Club Endless Fantasy

“I was thinking the same thing.” I nodded. “I don’t think I could possibly drink all of it by myself.

“We’ll probably get an email about the eggnog.” Mary shrugged. “Hopefully, Mr. Thornton won’t be too upset.”

“He seems to be smiling and laughing now.” I looked toward my boss. “Maybe he’ll forget about it by Monday.”

The party seemed to be a success. Most people seemed fairly pleased with their gifts. Bob was happy, and that was the most important thing to me. My gift might not have been very personal, but that was my own fault. I talked to Maggie more than I talked to most of the other people in the office except for Mr. Thornton, and I hadn’t really shared anything with her. As far as she knew, all I did was come to work early, drink coffee, and then go home so I could prepare to start the process all over again the following day. The Dillinger’s gift card was likely the result of the one conversation I had with her when I was discussing the account—or it was just a safe option since everyone shopped there at some point in their lives.

I’ve got to make more of an effort to get to know the people I work with. I spend more time with them than anyone else—although that may change now that I’m dating Ian.

The snow was heavier when I left the office, but the salt trucks had done a good job of keeping the roads clear. It was an easier drive since it was late and there weren’t that many cars on the road. The snow did limit travel, even if the roads were relatively safe. I got back to my apartment, changed into my pajamas, and reached for my cell phone. I promised Ian that I would message him as soon as I was home.

Elly: I’m home now.

Ian: Good. How were the roads?

Elly: They weren’t too bad.

Ian: Did you have fun at the party?

Elly: I did… Bob loved his gift, and I got a nice one myself.

Ian: You didn’t set the Christmas tree on fire or spike the eggnog out of spite? :)

Elly: No… Well, someone did spike the eggnog, but I had nothing to do with it.

Ian: It’s about time for me to make some of that myself. Have you ever heard of George Washington’s eggnog?

Elly: No? I don’t think so…

Ian: Maybe we can make it tomorrow.

Elly: Okay, that would definitely go along with our plans.

Ian: Bright and early, right?

Elly: Yep!

Ian: I’ll text you when I’m on the way.

Elly: Sounds good! I’ll see you tomorrow!

Ian: Goodnight beautiful. Sleep well.

Elly: You too.

I think we’re going to have a lot of fun tomorrow…

Chapter Twenty-Four

Ian

I woke up the next morning and practically hopped out of bed. It felt like Christmas morning, even though the holiday was still several days away. I was looking forward to spending Christmas with my family, seeing my parents, and watching my niece and nephew open their presents, but I was looking forward to spending the weekend with Elly a whole lot more. There was no doubt in my mind that I had fallen for her. I hated spending the night without having her by my side and in my bed. Thankfully, we had the weekend to make up for lost time.

I should check and see if she’s awake.

Ian: What did the jar of peanut butter say to the grape on Christmas morning?

Elly: Good morning… I have no idea.