Page 90 of Last Chance Christmas

“A girls’ night in would be wonderful. Make some hot chocolate and watch The Holiday.” Charlotte grinned and let out a short squeal.

Kianna had connected with Charlotte after interacting with the nurse several times a week when she brought patients to the hospital. Then when Kianna had found out Charlotte went to the same church, they’d bonded over their shared beliefs and professions, and the rest was history.

Kianna swallowed, and her throat constricted at the thought of watching a rom-com. She didn’t want to disappoint her friend. “Or have some girl time without the movies.” She winked to pretend the idea of watching a sappy, romantic Christmas movie didn’t bother her.

But her friend picked up on the unspoken words.

“We’ll add our own touch of holiday cheer.” Charlotte gave her a hug, then excused herself to go check on another patient.

“Why don’t we go eat in the cafeteria?” Kianna stood up and tossed the sheet that had been draped over her legs onto the bed.

Cole grabbed the bag of food. “Sounds good.”

“Then we can check on Rainy.” She followed him out into the hall and down to the elevator.

“We?” He raised his eyebrows.

“I was at the scene too.” Kianna pressed the button for the third floor. “Plus, she might be more inclined to speak if a woman is in the room.”

“Fair point.” Cole nodded.

They found a table in the cafeteria by the window.

Kianna was grateful they didn’t have to wait in line for food. The line wrapped around the corner as other medical personnel grabbed a quick dinner before getting back to their shifts.

“I got turkey and avocado, and ham and provolone. Which one would you like?” Cole pulled out the subs.

“That’s a hard choice.” Kianna placed a napkin on the table. “Want to split both?”

Cole handed her two halves, and she took a bite of the turkey.

“For the record, I can’t stand the cheesy holiday movies either.” Cole opened a water bottle and took a swig.

Kianna choked back a laugh and swallowed. All the men she’d ever known rolled their eyes at the holiday rom-coms, including her dad and brother. So Cole’s comment didn’t take her by surprise.

But something told her there was more behind his confession. “Based on your tone, I’d say you aren’t a fan of holidays in general.” She raised her voice and leaned forward to be heard over the clanging of dishes and other people talking.

“That obvious?” He grimaced.

“Welcome to the club.” She raised her water bottle and clinked it against his, then took a sip.

“Why not?” They both said in unison, and a glimmer shone in Cole’s eyes.

Were they really going to bond over being Scrooges during the holiday season?

“There’s a holiday party the PD puts on. And every year I have to come up with a lame excuse as to why I can’t go.” Cole leaned back in his chair and sighed.

“Eastside Firehouse is having one too.” Kianna crossed her arms. “Just say you have a family gathering. Everyone’s always having some party or another.”

“That would be far from the truth.” Cole cleared his throat. “I haven’t seen my parents in over a year.”

Kianna closed her mouth to keep her shock from showing. Despite her disdain for the festive season, she couldn’t fathom not spending time with her mom and dad. “Even if it means putting on a smile, singing Christmas carols, and baking cookies with my parents and my brother’s family, I can’t imagine not visiting them.”

Did that mean…

Chairs screeched along the floor, and a group of doctors walked past their table, chatting. Kianna studied Cole’s lips to understand what he was saying.

“They’re still alive,” he said, like he’d read her mind and answered her internal question. “I know it’s wrong. It’s just”—he shrugged—“seeing them is a reminder of how things used to be. And how things will never be the same again.”