Page 55 of The Christmas Letters
I’ve included a ticket to the Southern Society’s Christmas Eve Gala. Are you aware of the organization? My grandmother loves to attend every year, and this year, she requested an extra ticket. I’ve included it for you in hopes that you’ll meet me there.
I’ll be on the balcony facing the ocean at seven o’clock. Please say yes?
I can’t wait to see you.
Love,
Max
I have so many questions.
Maxattends the Christmas Eve gala every year? Does that mean he’s someone I know? Someone who is a member of the yacht club? If he is, then I probablydoknow him. Or I at least know of him. Still, there are definitely people who attend the gala who aren’t members of the cluborthe Southern Society. It’s a huge event, with ticket sales open to the public. It could just be a part of his grandmother’s Christmas tradition.
I reread the letter, combing it for any additional clues. But there isn’t anything else that hints at his identity.
I wasn’t planning on attending the gala at all this year. My parents will be there, and I’ve generally been avoiding any social gatherings with them in attendance beyond our requisite dinners at the club.
But there’s no way I’m missing the gala now.
Drew:What are you up to tonight? Plans with your family?
Tess:Sort of? I’m going to a very fancy party, and my parents will be there. But they aren’t the reason I’m going.
Drew:You have other reasons?
Tess:I do. And I’m nervous, Drew.
Drew:Why?
Tess:I’m meeting someone in person for the first time. The someone I told you about. The one I’ve been talking to.
Drew:You’ve never met him in person?
Tess:No. Is it weird that I’m telling you this? Sorry if it’s weird.
Drew:I don’t mind you telling me. You can tell me anything.
Tess:I just…what if he doesn’t like me in person? What if we don’t connect? What if he thinks I look like a troll?
Drew:Tess. There is no man on the planet who could ever think you look like a troll, so stop worrying about that. I’m sure everything will be fine.
Drew:Though…have you thought about what you’ll do if HE looks like a troll?
Tess:Trust me. The thought has crossed my mind.
Drew:Are you meeting him somewhere safe? Just in case?
Tess:Yes. And Deacon and Chloe will be there, though I’m not really worried. His letters have me convinced he’s a good guy.
Drew:Letters? That sounds romantic.
Tess:It has been. But…
Drew:But?
Tess:I’m…conflicted.
Drew:Tell me why.
