Dinner feels as if we’re all one big family.One with tension and issues, sure, but today everyone sets it aside.There’s gossiping about sports and family and friends, and even Waffles gets his own special meal.
We go around the table saying things were thankful for.
Harlan says, “Family.”
Chloe says, “A day away from the news cycle.”
Clay says, “Second chances,” with a stealth look at me.
Spending today with Clay has me imagining what it would be like to spend more holidays with him.
After dinner, we do a gift swap.Rather than having each person buy everyone a present, we set a value limit for each person to contribute a single gift to stick under the tree.
“I’m sorry, we didn’t bring gifts,” Kat says.
“I’ll sit out, and Andy can play,” Clay offers.
“Everyone, relax.I have extra,” Mari insists.
In that moment, I’m grateful for her preparation.
I drew a number third from the start, and I’m drawn to a tiny box wrapped in pink.
I unwrap it to find a Louis Vuitton keychain in the shape of a bear.
“You might want to hang on to that,” Clay suggests.
After the game, I’m heading into the kitchen carrying empty glasses when I hear Harlan’s voice.
“I know what I saw.”
Then Clay’s voice.“Stay in your lane.You’ve got enough to worry about.”
I don’t know what’s going on, but there are always Kodiaks tensions.
I’ll ask him about it later.Not because I want to get in his business, but just in case he wants to vent.
At the end of the night, we head for the cars.
Clay insisted Kat, Andy, and Daniel stay at his place since he has an extra bedroom and a couch.When we all get back to our building, Clay pulls me aside in the parking garage.
“Come up tonight?”Clay asks.
“I’ll come for breakfast.You haven’t seen your sister in forever.”I want to give them time to themselves.
He frowns but eventually nods.“Alright, but meet me for a few minutes tonight.I have something for you.”
My mouth curves.“I have something for you too.”
When we meet in the hall, Clay holds a huge wrapped gift.
Since we’ve only been dating a couple weeks, I wasn’t sure about gift etiquette, but now I’m glad I got him something.
“What is this?”I demand.
“It goes with your other gift.”
“Oh, wow.Mine isn’t that impressive.”
