Page 16 of Mistletoe Misses
I chuckle. For all the arguing those two do, they’re over-the-top protective of each other.
Me:How old?
“Your order’s ready, Maddox,” Addie announces.
“Thanks. I’ll be right there.”
Aaron:25
Me:She’s only 19!
Aaron:Yeah. Gross, right?
Kendall:You two talking about me?
Aaron:Guess who just barged into my apartment.
Kendall:OUR apartment. Don’t forget who keeps this place looking less like a locker room.
Kendall:Hi, big bro. I miss you.
Me:Hi Ken. I miss you, too.
Aaron:How come you didn’t say you missed me?
Me:Goes without saying.
Kendall:Have you heard from Cooper? Is he coming home, too?
Me:I haven’t, and no one’s mentioned anything yet.
Aaron:I bet he shows up with the whole Izzie situation.
Me:Military leave isn’t easy to come by.
Kendall:Neither is a connection like theirs.
My stomach knots at the reminder of the connection I once had.
Aaron:Way to go.
Kendall:Sorry, Maddox. That was insensitive of me.
Me:No, it wasn’t. Ancient history.
Me:I better go. I’ve got coffee and Nana waiting on me.
Aaron:Good luck! You’re gonna need it.
Kendall:Shut up. Love you, Maddox.
Aaron:Where’s my I love you?
“Anything important?” Addie asks with excitement. “Does a criminal case need your attention?”
“Nothing like that. Just my crazy siblings.”
“Oh. Which ones?” Nerves shake in her voice, erasing all playfulness.
