Page 35 of Flirting with the Scrooge

“Pesto Frutti Di Mare, actually.” She pauses. “That son of a bitch. I should have sprung for the one hundred-thirty dollar bottle of Vinate Tunina instead of just a glass.”

“You should have.” I run my finger up and down her shoulder.

Her wide-eyes flit to mine. “Wait. How do you know about this? How many girls have you dumped at dinner?”

I drop my gaze, avoiding any and all eye contact with her. “I may have done it once… maybe twice.”

She sits up straighter, amusement written on her face. “Oh my god! That’s such a jerk move!”

“I know, but it was a long time ago. It sounds like maybe you didn’t get any closure.”

“Yeah. Maybe.” Her gaze drops to her lap before directing her attention back to the TV, apparently not wanting to continue with the conversation.

We watch the rest of the movie in silence, but I never remove my arm from around her shoulders, and she never makes a move to pull away either. As the credits roll, I stretch my legs out. My right side goes cold from the loss of her as she sits up.

“Not a terrible movie, but it’s still not a Christmas movie.” She flashes me a smile.

I throw my head back against the couch. “We can watch it again to convince you.”

She shakes her head. “Not happening.”

“Suit yourself.”

“What should we do next? Another movie?”

“Actually, I’m going to go home. That way, you can have your bed to yourself tonight.”

“Are you sure? I don’t mind. I just want to make sure you’ll be alright.”

“I’ll be fine.” I sit up and rise to my feet. There is no way I’ll be able to stay another night in her bed and not kiss her. Not wrap her in my arms and hold her. Make her forget all about her ex-boyfriend because he didn’t cherish her. She deserves to be cherished. I want to be the guy to do that for her, but I can’t.

“Let me drive you. It’ll be easier than trying to walk with crutches in the snow and ice.”

All I can do is nod.

EIGHTEEN

FAKE DATE

Tatum

My heels echo off the polished porcelain tile floor of the Dashiell Ballroom before coming to a stop in front of a podium where a young woman is standing. I pass her my invitation as she welcomes me to Under the Mistletoe. I give her a warm smile and nod, but what I really want to do is bolt out of here. It’s not that I don’t want to be here, but I don’t want to be here. I would be a terrible sister if I left Olivia hanging though. I inhale a deep breath, knowing I’m here for at least a couple of hours. My entire morning was spent prepping myself for the nine billion questions I’m going to get about Adam and why he’s not here and I’m still not ready.

Peering to my left, the ballroom is filled with lavish dark green and deep red decorations that radiate elegance and festive charm. A giant, glistening chandelier hangs from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the room. A ten-foot Christmas tree covered with intricately designed ornaments and twinkling lights stands along the back wall. Wreaths and garlands swoop around the perimeter, adding a touch of festive sophistication. Luxurious linens and shimmering candle lit centerpieces cover all the tables. I have to give it to my mom. She didn’t spare any expense for this event.

I barely have time to remove my coat and pass it to the coat check before my mom is swarming me.

“Oh Tatum! You look so beautiful.” She rests her hands on my shoulders and presses her cheek to both of mine. “Where is Adam?” She glances over my shoulder, expecting to see him close by.

No “How are you? I’m glad you came.” She’s more concerned about my boyfriend, or ex-boyfriend, but this really shouldn’t surprise me. She did it to Olivia so it’s only fitting she does the same to me. “Adam. So, about that—”

“Tatum!” Olivia wraps her arms around me and whirls me around. I’m thankful for the interruption. “You’ll never guess who I heard back from!”

My eyes go wide. “No way!”

“Yes! We are going to have the most amazing food at our event. It will trump all foods at any event.” Olivia’s wide grin never leaves her face.

Our mom clears her throat. “Hi, Olivia.”

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