Mallory snorted. “I’m on it.”
A few minutes later, James stuck his head through the kitchen door, a worried expression on his face. “Heya,” he said to no one in particular.
Max was the first to look up. “What’s up, man?”
James stepped inside, allowing the door to swing shut behind him. He rubbed the back of his neck and took a deep breath. “Remember how you were saying the more the merrier?”
Alice heard him, stopping her turn on operation save CeCe’s back. “What’s up, babe?”
James forced a grin and stepped back, opening the door to reveal not one but two unexpected guests. “Merry freaking Christmas!” Addison exclaimed as she bounded into the kitchen, a very embarrassed-looking Chloe bringing up the rear. “Got room for two more?”
CHAPTER 10
Turkeys and hams a plenty ...
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Alice screamed, closingthe distance and wrapping Addison in a firm embrace. “Oh my God, Addy.” Behind them, Chloe shuffled her feet, clearly concerned they were interrupting a private party.
James draped his arm over her shoulder and pulled her into the fray. “Everyone, you all remember Addison’s partner, Chloe.” He waved his free hand around the kitchen, and added, “You remember everyone.”
Chloe raised her hand to the group and, in a quiet voice, said, “Merry Christmas.” Through her honey-colored skin, a blush crept up her neck. She hated being the center of attention on a good day, unlike her very boisterous girlfriend.
Max quickly washed his hands and extended one to Chloe. “It’s great to see you again, Chloe. You and Addison are more than welcome. Pull up a seat and make yourself comfortable.”
“Are you sure you have enough food?” Chloe asked, her expression pinched.
Addison joined Chloe, entwining their hands. “If Max says we’re fine, we’re fine.”
James nodded, looking more relaxed. “He’s an honest man. He wouldn’t say it if he didn’t mean it.”
“James is right,” Ginny perked up from her side of the kitchen. She’d washed a half dozen heads of lettuce for salads and was ready for a break. “How about I take you ladies out to the dining room? I was just about to start playing bartender.”
“Then you are the woman to follow,” Addison teased. Chloe trailed her girlfriend into the dining room as closely as a shadow.
Alice pulled James to the side of the kitchen and hissed. “Did you know they were coming? I feel terrible I didn’t get them any gifts.”
