“No.” My throat closes up. Of course, that’s what people will think. That he’s taken advantage of me. “He’s not like that. Mason came home for Christmas, and it’s just awkward.” I plead with Jo to keep quiet about me and Flint. The fewer people that know, the better. I don’t want anyone to think badly of him.
“Do you have somewhere to stay? I hear Ember’s practically moved in with Drake since the fire. I’m sure if you asked?—”
“She already offered.”
Jo puts her arm around me. “She’s staying with me. She doesn’t need a reminder of the fire every time she looks out the window.”
“Fair enough. As long as you’re okay and ready to be back here. It’s supposed to be Christmas. I can’t have you serving customers between sniffles.”
“I’ll be fine. I just need to put on some makeup.” My stomach grumbles as I run my fingers through my hair, knowing I must look a mess as I didn’t have time to brush it or do anything this morning other than put it in a ponytail.
Logan’s eyes soften, and he gives me a sympathetic smile. “Get one of the guys to rustle you up something to eat, too.”
“Thank you.”
“No worries, kid. You’ve had it tough these last few months. If anyone deserves some festive cheer, it’s you.”
I huff. “I think I need a Christmas miracle.”
“Well, it’s not much, but we had a donation box on the counter.” He disappears, then returns with a box covered in tinsel and my name written in black ink.For Sera. “People are very generous around Christmastime.” He hands me the box, coins clinking as I take it from him.
“People donated for me?” My eyes swell, my vision blurring. You’d think I’d be all cried out, but it seems I have a few more happy tears to give.
“People in this town loved your nan, and they want to make sure you’re taken care of until you’re back on your feet. This should help a little.” He turns to walk back out the door. “Oh, and don’t worry about last week’s wages. I squared it with the boss. He put it down as compassionate leave with full pay.”
I’m speechless as he walks out of the staff room.
“Jo, table six breakfast is ready. Want me to serve?” Arlene shouts.
“I’m coming.” She turns towards me. “You gonna be okay?”
“Yeah, I’ll just tidy my hair and put on some lippy.”
“I’ll sort you some pancakes out. Extra sugar.” She smiles and walks out, leaving me alone in the staff room.
The weight of the box in my hands feels heavier than it should. Not because of the money, but because it reminds me that people care. I should feel grateful, and I do. But beneath the warmth sits a hollow ache that no amount of kindness can fill.
Flint’s face flashes in my mind. His hand in my hair, his voice low and rough as he called me firecracker. The way he looked at me like I was the only thing in the room. And then the way he looked at me when Mason walked in. Like he was already bracing for the fallout.
I blink away fresh tears and set the donation box down on the table. There’s no way I can make him choose between me and Mason.
My phone buzzes in my pocket.
Flint: You all right?
I will be. Staying with Jo tonight.
Flint: You belong at home with me.
My chest tightens. Home. I’m not sure what home is anymore. Just as I get settled, the rug gets pulled from under me.
You know we can’t. Not after this morning. Not after Mason.
Three dots appear, vanish, then appear again.
Flint: I’ll fix it.
My throat burns as I type.
