My Sweets

Christmas Weekend with Friends

JESSA

I'm running around, doing finishing touches. The house is all decorated for Christmas. The fire is going. Festive smelling candles are lit. A platter of yummy Christmas cookies, courtesy of Bobby, are sitting out. I turn on some Christmas music and wait. All of our friends are coming over for a Christmas weekend. I'm beyond excited.

It's the first weekend in December and this past month has been a bit lonely. Bobby has finally opened his bakery, My Sweets, and it's a huge success. I knew it would be. Unfortunately that success means he's not around. He wakes up insanely early and he's exhausted when he comes stumbling back home late at night. His hours are extra long right now, as he is struggling to figure out a smooth plan and routine for him and the other bakers. He's already looking at hiring extra help. Of course the holidays are making him even more busy. I think this is why he suggested hosting our friends. He knew he wasn't going to be around much. It really is drastic, considering I was spending every day with him before this. I understand though and I am supportive of him. I just miss him.

I still remember when he surprised me with the name. The outdoor sign had just been hung and he couldn't wait to show me. He had me close my eyes until I stood in front of the bakery. The first thing I saw was his cute and giddy face when I opened my eyes. Then I looked up. Above a cute black and white striped awning was a metal sign that read My Sweets. I was shocked. I thought he was going with BB's so this was a huge surprise. It's perfect though and it's extra special since it's named after me.

I just finish pouring myself a glass of cranberry wine when I hear someone at my door. I take off running and open it to find Bre, Noah, Hannah and Gary. I squeal and jump, pulling them all in for hugs.

"I'm so happy you guys are here!"

"I'm so excited for a weekend with friends," Bre smiles at me.

"So where's Bobbo?" Gary asks.

I frown. "He won't be home until later. The bakery keeps him awfully busy."

"He better have made room to hang with us."

"He's going to try, at least that's what he tells me. We're going to have so much fun whether he's around or not. Everyone should be here soon and we have dinner reservations in two hours. Bobby promised to be home before we left. Good news though. Since you're here first, you get the pick of the rooms."

Bre immediately sprints up the stairs. "I know which one's mine."

I giggle. "She's definitely claiming the other room with the private bath."

Noah pumps his fist in the air. "Yes! That's my girl."

Chelsea, Ibrahim, Lottie, Kassam and Junno have finally arrived. We're hanging around the kitchen island, drinking, laughing and catching up. I keep nervously checking the time and sending Bobby reminder messages.

Me:
- Please tell me you've left. We're leaving soon.

Nothing. No response. I frown. He's busy and lost track of time. I guarantee it.

I paste a smile on my face. I knew this would probably happen, but I was really hoping that he'd make it. "Bobby's running late. Let's go ahead and leave so we don't miss our reservations. Hopefully he'll meet us there."

"Damn right he better or I'll go drag his ass out of that bakery." Junno winks at me.

BOBBY

I've been prepping for tomorrow. We have a lot of Christmas cakes and cookies ordered for pickup. I had tried keeping track of the time, but it got away from me. As soon as I hear the bakery phone ring, I knew. I glance at the clock and cringe. They're already at the restaurant. I run to the phone, answering it. "My Sweets," I nervously say even though I know who this is.