The minutes stretched out as I waited for Claire.The sounds of the inn continued around me—a door opening and closing somewhere upstairs, muffled footsteps on the carpeted floors, and the occasional burst of laughter from the guests.
Finally, I heard footsteps descending the stairs.A young woman appeared—Claire Bennett, no doubt.She had an air of quiet competence about her, her gaze steady as she approached.
She descended the stairs with a grace that left me momentarily breathless.Her blonde hair, the color of sunlit wheat, cascaded in soft waves over her shoulders, framing a face that seemed almost ethereal.She had wide, expressive green eyes that sparkled with intelligence and warmth.Her skin was fair and flawless, a natural glow accentuated by the soft lighting of the inn.She moved with a quiet elegance, every step measured and purposeful, as if she were gliding rather than walking.For a moment, I forgot my unease, captivated by her beauty and the serene confidence she exuded.
"Mr.Cross?"she asked, her voice calm and professional.
"That's right," I replied, standing a bit straighter.
"I understand you're looking for something more permanent?"she asked.
"Yes," I confirmed.
"I'm Claire," she said, sticking out her hand.
"Christian," I replied, taking her hand in a firm shake.Her grip was surprisingly strong, yet her skin felt soft and warm against mine.
"I take it you're not from here?"she said, raising an eyebrow."What, with the accent."
"Good guess," I answered, offering a faint smile.
She gave me a long, appraising look before speaking again."What made you come to Holly Ridge?"she asked."It's not exactly on a travel map."
"It was recommended by my friend," I said, shifting slightly under her gaze."Cavil Carter."
"You know Cavil?"Claire smirked, her eyes lighting up with recognition."That explains a lot."
"What's that mean?"I asked, my curiosity piqued.
She shook her head, a soft laugh escaping her lips."Oh, nothing.Cavil has a way of knowing interesting people and convincing them to come here.He always did have an eye for the unexpected."
Her words hung in the air between us.Claire seemed to see right through me, and that caused something to shift deep in my gut.
"So," she continued after a brief pause, "you're looking for something more permanent?A place to stay?"
"Yeah," I nodded."That's the plan."
Claire's eyes softened as she looked at me."Well, we do have a room for rent above the inn.It's quiet and private—perfect for someone who needs some space."
"That sounds ideal," I said, feeling a small weight lift off my shoulders.
"Let's discuss your options," she said, motioning towards a small office off to the side of the lobby.
I followed her inside, hoping that this place might offer more than just a roof over my head—maybe even a chance to find some semblance of peace during all this holiday chaos.
Chapter2
Claire
The door creaked as I pushed it open, revealing my cluttered office.Papers stacked precariously on the desk, and a plate with cookie crumbs sat in the center, evidence of my late-night snack.I felt a twinge of embarrassment as Christian followed me inside.
"Nice place," Christian remarked, his eyes scanning the room.
I chuckled."Well, it’s homey, if nothing else."
Despite the clutter, Christmas had taken over my office.Twinkling lights bordered the windows, casting a soft glow across the room.A small artificial tree stood in the corner, adorned with red and gold ornaments.Its star perched slightly askew at the top, giving it a charmingly imperfect look.
"I see you went all out," Christian said, nodding towards the decorations.
