Grateful Hearts (Home for the Holidays)

Chapter Sixteen

The pool hall was buzzing with Thanksgiving Eve energy, familiar faces, and old friends coming together to celebrate before the big family meals tomorrow. Zach leaned against the wall, pool cue in hand, watching Bear and Joker challenge each other at a game on one of the tables. His younger brother Ethan was somewhere in the crowd, reconnecting with people he hadn’t seen in a while.

Zach tried to focus on the easy banter and laughter around him, but his mind kept drifting to Chantel. He’d made himself stay out of her way all day, knowing she was busy preparing food for Thanksgiving, but it hadn’t stopped him from sneaking a few peeks whenever he got the chance. Every time he caught a glimpse of her, the memory of their kiss flooded back to him, filling him with a warmth he hadn’t expected.

That kiss. He could still feel the way she fit perfectly in his arms, the softness of her lips, the spark that lit him up from the inside the second they connected. He’d dated before, sure, but nothing had ever felt like that. And now, he found himself craving more—more of her, more of those moments. He couldn’t help but feel a little anxious tonight, knowing that she’d be walking through those doors soon.

“Yo, Zach,” a voice called, snapping him out of his thoughts. He turned to see Johnny, one of his old high school friends, leaning casually against the bar, giving him a grin. Johnny had always been a ladies' man, a big-time flirt known for leaving the pool hall with a different girl on his arm each night. Zach liked Johnny well enough, but that reputation didn’t sit well with him tonight. Not with Chantel on his mind.

As if on cue, the door to the pool hall swung open, and Zach’s heart jumped. Chantel walked in, arm-in-arm with Clover. She looked stunning in a pair of form-fitting jeans and a soft green sweater that hung off one shoulder, her thick, brown hair cascading down her back. His fingers practically itched to run through it.

He couldn’t quite believe how strong his feelings for her were becoming. He’d never planned on letting himself fall for someone, not with his life in the military. It didn’t seem fair to anyone, with his schedule being so unpredictable. But maybe he’d been wrong. If Bear could make it work with Jocelyn and their two kids, and Clover could be engaged to Joker, then maybe, just maybe, he could make it work with Chantel.

His gaze followed her as she and Clover made their way through the crowd. Clover quickly went over to Joker, leaving Chantel to make her way toward him. His pulse quickened as she approached, each step making him feel more nervous and excited.

But just before she reached him, Johnny stepped in front of her, blocking her path. Zach’s jaw tightened, irritation flaring in his chest. He watched Johnny smile at her with that charming grin and heard him say, “Well, hello, gorgeous. Where did you come from?”

Zach was getting ready to get Chantel, but his irritation faded quickly when Chantel gave Johnny a polite smile and said, “Sorry, cowboy, but I’m actually here to see Zach.”

A smile tugged at Zach’s lips. Hearing her say that she was there for him stirred something fierce and possessive in him. Without wasting a second, he walked over to her, ignoring Johnny’s raised eyebrows. He leaned down and gave her a light kiss on the cheek, making his intentions clear.

Chantel looked up at him, a smile spreading across her face, then turned to Johnny. “Excuse us,” she said sweetly, taking Zach’s hand and leading him away. As they walked off, he caught Clover’s eye across the room, and she gave him a playful thumbs-up. He chuckled, feeling a little lighter.

When they reached a quieter corner, Zach turned to her, a smirk on his face. “What would you like to drink?”

Chantel smiled, tilting her head as she looked at him. “I’d love a whiskey sour, please.”

“Whiskey sour it is.” He grinned, feeling that warmth settle in his chest again, that familiar spark from the kiss rekindling.

◆◆◆

As Chantel stepped into the pool hall with Clover, she felt a wave of excitement mixed with a little bit of nervousness. She’d been looking forward to seeing Zach all day, even though she’d tried to keep herself busy cooking in the kitchen with his mom. Spending the afternoon preparing for tomorrow’s Thanksgiving feast had been surprisingly relaxing.

Being with Zach’s family felt so much different than at the restaurant. There was no pressure, just the warmth of good company and the scent of fresh spices and fresh-baked pies filling the air.

She couldn’t ignore the thrill of catching Zach sneaking peeks at her as she worked. She couldn’t stop thinking about that amazing kiss they’d shared in the pantry. She smiled to herself, thinking about how the pantry seemed to be the go-to spot for “hookups” in the Walker household.

