The Replacement's Farewell

Synopsis

On Christmas Eve, I prepared a feast and waited for Eric Johnson. He didn't even glance at the food; he just packed his bags and said, "I can't celebrate with you this year." I said nothing, silently eating my pie. That night, his first love, Emily Grant, posted a timely photo. In it, Emily was smiling, piggybacking on Eric with a big Christmas tree outside. She said, "Raise our glasses for love." I didn't rage. I just liked the post. Eric called, voice panicked, "Emma, don't overthink it. I'll make it up to you next year." I was silent for a moment, then laughed softly. Next year? Eric, there won't be a next time.