Page 44 of The Blessings of Christmas
“I’d like that,” he said with a slow grin.
“I'll make chili.”
“You don’t have to feed me.”
“Maybe I want to.”
They stood there, tossing words at each other like colorful ribbons that bind a gift together.
But it was getting late. “Boys, give your Uncle Ryan a hug and then up to bed.”
How it warmed her heart to see Ryan scoop the boys up one by one to give them a bear hug. He really loved them, and they adored him.
“See you tomorrow?” He turned to her before he left.
She followed him to the back door. “You're allowed to sleep in late tomorrow.”
His eyes twinkled. “I don't even know what that means.”
“You’ll probably have those ovens roaring by the time I get there.” The hug caught her by surprise. Ryan smelled of warm sheepskin and the pine tree, and his arms felt so good around her.
“Is...is this okay, Sarah?” he asked drawing back.
“Yes, it sure is.” But it was getting late. Hands on his chest she pushed away. “Now you be careful on those roads.”
Behind her the boys giggled. Without turning around she said, “You’d better be upstairs before I count to ten. One...two...” The old stairs creaked as they scurried up to bed.
“Well, good night.” For a second he looked undecided. Then he opened his arms and she fell into them. The kiss brushed her lips but ignited her entire body.
Giving her a final soft hug, Ryan released her. “I better go.”
“Night.” Feeling dazed as she stood in the doorway, she watched Ryan get into his truck and start the engine. She saw the quick turn of his head and a final wave before she closed the door. The glass panes felt cool against her forehead when she rested her spinning head against them. Sarah sure hoped she knew what she was doing. Her lips burning, she slowly went upstairs to tuck the boys in. They were talking. Hand on the door, she waited before pushing it open.
“Do you think it’s working, Nathan?” Justin asked.
“Yep. Just like we planned,” her oldest answered with smug satisfaction.
Whatever were they talking about?
She poked her head in the door. “Did you brush your teeth?”
“Yes, Mom.” Looking guilty as heck, they snuggled down under the warm blue quilts Lila had given them last Christmas.
“Did you have fun?” Sarah perched on the bottom of Nathan’s twin bed.
“We like being with Uncle Ryan,” Nathan said. “Don’t we, Justin?”
Her youngest nodded, eyes swerving to his big brother, as if they shared a secret.
“What’s going on here?” Her mom radar went up.
“Mom, do you like Uncle Ryan?” Nathan asked slowly.
“Of course, I do. I’ve always liked your uncle.” Well, that was only partially true.
“That’s good.” Justin settled back.
“Do you think he’d show me how to use that saw?” Nathan made a sound like a chainsaw, one that would chill any mother’s heart.
