Page 58 of Christmas for Keeps

“I have to finish something for Liz. I promised it to her by the beginning of the week.”

Something seemed off, but I was too hungry to think about it. “Where are we eating?”

“Burger Nosh.” He took my hand and tugged. “It’s on the next street over.”

CHAPTER20

Zach

Delicate snowflakes driftedfrom the sky as Con and I arrived home. With my package tucked inside my coat pocket, I got out of the Land Cruiser and made my way over to the snowman. His frozen figure shimmered in the soft wintry glow, and I grazed my hand over his icy belly.

Curiosity sparkled in Con’s eyes as he joined me and asked, “Why are you rubbing Nick’s tummy?”

“It’s a secret charm for luck.”Because I’ve never wanted good luck with anything more than I do right now.Slowly, I withdrew my hand, and Con and I locked eyes. “You should give it a shot,” I encouraged, my heart silently pleading. “We both deserve all the good things life has to offer.”

“They’re already happening, but a little extra luck never hurts.” Con brushed his lips against mine and ran his hand across Nick’s stomach.

The snow danced in the air like bits of lace, and our breath plumed around us as we gazed at each other. It was a moment frozen in time, like our snowman, yet it held the promise of thawing hearts.

Our lips met again in a sweet, lingering kiss, and the chill seemed to disappear as our bodies pressed together. While our tongues played, the weight of the last four years lifted from my shoulders, replaced by joy and hope.

When our lips parted, Con smiled. “I love you,” he whispered, his voice as soft as the snowflakes dotting his hair.

My heart soared. “I love you too, babe.”

We remained still, wrapped in each other’s arms, admiring the beauty of the snowy landscape. The world was quiet and still; surely it had paused to allow us this moment of togetherness.How did I survive without Connor in my life?

Finally, we drew away from our hug and headed back to the SUV. While I handed Connor two grocery bags, he said, “It was a great idea to stop at that mini-mart. Who knew they had cut-to-order deli meats and cheeses?”

“The wonders of life in a great small town. Glad you remembered cornbread mix. Your roast chicken is delicious, but it’s even better with stuffing.”

Chuckling, he kissed my cheek. “Maybe you’ll givemea stuffing later?”

“I’d say that’s a safe bet. Stuffing you sounds like a great way to celebrate Christmas Eve.”

After we put the food away, Con made hot chocolate, and I built a fire and turned on the holiday lights. I’d just started a Christmas playlist over the Bluetooth speakers when he appeared and handed me my mug. “I’ll have a surprise in a few minutes.”

I rubbed a hand across his back. “Which is?”

“Cookies. They’re from the premade dough we bought, but they’ll be good.”

“I can’t wait.”

The logs popped and crackled in the fireplace, and the flames cast dancing shadows across the room. As the scent of freshly baked cookies wafted in the air, we settled on the couch and pulled a soft blanket over us. When I reached for his hand, the contentment I’d felt outside washed over me again.

I rested my head on his shoulder, and he kissed the top of my head. “You know,” he said, “I used to think that love was something I’d never find. But then I met you, and everything changed.”

Raising my head, I looked at him. “I feel the same way. You’ve brought so much happiness into my life.”

“Except when I—”

I silenced him with another kiss, and in that moment, I was certain our love was a rock-solid foundation in both our lives, a backbone that would support the life we would hopefully have together. It was a love that required action, and I didn’t know how much longer I could wait for the right moment.

The kitchen timer caused us to pull apart, and Con went to take the cookies out of the oven. He brought back a plateful, and while we ate, he told me about Emory coming into the shop, and how he and Liz threw him out.

I shook my head. “Unbelievable. I’ve never liked Emory, but I didn’t realize he’s nuts.”

“Maybe he’ll leave us alone now,” Connor said.

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