Our Deep End | ✔️

CHAPTER 24

AUTHOR'S NOTE

Another upload since I went MIA for a little. Enjoy!

Christians POV
"How do I look?" My dad asks, as we approach Elle's doorstep. It was Christmas Day, and we'd just arrived back from the Poconos last night. I had a pretty decent time. My dad was on his best behavior, and we shared a couple of laughs. It was still kinda hard to ignore everything he thinks I don't know, but I survived.

I can't count the number of times the name "Esme" almost slipped from my tongue. Or the amount of remarks that were said swiftly under my breath when he spoke of how my mother loved to ski. I didn't forget the news articles about her so-called "crash". An accident I'm doubtful truly occurred.

"You look fine, just relax." I roll my eyes, as he knocks on the door. On the plus side, I finally get to see Elle after two days of being apart. I know it's not a long time, but we've spent almost every day together since the senior trip.

"Marc? Oh my goodness, it's been forever." Elle's mom opens the door, and immediately greets my dad with a hug.

"It really has. You look amazing, Kira." He compliments, and hands her a bottle of wine as well as a gift bag. "Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas, Mrs. Maniquez." I smile, and greet her as well. She welcomes me with a warm hug, and I use my free arm to reciprocate. In the other, was my Christmas gift for Elle.

Upon walking inside, I'm met with the sight of crisp white tables decorated with tiny Christmas trees on each one. Cater waiters scattered the floor, carrying trays of drinks and small appetizers. There was a pretty big turnout, I guess they really do take Christmas seriously. I scan the room full of faces for the one I wanted to see the most, until I finally find her. She was leaned against a wall, talking to what seemed like a family member. Her smile was big, and beautiful as always. I wait for her to notice me while I slowly approach.

She finally looks up from her conversation, and we lock eyes. Her smile widens as she starts to walk quickly towards me.

"Hi-"

I cut her off, and wrap my arms around her. Suddenly the sun is brighter, and life is better. She made it better.

"I fucking missed you." I say into her neck, my gift dangling from my hands.

"I missed you more." I feel her squeeze me tighter. We pull away, and I take a good look at her face. She wore simple eye makeup that made the hazel pop out. I lean in with intentions to kiss her lips, but plant it on her cheek instead. I didn't wanna be disrespectful in front of her family members.

"Is that for me?" She points to the gift bag.

"Yup."

The ends of her mouth turn up into an excited smile, which provokes me to do the same.

"I have your gift upstairs. We should exchange there." She suggests. I nod my head in agreement and let her lead me up there by hand.

"It's quieter up here anyway." She grins, closing the door behind us.

"Yeah." I smile, and take a seat on her bed.

"I'm so excited for you to see your gift." Her nose scrunches up in the cutest way when she smiles.

"Me too, who's going first?"

"You can." She replies quickly.

"Oh so you think your gift is gonna be better than mine?" I tease, and hand over the big bag full of her gifts. "Before you get all defensive, I'm kidding."