The Holly Dates

by Brittainy C. Cherry

with how my brain worked, I made odd connections.

I hated men. If someone asked me an interesting fact about myself, it would be that I hated men.

“Let’s just say sometimes books are better than reality.”

I wondered what it was like in a head that didn’t deal with anxiety. That sounded relaxing.

“What if he doesn’t have enough to cover the cost?” “Then he shouldn’t be on a date. He should be filling out job applications.”

“You have a thing for emotionally detached men.

“I want to be better than good. I want to be your safe place.”

Compliments from him versus other men felt different.

Holly and her laughs felt like medicine to my soul, and I didn’t even know my soul felt sick.

“Don’t do that, Holly,” I whispered, lacing my hands together in my lap. “Don’t do what?” “Read the parts of my book that I don’t share with people.” “It’s a good book, Kai. I wish you’d let me read it all.”

You’re my favorite author.”

“Named after you.” I pulled out two glasses and began creating The Holly for us both. “Blackberry jam, prosecco, vodka, rosemary, and a splash of lime. It’s sweet, strong, and a bit sassy, adding character to everyone who encounters it. Like you.”

Her emotions were her strength, and I loved that about her.

I liked that about Kai—how he made me feel safe when my thoughts did the opposite.

“You’re just going through a storm right now. It can’t rain forever.”

“That’s the problem with trauma. Those who inflict it aren’t the ones who have to do the unpacking to heal from it.”

the one meant for you will never call you too much.

I’d take on every single heartbreak if it led me to him.