Page 96 of Run, Run Rudolph

---

An unwelcome thought popped to mind, and I shot another text to Char, my heart beating wildly.

Me

You didn’t wish for anything on my behalf, did you?

I closed my eyes, barely daring to breathe as I awaited her reply.

Char

What do you mean? Tonight? No.

Me

Ever?

Char

No, not that I’m aware.

Wait. Do you think Haden is under a spell?

Me

Is he?

She would know better than I did.

Char

Not because of me. I promise!

Me

You sure?

Char

YES! Not knowing if your boyfriend loves you because of magic is the WORST. I worried about it too, and would never wish that upon you. And definitely not with Haden.

I exhaled and nodded to myself. I knew that as much as Char wanted me to have love and happiness, she’d never mess with my life and put me through that same emotional wringer she’d gone through.

Me

Thanks. Had to ask. Sorry.

Char

No worries. I’m going to bed, now that I know you’re okay. But call if you need anything!

And make as many wishes as you want. My credits are your credits. Stay safe tonight. Save Christmas. Stay out of trouble. Save yourselves. And get more kisses! He likes you—no magic!

Could I believe that? I sure wanted to.

Char

Me

Thanks. You’re the best. Get some sleep.

---