*Patrick*
I almost couldn’t contain my excitement as soon as I saw Holly. She looked lovely as ever with her long hair curled into waves. But her eyes looked a little duller than usual, more earthy and dry than like a bright emerald.
I wanted to go to her, but as soon as she saw me, she turned away. At that moment it felt like someone had gut-punched me. She definitely saw me, and she definitely ignored me, too. I remembered what my aunt Louise had told me about giving her space while still letting her know I cared and wanted to see her when she was ready. I supposed she got the flowers when she went to work, but maybe she didn’t like them. Maybe she needed more time.
So throughout our caroling tour, I kept my eye on her. I tried to sneak in, but her friends had barricaded her off. I c
