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Gretchen stood from the couch, apparently content to blow up my way of thinking and then just leave.
“We’re not going to solve thirty years of sibling strain and negative thinking tonight, but please let me know how I can help with both the festival and Cole. I think it’s time I lived up to the Greene legacy you and Dad have both set by helping Holly Ridge be the best it can be.”
With that, she walked into the kitchen, and I heard her collecting her kids and husband, ready to head home for the next stage in their Christmas Eve plans. I knew it would be a long while before I was ready for visions of sugarplums dancing in my head. I had some work to do, and only a few days in which to do it.
Chapter 30.5
Austin (8:06 p.m.): Dude, when were you going to tell me about this Gingerbread Ball thing? It sounds like a great way to ring in the New Year.
Cole (8:15 p.m.): The Holly Ridge Gingerbread Ball? Why would I tell you about it? It’s the end of the Christmas festival, but no one from Winterberry Glen ever goes.
Austin (8:22 p.m.): That’s not the case this year, man. From the sound of the chatter at Muggsies last night, sounds like it’s going to be a packed house this year. Maybe if you left that office of yours, that you don’t even work in anymore, you’d know these things.
Cole (8:23 p.m.): I’ve had some things to finish up. Speaking of, I need to send one more e-mail, and then I’m locking this place up for good. I need to catch you up on some stuff. Grab a six-pack and meet me at my place for the West Coast tip-off in 30?
Austin (8:25 p.m.): Color me intrigued...I’ll see you then.
From: [email protected]
Date: December 29 8:33 p.m.
Subject: Important Financial Update
Dear Mr. Windfall,
I’m sorry to bother you during the holidays, but I have to imagine if you’re anything like me, you’re not quite capable of keeping away from the e-mails and numbers during the end of year time. I’ve had a look at the Holly Ridge financial sheets after something wasn’t sitting right with me, and I think there are some things you need to see. I’ve attached some documents, with a summary upfront, but it may be helpful to talk things through. I’m available anytime.
Best wishes,
Cole Thomas
From: [email protected]
Date: December 29 8:59 p.m.
Subject: Re: Important Financial Update
Dear Cole,
How right you are, my boy. The ding of your e-mail was a welcome distraction from the family shenanigans occurring in my house at the moment. I’ll need to take a closer look at your attachments in the light of day, but I can see what you’re concluding here already. Let’s talk in the morning, say nine o’clock?
Best,
Barry
Charlotte (9:06 p.m.): According to my inside Winterberry Glen sources—also known as their romance book club—there is great interest in the Gingerbread Ball. No one knows if ALL government officials, past or present, will be there though...
Blaire (10:07 p.m.): That’s great! An exact head count isn’t necessary, but it’s good to know they’re interested in the invitation.
Charlotte (10:08 p.m.): You’re sure you’re not interested in counting one head in particular?
Blaire (10:09 p.m.): Who knows if he’s even still in town. He may have moved to the capital all ready to ring in the new year in his new life. But if you do get any updates?
Charlotte (10:10 p.m.): You’ll be the first to know.
