Chapter 29
29
Bundled in bold holiday sweaters, scarves, and knit caps, Frankie and Gloria sat together on the steps of the cabin, their hands wrapped around steaming cups from "Holly & Jolly’s." The festive mugs added a cheerful touch to the crisp evening, but it was the warmth of their conversation that truly chased away the chill.
Joe approached quietly from the side, intending to join them, but paused as the sound of their voices drifted toward him. Curiosity rooted him to the spot, and instead of stepping into view, he lingered just out of sight, listening to the conversation unfold.
“I just don’t see myself in that role, living there again or with him,” Frankie admitted, her voice carrying a hint of resignation.
Gloria tilted her head, her eyes narrowing. “Are you sure about that?”
Frankie sighed, her shoulders sagging a little. “I’ll always cherish the memories I built — we built — but it’s time to move forward. I left for a reason.”
Joe’s heart clenched painfully as her words landed like a punch. He immediately assumed she was talking about him — about leaving Bethlehem Falls behind. The weight of it crushed his chest, and before he could hear anything else, he turned on his heel and marched away, his heart heavy with disillusionment.
Behind him, their conversation carried on, blissfully unaware of his presence, each word fading into the night as he distanced himself from what he thought was the inevitable.
“The only reason the board called to offer me the promotion after all is because they fired Ethan for losing the deal here,” Frankie said, shaking her head.
“They know you’re close to the family and might have a chance to salvage a deal,” Gloria responded, her voice matter-of-fact.
Frankie let out a soft laugh. “I’d never. This place needs to remain with the Kings — their vision, their legacy.”
Gloria nodded, her eyes softening with pride. “What does this mean for you, then?”
Frankie shifted in her seat, her gaze distant. “Well, I was hoping you might want a roommate. I don’t have a job now that I have… quit mine, but I’ll be good for the rent eventually. Maybe the diner is hiring.”
Gloria chuckled as she wrapped a comforting arm around her granddaughter, pulling her closer. Frankie rested her head on Gloria’s shoulder, letting out a deep breath as if the weight of the world had lifted a little.
“Nonsense,” Gloria said firmly. “You always have a home with me. Rent free. Bethlehem Falls is your home, this community, and your family. It will all work out.”
Frankie smiled softly, her heart warming at her grandmother’s words. “It took me a while to figure it out, but it really is home.”
Gloria’s tone shifted, gentle but probing. “And Joe?”
Frankie’s smile faltered slightly. “He’s leaving, remember?”
Gloria raised an eyebrow, undeterred. “Have you thought about asking him to stay?”
Frankie shot to her feet, anxiety rippling through her. “How could I? We’re all figuring out what he already knew about this place. It would be wrong to ask him to give up his dream and stay now.”
Gloria stood as well, dusting off her hands. “What if the dream he’s chasing is already here?”
Frankie blinked, her heart fluttering with uncertainty. “You think?”
Gloria smiled, a knowing twinkle in her eye. “I think we better get to the town Christmas Eve party at the lodge and find out.”
With a shared glance, they gathered their things and set off toward the festivities, their spirits light and excited for the night ahead.