Page 28 of Check the Halls
“Getting some shopping done?”
She looks down at her many purchases. “This is my third time here this week. I’m still getting settled in the new place and there always seems to be something we need.”
I ignore the twinge of jealousy I feel at her use of the word “we.” “How is work going?”
“Busy, but good. You got the invitation for the meeting with the Fellowship committee?”
“I sure did.”
She’s giving off major anxious energy as she rocks back and forth on her heels. “All the key players will be there, including my boss, Chanda.” It’s clear she wants to make a good impression.
“Don’t worry about me. I’m ready to dazzle the hell out of them with my good looks and winning personality.”
Maddy’s eyes drop to my mouth, making my dick twitch. Her lips quirk at the edges and I get the distinct impression she’s trying not to laugh at me.
“What?” I ask, frowning.
“Nothing,” she says, too quickly.
“Madness,” I press.
Her shoulders shake, and she bites down on her full bottom lip, trying to keep it together. “It’s just,” she points at my face, her cheeks pink with delight. “Your mouth. It’s blue.”
“What?” I look at Sam for confirmation.
“So blue.” He grins.
“Soooo blue,” Maddy covers her own mouth in an attempt to stifle her giggles.
Maybe I should be embarrassed or annoyed, but given that both of them are enjoying themselves so much, I really can’t bring myself to care. Even if it is at my expense.
“And?” I lean back in my chair casually. “I look amazing in blue.”
Maddy manages to regain her composure. “I’m sorry. You looked so serious, and then—” She shakes her head, smiling softly. “The Fellowship committee is going to love you.”
For a second, the noise around us fades, and it’s justher standing there, bags in hand, looking edible in her snug sweater dress and leggings.
“I should get going,” she says, stepping back. “It was really nice meeting you, Sam.”
“Same,” he says, holding out his fist to her. She grins and bumps his hand with her own.
“I’ll see you next week,” I tell her, only mildly bummed that she got a fist bump from my little buddy before I did.
“See you next week.”
My eyes stay locked on her as she walks away, every step pulling her farther from me. I wait, hoping she’ll glance back, but she doesn’t. Not a flicker of hesitation, not a single backward glance. When she disappears from around the corner I’m left sitting here, feeling like she’s already forgotten me.
“So,” Sam says when she’s out of sight. “You’re still in love with her?”
“Yup.” Why deny it? He’s already proven he’s smarter than I am several times.
“Are you going to try to get back together with her?”
“Nope.” I sigh, resting my forearms on the table.
“How come?”
“She’s marrying someone else.”
