Page 40 of Love on the Run

What was it about his appraisals that set her skin on fire? His casual looks made her want to shed a layer of clothing to get rid of some of the heat.

“I’ve heard this is a huge deal here. They turn onthe lights to all of the trees throughout the town square at the same time.”

Beau didn’t say anything as he pulled on his boots. There was a good chance he didn’t care one bit about Christmas lights, but she’d been excited about the ceremony since finding out it would be happening while she was in town.

Freedom, Colorado was known for its small town charm and Christmas celebrations. Tourists flocked to the ski town from all over the world, but the place still had a peaceful air about it.

Before they’d even reached the square, big signs started popping up for event parking. When the lots they passed started to look crowded, Beau pulled into one that sported a vacancy sign.

Thick darkness covered everything as they followed directions from the lot’s attendant toward the square. After walking only a few blocks, more and more people filled the sidewalks.

The square itself was bright and lively. Colorful shop signs lined the perimeter, cottage-like vendor stations were set up at intervals, and a temporary stage sat on one side of the open area.

Beau leaned closer to be heard above the chatter. “This place is packed.”

“I told you it was a big deal.” Anna checked her watch. “The lighting doesn’t begin for an hour or so. Want to check out some shops first?”

“If that’s what you want,” Beau said,scanning the crowd warily as if a monster might jump out at any moment.

Anna pointed to a sign on the far side of the square. “Stories and Scones sounds good. The sign says they have the best coffee around.”

Beau glanced down and grabbed her hand in his. “Stay with me.”

Her grip tightened around his hand instantly, and Beau led the way, creating a path through the hoard of people with ease.

Anna pulled her coat tight around her neck. Holding hands was practical. It had a purpose. Why did her entire arm tingle with the contact?

As soon as they reached Stories and Scones, Beau dropped her hand and opened the door for her to enter. Even after he released the link holding them together, the warmth in her chest lingered as she stepped into the shop.

A cheery bell above the door chimed as the warm scent of cinnamon and spices greeted her. Shelves of used books lined one wall, and small tables were dotted to the right of the entrance. Across from the bookshelves, a pastry case was filled with everything from croissants and muffins to cupcakes and pies.

An older couple worked at the counter, but a few younger girls filed out of the back room to refill the desserts in the case. Two men zippedaround the espresso machine constantly making specialty drinks.

They stepped into the line, and she leaned close to Beau. “What are you getting?”

“Coffee,” he said, crossing his arms over his chest.

“That’s it? What kind of coffee?”

Beau shrugged. “Black.”

Anna chuckled and pointed to a sign. “Their specialty drink is snickerdoodle latte.”

Beau scrunched his nose. “Sounds complicated.”

“I’m going to try it. I’ll let you know howcomplicatedit is.”

She stepped closer, brushing her arm against his. “Wow. You’re so warm.”

He glanced at her with a smirk that lifted one side of his mouth. “I run hot.”

Whoa. Her stomach did an intricate flip that stole her breath.

Yep. Hot was the correct way to describe Beau. How had she never noticed? The dark hair and copper eyes shadowed his masculine features, and the beard covering the lower half of his face gave him a mysterious air. Aside from his physical appearance, he walked and stood with a commanding presence that radiated power.

Maybe it was the grin. Had she ever seen him happy before this trip? He always just kind of existed, going through the motions and occasionallyreminding everyone about how little he cared about everything.

When they reached the counter, Beau placed a hand gently on her back, moving so she could stand almost in front of him. He turned to her, waiting for her to order first.

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