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?