Page 7 of Jingle Bell Jilt
“You know, the stairs that just have the treads, but no risers so they’re open in the back. She freaks out if she has to walk up or down them.”
Okay, that one is kind of weird. But it isn’t dangerous. And I’m not sure it would be something I would call off a wedding for. But then, I’m not the one who was marrying her. So who am I to judge? “Well, I’m sorry it didn’t work out for you. But I’m even more sorry that I won’t be seeing you.” I guess Christmas will just be me, not that Nathan had previously asked me to join them.
“I know, dude. Not seeing you is like the worst part of this for me.”
I pull my phone back and stare at it for a moment. His only regret is not seeing me? Not the nearly two-year-long relationship that has come crumbling down?
I can’t help feeling a little bad for Shay.
But also, what is wrong with Nathan?
CHAPTERFOUR
SHAY
My phone dings and wakes me up. I see only a blue tint from the TV lighting the room.
I sit up and wipe some drool from my face, noting the obvious wet spot on my pillow. Gross. No wonder I’m alone.
I grab my phone and see a text from Maggie.
Maggie
Did you arrive safely?
Yeah. It was touch and go, but I made it.
Maggie
Details???
I’m not going to text her the harrowing details of my trip. That can wait until I get back.
What are you doing up?
I glance at the clock on the microwave in the kitchen. It says it’s just after two in the morning.
It’s after midnight.
Maggie
It was Dean’s company Christmas party tonight. We just got home. I couldn’t sleep until I knew you were okay.
A warmth spreads in my chest. I just love her. Even if she has the worst ideas ever.
I’m good. I already had my first therapy appointment with Ben and Jerry. And we have a few more scheduled over the next few days. I’ll hunker down and completely forget it’s Christmas.
Maggie
Do you need me to come out? I bet ShaRhonda would love to join you.
Ugh, no. All my sister will do is tell me that I wouldn’t be in this position if I had listened to her because she always knew he was a jackadaw.
Maggie
LOL. True. I’m just worried about you.
Don’t worry. I’m fine. I even had a great idea for a book today. So I can get some work done this weekend without anyone bothering me.
