Page 54 of The Merriest Christmas

My room was a haven.Although I'd moved a lot of my things to Magnolia House for college, and there were miscellaneous items belonging to the players strewn everywhere, I didn't even mind.It was my space.It was familiar.And I needed that comfort.The game should distract everyone for a good while.

I took a peek out my window overlooking the backyard.I told myself it was to make sure no one noticed I was missing, but my eyes went straight to him.

Seaver was standing in what would've been the outfield.

He looked gorgeous in his long-sleeved black t-shirt and jeans.

As if he could feel my gaze, Seaver started to look up, but I ducked just in time.

"What am I doing?" I said.

Straightening, I walked over to my bed and plopped down.

"I need help."

I'd tried figuring things out on my own, but I was just as confused as ever.Dex would usually be my go-to.He and Icould talk about almost anything.We were close like that.But I didn't want to discuss this with him or any of my siblings.

I mean, they were my brothers.

Would they even understand?

What I needed was guidance.

Advice from a third party who didn't mind delving into romantic issues.

With a nod, I opened my tablet and made the call.

June was the first to pick up.

"Hey Emmy," she said, "Merry Christmas!"

"Merry Christmas, June.How are things at the garage?"

"Awesome.I convinced my dad to stay open for a half-day yesterday.It was our most profitable of the year," she said.

"That is awesome," I said.

"People don't stop needing their cars serviced because it's a holiday."June's nose scrunched."Speaking of which, I heard about your car.Are you okay?"

"Yeah, but…who told you?"

"Seaver."She lifted a brow."He called it into the garage.I was curious how he knew before me, considering I am your best friend."

Before I could respond, two more faces appeared on the screen.

"Honor, Charlie, hey," I said.

Honor smiled."Hey, Emmy.It's good to see your face."

"Yours too."

"Emmy," Charlie said, "I'm so glad you called.Does Chase seriously only want books for Christmas?"

I shrugged."He loves them."

"I know, but they're the only thing on his list, and he is so hard to buy for."

"At least you got a list," Honor mumbled.

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