Page 12 of The Gift Rarely Given

She lets out a breath and says, “Okay. That makes sense, I guess… sorry I snapped. I’ve also worked hard at loving every inch of me, but I’m used to people who just see me as the fat sweet girl, but not the whole me, you know?”

“It’s okay. Sorry it took a turn.”

We stay silent, waiting for some words to magically appear.

“Did calling myself chunky make you uncomfortable?” Livie offers. “I’m ripping the band aid off now.”

What do I say? Yes, it did, and risk her thinking I’m superficial? Or do I lie? “Honestly, Livie, I’m not sure. I think so ,but I think it’s because I feel like girls hate that word and I’ve only heard it in negative ways. I don’t know. Sorry.”

“Stop apologizing, please. It’s okay to not know. But just so we’re clear, I love my body the way it is and I didn’tmean it in a bad way. I’m chunky, curvy, fat, plus size—it’s fine. It’s part of who I am, notallthat I am.”

“I like your body, in case it wasn’t obvious last night,” I reply, smiling softly at her and reaching for her hand across the table. “But I also like you, all of you. I know it sounds crazy because we just met, but I had such a good time last night. It doesn’t happen often.”

“Thanks, boo. Now tell me more about your plan. Do you really think it could work?”

“Why not?” I chuckle. “We could pull it off. Just think of it as a fun little project.”

Livie takes a moment to consider, then smirks. “Okay, but only if you promise to be charming and not a total disaster. Also, no more freaking out over words—we’re both adults and we can talk.”

“I can do charming,” I reply, the corners of my mouth lifting. “I can do honest, too, and I can also talk. Just don’t expect me to wear matching outfits or anything.”

“Deal,” she laughs, shaking her head. “But I can’t promise my mom won’t start planning the wedding as soon as she sees us so you better get ready.”

“Guess I better brace myself,” I say, feeling a genuine connection between us. Now all that is left is figuring out what to do next.

NINE DAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS

On the ninthday of Christmas Baker Oaks gave to me reading to children and a viral post.

7

SHORTIE

KID ON CHRISTMAS, PENTATONIX FT. MEGHAN TRAINOR

Livie

Me: Do you have plans today?

Alex: Hello to you too.

Alex: No, I don’t.

Me: Want to come read to children?

Alex: No, not really.

Me: It’ll be fun.

Alex: Would it make me an asshole if I say I don’t like kids?

Me: Yes

Me: I mean, no it won’t make you an asshole. It would just make mereally sad

Me: Like really, really sad

Me: So sad

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