Page 22 of Snowflakes and Ice Skates

“It’s amazing. Thank you, Harlow.”

He said my name again. It took me a minute to response. “You’re welcome.”

Mom reached for the beanie and nodded approvingly. “Real cashmere. Good job, honey.”

I rolled my eyes. Of course, she would notice that.

Vince pulled it on and modeled it for us. I didn’t say it aloud, but it looked good. Way too good. He looked sexy with his dark hair peeking out.

After all the gifts were exchanged, we settled back into our spots on the couch. Somehow, Vince ended up next to me.

Once Buddy the Elf went back to making a disaster in the toy store, Vince leaned over. “I really like the beanie. Thank you.”

I looked over and paused. He was so much closer than I realized. I could see the golden flecks in his brown eyes. The tiny lines around his eyes. The dark stubble on his cheek.

We were too close.

My brain went back to the last time we were close. Last night. The kiss. His rejection.

I turned back to the TV and pretended like he didn’t affect me at all.

Nine

The day after Christmas was always one of my favorites. When Steven and I were younger, it was a day spent returning and exchanging sizes but now it was a day for Mom and me to shop.

We’d gone to the mall and were back by lunch, worn out but happy. We got some great deals, especially on Christmas decorations for next year.

I think Mom enjoyed this part even more than the parties. She loved a good deal and Christmas décor was her kryptonite.

“We’re in the kitchen.” Steven called when we walked in with our arms full of bags. I dropped them off by the door and headed in.

Dad, Steven, and of course, Vince were standing around the kitchen island. “What are you guys eating?”

Steven held up a sandwich. “Leftovers.” And that was my favorite part of the holidays. After the parties were over and the big meals were done, we could feast on leftovers for days.

Everything was spread across the counter, so I assembled a turkey sandwich and sat at one of the barstools. Mom kissed Dad on the cheek and made her own plate.

“How bad was the damage this time?” Dad asked, looking at me.

“She reigned herself in. I think you should have some change left in the bank account.”

He cringed but ended up laughing.

“What are your plans for the rest of the day?” I took a bite as Dad asked and looked around the table.

Mom shook her head. “Nothing.”

“I’ve got a hot date tonight.” I rolled my eyes at my brother. I couldn’t say anything. The holidays were technically over.

“What about you, Harlow?” Dad was looking at me.

I shrugged. “Nothing.”

I felt a little lame not having a date like Steven, but what did I expect? I just got home.

“I was going to go down to the skating rink if you want to come?” I looked to Vince and stopped. Was he asking me out?

“Oh honey. You used to love that.” I nodded with Mom. I did love it. Back in high school. I hadn’t been ice skating since then, though.