“Yeah, just needed to cool down is all.â€? I say, letting out a sigh of what I hoped sounded like relief.

The party continues and everyone has a blast. Secret Santa is a blast, with some very odd five dollar gifts being exchanged. I end up with a huge candle and Edwin gets a deck of cards. By the end of the night, I’m having such a good time I forget about not being with the one I love.

“This was amazing!â€? Claire squeals, hugging me as she goes to leave.

“It really was.â€? Chris tells me, stepping up and hugging me after Claire leaves. I squeeze him just a little tighter and hold him close to me just a fraction of a second longer then everyone else, not ever wanting to let him go.

“Thanks.â€? I smile.