Abbie Harper wound her way through the crowded walkway as shop lights began to glow in the settling dusk. In an hour, New York’s Bryant Park would resemble a life-sized Christmas village, with clear glass kiosks aglow with holiday lighting, and shop after shop offering comfort food and hot drinks for meandering shoppers.
Phone to ear, Abbie said, “I can’t see you. Oh—there you are!” She promptly waved as she spied Taylor Hillman sitting alone at a table near the ice skating rink.
Abbie plopped down on the wood slat chair and wrinkled her brow. “I’m so sorry I’m late. You shouldn’t have waited for me.”
“Part of the joy of indulging in Max Brenner’s hot chocolate is sharing the guilt with someone you love.” Taylor grinned and stood up. “Save my seat.”
“Wait.” Abbie dug through her bag fo
