Page 98

“What would he think about this room?” I ask, avoiding eye contact with a paper snowman taped on a whiteboard.

Nathan looks like he’s about to critique the place, but then he stops himself. “Honestly, he’d probably think it was a good start—” One of the strands of tinsel garland falls from its perch over the window, and now he’s laughing harder. He points to the heap of silver on the floor. “Or that it was a tragedy.” He takes a deep breath in. “It feels good to talk about him, but in a happy way.”

I give a noncommittal nod. Ever since the Coopers died, I haven’t thought about the happy times I had with them. I just think about when I lost them.

He sighs. “We only have to make it through the next week, ring in the New Year, and then we’re free and clear of the holidays.”

Any other year, I’d agree, but for some reason, maybe because I nearly died, I don’t want to just get through it. I want to live it.

“I have a different idea,” I tell Nathan. “How soon can you get me out of here so we can salvage what’s left of it?”

PennyThoughts Feed

@RoxyNolanCityDaily

The chimney climb ended on an intense note when Nate fell off his. Medics have cleared him and the Con continues. Tell me in the poll below: sabotage or slippery boots?

Sabotage: 79%

Slippery boots: 21%

@GarlandAndTinsel0102

Justice for Nate! Repost this to save #HotSanta and get him a second chance.

@SantaBaby77

Now that Freddie’s out, I’m joining #TeamNate. He handled that fall well.

@TreyBrooksInTheEmpireState

No way! Nate should be out. Off-roading to get to the finish line? Pretending to be sabotaged? Come on. It’s clear he’s faking it to make it.

@BobaTea4Life

I dunno… after what Nate did to that convertible, he should be out for the damage alone. BTW, can’t believe we got to see those up close and personal. [attached image of parked convertibles]

@BobaTea4Life

But yeah, those cars were not meant for the kind of driving Nate did with it.

@HolidayRomanceReader143

Anyone else getting major chemistry vibes from Nate and his elf?

Chapter 30

NATHAN

2 hours and 55 minutes until midnight

The crowd saves me.

Literally. They boo so loudly when I’m eliminated that it forces the judges to reconsider. It surprises—and emboldens—me. I’m the Santa Wannabe with the least holiday spirit. Yet people want me to be here. To keep playing.

So I push back. If it wasn’t absolutely critical that I’m in the finale, would I even care to try to stay?

“I would’ve been first place if it hadn’t been for those hooks,” I tell Nelly and Todd and the judges while we’re gathered near their table for final deliberations. “Which, come to think of it, why were they loose? Surely a reputable Con like yours prioritizes safety for its contestants—”