Christmas Connection

“So?”

Noelle raised her eyebrows. “So… what?”

“The wedding, Noelle.”

Her best friend's eyebrows drew together, and her face tightened. “I have some written thoughts.”

“Have you picked out your colors?”

Noelle put her hand over her face.

“You would tell me if something was wrong. Right?” Bailey asked. “Is it your aunt?”

Noelle shrugged. “She's fine—as always.” She rolled her eyes.

“Whenever you're ready to talk,” Bailey said. She wouldn't push her friend to talk if she didn't want to.

Noelle smiled, but it appeared forced. “I know. I appreciate it.”

****

Jackson blew inside his gloved hands as he waited for Bailey. His breath fogged the brisk air, and he was grateful he wore a scarf. Snow covered pavilions, picnic tables, and the icicles shimmered in the sun. He only had an hour before rehearsal, but when Bailey called and asked to meet him at the park, he agreed.

He adjusted his seat on the park bench, hearing a soft whump of heavy snow falling off a tree branch. Would Bailey agree to sing for them? Her voice was the most beautiful sound he ever heard. He rubbed the tip of his nose as another chill went through his body.

Could he have felt connected to her this soon? Was it the music that created the bond between them? Was that all they had in common? Then again, he didn't feel awkward during their conversations. He could... talk. There was no judgement in her voice. He could be himself.

“Jackson?”

He stood to see Bailey standing next to him. “Hey.”

She rubbed her hands together. “I didn't expect all this snow today.”

“Me neither. How are you?”

“I'm okay. Thanks for meeting me. How are you?”

“Wondering what your answer is,” he said. There was no sense in dancing around the issue. He wanted her to sing with the band. Her voice and talent couldn't go to waste.

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She sat on the bench and patted the seat next to her.

He sat beside her. “What is it?”

“I've loved music since I was a kid, but the last time I tried it...”

“What?” he asked.

She tugged at her scarf. “Trust me, it was humiliating.”

“But you did an amazing job with the band.” He nudged her shoulder.

Bailey dragged her palms down her pant legs. “That night I don't know what came over me.”

“Maybe you're braver than you think.”

“I don't want to take that chance and make a fool of myself. What if the next time I'm so nervous I pass out?”