I’m impressed by Holly’s attention to detail. “Have you done this before?”
She smirks. “No comment.” Then, more loudly, she says, “And that is how snowshoeing was invented. You’re really going to love being so close to nature! Please let the recreation desk know if you’d like to schedule a guided tour.”
Holly knows how to put on a show.
“Thank you,” I say, then head up to my room. I’m feeling uneasy because I have no idea what I just agreed to, but I’m also grateful for Holly’s help. I want to make things right for Maya.
Chapter 20
Maya
Ithrowmyseventeenthload of towels into the washing machine, then take a deep breath. This part of the resort looks like a sterile laundry mat. White walls and stainless steel machines. I appreciate the cleanliness, but it feels like a prison. A laundry prison.
I never complain about work. Every job at a resort is important, so I’m willing to learn or take on a new role. But, today, this job is eating away at my soul. I was really looking forward to going to the Merry Mynt Ball with Eddie. It seemed like the perfect way to end our week together.
I could wrap my arms around him without raising suspicion as we swayed to a slow song. I could be close to him and see his smile. I could see if he’s got any dance moves—something tells me he can do a mean sprinkler. If not, I had planned on teaching him.
Instead, I’m here with Carla. She has her headphones in and laughs periodically at her audiobook. I should have brought headphones. The humming of the machines is making me cranky. It sounds like I’m driving down an endless bumpy road.
I lean down to pick up another armful of towels out of the rolling cart, but when I do, I let out a scream.
Holly is waving her arms, trying to get my attention from behind the cart. Thank goodness Carla’s headphones are noise cancelling.
“What are you doing here?” I mouth, moving closer.
“I’m here to rescue you.”
“How?”
“It’s almost time for the Merry Mynt Ball.”
“I’ve been reassigned, remember? Lauren would have a fit if I showed up.”
Holly waves away my worry. “Forget Lauren, but speaking of fits, I’ve got you covered.”
“What are you talking about?”
She points to a black garbage bag beside her.
“Holly, I’m afraid to ask what’s in there. Please tell me it’s not a body.”
She chuckles. “It’s not a body. It’s the dress I wore for Breakfast with Santa. Take it.”
“That’s so sweet of you, but I can’t risk being fired. I have one hour left of my shift. Then, I’ll try to say a quick goodbye to Eddie.”
“You won’t get fired. My shift at the front desk is done. I’ll cover for you while you get ready.” She pauses, then whispers, “Eddie’s expecting you.” She winks at me as she says the last part.
My skin tingles at the mention of Eddie’s name. My reservations about leaving laundry duty fly out the window.
I want, no,needto see his smile one last time.
“Thank you, Holly,” I say as I embrace her in a big hug.
“You’re so welcome. Now go!”
Chapter 21
Eddie
