Page 81 of Nice Guys Don't Kiss Like That At Christmas
“Three...Two...One!”
We pull the switch together, and the tree explodes with light.Actual gasps ripple through the crowd, and even I have to admit it’s...impressive.The white and gold lights twinkle against the snow, reflecting in Adam’s eyes when I turn to look at him.
“You’re missing it,” he murmurs, nodding toward the tree.
“I’m seeing something better,” I reply before I can diagnose myself with temporary insanity.The way he looks at me—like he can see every layer I’ve carefully constructed, every defense mechanism, every wall, and still wants more...makes my heart flutter in the best possible way.
My usual caution weakens against the warmth in his eyes.Maybe this is different.Maybe I can trust this feeling.
As he leans closer, Frank steps toward us, camera phone raised.
“Santa and his elf!Smile for the Pine Creek newsletter,” he announces, loud enough for nearby townsfolk to turn our way.
Adam’s arm slides around my waist, a casual claim that sends heat spiraling through me.“Since when are you on the newsletter committee, Frank?”
“Since Sally drafted me twenty minutes ago.”Frank snaps several photos.“I need a few more.Stand closer to the tree?”
I recognize the deliberate interruption, but Adam’s thumb traces small circles above my hip bone, almost making me miss Frank’s next words.
“My sister used to play Mrs.Claus.Before DC.”
Adam’s fingers tighten almost imperceptibly.“Frank—”
“Just sharing town traditions,” Frank says innocently, though his eyes are anything but.“Did Adam tell you he and Faye would practice their Santa routines?They had this whole North Pole role-play thing going.”
The suggestive undertone is impossible to miss.Adam tenses beside me.
“Actually,” I say, finding that clinical detachment that’s saved me in countless awkward situations, “I’ve been developing my own elf methodology.Very cutting-edge.Involves reminding people being a dick isn’t hot.”
Adam’s surprised laugh vibrates through me where our bodies touch.Frank blinks, caught off-guard, then gives me an appraising look.
“Fine.I can take a hint.”He lowers his camera, but before melting back into the crowd, he adds, “Word of advice?When Adam Harrison shows his cards, make sure you see the whole hand, not only what he wants you to see.”
He nods once to Adam and disappears into the crowd.The tension remains, but Adam’s hand is still on my waist, his touch more deliberate now.
“Thank you,” he murmurs against my ear, his breath warm against my skin.
“For what?”
“For putting Frank in his place like that.”His lips brush my temple, the contact brief but electric.“It was...impressive.”
“I’ve had practice managing difficult patients,” I reply, but my voice lacks its usual clinical edge.
Right then, Sally’s infamous mules decide this is their moment to shine.They prance through the crowd wearing light-up antlers, doing what can only be described as synchronized Christmas prancing.
“Are they...dancing?”I ask, trying not to laugh.
“Naughty and Naughtier’s holiday spectacular,” Adam confirms.“They do this every year.”
“Of course they do,” I say, but I’m smiling now.Actually smiling.
The mules circle the tree, clearly very pleased with themselves, before coming to a stop directly in front of us and executing what looks suspiciously like a bow.
“You’ve got to be kidding me,” I mutter as the crowd applauds.
“Best-trained mules in the state,” Adam says with a wink.
Megan rushes over, clapping with delight.“Did you see?Did you see?”
