Page 94 of Run, Run Rudolph
“Secure.”
Haden came back over to me, rubbing my arms. “Are you okay?”
I nodded, not daring to speak.
He cupped my cheek, tipping my head up, then gazed at me for a beat. “You sure?”
I nodded again, biting my lower lip. The adrenaline was waning, making me shaky.
He pulled me into an embrace and I let out a shuddery breath, relieved we were both safe. Whatever that wish had cost me, it had been worth every penny.
Realizing how close Haden had come to harm because of me, I reconsidered Estelle’s plea to make a wish and erase my accident with Rudolph.
Haden released me, taking my hand and pulling me through the dimly lit back room. He had a small smile on his face, his eyes unshuttered, letting me see every thought he had tonight, from love and excitement to fear.
I couldn’t wish this away. I just couldn’t. I knew it was selfish, but we had to find another way to fix this Christmas fiasco so we wouldn’t lose this.
“How about we get the night vision goggles,” he suggested, “and then sneak back to the barn in a bit? If it’s safe, of course.”
“Okay.”
So far there was no sign of Mrs. Claus, and I was fairly certain she’d immediately follow us, if given the option. I relaxed, letting Haden lead me through the backroom maze of shelves, doorways and random boxes. The organization system seemed to be the exclusive kind—where it only made sense to the person depositing the boxes willy-nilly. Seeing as I’d never been in here before, I was a bit dazzled that I’d managed to magick us here at all. Maybe wishing wasn’t always so bad after all.
Haden placed a hand on my lower back, guiding me toward the hunting section.
“Oh, wait.” He stopped, his hand dropping. “Gotta grab the key to open the case. Back in a flash.” Haden turned and disappeared into the dark hallways behind us and I shivered, feeling exposed and alone without him.
I sent a quick text to Char.
Me
Made a wish. Please, please tell me I can still use your credits.
It was around two in the morning, and well before Char would rise and shine down in Mexico, so I was surprised when she texted back.
Char
Thank goodness! I was getting worried. Are you okay? How’s Haden? Rudolph?
I texted back with shaking hands.
Me
Mrs. Claus is scary. We’re hiding from her. She and Estelle got in a massive fight.
Char
How’s Haden?
I rolled my eyes. My life was in possible danger, and she wanted to know about the man I was crushing on?
Me
Fine.
Char
Come on. How’s he really? You’ve been in love with him since forever.
