Page 16 of Merry Christmas, Cowboy

Garrett stared at her for a second, then took a step closer to her, and faced Mrs. Bell. “Nic has been wonderful in welcoming us to Last Stand.”

Nic?

Garrett was playing along, not that it was a far stretch from the truth. They were here to enjoy the tree lighting. But it wasn’t a date. Or anything close. Yet, if it would keep those pitying glances at bay, she was all-in.

“Well, have a great time tonight, you two,” Ruth said, taking her daughter’s hand.

“I’m sure we will,” Garrett replied.

Once again, Garrett had come to her rescue, in the slightest of ways, but still…

The mayor came to stand in front of the tree, speaking into a microphone, asking for everyone’s attention and Nicole was saved from having an awkward conversation with Garrett.

“Well, would you look at this nice gathering we have here tonight to ring in the holiday season in Last Stand,” the mayor said. “I see so many familiar faces, so many friends and colleagues. And look at these beautiful children. Kids, why don’t you all come forward. Gather up right here so you get a great view of the tree.” He gestured for them to stand around him and many of them did, Cody and Cassie included. “Before we do the countdown, let me remind you of all the exciting activities happening this season. Right after the tree lighting, take a stroll through Main Street to see all the wonderful items on display at the Christkndlmarkt.”

Decorated garland wrapped around sidewalk posts on Main as overhead string lights crisscrossed the street between light poles, casting a magical glow over the space and glittery old-fashioned, tinsel-framed windows and storefronts. The entire street was closed down to drivers, encouraging pedestrians to wander the shops and market booths freely, enjoying authentic German fare and traditions.

The mayor went on, “Tomorrow, we’ll expand the market and fair, to include our own hometown goodness, something for everyone. Be sure to stop on by. There are several toy drives going on during the season and let’s not forget our special Honeysuckle Elementary School’s fundraiser, held again this year at Cottonwood Ranch. I’m sure you’ll all want to support and participate in all Last Stand has to offer. And later in the month, as we countdown to Christmas, we hope you attend the annual ball held at the Jameson House. But now, boys, girls, and adults, it’s time to do tonight’s countdown. We have a very special guest to help us light the tree. Everyone welcome, Santa Claus!”

The children cheered, some in awe, others in joy, as the jolly man in the big red suit appeared. Garrett peered at Cody and Cassie, watching as the two jumped up and down.

“It’s exciting for them,” she said, needlessly. It was obvious the kids were having a ball, but Garrett seemed to need reassurances.

“Hello, boys and girls,” Santa said, waving. “I hope you’ve all been good, because I sure do have lots of presents stacked up in my sleigh, getting ready for my big ride on Christmas eve.”

The children cheered again, and once they simmered down, Santa asked, “Are you ready for me to light this tree? Why don’t you all count with me? Ready? Ten… nine… eight… seven… six… five… four… three… two… one!” He pushed a button and the massive tree beamed bright, all the colorful lights illuminating the area surrounding them. Ornaments glittered and music began to play in the background.

A cheer went up, louder than before. Ohs and ahhs from the townspeople nearly muted out the tunes, but then slowly, one by one, people stopped cheering and began to sing. The song was easy for the kids and they joined in a rendition of “Jingle Bells.” With that, Santa waved good-bye to all, telling the kids he had some important work to do.

Christmas music continued to play and the crowd stood firm, belting out the songs.

Nicole touched Garrett’s arm. “Could I speak to you for a minute?”

He looked at her curiously and nodded. They walked away from the gathering, but close enough for Garrett to keep an eye on Cody.

“About before,” she said. “I’m sorry. I don’t know what got into me, but I don’t want you to get the wrong idea. It’s just that I’ve been the subject of pity and sympathy in town long enough, so when Ruth Bell, made an assumption, I didn’t correct her.” She wrinkled her nose. “I, uh, I hope it wasn’t too awkward for you?”

“Not at all. You didn’t lie, Nicole. You told the truth.”

“I suppose, but I didn’t correct her assumption.”

“You’re not a mind reader. You don’t know what she was thinking.”

“I’m pretty sure I do. She was thinking I had moved on and that we’re now dating. Which, of course, is ridiculous.”

He blinked. “And why is that?”

“Because—” She stopped, taken by his tone. “Well, you know why? We’re only together because we made a pact. You allow the fundraiser, and I—”

“Got it. I remember the pact.”

“It’s just that it felt so good not to be scrutinized for once. And I think I really needed that.”

“So, you’re saying, when people see us together, why not let them believe what they want to believe?”

“I, uh.” Again, she wrinkled her nose. Was she out of line, putting Garrett in this position? “Would that be so awful?”

“No,” he said immediately. “I can’t see a downside to this. After all, I’ll be leaving town soon, and you said it yourself, the idea of us dating would be ridiculous. There’s nothing to lose here and if you benefit from it, so be it.”

---