“Do you have plans?” he eventually asked.
I cocked my head to the side, studying him. “Well,” I said slowly, still confused. “I thought Christmas Eve was the big deal. The dinner and presents and midnight mass with your family. I know Christmas Day isn’t the whole family together, so I figured I’d see you whenever you could fit me in.”
Noah looked up at me, finally meeting my eyes. “Yes, it’s all about Christmas Eve for the family get-together. I usually spend Christmas Day with my parents, too, but you’re welcome there or we can do our own thing.” He stopped, swallowed, and then his voice was softer as he asked, “Are you going to see your parents?”
I tensed automatically, and I consciously made the effort to relax. “No. I haven’t seen them since I was eighteen. Haven’t even spoken to them. Why would I see them on Christmas?”