“A champagne breakfast at Mum and Dad’s, then a light dinner at Frannie’s.” Frannie was the pregnant sister who lived not far from me. “Is Grace joining you?”

I shrugged. “Perhaps later in the day.”

Thinking of her brought Kennedy back to the forefront of my mind. I wondered what she’d be doing on Christmas Day. Would she be alone?

Not your business, Liam.

Chapter Fifteen

KENNEDY

Hi Liam,

How are Grace and Desdemona? I’ve been thinking about them lately, and Tabitha, and everyone else who made me feel as though I could call Destiny Falls home. I miss them like a part of me has been cut out.

I miss you like my heart has been carved from my chest. A little melodramatic, perhaps, but that doesn’t make it untrue.

Love,

K xx

I spread cream cheese on a bagel, then dolloped raspberry jam on top. I lifted it to my mouth and took a bite.

Mm. Delicious.

Grace’s soft laugh rang out across the table. “I didn’t think you Hollywood types ate anything with carbs or fat.”

“Oh, Hollywood types don’t,” I assured her. “But I’m not one of those anymore. I’m an unemployed former actress who’s allowed to gain a few pounds if I want to.” And I had. It was a relief, actually. I didn’t mind a little extra padding on my hips and breasts if it meant I no longer had to feel constantly hungry.

Grace shook her head. “I don’t know how you did it.”

I shrugged, a little self-conscious. “Honestly, when you’re surrounded by the constant pressure of everyone saying you need to look a certain way, it doesn’t feel that difficult. It’s just how it is.” I offered up a small smile. “I’m glad for the change though.”

“Me too. It’s nice to see you smile. You haven’t done much of that since you’ve been back.”

The observation disquieted me. I’d forgotten how perceptive Grace could be.

“I guess I haven’t felt like I had much to smile about.” It was nice to be here, but it was obvious most of the locals didn’t want me around. It seemed like the past couple of days had made a difference though.

“That might be changing. I saw Liam out at your cottage the day before last.”

I smiled softly. “We have a long way to go, but at least he doesn’t shut down at the sight of me anymore.”

“That’s good, Kenz.” Grace sliced a strawberry into quarters and dropped it into a small bowl of yogurt. “What are your plans for Christmas?”