Page 17 of UnLucky Christmas
He leads me toward the kitchen, and I subtly glance down at his butt. I was just curious, and I’m pleased with what I see.
The open kitchen is full of people, and the large table is covered in desserts set up charcuterie board style.
Chad asks me what I’d like to drink, and I request a glass of Pinot Noir. I glance around the party—the guests are milling around sampling the dessert table and singing along to the holiday songs playing in the background.
Chad hands me my glass.
“Thank you,” I say. I take a sip and lean against the counter.
“So, what did Macy say about me,” I ask. “We just barely met each other.”
He nods. “She said you two were destined to be friends and that I just had to meet you and that you were beautiful. And she was one thousand percent right about that.”
I feel heat fill my cheeks. “Thank you.”
“Excuse me, everyone,” Macy calls from one of the ladders. “Austin and I are overjoyed you’re all here. We’d love for our friends to help us decorate our tree. Please feel free to add ornaments, bows, and décor to it throughout the night.”
She pauses and fans her face as tears begin to fill her eyes. A few people begin to sniff and dab their eyes.
“This is a tradition my mother started, and I’d love to do it justice and continue it. Thank you for being here.”
She hops off the ladder into Austin’s waiting arms.
“That was so sweet,” I say.
“Yes. Did you know that Macy’s mother passed away last year?”
I gasp and put my hand to my heart. “I had no idea.”
He nods. “It was very difficult for her. And she lost her father several years ago.”
Wow. Poor Macy.
“That’s so sad.”
He nods. “It’s just her and her brother now. Although he’s a complete ass.”
Hmm—that sounds about right.
“How’s it going?” Macy asks, joining us in the kitchen.
“Excellent,” Chad says, his eyes locking with mine.
“I’m glad to hear it, although I’m going to steal my friend away for a few minutes. She has more people to meet.”
She pulls me away by my elbow.
“What do you think?” she asks in a loud whisper. Of course, Chad is still close enough to hear.
We both turn back to see Chad is still looking in our direction, a content smile on his face.
“He’s very nice.”
“Yay!” she shrieks, lowering her voice a bit.
She continues introducing me to other guests, and I appreciate her efforts to make me feel comfortable. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming. The guests are beginning to decorate the tree, while Austin throws another log to the fireplace.
“This is so nice,” I tell her. “And I’m sorry to hear about your mom.”
