Page 6 of Merry Christmas, Cowboy (Home to Texas #2)

She faced Garrett now. “Hello again. I see you and Cody have met Cassie.”

“Yeah, and the kids hit it off right away. Everyone has been very welcoming to both of us.”

“That’s what we’re all about here in Last Stand.”

Garrett frowned. “Thanks for the reinforcements about the dog. I made the mistake of telling Cody we might get one when we settle down, and he thinks it should happen like tomorrow. I put the notion in his head and now he can’t stop talking about it. I should’ve known better.”

“I’m sure many practiced parents make the same mistake.”

Coop walked over, adding, “I know I sure did. I’m still making them with Cassie.”

“Well, you’re doing something right, Cassie’s a great little girl,” Nicole said.

“She is. I’m the one who’s constantly doubting myself.”

“Same here,” Garrett said, scratching his head. “I’ve only been at it a year, but it’s amazing how that little guy’s happiness consumes my life now.”

Coop slapped his back. “That sounds about right.”

Just then, Taylor called them over. “Hey, you guys, come have some wine. The lasagna will be ready in five.”

Nicole and Garrett looked at each other and before they could answer Taylor was right there, putting a glass of red wine in each of their hands. “This’ll keep you warm. It’s gonna be cold out there tonight.”

“I can’t recall a colder winter,” Coop said. “But I gotta admit, I like seeing snow on the ground in Last Stand.”

Everyone agreed, except Coop’s father, known as Grandpa Joe to his friends. “This cold weather makes my bones ache. But it’s sure nice to look out the window and see it on the ground.”

Coop and Taylor, Julie and Miguel, and Grandpa Joe, engaged Garrett in conversation as Nicole sipped her wine.

She hadn’t eaten much today and now the alcohol was giving her a slight buzz.

She’d be fine once she ate dinner. Right now, she was happy being quiet and listening to her friends converse.

She had to admit to being a little sad, a little lonely, even amongst these people who had become so dear to her.

The only one missing was her friend, Lindsey, the music teacher at Honeysuckle.

She’d gotten married in July and Nicole had been one of her bridesmaids.

They’d planned their weddings at the same time, and Taylor had made quite unique alterations to Lindsey’s beautiful gown.

Lindsey had taken the entire month of December off to travel with her husband.

They’d headed to Europe, where she planned on doing research for a book she planned to write on the origins of children’s music.

“Nic, would you like a refill on your wine?” Taylor asked, coming over with the bottle.

“No thanks, my head’s already spinning.”

Taylor laughed. “You’re a lightweight.”

“I am, but in my own defense, I haven’t eaten much today.”

“Let’s remedy that.” Taylor gazed at the group seated in the living room. “Dinner is just about ready. How about we all take a seat in the dining room. Follow me.”

The others got up and followed her and she was just about to do the same, when Cody ran into the room chasing the tail-wagging dog. Muffy got tangled up under Nicole’s feet and she had to move fast not to step on the little dog, throwing her completely off-balance.

“Whoa.” She began to stumble forward, and then Garrett took a big step to block her fall.

She met with his chest, which was hard as granite, and was grateful she managed to keep from spilling wine all over his shirt. Surprised, she lifted her gaze to him.

His eyes softened and his voice filled with concern. “Hey, are you okay?”

No, she was not okay, she felt like a clumsy fool. What must he think of her, falling at his feet like this?

“I’m, ah… I didn’t want to squash Muffy.”

She gazed down at the dog, who’d escaped being crushed and was now making a dash for the kitchen.

“Thank you,” she told him, her cheeks burning. “You’re always protecting me.”

Garrett nodded. “I could think of worse things.”

She tilted her head to meet with his blue eyes. They were all knowing and… kind. Suddenly a shot of warmth entered her heart. “I told you I was clumsy,” she said quietly.

He shook his head. “I think it was Muffy’s fault.”

“Just like it was the ladder’s fault today?”

“That rickety ole thing?” He gave her a rare smile, then gestured toward the dining room. “I imagine Taylor has us sitting together at dinner. Why not just go along with it?”

“Sure, I was thinking the same thing. We’re the odd couple.”

He shot her a curious look.