As soon as she entered the pool hall, her eyes immediately found Zach. He was sitting with his brothers and Joker, looking as relaxed and handsome as ever. Clover made a beeline for Joker while Chantel kept moving toward Zach, unable to stop the fluttering in her stomach. But just as she was about to reach his table, someone stepped directly into her path.

She stopped, a bit startled as the tall, okay-looking cowboy stood in her way.

“Well, hello, gorgeous. Where did you come from?”

Chantel looked the guy over and realized that this was the guy that Clover had warned her about. Apparently, he had a reputation for being a man-whore.

“Sorry, cowboy, but I’m here to see Zach.”

She felt a warm hand on her shoulder, and when she turned, she found Zach there. He didn’t hesitate, leaning in to press a kiss to her cheek, his touch sending butterflies swirling in her belly. It was a sensation she’d never felt with Mario.

Zach turned and looked at Johnny, keeping his hand on Chantel’s shoulder. “She’s with me,” he told Johnny.

Johnny raised his hands in surrender, clearly taking the hint, and backed off with a disappointed shrug. But Chantel’s heart was still racing from Zach’s touch. He made her feel so seen, so special. It was completely different from Mario, who always seemed more focused on himself than on her. Zach seemed to truly notice her—her laugh, her smile, even her small quirks.

But as much as she was enjoying this moment with him, a small voice in her gut warned her not to fall too hard. After all, this was just a holiday. They hadn’t talked about what might come next. So, she told herself to enjoy it but not to get carried away.

“Come on,” Zach said, taking her hand and leading her over to the table. As they reached his brothers, he turned to her with a smile. “You look beautiful tonight.”

Chantel’s cheeks heated up, and she laughed softly, looking down. “Thank you,” she said, her voice quiet. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d blushed like this.

Just as she took a seat next to him, a waitress came over.

“What would you like to drink?” Zach asked her.

“I’ll take a Whiskey Sour, please,” she told him.

She settled into her chair, watching as Zach and his brothers went back to their pool game, but her gaze drifted around the pool hall. She noticed a few pretty girls here and there, all eyeing the Walker siblings, their looks full of interest and curiosity.

A small twist of anxiety gripped her stomach. She wasn’t usually one to get jealous, but seeing how easily Zach drew attention from other women made her wonder if she was setting herself up for heartbreak. She was falling for him, hard and fast.

Chantel took a sip of her drink, hoping the strong drink would steady her nerves.

◆◆◆

Chantel was having the time of her life. Surrounded by Zach and his family, she couldn't remember the last time she’d had this much fun.

Zach had been teaching her to play pool, and although she’d started out shaky, she was getting the hang of it. And from the grin on Zach’s face, she knew he was impressed. Every time he found a reason to touch her, whether it was a light brush on her arm or a lingering hand at her waist.Each touch left a warmth on her skin that lingered, making her head feel a little light, though that could have been from the drinks, too.

The drinks, though. Chantel’s bladder was starting to complain loudly. She waited for Zach to take his next shot, then turned toward the hallway that led to the bathrooms. But she didn’t get far before she felt a gentle tug on her arm.

“Whoa, hold up,” Zach said, laughing as he pulled her back.

She giggled, leaning against him. “I’m just going to the bathroom, Zach. My bladder is about to burst. If I don’t go now, there might be a whole new kind of disaster in this pool hall.”

He grinned, his gray eyes dancing with amusement. “Well, we can’t have that, can we?” He leaned in close, his lips brushing her ear. “I’ll walk with you.”

She looked at him, raising a playful eyebrow. “What, you don’t trust me to make it to the ladies’ room on my own? I’m pretty sure I’ve got this,” she teased, rolling her eyes dramatically.

“Oh, I trust you,” he said, his grin widening. “I just don’t trust men like Johnny. And you’ve gained quite a bit of attention tonight.” His hand lingered on her lower back as he guided her down the dim hallway.

The moment they were out of view from the rest of the group, he gently tugged her back, pulling her close. She felt her back press against the wall as he leaned in, caging her in with his arms on either side of her. His face was so close to hers that she could see the tiny flecks of black in his gray eyes.

His voice was low and smooth, tinged with a slight buzz from the drinks but full of intent. “Do you have any idea how badly I’ve been dying to kiss you again?” he whispered, his breath warm against her cheek.

Chantel’s heart skipped a beat, and without overthinking, she rose up on her tiptoes, wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling his lips to hers.This wasn’t like their earlier stolen kiss in the pantry. No, this kiss was deep, hungry, and intense, as if both of them were trying to convey everything they’d been feeling in the span of a heartbeat. Her fingers slid through his hair, pulling him even closer as their bodies pressed together. She could feel his hands at her waist, gripping her as if he never wanted to let go.

