Page 35 of Seeds of Christmas
“That feels like there’s a story there.” He’s watching me carefully.
“Maybe.”
“You don’t have to tell me. But for what it’s worth”—he tilts his head—“I’m a pretty good listener. When I’m not being a complete disaster of a human being.”
I frown. “You’re not a disaster.”
“Rhi, it’s ok. I am.” He grins ruefully. “Anyway, I’m going to try to do better. Not relying entirely on my devastating good looks to get by.”
He says it so deadpan that I snort-laugh.
“There it is!” He points at me, delighted. “I’ve been trying to get a real laugh out of you all day. The snort makes it even better.”
“I don’t snort.”
“You absolutely just snorted. It was adorable. You can’t take it back now.”
My face is burning. “You’re ridiculous.”
“I prefer ‘charmingly ridiculous’.” He shifts on the bed, getting more comfortable. “But seriously, I’m glad you gave me another shot. I know I wasn’t great freshman year, but I’m really trying not to screw this up. Both because I need the credit and because”—he meets my eyes—“because I’m actually enjoying working with you.”
The sincerity in his voice catches me completely off-guard.
Before I can respond, there’s a knock at the door. “Room service!”
Carter springs up.
He tips the delivery person generously—I see him slip extra cash with a “keep the change, man”—and then we’re spreading food across the small table. We both start eating in silence. I didn’t realize how hungry I was.
“Okay, moment of truth.” He holds up an onion ring. “Ready? This is the best onion ring you’ll ever have or I’m a liar and a fraud.”
I take a bite. It’s... pretty good. Just a normal motel onion ring.
“Life-changing, right?” He’s watching my face with such hopeful enthusiasm that I can’t bring myself to disappoint him.
“It’s really good.”
“I know! I told you!” He steals a fry from my plate.
“Hey!”
“Shared room service rules. Everything on this table is shared.”
“I don’t remember agreeing to that.”
“It was implied when you agreed to room service.” He pops the fry in his mouth, grinning. “Besides, I’m teaching you important life skills. How to share. How to live in the moment.”
“Who says I can’t live in the moment?”
He gives me a look.
“So maybe I’m a little cautious sometimes. I like following the rules.”
He’s teasing, but his eyes are warm. “So what’s your actual favorite part of Christmas?”
The question catches me off-guard with its gentleness.
“My mom,” I say slowly, “would wake up every Christmas morning singing. She had this crackly old radio she refused to replace, and she’d sing along to every song. Mariah Carey, Justin Beiber, all of it. Completely off-key.”
