Page 73 of Wish You Faith

“No need. You’re covered from neck to ankle, sweetie. Don’t worry about it. Go get the door.”

“My pajamas are old. Can you see the piling?” Rosie rubbed her sleeves.

“Evan won’t care. He’s practically family now. Get the door.” Mom shooed her.

Well, someday Evan might see her in pajamas, but today couldn’t be the day. Besides, she hadn’t put on any makeup. She had only washed her face, tied up her hair, and here she was.

What would Evan think of her looks?

The doorbell rang again. Mom shouted as loudly as she could. “Coming! Coming!”

Rosie’s phone rang. It was Evan. She answered it.

“I’m at your door,” Evan said.

“I know.”

“Sorry to interrupt.”

“No, no. I just need to change.”

“Are you naked?”

Rosie was stunned at Evan’s question. “No. Why would I be? I’m fully clothed.”

“Then what are you worried about? Please open the door, Rosie. It’s cold out here.”

Rosie sighed and unlocked the door.

“Merry Christmas!” Evan stepped inside, picked her up, and then twirled her around.

“Aiiiieeee!” Some such unintelligible sounds came out of Rosie’s mouth. She had never been spun around before and she was starting to feel a tad dizzy. “Put me down!”

Evan did. Rosie dipped her head and looked away.

“Shy?” Evan pushed back her bangs and kissed her forehead.

Rosie felt warm all over just before a gust of wind reminded her that the front door was still open. She looked outside and didn’t see any backpack or bags. Hmm. Maybe Evan had left them in his vehicle downstairs.

She closed the door just as she heard Mom say something to Evan.

“…took forever for her to get to the door because she didn’t want you to see her in her all-time favorite winter pajamas. She thinks they’re threadbare.”

“Mom!” Rosie locked the door.

Mom was still sitting in the living room, drinking coffee like she hadn’t just ratted out her own daughter.

“Let me check.” Evan slid his arms around Rosie’s waist and pulled her closer. “Your jammies feel comfortable and warm. I like it.”

He didn’t want to let go. He snuggled in her embrace.

Eventually Rosie gently pushed him back. “Want some coffee?”

“No, thanks. I had plenty.” Evan took off his jacket. He was wearing a dark blue sweater over a turtleneck shirt.

Rosie hung his jacket in the coat closet.

“More coffee for you, Mom?” Rosie picked up her own empty mug from the living room coffee table.

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