Page 3 of Merry Mayhem
“Yep.” Violet nods happily. “We’ve been texting, and he agreed to come here for Christmas and to do Merry Mayhem with me.”
“But…” I start. She’s told usnothingabout this guy. “You’re dating him?”
She turns away to grab another beer for someone. She flips the top off and then hands it over the bar. “We haven’t done anything since the wedding, but he’s so great,” she says. “He’s charming and sweet, and he’ssogood-looking. He said he’s happy to come for Christmas.”
The wedding in October was the first time she’d really been out with anyone since the break-up. I’d been so relieved she’d actually gone and that it had been fun. I’d had no idea they were still talking, though. She hasn’t said a thing about him since the morning after the wedding.
But she’s gun-shy after Sam. I get that. When she and Sam broke up, it affected both families, too. Our parents have all known each other for years and years, and Sam felt like part of the family, as much as I’d hoped it wouldn’t be forever.
But I like this idea. I like the idea of Sam seeing her with someone new. I love the idea of her having the chance to enjoy Merry Mayhem. I hated the idea that she’d have to be a spectator this year instead of a participant. It’s not my thing, but Violet loves our town’s crazy celebrations.
This is good. Great, even. She can jump right back in and see that the holiday fun she’s had in the past wasn’t about Sam. She can make new memories. She can move on.
And she and the new guy can kick Sam and Ashley’s asses.
“Okay,” I say. “Well, great. I can’t wait to meet him.”
She smiles. “He’s going to call later and we’ll make a plan for tomorrow.”
“Great!” Nora says, hopping off her stool. “I’m so glad you’re good,” she tells Violet. “I’ve gotta go, though. So much to do!”
“Sure. I’ll see you later,” Violet says.
Andi and I both stand too. “I need to go pick Ruth up from Jordyn’s,” I say.
“Aren’t they on Christmas break?” Violet asks.
“Oh, yes, they were decorating cookies.” My twelve-year-old and her friends are so excited about Merry Mayhem, but they couldn’t wait until the kick-off party to start on holiday treats.
Andi points at Violet. “Call me if you need anything.”
“I will. But I won’t need anything!” Violet says. “I’ve got this, you guys, I promise. I’ve got a plan, andnothingis going to derail it. Merry Mayhem is all mine!”
I’m feeling good as we head out.
I really want Violet to be confident, secure, and happy.
If this new guy is the answer, then great. I will welcome him with open arms.
And unlike what happened with Sam, I will be honest with my sister about how I feel about this guy from the very start.
CHAPTER 2
JOSH
“You can not be serious!You’re breaking this off right beforeChristmas?”
The cute brunette behind the bar paces to the other end before whirling and stomping back toward where I’m sitting.
“This issucha dick move!” she exclaims into the phone she’s holding to her ear. “I went to the most annoying weddingeverwith you! Youoweme!”
She stops right in front of where I’m sitting, but she’s not focused on me. She’s staring over my shoulder, and I assume she’s picturing whoever’s on the other end of this call. From the murderous look on her face and the way she’s holding the knife she was previously using to slice limes, I’mveryglad it’s not me.
She’s probably five-five or six,maybea hundred pounds. She’s wearing leggings and a long flannel shirt with knee-high boots that have a two-inch heel. Her long dark hair is gathered into a ponytail. She’s very pretty and doesn’tappeardangerous.
Unless you look directly into her eyes at the moment.
I shiver. She wants someone’s balls on a platter.
