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“I could really use a coffee,” I tell him with a stifled yawn.
His grin brightens his face. “Ask and you shall receive, Everhart.”
The front door to The Icehouse opens and an angel steps in. Well, not an actual angel. But it’s Hattie and she has two giant coffee thermoses. Her son is behind her, arms full of boxes. I’m hoping it’s some sweet treats. The store-bought ones lining the bar don’t hold a candle to her creations.
“We come bearing gifts,” Hattie says, eyes twinkling, “and to help set up for tomorrow. Just put us to work.”
My heart warms at their presence. Everyone so selflessly gives around here. This truly is home for me.
“How are you at tying bows?” I ask Hattie as she sets the thermoses on the bar top. “Nora is great, but of course she isn’t here. I want this to be the best surprise for her.”
Hattie jabs a thumb over her shoulder. “Mom is on her way. That woman is the queen of bows. Have you seen the bow room in The Nest Box Inn?”
“I have not,” I say, chuckling, “but now I have to.”
“It’s terrifying,” Hattie hisses. “Something straight out of a horror movie.”
I put her and her son on the task of hanging decor from the ceiling. He stands on a ladder while Hattie hands him decoration. Even though it’s chaotic, it’s coming together.
When the door opens again and Upton steps inside, my heart patters wildly. He’s extra handsome tonight in his black pea coat and roguish grin. In his arms is a box full of red and white floral arrangements. Behind him, Isabel follows him with another box full of flowers. We spent the better part of the morning in her shop putting together my order for this event.
Upton sets the box down on a table and then strides over to me. I suck in a breath as he pulls me in his arms. Eyes are on us, but I can’t find it in me to care. He cups my cheek and then dips down to kiss me in greeting. His lips are soft and cold from having just been outside. I love his minty and coffee flavored kiss.
“I’d kiss you more,” he murmurs after pulling away, “but it’s not fit for spectators.”
Heat floods my cheeks as he steps away and flashes me a wink.
Monroe sidles up next to me after Upton rushes over to help Hattie untangle some garland.
“About time you two figured it out,” Monroe says, playfully nudging my shoulder with his. “For the record, I’ve always thought you two were meant to be.”
“So wise,” I tease. “Should have clued me in all those years ago.”
He makes a chuffing sound. “You’re a stubborn Everhart. No one can tell you women anything.”
“True.” I giggle. “Thanks for being here. It means the world to me.”
Monroe grows serious. “That’s what friends are for. You’re a Budgie Bay local through and through, Sandy. You may have left us for a bit, but you’ve always belonged here. Hopefully you’ll be here to stay now.”
I hug my childhood friend and fight tears. We’ve both been ravished by grief. But we’re still here. Still standing.
The next couple of hours go by in a blur, but when we finish, The Icehouse has been transformed into a stunning reception hall. The Christmas spirit is everywhere you look. I know my little girl and she’s going to love how it turned out. She was always so eager to visit the shops at Christmastime in New York City. Their decorations and music were enchanting to her. I’m thrilled to bring some of that home to Budgie Bay for her.
After Silas locks up The Icehouse and everyone leaves, I find myself lingering, unable to let go of Upton’s hand. It’s late and we should go home, but I like spending time with him.
“Want to go look at Christmas lights?” he asks as we make our way to where his car is parked.
“I’d like that. Kind of don’t want this night to end.”
“I totally get that, sweet Sandy.”
Once we’re nice and cozy in his car that’s blasting heat and softly playing classic Christmas music, he takes hold of my hand and then slowly drives up Wing Whirr Way. Since it’s after midnight and heavily snowing, there aren’t many people on the road. There also aren’t many lights on, but Upton seems to know where to find some that always stay on.
The Tailstream River Landing District remains lit up with pretty, sparkling white lights despite the late hour. It’s extra beautiful late at night. Pride surges through me knowing my man built all of it.
My man?
He was always your man, Sandy.
