Page 13 of Christmas By the Mile

His lips touch mine gently and the whole world whirls away as our hearts sing together, perfectly in harmony.

I hold his hand and we turn to leave, placing our packages on the table. All except the steer. That will always hold a place of honor with me.

True love sometimes can steer you wrong, but only if you lose sight of what’s really important. Only love. Real love can help you find your heart even in your darkest hour.

I’ve found the man of my dreams and although he was right there in front of me all this time, sometimes you need a little guidance to help steer the course.

Mine was from a lively pair of troublemakers who couldn’t resist matchmaking for the whole town. And judging by the smiles and happy glances, more than a few matches were made.

I glance up at Trace as he helps me into his truck. “I love you, Trace.”

“Love you too, princess.” He starts the truck and holds my hand as we drive to our future.

The trees are full of snow and sparkling Christmas lights dance on the branches as we drive through the gates of my ranch. Christmas magic all around us welcomes us home and he pulls my hand up to his lips, kissing it gently.

“Merry Christmas, baby. And many more to come.”

Up next is A Lost Claus by Chloe James My Book

Epilogue One: Portia

ONE YEAR LATER

Isigh and sit back on the couch, staring at the tree in our house. Trace is winding garland around the tree and I point at another spot by the window. “It needs some more on that side.”

He grumbles under his breath and moves the garland so that it covers the empty space that was driving me nuts.

“Baby. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s just a tree.”

“I know. But it’s our first tree,” I insist.

He rolls his eyes but follows all of my instructions until I smile and clap my hands. “It looks perfect. Thank you, honey.”

“Thank you, baby. I’m happy you’re happy.”

I giggle and sit back as he sits down on the end of the couch. He picks up my feet and I moan when he pulls off my socks and starts rubbing the heels and soles of my feet right where it hurts the most.

“Ohhh. That feels so good. Thank you.”

“How is the baby today?”

“He’s good. He’s been kind of quiet today.”

“Is that good?” He asks me, his brow scrunching.

“It’s okay. The doctor said everything was moving along great at my last appointment.”

“Good, good.” He stands up and heads to the kitchen, grabbing us our hot cocoa and marshmallows and shutting off the lights. The fire is crackling in the fireplace and I lean back into Trace’s broad chest, groaning as he takes my weight.

A sip of hot chocolate and I groan, leaning back and then rubbing my back.

“What’s wrong?” My husband’s worried voice makes me smile.

“My back hurts a little.”

“Do you want me to get a heating pad or something?”

“No. I’ll be alright.”

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