Page 76 of Love on Tour
“That’s very nice of you,” Santa said.
“Smile,” the photographer said.
At the last second, Matt reached out and put his hand on Christine’s knee. She knew it was meant as another dig at Austin, but she was still thrilled. When they stood, her knee felt warm where his hand had been.
They thanked Santa and waited for their picture to print. It was perfect. They looked like an adorable couple posing for their Christmas photo. Matt ordered two. Once they were printed, he took a picture and texted Austin:Hey, buddy, we sure do miss you. Merry Christmas.
The reply was immediate:You’re fired.
You can’t afford to fire me,Matt texted back.
You’re right. Asshole. Merry Christmas. Give Chrissy a hug for me.
I’ll go one better and give her a kiss, too.
Suck it, Matt,Austin texted.
“Well, that was fun,” Matt said.
“You have an ornery streak.”
“He brings it out in me. I’m so glad I got to see you. Unfortunately, I’ve got to run. Shopping is finished, so I have to get home, wrap gifts, and start packing.”
“I’m glad we ran into each other,” Christine said, wishing the moment could last a little longer.
“Me, too. Thanks for texting yesterday. It was good to hear from you. Have a great time at home,” Matt said, reaching out for a hug. His bags gently hit her in the back as she returned his hug.
“Same back to you, Matt.”
He pulled back and then surprised her by kissing her on the lips. He didn’t linger, but it was definitely more than a peck.
“Oh,” Christine said.
“Sorry,” Matt said, looking away.
“For Austin?”
“Sure. We’ll go with that. Merry Christmas, Christine. See you in the new year!” Matt gave a little wave and walked off through the mall.
Christine watched him for a minute before ducking into the candle store. She needed a few minutes to regain her composure and could always use a new fragrance.
She was driving home when her phone rang. She hitSPEAKER. “Hey, Austin.”
“Hanging with Matt while I’m gone, huh?”
“We ran into each other at the mall.”
“Looked a little cozier than that.”
“Jealous, Austin?” Christine said.
“Should I be?”
Christine paused. How much should she tell him about her feelings for Matt? Was she ready to share that with Austin? She didn’t want to make their friendship awkward.
“Are you jealous?” She decided to put it back in his court.
“Hell yeah. You won’t come hang out with me.”
