“I’ve never had a White Christmas,” she murmured, watching the snow fanning out against the dark sky.
“A White Christmas is almost guaranteed around here. Can get to be a little much if you’re not used to it.”
She tilted her head, brushing back a stray lock of hair. “We’ll figure out something to do when it piles up.”
“Now you’re talking.”
Ryan turned to face him fully, slipping her arms around his waist. The sweet scent of pine and wood smoke lingered. “That tree is so lovely,” she said, recalling their trip to the farm.“Picking it out at Nick’s, his rows of perfect pines, the smell of fresh-cut spruce in the air.”
“He’s been tending those trees all year,” Seth replied, pride softening his tone. “Nick and Paige, they’re good people.”
“I adore Paige. I can’t wait to visit her lingerie shop.”
“I can’t wait for you to, either.” He took her hand and guided her to the sofa. “Let’s watch some Christmas specials.”
They settled in, but the new presents at the foot of the tree caught her eye. “Seth, you went overboard.”
“Why? I can afford it. Everything’s something you need; sheepskin coat, felt cowboy hat, jeans, boots, sweaters.” He looked at her. “Got a few more out in the barn—”
“What? I want to see!” She hopped up, eyes sparkling.
“Absolutely not. I am not going into that blizzard for gifts.”
“Fine. I’ll go alone.” She scooped her new coat from its box and shrugged it on, the soft shearling collar brushing her chin.
“You might want more layers,” he suggested, sinking into the cushions.
“Shit.” She peeled off the coat, draped it over the sofa, then trudged to their bedroom to bundle up, thick leggings, thermal top, wool socks. She half expected him to follow, he didn’t.
“That’s just fine, you stubborn cowboy. I know where the damn barn is,” she muttered.
“But do you know where I hid those gifts?” His voice made her jump; he leaned in the doorway, grinning.
“Don’t sneak up on me like that!”
“Excuse me? If you weren’t talking about me, you might have heard me.”
“Eavesdroppers never hear good of themselves.” She lifted her chin defiantly.
“Now, who’s stubborn?” He chuckled, stepping into the room.
Ryan slipped her arms around him, stood on tiptoe, kissed his neck, then brushed her lips to his. “Please come out with me.”
“Damn it. Fine.” He backed away, hair mussed, shaking his head in defeat. “You know I can’t say no to you.”
“Like I ever say no to you.” She laughed. “Come on, we won’t be long. You can’t tell me there are more gifts and expect me not to want to see them.”
“You’re the one who said I bought too much.”
“Pffft.Like I meant that.” Ryan laughed when Seth shook his head.
They dressed in boots, heavy coats, scarves pulled up to their noses, and gloves. Seth put his hat on, then reached for her mittened hand.
“Ready?”
“Yes.” She squeezed his fingers, and together they stepped out into the sparkling hush of Christmas morning.
****
