Page 55 of UnLucky Christmas
When I get off the phone, I immediately call my dad.
“Hey there, kiddo,” he says, sounding out of breath.
“Hi, are you alright?”
“Just moving some things around in the new place,” he says. “It’s really nice—clubhouse, tennis courts. You should come check it out.”
Tears begin to well up in my eyes. This is typical behavior for my dad—pretending everything is great when it really sucks.
I gulp. “I’d love too. Can I swing by today after my shopping?”
“Sure. I’d love to see you, if you have time.”
I get his address and tell him I’ll let him know when I’m on my way. When I hang up the phone, I let the tears fall from my eyes. It’s really happening—my dad has moved out and my mom has a new man. From this moment on my life will never be the same.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Shopping in December is a whole different energy. I wonder if they pump something through the air into the stores to put customers in a good mood. After throwing myself a pity party following my conversations with my parents, I got ready and headed out for some retail therapy.
The last time I went shopping was after Pete broke up with me. Who knew that trip toHome and Holidaywould lead me to meeting Macy? Everything has been different since that day.
I check my phone just to see if I have any texts—from Grant. It wouldn’t surprise me if he waits a few days just to build up the anticipation. I’m assuming he had breakfast with Macy and Austin this morning and then probably went to work, or maybe the gym. The image of Grant working out makes me fan my face with my hand.
I wander through the department store and make my way to the perfume counter. I buy Emme a bottle of my favorite perfume. She always compliments the scent whenever we see each other so I know she’ll be thrilled.
I’m not sure what to get my parents this year. They’re both embarking on a new journey of life. Ugh. I wonder if I have to get a gift for Bill too. What do you buy for your mom’s newboyfriend?
I put my ear buds in and scroll through my phone to find Emme’s number.
She answers after one ring.
“Hi. Has your brother called you yet?”
“Ha. What do you think?”
She laughs.
“How are you doing?”
“I’m better now,” I say. “I’m out Christmas shopping. So far, you’re the only person I’ve bought a gift for.”
“Ohh, I appreciate that.”
“Well, my brother never calls me, and I think my parents are each having a mid-life crisis.”
I ask her about Bill and if I should get him something.
“I didn’t even think about that,” she says. “Betsy mentioned he’d be at Christmas dinner, I guess I should’ve asked.”
I sigh. “Maybe I’ll just wait until we have coffee. I can always pick up something last minute like a tie or something.”
“What if he doesn’t wear ties?” she asks.
Crap. How awkward is our Christmas going to be with this guy there?
“Anyway, did you guys get the invite to our Christmas party? I know the day before Christmas Eve isn’t ideal.”
“Yes. I was going to RSVP. We will be there.”
