After hanging up the phone, Estelle's phone was flooded with New Year's greetings. In several group chats, people were busy sending digital red envelopes. In one of these digital exchanges, Carson managed to snag $11.10 from a digital gift sent by Marina, then casually sent one worth $131.40 in return...

Scrolling through her unread messages, Estelle noticed that Manley had also sent her a red envelope.

"Happy New Year, Estelle!"

"Knew you weren't around, I didn't head back to Jefferson City either."

"This month, I've been to a bunch of places. Carved a hole in the glacier at Snowy Studios and buried a box inside. Of course, I won't tell you what I put in there. If you're curious, you'll have to wait until the glacier melts, the box drifts through the Bering Strait into the Pacific, and eventually washes up on the coast of Jefferson City. What do you think the odds are?"

"I'm still on my world tour, visiting the places we talked about but never got to see together. Don't worry, I'll make sure to be back for your wedding!"

"Just saw a girl throwing me a flirtatious look. Really, as if someone as outstanding as me would be so easily swayed."

"Anyway, wishing my dearest all the health, success, and happiness in the world. May you have peace and prosperity throughout the year. That's about all the idioms I know. Basically, all the best things in the world for you!"

Estelle felt a bittersweet pang in her chest as she glanced at the time stamp; the message was sent an hour ago. She replied, "Don't go overboard with the extreme sports. Without me around, you better recognize your limits. Stay safe."

"Are there any locals celebrating the New Year where you are?"

all the wishes you gave me, right

I'm not as skilled as you, otherwise, I would've swept you off your feet before Jonathan had

a small gathering for

to even wish me a 'Happy

chuckled and texted back,

holding up a bottle, "I'll be

"Deal."

with Manley, Estelle exited the messaging app only to find a text from an unknown number, "Miss you. Will come see you after the

unfamiliar number, Estelle wondered who it

over, "Who's got you smiling

a grin, "Magdalen and Emily are coming to

"All of them?"

?" Jonathan raised an

The house might not fit everyone, especially since we'll have guests coming over for

go talk to

on top of her head, "Seven years of marriage, and this is

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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