Page 8 of Reunion at Mistletoe Lodge
“I have a few you can borrow,” Emily offered before instructing Garth to take Barb’s luggage to Bungalow One. “You’ll love it—it’s just been revamped and has the best views of the lake, mountains, and orchard.”
“That sounds heavenly.” Barb sighed, the weariness in her bones making her long for the comfort of the bungalow.
“It’s got three bedrooms, and we set up a crib in the one closest to yours,” Emily added, smiling. “And there’s astate-of-the-art baby monitor so that you can keep an eye on Charlotte from anywhere in the bungalow.”
“You didn’t have to go to all that trouble,” Barb protested, though her heart swelled with gratitude.
“You’re right next door to us,” Heather said, pointing to Bungalow Two. “So you’ll have company.”
As they noticed the other limo parked near the entrance, Emily said, “I’ll find out who it belongs to.” Then, turning to Barb, she asked, “Do you want to come inside for hot chocolate or head straight to your bungalow?”
“Do you think I could get that sent to my bungalow?” Barb asked, giving an apologetic smile. “I’m beyond exhausted. I just want to soak in a bath, eat something, and crash.”
“Of course,” Emily said, her eyes lighting up as she suddenly remembered, “I should’ve arranged for Jackie to be here tonight.”
“Jackie?” Barbasked, confused.
“The nanny we hired for you,” Emily explained.
“Oh, that’s okay,” Barb assured her. “I’ll be fine.”
“Hank, Giles, Avery, and Ryder are going to Denver this evening,” Emily piped up. “They are staying over. Why don’t I take Oscar for a sleepover with Rosie?”
Oscar’s face lit up at the idea. “Please, can I, Mom?”
“Sure,” Barb said. “But let’s get settled in first.”
Heather grabbed the keys and led the group to the bungalows. The group walked down a charming path lined with twinkling lights. The bungalows were nestled among the trees, each offering a slice of privacy. As they reached the cozy log structures, Barb noticed two larger chalets further down.
“Wow!” Barb whistled in admiration. “Those are more like chalets than bungalows.”
Emily laughed. “Gran calls them executive bungalows, but you’re right—they’re definitely chalets.”
Barb shook her head, grinning as they climbed the steps to the porch. “They’re stunning.”
Once inside, the warmth of Bungalow One enveloped Barb, chasing away the last remnants of the cold. Garth swiftly stored their luggage. Emily helped Oscar grab some clothes while Heather gave Barb a quick tour of the space, showing her how to operate everything.
Ten minutes later, Emily and Oscar left while Heather helped Barb unpack the groceries she’d bought in Frisco when Barb remembered she hadn’t given Emily Oscar’s inhaler.
“Oh, shoot,” Barb hissed. “I need to take Oscar’s inhaler to Emily and explain how to use it.” She glanced down the hall to the room where Charlotte was sleeping.
“Go!” Heather smiled. “I’ll stay with Charlotte, and while you’re at the lodge, order yourself some dinner to be delivered here.”
Grabbing her coat, Barb rushed out, only to slip on a patch of ice. Her heart lurched as she losther footing, bracing herself for the fall—only to be caught by a pair of strong arms.
“Whoa there!” a deep, familiar voice rumbled, sending a jolt through her.
Barb spun around, her breath catching as she stared into a pair of amber eyes she never thought she’d see again. “Zac?” she gasped, her voice trembling with shock.
CHAPTER 3
Barb
Barb stood still, her heart pounding as she watched the man before her. Surprise flickered in his eyes, but something about it didn’t sit right. He looked at her as if he’d never seen her before. An awkward silence stretched between them before he finally frowned.
"Have we met?" he asked, his voice carrying a hint of confusion.
Anger surged through Barb like a tidal wave. Was he seriously trying to pull this? Pretending not to recognize her? Pretending he didn't know his own wife? Her hands clenched into fists at her sides as she fought to keep her voice steady.
