Page 23 of Decked in Red & Greene
“I’m still wearing the shirt today,” he says, his smile only growing despite my wavering tone. “I’m already decked out in green.”
“It’s stupid but I’m still upset,” I admit after a moment’s hesitation.
“I know and I deserve it—if not for my brother being a jackass, then I’m sure there’s a million other things we can come up with.”
It’s self-deprecating but very much appreciated. The vulnerability in his words makes it a little easier to breathe, and I find myself moving to find a vase to put the flowers in.
I expect him to take a seat at the counter, but instead, he continues the task I’d been doing when he arrived and inventories the items we’ll need later.
The part I absolutely hate because my creative brain gets distracted, and I lose count and have to do it again.
I hate that he’s being so damn helpful; it makes it that much harder to stay mad at him.
But do you want to stay mad?
The little voice in my head is definitely getting on my nerves with all the back-and-forth over Phoenix. On the other hand, the cliché part of my love for holiday romance has my heart beating faster at the idea that it could finally be happening for me.
“Aspen?”
“Huh?” I startle as I realize he’s managed to sneak up on me while I got caught up in our potential happily ever after.
“I asked if you wanted to get ready while I cleaned the rest up.” He drags his thumb across my cheek and smiles as it comes off with a streak of flour.
“I’ll be quick,” I stammer as I take a step back.
“Take all the time you need; I’m not goin’ anywhere,” he says with conviction, the double meaning not lost on me.
But any overanalyzing will have to wait because I have things to do formebefore I can give even a second tohim.
16
[Social Media Post from the Taste of Magnolia Food Truck]
Taste of Magnolia will be catering a private event today so make sure you look for us on Monday!
#supportlocal #tasteofmagnolia #magnoliapoint #holidaytreats
Lowcountry Automotive: Does that mean I have to wait to try that lasagna flatbread?
Taste of Magnolia: We promise it’s worth the wait!
Lowcountry Automotive: Know what you shouldn’t wait on? Getting new tires—and we have a deal happening now through the new year!
Taste of Magnolia: Annnd the moment’s gone…
17
ASPEN
“Aspen,” Mrs. Gardner says with her prominent Southern drawl, “we cannot thank you enough for comin’ to our rescue after that no-good banquet manager the next town over double-booked us.” She sniffs. “Left him a one-star review for the trouble.”
Keeping my smile appropriately sympathetic and appreciative, I nod. “Cora and I are so grateful for the opportunity to help turn your holiday festivities around.” She beams and I grab Phoenix’s arm. “We’re just going to finish setting up. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to make your night all that you imagined.”
“You are just the sweetest.” She dramatically places her hand over her heart. “The ladies will be positively thrilled.”
I smile and then shove Phoenix back through the kitchen doors of the banquet hall as Mrs. Gardner scurries off to corner an unsuspecting member of the waitstaff with an undoubtedly obnoxious request.
“It won’t kill you to smile, you know,” I say once we’re hidden from sight.
