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Her words struck a chord in him, but Jared bit his tongue. Watching her with those kids yesterday, completely out of her comfort zone, left him totally awed. Even if she was just following a list, her kindness shone throu
gh with every interaction. But it wasn’t just yesterday. Forgiving her aunt and opening her heart again, giving him another chance. She could have completely shut herself off after she lost her family and her husband, but Anna Beth had too much heart to hide.
And he’d fallen in love with her all over again because of it. In all honesty, Jared never stopped, but like him, his feelings had matured.
Now, he needed to find the right time to tell her.
“Okay,” she said, shrugging into her black peacoat. “I’m ready.”
“Are you wearing snow boots under that dress?”
“No, heels.”
Jared arched his brown. “You’re going to walk around on snow and ice in heels?”
“The sidewalks and parking lots are clear and salted. I’ll be fine.”
“Whatever you say.”
Anna Beth slipped her arm through his. “Let’s party.”
They stepped outside and Jared slowed to keep pace with her. The minute she stepped onto the concrete, she slid. Luckily, Jared’s reflexes were fast enough to catch her.
“Whoa, maybe I can’t walk in heels.”
“Guess you need a little help after all.”
Jared swept her up in his arms and carried her the rest of the way. She opened the truck door for him and when he set her on the seat of the truck, she kissed him.
“I’ve never been carried before. It’s fun. I may have to wear the wrong shoes more often.”
“I’ve created a monster,” Jared said. “If it’s too hot, feel free to turn the heater down.”
“Oh, I don’t need your permission to mess with any of your dials.”
“Smart ass.”
He shut the door on her laughter, grinning as he rounded the front of the truck. He climbed up next to her and put the truck in reverse. Jared backed up and straightened, heading toward the hotel. Anna Beth reached across the console and took his hand.
“This is going to be fun.”
When they pulled into The Peaks parking lot, he grabbed two small red bags from the back.
“What are those?” she asked.
“Ornaments. They’re doing a White Elephant ornament exchange. Couples are supposed to bring one funny ornament and one classic ornament.”
“And what did we choose?”
Jared pulled out the red and white swirled bulb with white glitter dusted over the top.
“Oh, that’s cute. I’m going for that one.”
He laughed and took out the other. It was a Gingerbread man with his mouth open and a bite taken out of his head.
“You are disturbed.”
“It reminded me of that story you told me about your dad chasing you with the half eaten gingerbread man. I thought it was funny.” Jared hopped out and went around to get her.
