Page 14 of More Than a Little Spark (Cowboys of Stargazer Springs Ranch #9)

Carson

Carson

I hear Fred up and about two hours before sunrise and a half hour before my alarm was set to go off. I stay still with my eyes closed, mustering the energy to get out of bed. Daphne and I texted until late into the night, and lots of coffee will be required to get me through today’s festivities.

Listening, I try to figure out what Fred is doing. It sounds like he’s in the kitchen, but we’ll all have breakfast at the main house. Ava and Goldie always have a feast laid out. One for breakfast and then again for dinner.

The coffee pot starts burbling, and I smile. The kid is making me coffee. I had no idea he even knew how to brew a pot.

I worried that he would pepper me with questions after meeting Daphne, but we must not have raised any suspicions because Fred hasn’t said a word about her. And that’s a good thing. If he asks, I won’t lie to him, but I’m also not ready to tell him I’m dating. It’s too early for that.

Having the responsibility of Fred is keeping me levelheaded. If I were all alone, I’d have flung myself into this relationship headfirst. Which often just ends with a massive headache.

But I’m hopeful. Daphne is amazing. I’m pinching myself that someone as smart, funny, and beautiful as her is interested in me.

When I hear footsteps in the hall, I yank on a shirt and jeans and sit on the edge of the bed, rubbing my face.

After a quick knock, Fred pushes open the door. “Merry Christmas. I made you coffee.”

“Thanks, bud. That’s exactly what I need.

” I take the mug and swallow down what should’ve been a first glorious sip.

It’s anything but. The kid might’ve completely skipped using water.

He somehow liquefied the beans. This stuff will add to the hair on my chest. Which isn’t necessarily a good thing. I have enough of that as it is.

Fred is staring at the mug. “Since it’s Christmas, I wanted to do something nice for you.”

Smiling, I sip a bit more. “I appreciate it.”

“I didn’t know how much to put in, so I filled that whole bowl. Hopefully it wasn’t too much.” His gaze is fixed on my hand, and I shift the mug to read the writing.

World’s Best Dad

Tears sting my eyes, and I bite my lip to keep my chin from quivering. Then I set the mug on the table and open my arms. “The mug is awesome. I love it.”

He hugs me. “Ms. Poppy took me and Mason shopping the other day, and I had money because Ms. Joji pays me when I help her on the goat farm. She’s nice.”

I nod because words aren’t possible at the moment.

Fred steps back. “Mason told me that when he called Mr. Kent Dad for the first time, he cried a little. So I didn’t want to give it to you in front of everyone. You know, in case it made you cry.”

Laughing, I tousle his hair. “I appreciate that.”

He grins, but then his expression grows serious. “I never had a dad before coming to live with you. You’re a good one. I’m glad you wanted me.”

I pull him close again. “I’m sorry you lost your mom, but I’m really happy you came to live with me. Never forget that I want you here.”

He swallows, still serious. “Is it okay if I call you Dad?”

“I’d like that.” I swipe at a tear. “A lot.”

He wraps his arms around me and buries his head in my chest. “Thanks, Dad.”

I hold him close and whisper, “Merry Christmas.”

Because I can’t think of a better gift than the one this kid just gave me. Having lousy parents was something Fred didn’t deserve, but hopefully knowing that I chose to be his dad will make his life a little brighter.

The main house is overflowing with people, food, and gifts. Lilith has outdone herself with the decorating. It looks like the set of a Christmas movie. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen so many decorations in one place.

Lilith, Ava, and Joji offered to wrap gifts for me. All I had to do was choose what paper I wanted them to use. So I didn’t have to hide Fred’s gifts in the house, and his presents will look nice before he tears into them. Living here is spoiling me. And I’m not complaining one bit.

I step into the kitchen and stand beside Ava. “How can I help?”

She wipes her hands as she turns toward me. “You can’t. It’s all taken care of. Enjoy yourself. Want me to make you a latte?”

“I’ll make one for myself. Thanks. But if you need something, I’m willing.”

Arms open, she motions for me to hug her. “You’re a good one, Carson. I’m very happy you and Fred found your way to the ranch.”

If I get too much more of this mushy stuff, I’m going to be a blubbering mess. “Me too.”

Poppy rubs my arm as she walks past. “Hey, did Fred give you his gift?”

I nod. “And I mostly held it together when he asked if he could call me Dad. Thank you for taking him shopping. It truly was a surprise to see that mug. I’ll treasure it forever.”

Poppy smiles and says, “He’s such a sweet kid. And you’re doing a great job as a dad.”

“Thanks, Poppy.”

Ava gives me a side hug. “She’s right. You are. Now, go make yourself a fancy coffee while I get the food set out.”

“Yes, ma’am.” I wander toward the espresso machine and join Archer and Tyler.

Tyler pours froth in the shape of a heart onto the top of a latte, then steps back and whistles. “I win.”

Nodding, Archer laughs. “My heart looked more like a blob. You definitely are better at this.” He turns to me, eyebrows raised. “Want a latte? Tyler will make it pretty.”

“Sure. Sounds great.”

Tyler points to the syrup bottles lined up along the back of the buffet. “Pick your poison.”

“Surprise me.”

This is only our second Christmas on the ranch, but I look forward to many more. Growing up, I never enjoyed big family Christmases. When I was little, my sister made it special, but after she left, it wasn’t very merry.

But being here makes up for many years of missing out. I hope it’s filling Fred’s tank the same way.

Who knew a job could be life-changing?

My phone buzzes, and I slide it out of my pocket.

Daphne: My brother showed up this morning! He flew in from Alaska, and Dallas snuck off to pick him up really early. I hope y’all are having a great day as well.

Knowing how much family means to Daphne, I send a heart. I’m glad her brother flew down.

Me: Wonderful. That sure makes for a Merry Christmas. And we’re having a great day so far.

I hit send and let my fingers hover over the screen a second. Then I type out another message.

Me: Fred called me Dad.

Daphne: And now I’m crying all over again. That’s awesome. You’re a great dad. He’s a lucky kid. Really, I think you’re both lucky. You found each other and made a family.

Me: We did. Merry Christmas, beautiful

Daphne sends a kissing emoji, which sends my thoughts on that rabbit trail. I haven’t kissed her yet, but I sure have spent a lot of time thinking about kissing her. At first, I was waiting to make sure I had real feelings.

And I for sure feel something.