Chapter 27

In the lead up to Christmas, Kate barely had a free moment. She lifted her weekend bag onto her bed, packing enough clothes to last for a few days. Her first semester back at college had flown by, especially the last week, when she'd handed in two papers, hating that she needed to pull an all-nighter to get it done. She'd still been working every weekend and a few evening shifts, and whatever time she had left, she tried to spend it with Hollis.

Right now, Kate should have been exhausted, but she was strangely energized. Last night, Lexi had told her that this was the happiest she'd ever seen her, and Kate told her the same thing. Lexi was officially with Ash now, and they made such a lovely couple.

A knock at the door took her from her thoughts as she added a few pairs of her sexiest underwear to the bag. "Come in."

"Working tomorrow?" Lexi asked as she came in and sat on the edge of the bed.

"Yeah." She shrugged. "I don't mind. Christmas Eve is the same as any other day for me."

"Do you want to come with me? You know my parents love you. Although, they'd probably think we're together like they did last time I brought you home with me."

Kate smiled. "You're not bringing Ash?"

"No." Lexi pressed her lips together. "I want to, but it's too soon. I don't want to mess this up."

"I actually have plans," Kate said as she kept packing.

"Oh? You're going away with Hollis?"

"No. She's got the house to herself for a few days." Kate met her gaze.

"You too have it so bad," Lexi said with a smile. "I love it. Any idea when the divorce will be official?"

"No." Kate sighed. "Soon. She hopes."

"She's okay with all this sneaking around?"

"Yeah. She told me that her husband is cheating on her, so I think she's less worried now. If we do get caught, she's got proof that he's been unfaithful too." Kate zipped up her bag. "I hate that I'm even involved in this, but at the same time…"

"I know. Soon things will be normal," Lexi said, giving her a reassuring smile.

"I hope so."