His lips were warm and insistent, moving against hers with an urgency that sent a spark through her, lighting her up from head to toe. She felt her pulse racing, her breaths coming quicker as he pulled her tighter, deepening the kiss. It was like the world around them disappeared, and it was just them, locked in this moment.

When they finally pulled away, both of them were breathless. Zach rested his forehead against hers, his chest rising and falling with each heavy breath. “What am I gonna do with you, Chantel?” he murmured, his voice low, tinged with a rough edge she’d never heard before.

She opened her eyes, catching the conflict flickering in his gaze. His words had two meanings—one was playful, teasing. But beneath that, she felt something else, like a hint of hesitation, as if he wasn’t sure if this was something he should let himself want. And in that second, she felt a pang deep inside, like he was already pulling away, even after everything they’d just shared.

But she didn’t want to dwell on it, not right now. Not when everything felt so raw and vulnerable. She gave him a quick, shy smile and lightly touched his arm. “I really do need to get to the bathroom,” she said softly, trying to lighten the mood. Then, before he could say anything else, she slipped out of his arms and walked toward the bathroom, each step feeling harder than the last.

As she walked away, she felt a strange ache settle in her chest. For the first time, she let herself wonder if maybe she was getting in too deep. She barely knew what her future held, much less Zach’s.

◆◆◆

Chantel felt the faint buzz of alcohol warming her as she made her way to the restroom.

When Zach had whispered in her ear, telling her he wanted to kiss her again, it had sent a spark down her spine, cutting right through the tipsiness. She’d laughed it off, giving him a playful push, but her heart wasn’t laughing. It was racing.

Inside the restroom, Chantel steadied herself, letting out a deep breath as she washed her hands. The reflection staring back at her in the mirror was one she hadn’t seen in a long time—a woman with something hopeful glimmering in her eyes. That was the dangerous part.

With Mario’s betrayal, she’d sworn to protect herself, never to let anyone in who could tear her apart.

But Zach wasn’t just some guy. He was, well, something more.

She stepped out of the restroom, a soft smile lingering on her lips, but it vanished when she spotted Zach down the hallway. He was holding hands with a woman she hadn’t seen before—she had striking red hair, her laughter echoing softly in the narrow hall. Chantel’s heart sank as Zach led her out the side exit, and something in her stomach twisted painfully, an all-too-familiar feeling clawing its way up from the pit of her chest.

She felt paralyzed as she watched them disappear out the door. Every instinct told her to leave it alone, to walk away. But her feet moved on their own, drawing her closer until she was peeking through the small window in the door, her breath held as if releasing it would shatter her.

There they stood, close, hands still entwined. And then, as if in slow motion, she saw Zach lean in, his face tilting towards the woman’s.

Chantel’s vision blurred, her heart shattering into a hundred jagged pieces. She turned away, bile rising in her throat that had nothing to do with the drinks she’d had.

How could she be so stupid, thinking even for a second that there could be something real between her and Zach? Fighting back tears, she forced herself to take a deep breath. She wouldn’t give in to the ache squeezing her chest, not here.

With slow, steadying steps, Chantel made her way back to the main area, where her friends sat around the table. The laughter and noise seemed distant as if she were trapped in a bubble of her own misery. She forced a tight smile, praying no one noticed the sheen in her eyes or the way her hands shook slightly. But as she took her seat, Clover’s gaze fell on her with a concerned frown.

“Chantel, are you okay?” Clover’s voice was gentle, a soft hand reaching for her arm.

She nodded, somehow keeping her voice level. “I’m fine. Just… not feeling great. I think I’m going to head back to the house.”

Clover’s frown deepened, and she opened her mouth to protest, but Chantel quickly shook her head. “Really, don’t worry about me. Stay and enjoy the night. I’ll just call an Uber.”

Clover hesitated, worry evident in her eyes. Just as Chantel turned to leave, Clover stopped her. “Wait. Where’s Zach? Does he know you’re leaving?”

Chantel’s chest tightened at the mention of his name, but she kept her expression neutral. “I’m not sure. The last time I saw him, he was in the hall by the restroom. If you could just let him know I left, I’d appreciate it.”

A flicker of confusion crossed Clover’s face, but she nodded, pulling Chantel into a warm hug. “I’m so glad you’re here this year, Chantel. I’ve never seen Zach like this before. It’s like he’s really come alive again.”

