Pepperoni when from local spot, pineapple at chains
Will stop and stare at clouds. Loves weather stuff.
Has a secret talent of baking for those she cares about.
Chocolate when sad, wine when upset
Likes to wear colorful socks. They never match.
Is the worst organizer.
Is the queen of GIFs and memes.
Birthday: March. Loves personal presents. NO GIFT CARDS.
Dogs over cats.
Does the worm when challenged.
Eyes light up when she talks about those she loves.
With my heart in my throat, I swiped away and went to my brother’s contact. I had to know if this was everyone or just me. My pulse raced, my fingertips weighing ten pounds due to adrenaline. I needed this to be just me. I needed it so badly. You didn’t keep a list like this if you didn’t truly love someone. I clicked on Christian, and my eyes darted to the notes section.
June birthday.
Corona.
That was it.
Hayden knew me, had paid attention for years, and wanted me back.
I just had to decide what to do about it.
CHAPTER THIRTY
HAYDEN
Charlotte’s cheeks were rosy. I loved when she blushed. She was so expressive all the time, but that blush gave her away even more.
“Santa, I was really good this year. Super good.” Gwen leaned against Santa’s shoulder, her eyes wide. “I think I get a lot of presents.”
“Oh, do you now?” Garrett said, his voice booming. “What would you like?”
“Mmmm, I think a fruit tree.”
“What type of fruit?”
“Broccoli. And corn, please.”
Garrett met my gaze, his lips twitching. “Okay, yeah, a broccoli and corn tree. What else would you like?”
Cool, thanks, Garrett.How the hell was I supposed to get a broccoli and corn tree? On Christmas Eve?
“I think a big bubble machine. Like, super big. With lots of bubbles so I can play with my friend Frankie, andAubriella, and Jameson, and Ruby. Can we eat your cookies, Santa?”
“You sure can, and a bubble machine sounds like so much fun!”
Gwen giggled and threw her arms around his neck. “Thank you, Santa. Love you.”
