365 Days of Us

Alexander Carter adjusted his tie, jaw clenched as his grandfather's voice echoed through the marble dining room.
"Alexander, you're twenty-seven. The tabloids call you a heartbreaker, but that stops now. I want to see you married before the year ends."
Xander smirked, leaning back in his chair. "Married? To who, Grandfather? Should I pick a name out of a hat?"
"You're not a boy anymore. It's time you settled down."
His smirk faded. Love? Marriage? Not again. Not after her. He pushed back his chair, ignoring the way his grandfather's glare burned into his back. He didn't need love. He didn't need anyone.

________

The tray in Lily's hands shook as she tried to balance three glasses of water at once.
"Lily, table seven!" her manager barked.
She forced a smile, placing the drinks down. Her feet ached, her tips barely covered rent, and Emily's medical bills sat in a pile on her nightstand at home. Her little sister's cough had gotten worse last night, but there was no money for the new medication.
She swallowed hard, whispering to herself: Just one more shift. Just one more day. Emily needs you strong.