Page 67 of Cowboy’s Christmas Baker

“Oh good,” one of them panted. “She still has some.”

“We’ll take three,” another said to Mal, pulling money from his pocket as two more people lined up behind him.

And just like that, Mal was busy as a bee.

By the time the teens had their treats and change, there was a real line forming. She was out of jingle bell knots within an hour, including the two she had set aside, and she sold everything else she had before lunchtime.

But it was all good, since Sloane and Kai never showed up at her table anyway.

She packed her things and took them out to the car, since there was no point standing around at an empty table.

It was a funny feeling to come back in with no responsibilities at all. She had worked her table all day last year.

Not really sure what else to do, she headed over to Ginny, Shirley, and Betty Ann’s booth for a cup of soup. She had just paid and walked away from the booth with her steaming lunch in one hand when her phone buzzed in her pocket with a message.

Mal got that familiar tingle of anticipation she always got these days when her phone buzzed, hoping it would be Harrison. She made her way over to the half-wall between the indoors and out and sat, placing her soup down so she could check, and she wasn’t disappointed.

Harrison

How’s it going?

She smiled and tapped out a reply, happy for a chance to talk with him, especially now that she wasn’t busy anymore.

great!

i already sold out of everything

Congratulations! I knew you would. I’m only sorry Katie and I aren’t there.

She smiled. He had so much to do on the farm, but that was completely understandable.

are you getting lots done today too?

Sure am, but I couldn’t resist saying hi. I missed you.

She felt a shiver of pleasure at his words, and looked out at the fields, hoping to calm her heart before she replied.

Snow was just beginning to come down in big, lacy flakes, spinning like dancers as they fell to the ground.

it’s snowing!

Sure is. I’m glad the cows don’t mind it.

There was a slight commotion and Mal looked up in time to see Valerie marching toward the bathrooms. She was completely saturated from head to toe, her mascara was running down her cheeks in trails, and her beautiful outfit waterlogged and clinging to her.

What in the world?

Mal looked after her in amazement for a moment before turning her attention back to her phone.

gotta run

i think my friend needs me

Take care. We’ll see you soon!

15

HARRISON