The drive back to the inn was silent, save for the low murmur of Christmas songs playing on the radio and Gran’s humming.As we made our way through the town, I couldn't help but take in the decorations that adorned every corner.Twinkling lights draped across storefronts, casting a warm glow over the cobblestone streets.Wreaths and garlands hung from lampposts, adding a touch of festive cheer to the chilly evening air.It felt like the whole town was wrapped in a cozy blanket of holiday spirit.
We passed by the bakery, its windows fogged up from the warmth inside.The smell of freshly baked bread wafted out, making my stomach grumble in response.I glanced over at Gran, who seemed to be lost in her own world, her eyes wandering over the decorations with a distant look.
"Almost there," I murmured softly, giving her hand a gentle squeeze.
Christian remained silent but close, his presence a quiet comfort as we finally reached the inn.The warm glow from the windows welcomed us back like an old friend.I pushed open the door and guided Gran inside, the familiar scent of pine and cinnamon filling the air.
"Let's get you to bed, Gran," I said softly, leading her toward the staircase.
She nodded absently, her eyes still distant but trusting as she allowed me to guide her up the steps.Each creak of the wooden stairs seemed to echo in the quiet inn.Christian lingered at the bottom of the stairs, his eyes following us with an unreadable expression.
Once we reached her room, I helped Gran sit on the edge of her bed.She looked up at me with those same confused eyes that never failed to break my heart.
"I'll see you in the morning," I whispered, brushing a strand of hair from her face.
She nodded again, this time with a small smile."Goodnight, Claire.Merry Christmas Eve."
I pulled the covers over her and kissed her forehead before quietly leaving the room.As I closed her door behind me, I let out a long breath I hadn't realized I'd been holding.
Heading back downstairs, I found Christian waiting by the fireplace.He glanced up as I approached and gave me a nod.
"Thank you," I said simply, feeling a wave of gratitude wash over me.
He gave me a small smile and gestured toward one of the armchairs by the fire."You should sit for a bit."
I nodded and sank into one of the chairs, letting myself finally relax for just a moment.
Christian started to tidy up around the room, moving with a quiet efficiency that was almost soothing to watch.He picked up the scattered pine needles and straightened the cushions on the armchairs.The soft crackle of the fire and his rhythmic movements lulled me into a sense of calm I hadn’t felt in days.My eyes grew heavy, and before I knew it, I was drifting off.
When I woke, it was to the gentle touch of Christian’s hand on my shoulder.The room had dimmed slightly, the fire now just embers.He knelt beside me, holding out a steaming mug of hot chocolate.
"I'm no Lucy," he said with a shy smile."But I figure now is the time to get this for you considering it's officially Christmas."
“You made this for me?”I asked, my voice thick with sleep and surprise.
He nodded, looking almost embarrassed.“I had help from Jane,” he admitted.
I took the mug from him and brought it to my lips.The warmth seeped into my fingers, spreading through my entire body.As I sipped, the rich, creamy chocolate coated my tongue with a perfect blend of sweetness and just a hint of spice.It was comforting in a way that words couldn't quite capture.
“Thank you,” I murmured, meeting his eyes over the rim of the mug.“It’s wonderful.”
Christian’s face softened as he settled into the chair across from me, watching as I took another sip.The room fell into a comfortable silence again, broken only by the occasional pop from the dying fire.
I sipped the last of my hot chocolate, feeling the warmth spread through me.“I have something for you too,” I said, setting the mug down.
Christian raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in his eyes.“You do?”
“Come with me,” I said, standing up and taking his hand.His grip was firm and reassuring as I led him through the cozy inn to my office.The room was dimly lit by a single lamp on my desk, casting a soft glow over the space.
I reached into a drawer and pulled out a small bag, turning to face him.“Here,” I said, holding it out to him.
He took the bag, a look of surprise crossing his face.“What’s this?”
“Your present,” I replied with a smile.
He shook his head slightly.“You didn’t have to?—”
“I wanted to,” I insisted.
