Free Mistletoe and Magic by Carolyn Hughey, Gina Ardito Page B

feel his arms wrapped around her. She forced herself from the daydream. She’d never have a love life or anyone in her life until the threat of Jenny scaring them off stopped. She meandered into the living room where the rustic theme continued. The room was decorated in reds and dark wood. “What a magnificent house,” she called out to him. “I can’t wait to get the tree decorated.” He walked in with a cup of coffee and handed it to her. “You do know you’re spoiling me, don’t you?”
    “That’s because I think you’re worth it.”
    “You are too kind.”
    “You don’t think you’re worthy of being spoiled?”
    She chuckled. “I guess I never thought about it, but yes, dammit, I agree.”
    “Good, then we agree on something.”
    “Thank you very much.”
    She scanned the room with her eyes, checking to see where to put the tree and couldn’t stop admiring the decorating. The windows were covered with red drapes and pleated valances, a gold stripe across the bottom. A soft leather sofa with rounded armrests that was accompanied by two red velvet chairs gave the room a cozy feeling. Large floor plants filled the gaps in various places throughout the room.
    “No wonder you haven’t looked for an apartment yet. I wouldn’t want to leave this place either.”
    “I’m glad you brought that up. Will you help me find a place after the holidays?”
    “Sure, if I can get my sister and Miriam to watch the shop.”
    “Thank you. You’re familiar with the area, and I thought you might know of some good places.”
    “Well let’s discuss what kind of place you’re looking for while I decorate the tree, and then I’ll do some research.” She put her cup down on a coaster. “Okay. Let’s get busy. Do you know if your aunt had a preference as to where the tree goes?”
    “I’m sure she’d be happy wherever you set it up.” He gave an internal groan, realizing he hadn’t even thought of it. Too late , he told himself. He assured himself she’d be happy no matter where they set the tree up. Recapping his conversation with his aunt, he knew her priority was having him spend time with Mallory. Placement of the tree was secondary on both their minds.
    “Okay, so I’m going to need a step ladder, the ornaments, and the tree.”
    “Yes ma’am,” he gave a salute and walked away. Mallory followed after him.
    “Point me in the direction, and I’ll lend a hand.”
    “Thank you.” Walking down the hallway, he pointed to a room. “Ornaments are in there. I’ll get the ladder and the tree.”
    “Where is the tree?”
    “In the cold garage,” he gave a prideful smile.
    “Did you water the tree while it’s been in there?”
    “No. Was I supposed to?”
    “Yes. Remember you’re trying to simulate the outdoors.”
    He made a face. “Being in the garage is like outdoors, isn’t it?”
    “Temperature wise, but it’s not getting the water it needs from the soil, and having water is key to keeping the tree fresh. When it’s inside, add ice cubes to the tree holder.” She stopped. “Hmm, okay, so before you bring in the tree, get me the vacuum. I’m afraid the pine needles will be falling off when you bring it through the door. I’ll clean up the mess,” she offered.
    “Don’t be silly, I’ll clean up the mess while you decorate.”
    “I thought we were going to talk about the type of apartment you want.”
    “Sounds like you want me to stay,” he said self-assured.
    “Uh…maybe.”
    “Mallory” he sighed, “please give me some sign that what I’m trying to cultivate with you isn’t in vain.”
    “Maybe.”
    “Can I take that as a ‘yes’?” he asked.
    She didn’t respond to his question and launched back into the reason she’d come instead. “Aren’t you going to help me decorate?” She tilted her head to the side. His heart skipped a beat. She was just so darned cute, he wanted to pull her in his arms and smother her mouth with his. If she’d just give him an ounce