“You should really refrain from telling any dates or girlfriends that in the future. It really feels much less romantic when feces are involved.”

He grins wryly. “Noted.”

We approach my building and I’m thankful that Mrs. Hoffmeister is nowhere to be seen. Early this week, she sent me to the corner store to grab her cigarettes and hemorrhoid cream. I thought of telling her I couldn’t go, but the truth is that it’s much easier for me to do it than it is for her. Even if she technically could do it herself.

When we reach my building, I turn to Andrew. “Thanks for seeing me home. Sorry it’s so out of the way.”

“I told you it’s no bother.”

We look at one another until I tear my gaze away when the invisible string between us feels as though it’s being pulled too taut. “I have a meeting with Bethaney next week. Maybe I’ll see you there?”

“Not if I can bloody well help it.”

I laugh and look back at him. “Well, thanks again.” I turn and take one step up the stairs.

“Kenzie.”

I turn back around. “Yeah?”

Being on the steps puts us much closer to eye level, and it’s a little jarring at first to have our lips so closely lined up.

“I may not be a Christmas cheerleader at this point, but I enjoyed myself tonight. Thank you.”

The moment feels weighted in a way that a single thank you shouldn’t. “You’re welcome.” My voice is filled with something I can’t make sense of.

He shoves his hands in his pockets, nods, and steps back, watching me walk up to the door. Once I’ve used my key to get inside the building, I turn and give him a small wave. Only then does he turn back toward the subway station.

I enjoyed myself this evening too. Even if I couldn’t prove to Andrew how amazing the holidays can be, I still feel as though I accomplished something. I’m just not sure what.

Chapter Fourteen

Andrew

A knock on my office door causes me to look up from the contract I’m reviewing. Darla stands there with her usual “I’m not sure what I’m supposed to be doing” expression.

“Yes?” I lean back in my chair and stretch my back.

“Bethaney just called and says she’d like to see you in the conference room about the holiday party.”

My shoulders sag. While the idea of seeing Kenzie again is appealing, poring over the details of the company holiday party I don’t even want to attend does not.

“Tell her I’ll be there in a minute.”

Darla nods and retreats to her desk.