AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Four-ish?”
“Is that Mack o’clock? Do you mean seven p.m. or do you really want to go at four?”
“I really want to go at four. Drag me out by the hair if you have to.”
“Oh, I will. Emma would like to get there for dinner.”
I smile. He has never berated me once for being late or making him wait, but that’s his subtle way of saying he’s ready for a vacation. “Fair enough. You know you could drive up with her tonight?”
“No, I’m good.” He says it firmly, and I don’t argue.
A few minutes later, he pulls up outside the restaurant. I unbuckle my seatbelt, then sit there for a moment.
“Did you know that Kai is getting married?” I ask.
“No! Hey that’s great news.”
I nod and look out at the shoppers walking past with their bags full of Christmas presents and food. “He said we all have to grow up sometime.”
Jamie doesn’t reply, and when I look back at him, his lips twist in a wry smile. “Ouch,” he says.
“Not everyone thinks you can only be complete with a relationship,” I say gruffly. “Why does everyone assume their way is the only way? It’s the same with religion, politics, and now marriage. Why do people always have to proselytize?”
“I guess when they think they have the recipe for happiness, they like to pass it on.”
“I’m not unhappy.”
“Okay.”
“I’m not.”
“Are you trying to convince me or yourself?” He sighs. “Don’t glare at me. I’ve never told you how to live your life. All I will say is that Sidnie makes you smile, and that has to be a good thing.”
I scratch at a mark on the Aston’s dash. Then I open the door.
“Text me when you’re done,” he says.
“Yeah, thanks.” I get out, close the door, and head for the restaurant.
It’s a few minutes after one p.m., and Titus, Oliver, Elizabeth, and Victoria are already there. They all cheer as I walk up, and I grin and take the remaining chair at the round table as I say, “Afternoon.”
“So glad you came.” Elizabeth leans over and kisses my cheek.
“I’m surprised Jamie could pry you out of the office,” Huxley comments.
“Don’t tell me you’re working through Christmas,” Victoria scolds.
“No. I’m off to the Bay tomorrow.”
“Wonders will never cease.” She grins.
I roll my eyes and smile as Cesare comes up. “Afternoon, Dr. Hart,” he says, beaming.
“Hey. Merry Christmas.”
“And to you, sir. Can I get you a drink?”
“What’s everyone else having?”
