Page 62 of The Merriest Christmas

Our lips met, sealing in a kiss that was full of sparks and magic.It always was with Seaver.I had a feeling it always wouldbe.As his lips moved against mine, I was aware of my family watching, but I couldn't bring myself to care.I wrapped my arms around his shoulders, pulling him closer, breathing him in.Seaver tightened his hold on me, his lips moving against mine, and I felt the kiss in my bones.

Warmth.

So much warmth.

My heart was on fire.

For him.

Because of him.

When we stepped back, there was total silence.

Then Dex said, "What. The. Fuck?"

"Seven years bad luck, man," Seaver said to him with a grin."I couldn't do that to her."

"So you decided to kiss my baby sister like we're not even here?"Dex scoffed."I repeat, what the fuck, man?"

Seaver ignored him and ran his thumb over my swollen bottom lip.Then he leaned in, placed a soft kiss on my forehead, and whispered in my ear, "I meant what I said, Emilia.Whenever you're ready, come find me."

He took a few steps outside then turned back.

"But don't take too long—or I'll have to come find you."

It was a promise.Plain and simple.It was also very presumptuous.But I couldn't deny I loved it.

Finn stepped up next to me, threw an arm around my shoulders, and said, "You going to thank me?"

"No," I replied."You obviously get your meddlesome ways from me."

"Well, you're welcome anyway."

"Same to you."

Finn grinned as he walked away, and I shook my head.

Was my little brother a troublemaker?Absolutely.

But was I really mad at him for it?Not even a little bit.

I watched Seaver go with my heart in my eyes and a smile on my face.

Thanks to him, this really was the best Christmas ever.

# # #

---