Page 82 of Aussie
“Desserts,” Aussie's mom said with a grin. “I’ve got all the ingredients ready for the cookies and pies. You just tell me what you want to start with.”
Ava glanced over the array of ingredients and pulled her hair back into a ponytail. “Let’s do cookies first. I feel like I’m becoming a pro at those.”
As they worked together, Ava couldn’t help but feel at ease. Aussie’s mom was warm and kind, her laughter filling the kitchen as they chatted and shared stories. Ava felt a pang of longing for her own mother, but she also felt a sense of belonging here.
Aussie’s mom glanced up from the dough she was rolling, a playful glint in her eyes. “So, how was the big date?”
Ava froze for a second, heat rushing to her cheeks. “It was really nice,” she said, trying to keep her voice casual, though she could feel the blush creeping up her neck.
“Really nice?” Aussie’s mom repeated with a chuckle. “That’s all I’m getting? Come on, I’ve known Aussie his whole life. I can tell when something’s different, and something isdefinitelydifferent.”
Ava laughed nervously, brushing her hands on her apron. “Okay, okay. It was amazing, from the sleigh ride to the dinner. It was all just perfect. It was like something out of a movie.”
“That boy,” Aussie's mom said, shaking her head with a proud smile. “He’s always been a romantic at heart, even if he tries to act tough.” She paused, her expression turning sly. “And how about after the date? Did he behave himself?”
Ava nearly dropped the cookie cutter she was holding. “Uh, well, he was a gentleman,” she stammered, her face practically glowing now.
Aussie’s mom let out a hearty laugh, waving a hand. “I’m just teasing you, dear. I’m glad the two of you were able to enjoy the night together.”
Ava smiled. “Me too.”
Aussie’s mom reached out and gave Ava’s hand a gentle squeeze. “I’m so glad that you came with Aussie. We’ve loved having you and Christian here. It’s been such a joy sharing the holiday with you both.”
Ava felt a lump form in her throat. “Thank you for letting us be a part of it. This whole experience has been more than I could have hoped for.”
Aussie’s mom smiled warmly, her eyes shining with emotion. “You’ve made my son happy, Ava. I haven’t seen him this lighthearted in years. And that makes me happy, too.”
Ava blinked back the sudden sting of tears. “He’s made me happy, too,” she admitted softly.
“Well,” Aussie's mom said, her voice brightening as she gestured to the tray of cookies, “then it sounds like this is thestart of something wonderful. Now, let’s get these in the oven before the boys come home and eat all the dough!”
Ava laughed, her heart feeling full. She knew she’d found something special here—not just with Aussie but with his family.
CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE
The air was filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and peppermint as Ava, Aussie, and Christian strolled through Santa Land. The town festival was a wonderland of twinkling lights, glittering garlands, and Christmas cheer. Snow had started to fall as they walked, coating the cobblestone streets in a light powder and adding a magical touch to an already enchanting evening.
Ava clutched Aussie's hand tightly, her cheeks flushed from the cold and the warmth of being so close to him. On her other side, Christian walked with wide-eyed wonder, occasionally darting ahead to check out the vendor booths.
“I still can’t believe this place,” Ava said, her voice soft and amazed.
Aussie glanced down at her, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “It’s pretty awesome. When we were kids, my mom made sure we never missed it, no matter how busy life got. Santa Land was her way of making Christmas unforgettable.”
“The place does have a magical feel to it,” Ava said.
They passed a vendor selling hot chocolate, and Aussie stopped to grab three cups. He handed one to Ava and another to Christian when he came bounding back.
“Thanks,” Christian said, his smile bright. “This is so cool. There’s, like, everything here. Did you see the guy carving ice sculptures over there?”
“Not yet,” Ava said, laughing at his enthusiasm. “Lead the way.”
Christian nodded and darted off, sticking close enough to keep them in sight. Ava watched him go, her heart swelling. Helooked so happy and carefree, and it was moments like these that reminded her just how far they had come.
“I think he’s having the time of his life,” Ava said, her gaze following Christian.
Aussie chuckled, slipping his arm around her waist. “Good. That’s what tonight is about—having fun and making memories.”
As they walked, the soft notes of Christmas carolers floated through the air. A group dressed in old-fashioned Victorian costumes stood near the center of the festival, harmonizing toSilent Night. Ava paused, taking it all in. The little shops and vendor booths were decked out with wreaths and twinkling lights, their windows displaying handcrafted ornaments, cozy scarves, and homemade pies.
