“There will be a happy ending for us,” I whisper to the empty room.
???
On Christmas, everyone gathers at Pa’s house to celebrate. Usually, Avi and I welcome everyone in our signature dramatic style—flowers and gifts for all, but today she isn’t here. She’s with Zo in San Diego. They finally got together, but it’s still a secret.
I’m not exactly bursting with energy anyway, so I only greet Mom-Dad and Uncle-Aunt with hugs and kisses.
Avi, Zo, and Leo just landed. They walk into the sitting room where we’re all waiting. My mood lifts the moment I see Avi. She settles beside me on the couch.
I clear my throat, eyeing her with a knowing smile. “You’re glowing.”
Her lips twitch. “I’ve always been a beauty, you know.”
I hum. “That beauty has definitely enhanced. I guess getting laid really does wonders.”
She laughs softly.
“What are you two whispering about, cheek to cheek?” Mom asks with a teasing smile.
We exchange a grin.
Mom turns to Avi. “Why didn’t you come with Wen?”
“Zoan didn’t let me, Aunt.” She lies without flinching.
I bite back a smile.
Every eye shifts to Zo.
“She’s been under a lot of stress lately,” Zo says evenly. “I enrolled her in therapy in San Diego.”
Uncle chimes in. “Then you should have enrolled Wen too. She went through a traumatic experience.”
I jump in quickly. “No, Uncle, I’m perfectly fine.”
Mom sighs softly. “You’re not perfectly fine, baby. But I hope you will be. It’s normal to feel off after something like that.”
They all still think I’m traumatized.
Mom smiles at Zo. “You did the right thing for Avi. She was showing signs of depression and mood swings in the past, and recently she’s been very distressed. It’s better to address it before it becomes something worse.”
Aunt Abi nods, her face worried. “We wanted to take her to therapy, but she refused. I’m glad she finally agreed.”
Avi and I trade glances, fighting our grins.
Ma rises. “Let’s start lunch.”
We all file into the dining room. On Christmas, the staff has the day off, so Ma, Mom, and Aunt cook everything themselves.
We eat lunch while exchanging small talk.
Ma sweeps her gaze around the table, smiling warmly. “Next Christmas, we’ll have one more joining us.”
“Who?” Avi asks.
“Ah, you haven’t heard?” Ma grins. “Leo’s getting married.”
“Oh, I know. Iselyn told us.”
