Page 18 of Whiskey Holiday
Striding over to the dresser, I open the drawer and pull out a pair of sweats. Duke follows me downstairs, where I let him outside. From the looks of things, we got a couple of inches of fresh snow. With my thoughts drifting to last night, I walk over to the kitchen table, retrieving my cell phone, and dial Mr. Kent's number.
Mr. Kent owns Mistletoe Jewelers. His store will be closed with it being Christmas day, but he owes me a favor for some work I did for him two months ago. I know he will be more than happy to help me with what I need today. He answers on the second ring. "Hey, Mr. Kent, it's Tannon. I need your help with something."
Fifteen minutes later, phase one of my surprise is taken care of. "I'm walking out the door now, Tannon. I'll have what you asked for dropped off at Carol and Richard's home within the hour," Mr. Kent says, his mood chipper.
"Thanks, Mr. Kent. I appreciate you going through all the trouble on Christmas day."
"No thanks necessary, Tannon. I'm more than happy to help and be a part of this special day. Besides, my wife overheard. She's a hopeless romantic," Mr. Kent chuckles. "Anyway. Give me one hour."
"Merry Christmas," I tell him.
"Merry Christmas to you, too, Tannon."
When I hang up with Mr. Kent, my second call is to Mr. Holiday.
"I can't say that I'm surprised at how quickly things are moving along between you and my daughter, son," Mr. Holiday says after I told him of my plans. I knew Winter's father wouldn't be shocked by my news. After dinner the other night, he pulled me aside for a man to man conversation regarding his baby girl, and that I want to marry Winter. He laid his cards out on the table, and so did I. It was a great feeling when he gave me his blessing.
"It feels right, sir. Like I told you before. Your daughter means the world to me."
"I believe you, son. It will be my pleasure to help you make today perfect for my little girl."
"Thank you, sir."
"All I ask is you make my daughter happy."
"You have my word." With those parting words, I hang up with Mr. Holiday.
"Hey."
I turn around at the sound of Winter's sleep filled voice to find her standing behind me. Smiling, I hook my arm around her waist, pull her to my chest, and kiss her. "Morning," I murmur against her lips.
"Good morning," she returns.
"You hungry? I was just about to whip up some breakfast."
"I'm starved." Winter goes about fixing herself a cup of coffee while I grab the eggs and bacon from the fridge. "What time did you want to head to your parents' house?"
"As early as possible. I told my mom I'd help her cook today. Are you okay with going after breakfast?"
"Sure."
Two hours later, Winter and I walk up the steps to her childhood home, where her mother greets us at the door. "Merry Christmas!"
Winter embraces her mom. "Merry Christmas, Mom."
"Merry Christmas, Tannon." She pulls me in for a tight hug as well.
"Merry Christmas, Mrs. Holiday. It's good to see you again."
Mrs. Holiday waves her hand in the air. "None of that Mrs. Holiday mess. I told you before to call me, Carol." She gives me a warm smile, and I don't miss the twinkle in her eye that says she is aware of the conversation I had with her husband earlier this morning.
"Carol, don't hog the kids. Move aside so I can hug my baby girl," Mr. Holiday says, coming up behind his wife.
"Merry Christmas, Dad." Winter hugs her dad.
"Merry Christmas, baby girl." He kisses the top of her head.
"Tannon." Mr. Holiday offers his hand, and I shake it.
