Page 2 of Hot Chocolate & Hitmen

Jason has never wanted me to work. He likes that I’m at home taking care of the house and him when he gets home, which is fine with me, but I like taking care of anyone and everyone. It’s why I got my nursing degree–the one that’s been collecting dust in the hall closet.

Jason clicks through channels, not even glancing my way. "I mean, we can just have dinner at Tony's like usual."

My face falls as I move to stand between him and the TV. "But Tony's is what we do every year! I wanted to do something different. Look, it even has a hot tub!"

I shove the brochure in his face, fighting the urge to crumple the tickets and run away when he barely skims it. We used to talk for hours about taking a romantic trip together, back when we first started dating. Now it's like pulling teeth to get him to even commit to having dinner and a movie.

"I don't know. Packing and traveling seems like a hassle," he grumbles, eyes drifting back to the screen.

Biting my lip, I perch on the arm of his chair and run my fingers through his hair like I used to do. When did touching him become so awkward? "I'll take care of all the planning and packing. All you have to do is show up."

I bat my eyelashes dramatically until I get a little smile out of him. At least I can still charm him sometimes. Maybe this weekend will remind him how good we can be together. I have to try.

"Please, Jason, it would mean so much to me," I plead, grasping his hand. "I know things have been difficult lately, but this could be a fresh start for us. Just you and me, reconnecting without any distractions."

Jason sighs, running a hand through his hair. "I don't know, Grace. It's a long drive, and the weather report says there's a storm coming in-"

"We can leave first thing in the morning to beat the storm," I interrupt eagerly. "I'll drive so you can relax.”

I squeeze his hand, gazing into his eyes. "Three years ago, you told me you wanted to take me on adventures all over the world. What happened to that guy?"

Jason looks away, jaw tightening. "People change. You can't expect everything to stay the same forever."

His words sting, but I force a bright smile. "Well, lucky for you, I'm the stubborn type. I don't give up that easily." I lean in and kiss his cheek. "So what do you say? Be spontaneous and come away with me this weekend? We deserve this."

Jason is silent for a long moment before finally nodding. "Fine, I'll go. But don't complain if I sleep the whole car ride."

I resist the urge to pump my fist in triumph. It’s a small victory getting him to agree to time away. Maybe things between us aren't completely broken. Maybe we can glue the fragments back together.

The next morning, I'm practically bouncing with excitement as I load up the car. This getaway is exactly what Jason and I need to reconnect. I just know it!

As I'm triple-checking I packed everything, my best friend Tina shows up on our doorstep.

"Hey girl, just wanted to see you off and wish you luck!" She says, pulling me in for a hug.

“Thanks, Tina. It means a lot that you came to say goodbye." I hug her back, though it feels a little awkward.

Tina has been my closest friend for years, but lately, things have felt...off between us. I tell her everything, though recently, I've been vague about issues with Jason. Saying it out loud makes it more real. Part of me wonders if Tina even wants to hear about him anymore. She always changes the subject quickly when I mention problems in my relationship.

Almost like she's...annoyed by it? But I'm probably just imagining things.

"I'll hold down the fort while you're gone," Tina says with a smile that seems forced. "Water your plants, collect your mail, all that jazz."

I smile. "You're the best. We'll bring you back a souvenir!"

Jason finally comes outside, nodding at Tina. "Hey."

"Have an awesome trip, you two lovebirds!" Tina sings and gives Jason a playful punch on the arm.

As we get in the car, I feel lighter. This weekend is exactly what we need, some time away from the stress of work and routine, to get things back to how they used to be between Jason and me. Things are finally going to change for us.

I just know it.

I glance over at him as I pull out of our driveway, unable to keep the smile off my face. "This is going to be so great! Just you and me, cozying up by the fire, taking moonlit strolls in the snow..."

Jason just grunts, keeping his eyes closed as he leans his seat back.

I turn on the radio, humming along cheerfully to holiday tunes as I head for the highway. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Jason wince at my off-key singing, but I don't let it dampen my spirits.

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