The words tore at Chantel’s heart, but she forced a grateful smile, clinging to her composure until she stepped outside. The cold air hit her, grounding her, and she let out a shuddering breath just as her Uber pulled up. She climbed in, grateful for the escape, her mind already dreading the awkwardness tomorrow would bring.

As the car pulled away, she sank back against the seat, trying to steady her thoughts.

After cooking dinner for Zach and his family tomorrow, she’d make her exit. She’d slip away quietly, leaving no trace of the heartache she was leaving behind.

◆◆◆

Zach leaned back against the wall in the narrow hallway of the pool hall, feeling better than he had in a long time. His thoughts drifted to Chantel, picturing her laughing and teasing him only moments ago. He hadn’t expected to feel this way, but here he was, genuinely wanting to see where things could go with her. He hadn’t exactly figured out what he wanted when this all started, but the more time he spent with Chantel, the clearer it became. Whatever this was, he wanted it.

He glanced at the restroom door, anticipating the moment she’d walk out so they could pick up where they’d left off. He was working up the nerve to tell her he was willing to make this work, no matter what it took. He knew they’d need to talk about what came next, but he was ready.

Just then, a familiar voice called his name from down the hallway. Zach looked up, surprised to see Naomi, his ex from years back. When she first broke up with him, it broke his heart, though he understood her reasoning. He then considered their breakup mutual—two people who cared deeply for each other but knew they weren’t meant to be. They’d managed to stay friends, though life and time had pulled them in different directions.

“Naomi!” He greeted her with a smile, genuinely happy to see her.

“Hey, stranger!” She beamed, giving him a quick hug. “It’s been way too long.”

“Yeah, it has. You look great,” he replied, glancing once more at the restroom door, hoping Chantel would join them soon.

Naomi noticed his glance and gave him a soft nudge. “Hey, would you mind talking with me for a second? There’s something important I need to tell you.”

Zach hesitated, knowing Chantel would be coming out any moment. But the look on Naomi’s face told him she meant it, so he nodded. “Yeah, of course. Let’s step outside.”

Once they were outside, Naomi reached for his hands, smiling brightly. He took her hands, feeling a mix of curiosity and nostalgia. She was beautiful, as always, and he’d heard she was in a serious relationship the last time he was in town.

“Zach, I wanted you to hear this from me,” she began, her eyes warm with happiness. “I’m getting married and I’m pregnant.”

The news caught him off guard, but a wide smile spread across his face. “Naomi, that’s amazing! I’m so happy for you. Congratulations!”

He hugged her, giving her a friendly kiss on the cheek. It was good to see her this happy, and he meant it. Naomi had always wanted a family, and he was glad she’d found that with someone. They lingered for a moment, catching up, and as they turned to go back inside, Naomi looked at him curiously.

“So, are you seeing anyone?”

For a moment, Zach hesitated. Chantel and he hadn’t exactly defined things, but whatever it was, he wanted it to be something real. “Yeah,” he said, a little smile tugging at his lips. “Actually, she’s here. I’d love to introduce you to her.”

Naomi’s eyes sparkled with excitement as they made their way back into the pool hall, and her fiancé, Ian, joined them, extending a hand to Zach. “Congratulations, man. You and Naomi are perfect for each other.”

“Thanks, Zach,” Ian said, shaking his hand warmly.

Zach led them over to the table where he and the others had been sitting, but when they arrived, his heart sank. Chantel wasn’t there. He scanned the area, his brow furrowing, and turned to Clover.

“Hey, did Chantel make it back from the restroom?” he asked, a slight edge of worry creeping into his voice.

Clover looked up at him with a puzzled expression. “Yeah. She left a little while ago. She said she wasn’t feeling well.”

The words hit him like a gut punch, confusion flashing through his mind. “She left? Why wouldn't she tell me?”

Clover seemed equally confused, glancing back toward the hallway. “She said she couldn't find you.”

Zach’s stomach churned. What had happened? They’d been having a great time, and everything seemed fine. He took out his phone and dialed Chantel, but the call went straight to voicemail. He tried again, a knot of worry forming in his chest when the same thing happened.

“Clover,” he said, his voice low with concern, “did she say anything else before she left?”

Clover shook her head, her gaze softening with sympathy. “No, she just said she wasn’t feeling well. But I don’t know. Something seemed off.”

Zach couldn’t shake the feeling that he was missing something big. They’d been on the brink of something real, something he hadn’t wanted to admit until tonight. And now, without explanation, she was gone.

As he stood there, his mind raced, replaying the last moments they’d shared, wondering what he’d missed, what might have changed so suddenly.