Nathan nods. “Turns out, he’s getting married in December. Normally, I wouldn’t make such a big deal about this, but the wedding is on Christmas Eve. I know how important your family is to you, so I know it’s a lot to ask, but would you be willing to be my date?” Hope fizzles in my chest, but I do my best to rally. It was only my silly expectations that turned this into something it wasn’t. I can’t blame that on Nathan. “Of course I’ll be your date,” I say, giving his hands a quick squeeze. “I would love to.”
