Chapter 2
2
“Are you going to be okay?” Olivia’s voice was full of concern as she and Frankie walked side by side through the large courtyard, their heels clicking against the pavement.
Frankie forced a smile. “Yeah. Sure. Why not? Everything’s... great!”
The snow was falling gently, adding a festive touch to the bustling city that barely registered with Frankie. They were both dressed in their usual professional attire, but today felt different — like a strange interlude between what had been and what was about to be.
“Frankie...” Olivia’s skeptical tone cut through the holiday cheer surrounding them.
“Really,” Frankie insisted, laughing lightly as they approached the parking lot. “I’m fine. Ethan breaking up with me was a shock, but honestly, I’m not... sad. I’m relieved.” The words felt true enough, though the sting lingered more than she cared to admit.
“That’s because he wasn’t good enough for you,” Olivia said, her protective side flaring. “Who breaks up over text, anyway?”
Frankie let out a genuine laugh, shaking her head. “That’s very sweet of you, and I appreciate your support, but he’s a nice guy. Just not... my guy.”
“Do you think that’s why he wasn’t at the board meeting today? Too soon? Couldn’t face you? Coward,” Olivia teased, nudging her friend as they reached their cars.
Frankie giggled, feeling a little lighter. “Who knows? That board meeting stung, though. Oddly, worse than the breakup.” The thought of it still gnawed at her — a position she had practically created, the work she’d poured her heart into, all dismissed with a polite nod to someone else.
“That’s because you practically created that position and have been doing the work and developing the department for months,” Olivia reminded her, echoing her thoughts.
“I know.” Frankie sighed, unlocking her car. “I’m surprised I didn’t get the promotion. But strangely enough, despite the sting, I feel a sense of relief there, too.” She paused, considering her own words. Was she really relieved? Or just too tired to fight anymore?
“Maybe you’re ready for a change of scenery. Burnt out. Bored by your surroundings,” Olivia suggested, her tone upbeat.
“Definitely feeling disconnected, that’s for sure. I thought this was my dream, but now... not so sure.” Frankie couldn’t shake the feeling that she’d been chasing something that no longer fit her.
“The time off will do you good,” Olivia said, her energy unwavering. “You need a break. Doing anything special?”
Frankie’s expression softened. “I’m going home to Bethlehem Falls, spending Christmas with my grandmother.”
Olivia’s eyes widened. “Oh wow. You haven’t mentioned that place in years. When’s the last time you visited?”
“Years,” Frankie admitted with a chuckle, the memories flooding back. “I’m looking forward to it — I think — and I’m going to have an amazing holiday despite everything currently going wrong in my life.” It was a declaration she hoped would become true, even if she wasn’t entirely convinced yet.
“That’s the spirit! Good for you! It’s exactly what you need right now — a refreshing, grand holiday!” Olivia’s enthusiasm was contagious as they reached Frankie’s car.
“This is me,” Frankie said, tapping the trunk. “I better get going, or I’ll miss my flight later.” She smiled, feeling a bit more optimistic.
“Have a great trip, Frankie,” Olivia called out, walking backward toward her own vehicle. “We’ll do coffee as soon as you get back, and you can tell me all about it.”
“Sounds great. I look forward to it,” Frankie replied, watching her friend go.
“Merry Christmas!” Olivia hollered just as another woman approached, eyeing Frankie with a curious glance.
“Merry...” Frankie started to respond, but her words trailed off as she overheard the women talking a few cars away.
“No boyfriend. No promotion. Everyone’s talking about it. Talk about a rotten holiday,” the other woman said, her voice low but sharp enough to cut through the winter air.
“Christmas,” Frankie finished softly to herself, the earlier optimism slipping away.
She tossed her work bag into the backseat, letting out a sigh as she climbed into the car. With the city’s festive lights twinkling around her, she couldn’t help but wonder if this trip back home might just be the fresh start she desperately needed — or another thing to add to her list of disappointments.
"Yay, Christmas," Frankie muttered sarcastically as she pulled her seatbelt across her and started the car. "Can't wait."