Preface

This novel contains brief mentions of sexual assault.

1

To: Loveridge & McGowan Employee Network

Cc: Ana Loveridge-Herrera, River McGowan

From: Olivia Langley

Subject: 12 Days of Holiday Cheer!

’Twas the night before Thanksgiving when all through the office, not a person was stirring, not even Alba from Human Resources trying to get in the last of her ten thousand steps. The stockings were hung by the water cooler with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there!

If the peppermint hot chocolate on tap in the break room and the absurd lines at Macy’s (and just about every other store in this city) weren’t obvious enough, it’s THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! But as far as I’m concerned, it’s been Christmas since November 1st and I would like to personally thank all of you for humoring my playlists—even that one person who turned it off on November 11th at 1:49 p.m. when they thought I left the building. I’m not upset. Anymore. Asher.

In the spirit of all things holly and jolly, I’ve taken it upon myself to plan a few events to get everyone in the holiday spirit!

November 27th: Christmas Kickoff!

Enjoy drinks and appetizers after work while we select Secret Santas.

November 29th: Oh, Christmas Tree!

Bring your family to our special viewing of the Rockefeller Center tree lighting ceremony!

December 1st: Lace Up Those Skates!

Bring your family back to Rockefeller Center for a night of ice skating! Hot chocolate, cookies, and skates will be provided!

December 4th: Holiday Trivia!

Join us down at the Rose Tavern for holiday themed trivia! Winner gets a paid day off for holiday shopping!

December 6th: It’s a Pajama Party!

Wear your pajamas to work and enjoy a rooftop viewing of your favorite Christmas movies! Blankets, popcorn, and heating lamps provided!

December 8th: The Christmas Crawl!

Drink around the city! Uber reimbursement will be provided for a safe sleigh ride home!

December 12th: Ugly Sweater Day and Lighting the Menorah!

Wear your ugliest holiday sweater to work! Prizes will be awarded to the most hideous! And don’t forget to stay for our menorah lighting ceremony!

December 14th: Cookie Exchange!

Bring in your favorite holiday dessert and a box to take home some extra goodies! Prizes will be awarded to the most delicious!

December 16th: An Afternoon of Giving!

Volunteer your time at the New York Children’s Hospital’s Christmas Extravaganza!

December 18th: Winter Wonderland Gala!

Enjoy a night at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for our annual holiday soirée! Mingle with coworkers, clients, and history’s finest!

December 22nd: Secret Santa Swap!

Enjoy drinks and appetizers after work while we swap gifts!

December 31st: Ring in the New Year!

Say goodbye to 2019 and hello to 2020 at the Gansevoort rooftop park! Open bar and appetizers provided!