Page 22 of Holiday Hook Up

“Well, that’s not all we’re going to do, and you’re going to die when I tell you the rest.”

Bethany shoved her hands into her apron. Somehow she believed her friend on that one. Maybe she should preemptively dial 911. She took a deep, final breath before asking, “What else are you planning?”

“To end our evening at the Sugar Spoon.”

Bethany cocked her head. Dessert after pizza sounded harmless, especially one of Emma’s sweet cupcakes. “I’m sure he’ll enjoy that.”

Rachel glanced behind her shoulder, then leaned in, whispering, “He will because I’m going to have Adam do the Batter Up spell on me. How cool will it be when he sees his name in my batter? It’ll be a first date to end all first dates.” She giggled. “A second first date to end all first dates.”

Bethany bit into the frown she didn’t want to show. “Do you really think that’s a good idea? I mean, I know how ecstatic he is, but there’s no proof yet that it worked. What if Adam’s name doesn’t show up in your batter?” She regretted that question immediately, seeing the shock on Rachel’s face.

“Of course his name is going to show up. He’s my match. I know it.” She turned and smiled over at Adam. “It’s going to happen, and when it does, it will be magical.”

Magical.Although she didn’t quite understand Rachel’s sudden interest in getting back together with her ex, Bethany couldn’t deny that her best friend was happy. She knew exactly what her role was in this moment—to be Rachel’s supportive sidekick. It’s who she’d always been. In this moment, her own feelings for Adam didn’t matter. “Well, you both deserve the best,” she said.

“Thank you.” Rachel grabbed Bethany’s hand and swung. “Maybe we’ll be going shopping in the new year for my gown. How amazing would that be?”

“Amazing,” Bethany repeated, picturing the moment last night when she’d glanced at her own reflection wearing Mary’s wedding dress.

“Hey, ladies, I’ve got to get going.” Adam set his empty mug on the counter and zipped up his leather coat. “Thanks for the hot chocolate, LB. I’ll see you both la—”

“Ooooh, wait.” Rachel pointed to Bethany’s camera on the counter. “Adam, let’s take a picture with the tree.” She grabbed his hand. “We need to document our entire time together.” She pulled him to the front of the tree and wrapped her arms around his middle, winking at Bethany. “All of it.”

Rachel was, of course, talking about the batter. What would happen if his name did appear? Would they instantly get back together? Would he be stopping by the Christmas Corner tomorrow sharing the news?

“Bethany, what are you waiting for?” Rachel asked, nodding to the camera.

“Right. Sorry.” Bethany grabbed it. Aiming at the couple, she zoomed in, capturing Adam’s arm draped around Rachel and the absolute adoration in her best friend’s face as she looked up at the man she’d only minutes ago proclaimed was her match.

“Say ‘Merry Christmas,’” Bethany said, pushing aside her heartache and snapping the picture.

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