Page 17

CHAPTER 17

LARK

It’s amazing the difference a year can make.

This time last year, I was still living in my condo in Montpelier, working through the daytime hours while I tried to prove I deserved the next promotion. My social life was quiet—I’d occasionally go out for drinks with people from work or have coffee with someone from the gym—and I was okay with that. More often than not, I’d make an excuse and go home instead, preferring to read or watch movies or text with Kate.

A year ago, my plans for Christmas were the same as they’d always been. A lazy morning by myself followed by lunch and presents with my dad. Then we’d watch A Christmas Story while my dad quoted all the lines and I asked if he’d ever get tired of it.

I asked the same question every year, and the answer was always the same.

“Never,” he would laugh. “Watching this movie is tradition. And come on, how can you not love it? The lamp? The gun? The lamp post? It’s hilarious.”

I’ll admit the movie does make me laugh. Though I still prefer watching movies like Lights On for Christmas , which was really cute, or The Candy Cane Caper , the most recent new release.

At the end of the evening, I’d head home and cuddle by my electric fire—no gas fireplace in my old condo—and watch whatever was on Hallmark until I fell asleep. It was a simple Christmas, and I had no complaints. If anyone had asked, I would have told them I was happy the way things were.

And I was. Mostly.

But now everything is different. I’m different.

Now, I really know how it feels to be in love.

I don’t live by myself anymore, but with the man who feels a lot more serious than just a boyfriend. Boyfriend doesn’t seem like the right word to describe what I have with Knox. But what other option is there? The next step is fiancé, and I don’t think we’re there yet.

Although.

If Knox whipped out a ring on Christmas, I’m pretty darn sure I’d say yes.

Not that I think he’s going to. But if he did, I think I’d accept.

And Christmas. That’s another big change. Instead of spending the day with just my dad, I have a whole group of people to celebrate with. Knox. Winter. His teammates, who have become so much more than protectors to me, they’ve become friends.

“Can I get you guys anything else?” Our server, Alice, stops by the table with a very wobbly stack of dishes in her arms. From the way the dishes are swaying, they look one stiff breeze away from crashing to the floor. “A refill on coffee? Any pastries to take home?”

Knox touches my hand. “Do you want any more coffee, Lark?”

“I’m good.”

He glances at Alice. “I think we’re good, Alice. Thank you.”

“Okay.” A bell dings in the kitchen, and she winces at the sound. “I really wish we could find another server. Ever since Mario quit, it’s been crazy, especially during breakfast. I don’t suppose either of you know anyone?”

“Sorry,” I tell her. “But I’ll keep an ear out.”

The bell dings again, and she makes an aggravated sound. “Sorry. I’d better get back there. So… the check?”

“When you have a chance,” Knox replies. As Alice leaves, he glances around the cheerful diner, and I just know he’s picking out little details he’d like to fix. After spending so much time with him, I know it’s practically a compulsion. Everywhere we go, he makes little offhand comments like they should really fix that paint job or those railings need to be replaced .

I get it, though. It’s his job to notice things like that.

“When are you starting the kitchen redo?” I ask. Last I knew, Knox and his crew were supposed to be upgrading the kitchen at Breakfast Bliss, but they still haven’t started.

“After Christmas. It was going to be sooner, but then things got pushed back, and they didn’t want to close during the week of Christmas, so…”

What he’s not saying is the days he took off to spend with me put him behind. That despite having a competent crew, it’s not the same as him being on site.

A stab of guilt spears through me.

“Songbird.” Knox lightly squeezes my hand. “What are you thinking about that made you look sad all of a sudden?”

While my first instinct is to smooth things over, I know that’s not how I want our relationship to work. If Knox is bothered by something, I want him to tell me.

“Just feeling kind of bad about your jobs,” I admit. “That you’re behind because of me.”

His face jerks in surprise. “Lark. Don’t think that. I’m slightly behind, which is not a big deal, because of choices I made. And I don’t regret staying home with you for a second. Everyone on the crew understands. So do my clients. So, please, don’t feel bad.”

His gaze is so earnest, so affectionate, it’s impossible not to agree. “Okay. I won’t.”

Once the check’s been paid, we head outside, shivering at the blast of cold after the warmth of the diner. As I huddle against Knox, he wraps his arm around me, chuckling as he asks, “Why don’t you wear a hat if you’re cold?”

“My hair will get all messed up.”

“What?”

“If I wear a hat. Then it’ll make my hair all frizzy and I’ll get to work looking like a scarecrow. That’s not a great look for the CFO.”

Knox shakes his head. “Somehow I doubt anyone would think you look like a scarecrow. You’re beautiful.”

Aww .

“So,” he continues as we walk towards the town parking lot. “I meant to ask earlier. Are you sure you’re good with our plans for Christmas?”

“What do you mean?”

