Page 12 of UnLucky Christmas
“Thanks, I will.”
A few hours later my phone buzzes. When I look, I see a text from Macy with a link attached. I click on it to find an invitation to a night of Desserts and Decorating. I read through the invite.
You’re invited to join Macy and Austin for a magical evening of friends, desserts, and tree decorating.
Before I finish reading, another text pops up from Macy.
Hey Whitney! It was so great meeting you yesterday. I hope you can come.
I smile to myself. This evening sounds like exactly what I need right now.
I respond with a yes to the invitation and send a reply to Macy.
It was great meeting you too! I’d love to come. Thank you so much.
Despite my breakup and my parents split, there are good things to look forward to. Holiday joy is in the air, and I have every intention of making the best of it. I put the phone down on my desk and dive back into my work. Janelle would be so proud.
CHAPTER FIVE
After work, I sit down at the same café I went to with Macy. I didn’t feel like going home yet. I sent Janelle a text, and she responded that she was slammed and would call me when she got off.
I scroll through my contacts until I come to Emme’s number. My brother and Emme have been dating for a few years, and I’ve liked her since day one. She’s good for my wild brother—calm and patient.
“Hi, Whit. Were your ears burning?” she answers.
I laugh. “No, were you talking about me?”
“I was just telling Ben he needs to call you.”
“Yeah right. My brother never calls me. If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t know if he was dead or alive.”
“I know. We’re working on his communication skills. It’s an ongoing battle as you can imagine.”
I get right to the point and ask her how Ben handled our parents’ news.
“He was surprised at first, but now he says it makes sense. He’s noticed signs over the years.”
“Really?” I ask. Have I been so caught up in my own life that I missed my parents falling out of love?
“How are you doing?” she asks softly.
That’s a good question. I’m not sure what to feel or think right now.
My phone beeps, and I see Janelle calling.
“I have another call. Tell Ben to call his little sister sometime.”
“Don’t you worry—he will.”
I switch over, but I miss Janelle’s call. I immediately call her back.
“Hey. I was on the phone with Emme.”
“That’s okay,” she says. “My day has been hell, and unfortunately, I have bad news.”
Nope. I don’t want any more bad news.
“Please don’t. I’m not sure I can take any more.”
