Page 29 of Snowed

“My best friend is pretty much perfect, except for one big flaw. She gives a shit what people think waay too much. Joy goes to that boring party every year because she and Davis and his new fiancée all work together, and she thinks if she doesn’t go, people at work will start gossiping that she’s still hung up on him.” Isla shook her head. “It’s so dumb, I know.”

“She’s really over him, though?”

“She has been for a very long time.”

Fuck. I’m a total idiot.

Isla smiled. “Well, it looks like you got one thing right, at least.”

“What’s that?”

“I can see on your face that you’re kicking yourself in the ass right now for making such a stupid decision.” She put a hand on my shoulder. “You want my advice?”

“Yes.”

“Grow a pair.” Isla smiled. “I need to get back to my cousin. Have a merry Christmas, Nolan.”

I returned to my date, but it was even more impossible to concentrate now. The waitress came with the bill, and I was relieved to be able to call it a night. I left cash in the padfolio and walked to the door with Kylie. But once we were outside on the street, I couldn’t make myself move. So I told another white lie to my very nice date. “I’m sorry. I forgot something on the table. I’ll be right back.”

Inside, I made a beeline back to Isla’s table.

She smiled as I approached and leaned back in her chair. “Grow them this fast?”

“Do you know what time Joy’s parents’ party usually goes to?”

“Probably about eleven.”

I took a deep breath and looked at my watch. “Can I have the address?”

“You’re not going to bring your date, are you?”

“No. I’m going to do the right thing and be honest with her.”

Isla’s smile widened. “One twenty-five Liberty Street. Hoboken.”

Back outside, Kylie hooked her arm with mine. She seemed oblivious, even though Isla had been able to see I was bored from across the restaurant. I guess sometimes it’s easier to see the forest than the trees. I lifted my arm to stop a passing taxi.

Kylie tilted her head as I opened the cab door. “Do you want to go back to your place?”

“I had a really nice time, and I think you’re a great person, but I have to be honest and tell you I don’t think it’s going to work out.”

Her face fell. “Oh.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Well, I’m disappointed, but I’d rather know how you feel now than after getting in deeper.”

“I really am sorry.”

She shrugged. “No biggie. I guess this is goodbye then?”

I nodded. “You take the cab.”

“Actually…” She pointed up the block. “I have a friend who works at the bar on the corner. I’m going to stop in there for a drink. Take care of yourself, Nolan.”

“You, too, Kylie.”

The cabbie was still waiting, so I jumped in.