Page 41 of UnLucky Christmas
“I can’t wait.”
I slide into my seat, and he shuts my door for me. I start the car and pull out of my spot before waving to him. Crap. Why did I have to kiss Grant?
* * *
This isone of those days I’m so grateful Janelle is never late. She arrives at noon on the dot. Of course, I know she will be watching the clock very closely, eager to get back to work. I decide not to tease her since I need her advice. I quickly tell her about my evening with Chad and how wonderful and sweet he is.
She squeezes lemon into her water.
“What I’m hearing is that you’re torn between the nice guy and the hot and sexy guy,” she suggests.
“No,” I exclaim. “I’m not torn at all. I like Chad. I’m just unsure how to bring up the situation to Macy.”
She takes a sip and glances at her phone. “You need to figure out what you want first. What if you start something with Chad but Grant is really the guy you want? He’s going to be around because he’s your friend’s brother.”
I put my hand to my forehead.
My phone starts ringing, and I see Macy’s number on the screen.
“Hey, we’re here.”
“I’m so, so sorry. My meeting got delayed. I can be there in thirty, or we can reschedule. I don’t want to hold you up.”
My entire body relaxes.
“No worries at all,” I say. “Janelle will have to get back to work. A raincheck for sure.”
“Okay, tell her I’m sorry and I’ll see her this weekend for ice-skating.”
I get off the phone and give Janelle the news.
“That works for me,” she says happily. “Let’s order, and now I don’t have to worry about making my afternoon call.”
“You would’ve been back.”
“Yeah right. I’ve read those texts on your Santa’s Helpers text group.”
“Santa’s Favorites,” I correct her.
“Whatever,” she says waving her hand. “The point is I’d be stuck here chatting and I’d be late getting back.”
We order, and she asks about my parents.
“I’ve been purposely avoiding the whole situation,” I tell her. “My dad is moving out and my mom has a new friend. I’m sure he’ll be there on Christmas Eve although she hasn’t confirmed that yet.”
I haven’t asked about him, and she hasn’t brought him up either.
“On a happier note, we’ve been getting some RSVPs for the party. I sent Macy an invite, but she will be with her in-laws for the holidays.”
“And what about her brother?” Janelle asks.
“I don’t know, and I don’t care.”
“So you’ve invited Chad?” She gives me a wicked smile.
“You think this is funny, don’t you?” I snap.
She shakes her head. “No. But you must admit it’s all pretty interesting—the way you met Macy inHome and Holidayand became friends.”
