Page 125 of Stand and Defend
The sommelier nods and departs from us. I’m left looking at my parents.
“Jet lagged?” Dad asks with a smile.
“Yeah, sorry...” That’s not true. “Actually, no. I was thinking about Camden,” I blurt.
“Oh?” Mom asks.
“I really like him. I want you to meet him.”
Me: I told my parents about us.
Cam: Oh yeah?
Me: Yeah.
Cam: What do they think about you officially hooking up with the best man?
Me: It was a little awkward at first, but I told them how great you are.
Cam: Must have been a long conversation.
Me: It was, actually.
Cam: Anything I should be worried about?
Me: Nope. I think they liked you after the video chat when you stood up to my mom. They want to meet you inperson after they return to the States.
Cam: I’d like that.
Me: Really?
Cam: Of course. We gotta make this legit. How many days until YOU return to the States?
Me: 16
Cam: Merry Christmas, Sunshine.
Me: Merry Christmas!
Cam: I love my hat.
Me: I’m glad you like it. Tell your family hi for me.
Cam: Same to you.
Me: Can I open your package yet?
Cam: Yes.
I pick up the box I wasn’t allowed to open until Christmas and tear into the cardboard package. Inside is a signed hardcover of the hockey romance he read me over Thanksgiving weekend along with a bag of Sour Patch Kid gummies. The smile on my face grows. I never told him that’s my comfort snack, but he obviously figured it out.
Me: You’re the best. Thank you. ♥?
Cam: How many days?
Me: 12
Me: Can I calldibs on next Christmas with you?