With care, I wrapped it back up and tucked it safely away.I'd find the right moment to give it to Christian later.For now, there were gifts to wrap and a tree to add decorations to.
As I got to work, my mind kept wandering back to him.But this time, there was no uncertainty—just hope that this small gesture might bring him some measure of peace during this festive season.
I finished wrapping the last of the gifts, smoothing the tape down over the bright paper.My back ached from leaning over the desk for so long, and I stood up, stretching until I felt a satisfying pop.The room was filled with neatly wrapped presents, each one ready to be placed under the tree.
I rolled my shoulders and glanced at the clock.It was getting late, and I realized I hadn't seen my grandmother in a while.A twinge of worry crept into my thoughts.She had been more tired lately, her energy sapped by age and illness.
Stepping out of my office, I made my way to the front desk where Harlow was manning the counter.She looked up from her book as I approached.
"Harlow, have you seen Gran?"I asked.
"Haven't seen her," she replied, shaking her head.
I nodded, a small frown tugging at my lips."Thanks."
Deciding to check our suite, I headed down the hall.The inn's warm lights cast a cozy glow in the hallway, and the scent of pine from the Christmas tree wafted through the air.Reaching our door, I knocked softly before entering.
"Gran?"I called out gently as I stepped inside.
The suite was quiet, too quiet.My heart quickened slightly as I walked through the small living area towards her bedroom.The door was ajar, and I pushed it open carefully.
The suite was empty.My heart began to race, a thud echoing in my ears, but I forced myself to stay calm.Gran had to be somewhere nearby.
"Gran?"I called out again, my voice wavering slightly.No answer.
I walked through the small living area and checked her bedroom.The bed was neatly made, the blankets undisturbed.Her favorite book lay on the nightstand, the bookmark peeking out halfway through.She wouldn't have gone far without it.
I moved to the bathroom, knocking softly before opening the door.Empty.The kitchen?Also empty.Panic started to creep in, but I pushed it down, focusing on the task at hand.
Where could she be?
I hurried back down the hall, checking the other guest rooms along the way.Each door I opened revealed nothing but emptiness and silence.It wasn't like Gran to wander off without letting me know.
Reaching the front desk again, I found Harlow still engrossed in her book.
"Harlow," I said, trying to keep my voice steady, "Gran's not in our suite.Did she mention going anywhere?"
Harlow looked up, her brow furrowing in concern."No, she didn't say anything."
"She wouldn't just leave," I muttered more to myself than to Harlow.
Maybe she went outside for some fresh air?Gran sometimes liked to take short walks around the inn's grounds when she felt restless.I grabbed my coat and headed for the front door, bracing myself against the cold as I stepped outside.
The festive lights twinkled around me as I scanned the surroundings.The courtyard was empty, and there was no sign of her near the entrance.I started walking along the path that led around the building, my breath forming little clouds in the chilly air.
"Gran?"I called out into the night.
Nothing but silence and the soft crunch of snow underfoot.
I picked up my pace, checking every corner and nook where she might have gone.The worry gnawed at me with each step as possibilities ran through my mind—had she gotten lost or fallen?Had something worse happened?
Reaching the back of the inn without any sign of her, I stopped and took a deep breath.There had to be some explanation.Maybe one of the staff saw her leave or knew where she'd gone.
At least, that was what I told myself.It was the only thread keeping me together.
Chapter19
Christian
