Page 60 of A Ferry Merry Christmas
“Merry Christmas,” Avery called out as she started toward Kellie. Harrison stood behind his sister.
Leading the way up the steps, Avery hugged Kellie and then briefly Harrison. She saw the disappointment in his eyes when she broke free.
She paused just inside the entry. Kellie’s home was lovely. Her eyes went to the flocked Christmas tree, placed close to the picture window. It was decorated with silver and blue ornaments.
Reed followed her carrying a large poinsettia and a bottle of RumChata. Avery loved that he chose the RumChata, as it was their grandparents’ favorite and a Christmas tradition. After their grandfather passed, Grams continued the tradition. The flavored alcoholic drink was a special treat both Avery and Reed waited for each Christmas evening. Having him include it in their celebration was his way of continuing the tradition in memory of their precious grandmother.
When Avery walked into the living area, the first thing that greeted her was the aroma of the turkey roasting in the oven. It smelled delicious. She’d had a light breakfast of toast and coffee,wanting to save her appetite for dinner. Her stomach growled in anticipation of the meal they were about to enjoy.
Harrison was at her side and helped Avery remove her coat, his hands lingering on her shoulders. “I can’t tell you how happy I am that you’re here.”
“I’m happy, too,” she said, and briefly placed her hand over his, letting him know she truly meant it.
While he hung her wool coat in the hall closet, Kellie and Reed had disappeared into the kitchen. A poinsettia sat beneath the Christmas tree, along with a few opened gifts still in their boxes.
“Come sit with me,” Harrison said, and reached for Avery’s hand. He led her to the sofa across from the fireplace, where a gentle fire flickered. The room was warm and cozy. She noticed the dining room table was already set with a white linen tablecloth. It looked like Kellie had used her best dishes along with crystal wineglasses.
“I couldn’t wait to see you,” Harrison said, keeping hold of her hand. Before she could comment, he added, “I know it’s only been a little more than forty-eight hours, but it felt like much, much longer.” He hesitated and looked unsure, his gaze drifting away from her as if he was carefully considering his words.
“Am I coming on too strong?” he asked.
Avery rather enjoyed his lack of confidence. It told her he understood her concerns and took them seriously. “No. The truth is, I was anxious to see you again, too.”
“Does this mean you’d be willing to spend more time together? I know it isn’t technically after Christmas, but close enough, right?” He rushed the words together, as if he didn’t say them fast enough, she might change her mind.
“Well . . .”
“Don’t say no. I realize you have a few qualms about dating me, and I can appreciate everything you’ve said. I can’t denythat I’ll be away for lengthy periods of time, and that’s difficult for any relationship. I’m not asking you to date me exclusively, although that’s what I’d like. It’s too soon, but . . .” He paused again and heaved a sigh before he continued as though concerned he’d blown it.
“I’m making a mess of this, aren’t I?”
He was so endearing it was difficult to find fault with anything he’d said. “I’m thinking I’d like to get to know you better. We can take this slow and easy and see how things develop.”
“Does that mean you’d go to the movies with me this weekend?”
She hesitated, as if this were a weighty question. “Do you know what’s playing?”
“No. I don’t really care, as long as you’re with me.” He exhaled as though upset with himself. “I’m doing it again, aren’t I?”
She raised her brows, questioning him.
“Being overly eager,” he supplied.
Avery reached for her phone.
Harrison watched her closely, his forehead creased with a frown. “What are you doing?”
“Checking the listings for the movies.”
“Does that mean you’d be willing to go?”
She glanced up and nodded. “There’s an action movie with Tom Cruise and a romantic comedy, too. Which one do you prefer?”
“Either. Both,” he said.
“Hey, you two,” Kellie said, coming out from the kitchen. “The turkey is out of the oven.”
Avery rushed to her feet. “Oh my goodness, I should be helping with dinner.” She felt terrible that she had left Kellie with all the work preparing their meal.
