So, as we brew our own chai today, think about how each spice brings its own flavor and warmth, just like the different experiences in our lives. It’s a reminder that, even on cold, snowy days like this, there’s always something that can bring us a little bit of comfort.”

I’m about to grab a seat when I hear a familiar voice.

“Rives?”

I glance up, my heart skipping a beat. Nicholas is standing across the room, a surprised but cautious look on his face. He’s holding a recipe card in one hand and a confused smile on his lips.

Of course he’s here.

“Hey,” I say, trying to sound casual, though I can feel the tension building between us again. I'm working on my resting bitch face, so hopefully he can't see how disappointed I am to see him.

“Chai tea?” he asks, a teasing tone creeping into his voice. “Didn’t peg you as the ‘tea-making’ type.”

I shrug, gripping my crutches a little tighter. “Figured I’d give it a shot. Better than sitting in my room, right?”

He smiles, and for a moment, the awkwardness between us fades. “Mind if I join you?” he asks, nodding toward an empty chair beside mine. "I've always had a burning desire to learn how to make chai tea."

I hesitate for a second, but then I realize... what’s the point in saying no? We’re stuck here together. Might as well try to make the best of it.

After my initial hesitance, I have to resist answering snarkily. “Sure,” I say, offering him a small smile. "Make sure you pick out a mug, first."

As he sits down beside me, the air between us feels lighter, like maybe this silly little tea-making class is a warm hug in more ways than one.

TEN

Nicholas

Run, run, Rudolph, Santa's gotta make it to town.

11:37 am

The chai teain my cup is warm, spicy, and... honestly, not great. I take a sip, trying to hide my grimace as Rives looks at me expectantly.

“Well?” she asks, raising an eyebrow. “What do you think?”

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