December 25, 2022
7G
As soon as Edward left, I made a mental list of what I had to accomplish. I changed my sheets and picked up my bedroom first, on the off chance I got a happy ending for my birthday.
Rose would have been proud of this level of preparation.
After that, I showered and got ready, taking time to do my make-up a little more than normal, but still keeping it daytime-appropriate. I curled my hair so it fell in full waves, then changed into jeans and a sweater that hugged my curves. A pair of ballet flats completed the look.
From there, I began working on the last of the dinner prep. I set the table. Chilled the wine.
Around eleven-thirty, I pulled out the small veggie platter and some dip for the Wavy Lays I'd poured into a serving dish that was a remnant of my childhood, when both my parents were still alive and happy. It reminded me of the holidays and home.
My phone rang, and I was happy to see Rose's number on the display.
"Merry Birthday to the baddest bitch who ever was!" Rosalie crooned into the phone.
"Merry Christmas, Rose. How much have you had to drink today?"
"Renata announced she's pregnant again at brunch."
"So you put a straw in the pitcher of mimosas, got it."
"Don't judge me! You know John Hale's moon rises and sets on her ass."
"And you're first naming your dad. Should I be worried?"
"Only for them. They invited Royce over."
"I'll need bail money, then. I'll ask Edward if he can drive the getaway car."
"Whippy? Did you finally talk to him?"
"I did. He actually overheard that conversation I had with you in my office about being alone. He sent me a note asking if I wanted to spend the holiday together since he was alone, too. Yesterday he ordered me Chinese food and came over since I'm cooking today."
"How was the first date?"
"Surprisingly normal. He lost his parents several years ago, so he understands what I'm feeling. We ate and talked, joked, then watched the first three Harry Potter films for my marathon before we fell asleep on the couch. He'll be back sometime between noon and three o'clock for dinner and more Harry Potter."
"Is your chamber of secrets tidy?" Rose asked.
"Yes, I picked up my bedroom."
"I meant the one in your pants," Rose said through a snicker.
"Jesus, Rose. And yes, it is."
A knock at the door drew my attention to the clock. Noon.
"Gotta go, he's here."
"Be safe!"
Rose hung up before I could, so I pocketed my phone and walked to the door. I pulled it open and smiled at the man in front of me, in dark wash jeans and a hunter green button-down shirt.
"Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday, Bella."