Page 8 of The Bear's Christmas Wish
You know Daniel will be thrilled for us when he learns the truth,Michael told his bear.All our friends will be. Just as we would be happy for them.
The bear ducked his head, a little ashamed and embarrassed at the outburst.
“It’s beautiful here,” Sarah was saying. “I’d forgotten how peaceful it is compared to the city.”
Daniel nodded. “What brought you back to Bear Creek? Job opportunity?”
Michael saw Sarah duck her head slightly, her fingers twisting the edge of her scarf. “Actually, I’m recently divorced,” she said quietly. “Emmy and I moved in with Mom for a fresh start.”
Michael’s heart squeezed at the hint of vulnerability in her voice.
His bear perked up.She’s free.
Thank goodness,Michael said. Even though he had noticed Sarah was not wearing a wedding ring, they had not taken it for granted that she wasn’t romantically attached to Emmy’s father.
Daniel glanced quickly at Michael, something knowing flickering in his eyes. Michael felt suddenly tongue-tied under his friend’s scrutiny. Did Daniel suspect something already?
“Bear Creek’s perfect for fresh starts,” Daniel said, turning back to Sarah. “Especially at Christmas.”
Pat, who had been watching the children, rejoined the conversation. “Daniel’s not just a baker, he’s an artist with flour and sugar. His holiday display windows are always the talk of the town.”
“Speaking of artists,” Pat continued, “if you ever need any posters or design work, Sarah’s your person. She’s a graphic designer. An excellent one, even if I do say so myself.”
“Mom,” Sarah hissed, color rising in her cheeks.
Daniel laughed. “It’s a parent’s prerogative to be proud of their kids.” He turned to Michael with a glint in his eye. “Hey, Michael, didn’t you mention needing new promotional materials for North Peak Pines? Flyers, website updates, that sort of thing?”
Michael blinked, momentarily caught off guard. “I do?”
His bear gave him a mental prod so hard he almost winced.Wake up! This is our chance!
Michael’s lips curved into a sheepish grin as understanding dawned. “Yes. Yes, I do, actually. The website hasn’t been updated in years, and we could use some flyers and new signage around the property.” He looked directly at Sarah, warmth spreading through him. “Would you be interested in discussing it sometime?”
Sarah’s smile sent a jolt through him. “I’d like that,” she said. “I’ve been looking for local projects to showcase my work.”
“Great! That’s...great,” Michael said, aware he was repeating himself but unable to stop.
Because when his mate was close by, she consumed his thoughts. It was a feeling he never wanted to lose.
Chapter Four – Sarah
Sarah had never expected to see her daughter this happy the day after they’d arrived in Bear Creek. She’d expected a few tears, a possible tantrum… After all, Emmy had left behind everything she’d ever known, including her father.
But here she was at North Peak Pines, laughing with Maisie as they huddled together beneath a tall pine tree, their heads bent close as they discussed the merits of different ornaments. Teddy was demonstrating what he called “branch testing” by hanging from the lower boughs of a nearby pine and declaring it “super strong” while the girls giggled.
“Ready to chop down your spruce?” Michael asked, those warm eyes on her, which made her stomach flutter in a way she hadn’t felt in years.
If ever. Even when she’d first met and fallen in love with Liam, she’d never felt quite like this. As if they shared an invisible connection.
Was this what people called love at first sight?
No, it must be the cold addling her brain. Or maybe she was simply swept along by the wonderful wintry scene around her.
Sarah bit her lip. “I feel kind of bad about it, actually. It’s so beautiful just growing here.”
“Don’t worry,” Michael said, his voice reassuring. “I plant two for every one I fell. That’s how the tree farm grows.” He gestured toward the hills beyond. “Those saplings up there…next generation.”
“How long has your family been doing this?” she asked, genuinely curious about the man who’d made such an impression on her in such a short time.