“I mean, we’re not a couple, and well, they can think what they want, but we know we’re just acquaintances that will be seeing each other from time to time.” She clarified, “While I prepare for the fundraiser.”

“And we do have a pact,” he added, rubbing at the scruff on his face. It wasn’t day-old, but rather well-groomed and quite appealing.

“Which I plan to carry out. A deal is a deal and we start tonight with the tree lighting being the first of many.”

“Many?” He sighed and looked away for a second.

“For Cody’s sake, remember?”

He nodded. “I remember.”

They walked into the dining room and, sure enough, Garrett was seated next to her, while Cody sat beside Cassie, at a lovely white oak table that had seen many a family meal.

But Garrett was quiet through most of the meal sharing little about himself and looking a bit uncomfortable all of a sudden. Was he regretting making the pact with her?

Or was it that this time of year was just so hard on him? And seeing all these happy faces reminded him of what he’d lost?

*

The crowd gathered around the Christmas tree in front of the library’s steps.

It was massive, so green and tall with branches that jutted out in perfect harmony with each other.

Christmas music filled the air, piped in from great big speakers on the library’s steps.

Cody stood beside her, holding his uncle’s hand, but as soon as Cassie appeared with Coop and Taylor, he ran over to them.

Cody and Cassie were all smiles, giggling and high-fiving each other.

“Hi, Miss Russell.” One of her students walked over to her, smiling wide. In a town this size, students often bumped into their teachers, especially during Christmas festivities.

“Hello, Beth. It’s good to see you here. Are you excited about the tree lighting?”

The little girl nodded.

Her mother wasn’t far behind, curiously eyeing Garrett standing beside her. “Hello, Miss Russell,” Beth’s mom said, then darted another glance at Garrett.

“Hello. We’ve got a big beautiful tree this year, don’t you agree?”

“Uh, yes. It’s lovely.”

Nicole summoned her good manners. Mrs. Bell was waiting for an introduction. “Oh, I’d like you to meet Cody’s uncle. Garrett Brown, this is Mrs. Bell.”

“Ruth,” she said, “and it’s nice to meet you.” She exchanged approving glances at the two of them.

“Same here, ma’am.”

“I suppose you’re here to watch the tree lighting. Together?”

Ruth Bell met her eyes, her expression filled with hope. As if to say, “Good for you, Nicole. You’ve moved on.” At least there was no pity in Mrs. Bell’s eyes, no sympathy for the girl who’d gotten left at the altar.

Some others in the crowd were also peering at her curiously minus the sympathetic looks, minus the sorrowful faces.

Those pitying tilts of the head were absent too.

So, she did something, she’d never thought she’d do.

She fibbed. “Yes, we’re here together to enjoy the tree lighting, since this is Garrett and Cody’s first Christmas here. ”

Garrett stared at her for a second, then took a step closer to her, and faced Mrs. Bell. “Nic has been wonderful in welcoming us to Last Stand.”

Nic?

Garrett was playing along, not that it was a far stretch from the truth. They were here to enjoy the tree lighting. But it wasn’t a date. Or anything close. Yet, if it would keep those pitying glances at bay, she was all-in.

“Well, have a great time tonight, you two,” Ruth said, taking her daughter’s hand.

“I’m sure we will,” Garrett replied.

Once again, Garrett had come to her rescue, in the slightest of ways, but still…

The mayor came to stand in front of the tree, speaking into a microphone, asking for everyone’s attention and Nicole was saved from having an awkward conversation with Garrett.

“Well, would you look at this nice gathering we have here tonight to ring in the holiday season in Last Stand,” the mayor said.

“I see so many familiar faces, so many friends and colleagues. And look at these beautiful children. Kids, why don’t you all come forward.

Gather up right here so you get a great view of the tree.

” He gestured for them to stand around him and many of them did, Cody and Cassie included.

“Before we do the countdown, let me remind you of all the exciting activities happening this season. Right after the tree lighting, take a stroll through Main Street to see all the wonderful items on display at the Christkndlmarkt.”

Decorated garland wrapped around sidewalk posts on Main as overhead string lights crisscrossed the street between light poles, casting a magical glow over the space and glittery old-fashioned, tinsel-framed windows and storefronts.

