Page 73 of A Grecian Getaway

Caroline: Noelle’s right. And don’t let him stop you from subbing at a school you like, especially if there’s a chance for a job. Also, you never answered my hotness scale question. Inquiring minds want to know…

Claire: FINE! *%#@ He is a 10 or a Niko in your crazy head.

Caroline: I need a picture.

Claire: You do not need a picture. I don’t even have a picture. Where would I get a picture?

Noelle: Does the school have photos of all the teachers on their website?

Claire: Thanks, Noelle.

Caroline: Ooooh, good thinking! What’s the name of the school again? That’s okay, I’ll figure it out.

Claire: CAROLINE!

Noelle: Sorry, Claire Bear. We love you and hope things get better with Mr. Jerkston. Bye, love you!

Caroline: Always a fun time girls. See you after school!

***

Later that evening, Noelle put on her favorite gnome pajama pants and a t-shirt and slipped into bed. She was tired but looking forward to reading. Her phone beeped, and she reached over to the nightstand. A huge smile spread across her face when the message from Demetri flashed across her screen. Being on different continents and with different schedules, it was hard to connect as much as she wanted.At least we will be together at Christmas!When Demetri mentioned he would fly to the States for the holidays, Noelle had been so relieved and eager to be with him.

Demetri: Yassas Koukla. I miss you. What are you doing?

Noelle: I miss you too! Not being with you is torture. I just got into bed and was planning to read. But I’m so happy you texted me.

Demetri: Is this a good time for me to call?

Noelle: Yes, of course! Is anything wrong?

Her phone rang, and she answered immediately. “Hello?”

“Hello, my little lamb. I have some bad news.”

She sat up in bed, concerned. Her stomach turned. “Are you okay? Are you sick?”

“No, no, nothing like that. I won’t be able to come for the holidays. I have to work on Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas. I am so sorry. I wish I could get out of it, but someone else at work is having some family issues, and he is taking some time off. We are all covering his schedule and since they covered for me when I came to you, I have to do the same.”

Noelle slumped back on the bed.Christmas was still a way off. He knew already he couldn’t come?Worry consumed her.How are we ever going to make this work?“It’s okay. I understand. When do you think you can visit? I miss you so much.”

“I will try to plan another trip after the holidays. Okay?” Demetri asked.

“Okay, that’d be nice.” Noelle hugged her pillow, sure the disappointment was clear in her voice.

“Please don’t be sad, little lamb. We will see each other. This is just how it has to be. I know it is hard.”

Noelle sighed.How it has to be. For how long? That doesn’t sound good.They chatted a little longer and then said their goodbyes before she fell asleep, saddened by the news.

Noelle woke up the next morning thinking about her conversation with Demetri.If he can’t come here, why can’t I go there? The firm is closed from Christmas through the New Year. I hope he’s okay with it! Unless… he doesn’t want me there. Maybe that’s why he canceled his trip? No. No, that isn’t it. Don’t be ridiculous.

Noelle:Good morning, my gorgeous Greek wolf! Well, I guess it isn’t morning for you. I was wondering, would it be okay with you if I came to Greece for Christmas?

She hit send and waited. And waited. She paced the room. And paced some more. And then there was a ding.Finally!She ran over to her phone and sank onto the bed.

Demetri: Yes, I would love for you to come to Greece! I wanted to ask you, but I was not sure if you would want to miss seeing your parents. I am so happy you will come!

Noelle breathed a sigh of relief.I need to stop doubting him. Just because he hasn’t said the three words I long to hear doesn’t mean he doesn’t care for me.

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