Dani’s oldest brother is just ahead of us with his wife and two kids.
He hears Cassie say his name and turns, a warm smile spreading across his face. “Hey there, cousins!”
We exchange hugs all around. Then the kids ask where Cassie got her candy cane.
She points to the elf, who’s now dancing in front of the speakers.
“Okay, we better go catch him,” Rafe says, winking. “See you on Boxing Day?”
“Absolutely,” Jules says. “Bye, guys!” Then she nods down the street. “Onward to cider.”
It takes us almost half an hour to navigate the crowd to the midpoint of the market, where the bakery is, because we keep getting happily distracted by stalls with yummy food and adorable Christmas decorations.
Only one person stops Cassie to ask about Nate, and Jules runs an interference play so aggressive, the poor woman blanches and scuttles away.
I consult the list again. “Bakery next?”
“There’s probably a line,” Jules says. “Do you want to keep going for cider donuts and we’ll check it out?”
“Sounds good.”
They disappear, and I shuffle forward. The couple in front of me is arguing about whether Die Hard counts as a Christmas movie, which makes me think of Garrett.
As if he can feel his ears burning, he sends me another message.
Garrett
Just did the drive-by cousin elf thing.
Rory
If I go radio silent, it’s because I’m being shamed for texting you.
Garrett
Jules?
Rory
Who else?
Garrett
Are you hiding from her right now?
Rory
Something like that.
Garrett
How festive.
“Is that Garrett?” Cassie asks, appearing at my elbow.
I jump and look for Jules.
Cassie shakes her head as she laughs. “I left her in line, because it’s wrapped around the corner. Let’s go get thestuff Mom wants and then we’ll meet up with her again. And it’s okay if you’re texting Garrett the whole time. I’m not offended.”
