Page 6 of Sleigh Me Baby

A deep blush spreads across her cheeks. Ah, there it is, that’s what I was looking for. I didn’t imagine that moment between us when we first met back in the office, and this is proof.

“I’m going to go and grab the cases of water. I’ll be right back.”

“You got us water too?” I hear her ask as she walks behind me to the door.

“You can never be too prepared,” I say to her before walking out to my truck.

I walk back up the stairs of the front porch with both cases of water and set them down on the floor in the corner of the kitchen. When I turn back around Natalie is watching me.

“It’s like we’re preparing for a hurricane.”

“Have you been through a lot of those?” I ask leaning against the island.

She shrugs. “I was born and raised in Florida. It’s kind of just part of life down there ya know? I’ve been through a few, but recently they seem to be getting worse. Maybe that’s just because I’m older and understand the dangers more than I did when I was a kid.”

“Do you like living in Florida?”

She scrunches up her nose. “I guess. It’s what I know. Okay, that’s a lie. It’s so damn hot six months out of the year, and the humidity sucks. It’s not my favorite place to be.”

“Where is your favorite place?” I ask her.

She gives me a shy smile. “I’ve never been there, but I’d love to go to Alaska. I love the cold weather and the pictures I’ve seen are beautiful.”

“You should go at least for a vacation.”

“Maybe one day I will.” She says then yawns.

“I’m going to get out of your hair. You’re probably exhausted from your drive.”

She nods and walks with me to the door.

“I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?”

“For the sleigh ride.”

“Are you driving the sleigh?” She asks.

“That would be me.”

“Well, then I’ll see you tomorrow for the sleigh ride.” She says and opens the door for me to leave.

“Goodnight sweet Florida girl,” I say grabbing her hand and kissing the top of it.

“Goodnight Georgia boy… I mean man.” She laughs.

I get in my truck and drive home, excited for what tomorrow will bring.

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