“December twenty-fourth. Christmas Eve,” she says.
Christmas Eve.
My chest tightens as an idea forms.
“I need to go,” I say suddenly.
“Go where?”
“To Silver Valley. To Jax. I need to see him. Today.”
Riley’s face breaks into a huge grin. “Finally. Yes. Go. What are you waiting for?”
“I look like death. I smell like a brewery. I haven’t showered. I …”
“Sloane. Go shower. I’ll make you coffee and toast. You’ll be on the road in an hour.” She pulls me up from the couch. “This is happening. You’re going to him.”
“It’s Christmas Eve. What if he has plans? What if …”
“Then you’ll be part of his plans. Now move. Shower. Go.”
Twenty-five minutes later, I’m showered, caffeinated, and dressed in jeans and a soft sweater. My hair is still damp, I’m wearing minimal makeup, and I probably still look hungover, but I don’t care.
I’m going to Jax.
Maggie shows up just as I’m packing an overnight bag.
“Where are you going?” she asks.
“Silver Valley to see Jax.”
Her face lights up. “About damn time.”
“I know. I’m sorry I’ve been such a mess lately.”
“Stop apologizing.” She hugs me tightly. “You weren’t ready. Now you are. That’s all that matters.”
“I told him I loved him last night … while drunk.”
“I know. I was there. It was beautiful and sloppy and perfect.”
“And now I’m going to show up at his farm on Christmas Eve like some kind of stalker.”
“You’re going to show up like a woman who knows what she wants.” Maggie pulls back. “Be brave, Sloane. You’ve come this far. Don’t stop now.”
Riley hands me a travel mug of coffee and the little cabin ornament. “For luck. And also, because you’re going to need this for your tree when you move there.”
“I don’t have a tree.”
“You will.” She grins. “Now go. Before I get emotional and ruin my makeup.”
I hug them both, grab my bag, and head for the door.
“Text us when you get there,” Riley calls after me.
“And send pictures,” Maggie adds.
“Of what?”
