Can't Love Christmas

Twelve

Ash hadn't slept well for three days, stressed about the Rowan situation. He didn't act as if he was in a committed relationship, so either Hannah was really chill about him hanging out with other girls, or she didn't know everything.

Mrs. Rawson had noted her downcast mood and drawn out her dilemma over tea. She clucked over Ash and told her about Rowan's past heartbreak, and relationship to Hannah. It did not have the desired effect of reassuring Ash.

Either way, Ash did not want to be causing any issues for them. More critically, she did not want the social moniker of being someone's Other Woman. Small towns talk, and she wanted to stay ahead of this. That title hit a bit too close to home.

Rowan texted when she was just starting her lunch break

The Grinch 

Just wanted to let you know I still don't hate you. What's next on the itinerary?

Ash

I don't think it's a good idea. We should probably stop.

The Grinch

???

She decided not to respond, and finished eating her lunch in the staff room. She'd been back to work for an hour before her phone buzzed again.

The Grinch

Did I do something wrong?

Ash

Sorry, I'm really busy at work today

The Grinch

Let me get this straight... you having a busy day at work means we stop the bet?

If you have the time, I'd like to talk to you. Come by the pub anytime.

She groaned and continued sweeping the floor. She was less busy than she had implied.

Sadiq noticed her distraction. "I think that part of the floor is clean. Unless you want to actually scrub it, it's time to move on."

"Sorry, Sadiq." He just laughed at her and returned to his office.

With an hour left in her day, Sadiq emerged and told her she should head home. "You're not acting like yourself today. Go rest and I will see you tomorrow. Let me know if you need anything."

Ash grabbed her bag and coat from the staff room and headed out, saying goodbye to Margaret on her way out the door.

At home, she changed into a pair of tights and a sweater, pulled her hair up into a ponytail and switched her contacts out for her glasses. She reheated some leftovers and sat on her couch, staring blankly at the television.

The black screen reflected her colourless face, and her thoughts were just as dark. She was about to throw away the best friend she had made so far, who had shown to actually care for her well-being, because she was worried about her reputation. It was time to talk to him and sort it all out. Lay all her cards on the table and see what comes up.

The drive to the Willow and Fern went faster than she thought possible and she faced the solid oak door before she knew it. She took a deep breath and pushed open the door.

The pub was busier than she expected, and the reason was obvious when a cheer went up from everyone at once. The hockey game was on. She pushed her way to the bar, and caught Rowan's eye. He nodded once at her and finished pulling the pint he was working on. She stayed where she was and watched him work.