The entire street was closed down to drivers, encouraging pedestrians to wander the shops and market booths freely, enjoying authentic German fare and traditions.

The mayor went on, “Tomorrow, we’ll expand the market and fair, to include our own hometown goodness, something for everyone.

Be sure to stop on by. There are several toy drives going on during the season and let’s not forget our special Honeysuckle Elementary School’s fundraiser, held again this year at Cottonwood Ranch.

I’m sure you’ll all want to support and participate in all Last Stand has to offer.

And later in the month, as we countdown to Christmas, we hope you attend the annual ball held at the Jameson House.

But now, boys, girls, and adults, it’s time to do tonight’s countdown.

We have a very special guest to help us light the tree. Everyone welcome, Santa Claus!”

The children cheered, some in awe, others in joy, as the jolly man in the big red suit appeared. Garrett peered at Cody and Cassie, watching as the two jumped up and down.

“It’s exciting for them,” she said, needlessly. It was obvious the kids were having a ball, but Garrett seemed to need reassurances.

“Hello, boys and girls,” Santa said, waving. “I hope you’ve all been good, because I sure do have lots of presents stacked up in my sleigh, getting ready for my big ride on Christmas eve.”

The children cheered again, and once they simmered down, Santa asked, “Are you ready for me to light this tree? Why don’t you all count with me?

Ready? Ten… nine… eight… seven… six… five…

four… three… two… one!” He pushed a button and the massive tree beamed bright, all the colorful lights illuminating the area surrounding them.

Ornaments glittered and music began to play in the background.

A cheer went up, louder than before. Ohs and ahhs from the townspeople nearly muted out the tunes, but then slowly, one by one, people stopped cheering and began to sing.

The song was easy for the kids and they joined in a rendition of “Jingle Bells.” With that, Santa waved good-bye to all, telling the kids he had some important work to do.

Christmas music continued to play and the crowd stood firm, belting out the songs.

Nicole touched Garrett’s arm. “Could I speak to you for a minute?”

He looked at her curiously and nodded. They walked away from the gathering, but close enough for Garrett to keep an eye on Cody.

“About before,” she said. “I’m sorry. I don’t know what got into me, but I don’t want you to get the wrong idea.

It’s just that I’ve been the subject of pity and sympathy in town long enough, so when Ruth Bell, made an assumption, I didn’t correct her.

” She wrinkled her nose. “I, uh, I hope it wasn’t too awkward for you? ”

“Not at all. You didn’t lie, Nicole. You told the truth.”

“I suppose, but I didn’t correct her assumption.”

“You’re not a mind reader. You don’t know what she was thinking.”

“I’m pretty sure I do. She was thinking I had moved on and that we’re now dating. Which, of course, is ridiculous.”

He blinked. “And why is that?”

“Because—” She stopped, taken by his tone. “Well, you know why? We’re only together because we made a pact. You allow the fundraiser, and I—”

“Got it. I remember the pact.”

“It’s just that it felt so good not to be scrutinized for once. And I think I really needed that.”

“So, you’re saying, when people see us together, why not let them believe what they want to believe?”

“I, uh.” Again, she wrinkled her nose. Was she out of line, putting Garrett in this position? “Would that be so awful?”

“No,” he said immediately. “I can’t see a downside to this. After all, I’ll be leaving town soon, and you said it yourself, the idea of us dating would be ridiculous. There’s nothing to lose here and if you benefit from it, so be it.”

She wasn’t going to lie, hearing him say it back to her, kind of stung. “That’s… right.”

“So, we’ve made a pact inside a pact, then?”

“Sort of… yes. I guess we have.”

“Wanna pinky swear?” he said with a straight face.

She could never really tell what he was thinking. “Uh, sure.”

He put out his pinky finger and she hooked it with hers. They made a quick downward motion and then both released at the same time.

He met her eyes. “Ready to go back and face the music?”

“You’re funny, Garrett,” she said, shaking her head.

“I can be a lot of fun.”

Maybe she’d like to see that side of him, firsthand. Him, letting loose, having fun.

He took her hand in his and guided her back toward the rest of the group, only releasing her once he spotted Cody.