Page 40 of A Not So Merry Ex-Mas

“The tree looks amazing.” Her voice vibrates against my chest.

The white twinkle lights give the tree a soft glow that highlights each ornament. My eyes land on the popcorn garland, and my lip quirks. The finished product is beautiful. The red Twizzlers Noelle insisted upon really do give it the perfect pop of color. But dang, they were hard to thread.

“You were right about the Twizzlers. They make the garland, even though it took forever.”

She turns her gaze toward me with a smile that lights her entire face. “See, I told you. Sometimes, you just have to trust me.”

“I always trust you, Bug.” My voice is huskier than I had intended, and her eyes soften.

I run my hand gently across her chin and let my gaze take in her bright expression and radiant glow. My finger gently skims her lips, and a soft breath comes out as they part at my touch. My lip curls up and I lean in, gently pulling her chin upward so I can cover her lips with mine. Her hand rests lightly on my chest, and the heat from her touch spreads through all the tiny crevices of my heart.

Her hand cups my face, pulling me closer. The lingering taste of hot chocolate has me craving more. Myhand curls behind her neck as she tilts her head to give me better access.

Off in the distance, I hearJingle Bellsplaying, only to stop and start again.

“Do you hearJingle Bells?” I say against her lips, and she lets out a giggle.

“It’s Mel.” She softly kisses me before pushing off of my chest and getting up.

“Mel?” I ask, still dazed from the effect she has on me.

“Yeah, she has her own ringtone.”

“Wait, where do you think you’re going?” I grab the bottom of her sweater and try to pull her back, only to have her wiggle out of my grasp.

“It’ll be quick. I promise,” she looks over her shoulder with a smirk.

“Famous last words,” I groan and throw my body down on the couch before pushing myself up and resting my head on my hand so that I can watch her.

“Hey, Mel. What’s up?” She catches my eye and grins as she heads back to the couch and sits beside me, gently running her hand through my hair. I listen to the one-sided conversation and feel my body relax under Noelle’s gentle ministrations.

It’s been a long day, and I didn’t realize how tired I was until now. I collapse my elbow and rest my head on Noelle’s lap.

My eyes open tothe soft glow cast from the remaining embers in the fireplace and a blanket covering me. I look around to see that I’m alone. I have no idea how long I’ve been out, and the darkness doesn’t give me any sense of time. I shift position so that I can pull my phone out of my pocket. When the screen lights up, I see it's already 5 a.m.

Looks like Mike sent some messages after I fell asleep.

I sit up, stretch, and roll my neck before checking his messages.

Okay,somewas a bit of an understatement.

Mike:Why aren’t you answering?

Mike:Cole?

Mike:Okay, Noelle just told Mel you’re asleep. What are you doing asleep at 10 p.m.?

Mike:I hear Mel oohing and ahhing. What’shappening? You know she’s not going to tell me anything.

Mike:Girl code and all.

A small chuckle escapes at the ‘girl code’.

Mike:Dude. These two are gonna be talking all night. I need details!

Mike:Fine. I’ll just head to bed.

Mike:The roads are cleared, and we’ll be driving up tomorrow. Noelle said the power came back on, and everything is good.

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