Concern darkens his gaze as he looks over at me. “I just know you’ve always spent the day with your dad. So if you want to do that…”

“I don’t. I mean, I want to see him. And we will. But not the whole day like before. We have other plans, too.”

A hint of uncertainty tinges his tone. “I just don’t want your dad to think I’m ruining things. Ruining traditions.”

“He doesn’t.” We reach my car, and I turn to face him. “My dad is thrilled to see both of us for the holiday. He understands we have other people we want to see. And that we want to spend some time together, just the two of us.”

Because that’s the new plan for Christmas, and I couldn’t be more excited about it. A lazy morning with Knox, opening presents and making love by the tree. Then we’ll go to my dad’s in Montpelier for the afternoon. In the evening, we’ll come back to Bliss for Enzo’s holiday party and gift exchange.

“Are you sure? Because I want your dad to like me.”

“Knox.” I twine my arms around his neck and kiss his bristly cheek. “My dad thinks you’re great. And I’ll warn you, he’s already got a list of home improvement questions to ask you. So, trust me when I say he does.”

“Okay.” A relieved smile lifts his lips. “Good. Because, you know, you’re pretty important to me. So I want your dad to approve.”

“He does. ”

A sharp breeze rushes by, and I shudder at the frigid cold. “Why do I live in Vermont, again?”

“Here.” Knox takes the key fob and unlocks the door. “Get inside. Blast the heat. And text me when you get to work, okay?”

“I will.” I kiss him again. “And I’ll see you back home around five.” A bubble of joy expands in my chest. “Home. I like the sound of that.”

Even though we only decided it two days ago, Knox has basically moved into my place already. And I love it. Knowing he’s not there temporarily, but because we’re living together.

Knox gazes at me, his expression softening. “Yeah. I like it, too.”

Even coming to work feels more cheerful than it used to be.

As I walk through the doors of Weber Investments, I’m not hyper-focused on my schedule for the day ahead, hurrying straight to my office so I can jump into my first tasks of the day. Instead, I actually take my time coming in, taking in the cheerful holiday decorations at reception—tiny Christmas trees and menorahs and even a Kwanzaa kinara on the front desk. Twinkle lights are draped over the fake plants scattered throughout the waiting area, and “Carol of the Bells” is playing quietly in the background.

Evelyn, one of our receptionists, is fully embracing the holiday, all in red and green with jingle bells hanging from her ears. She waves at me, smiling as she says, “Good morning, Miss Weber. Is it cold enough out for you?”

I give an exaggerated shiver as I return her smile. “I’d say so. Last I checked, it was twenty degrees. But the weather forecast is predicting snow for Christmas, so that would be nice.”

“Oh, yes.” She brightens. “Nothing like a white Christmas. I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed.”

“Same.” Just before I head to the elevator, I add, “I love your earrings, Evelyn. They’re so cute and festive.”

“Thanks! I made them myself. I could make you a pair, too, if you like?”

How sweet.

This is the kind of thing I wouldn’t have made time for before. Before I moved to my cabin and started spending more time at home—and later, with Knox—I would have shared a pleasant greeting with Evelyn, but not more than that. Which, now that I think about it, makes me a little sad. “If you have time,” I tell her, “I’d love that.”

While I wait for the elevator to arrive, I find myself humming along with the music. And then my mind wanders to the caroling from a few nights ago, when I discovered Knox has a surprisingly good singing voice. He was hesitant at first when the carolers urged the audience to sing along with them, but once everyone got going, he joined along.

And wow. Just when I think Knox can’t possibly get any sexier? My tough protector boyfriend crooning “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” while he looks into my eyes?

Oh . My belly still gets all fluttery just thinking about it .

As the elevator doors open and I step inside, a voice calls out from behind me, “Can you hold the doors?”

My hand shoots out to block the doors from closing, and only after do I realize who the voice is attached to. And my smile immediately dips.

Everett. The annoying account manager. The guy who makes my teeth grind just listening to his smarmy, ingratiating voice, and who seems to think dating me is the ticket to a promotion.

Plastering a fake smile on my face, I give him a little nod as he joins me in the elevator. “Everett. Nice to see you.” Because as much as he bugs me, I would never be anything but polite to any of the employees here. He’s not my employee, since he reports to the sales manager, but as CFO and daughter of the owner of the company, it’s important I keep things professional and pleasant.

“Lark.” He gives me an overly bright smile and moves a foot too close for comfort. “So nice to see you.”

I take a quick step away. “Yes. You too.”

“So. I’ve been meaning to come see you.”

“Oh?” My gaze slides to the elevator buttons for a second. Why is it taking so long just to go up three floors?

“Yes. The holiday party on Friday. I assume you’re going?”

My phone chimes in my purse, playing the special rhythm I assigned to Knox. My heart lifts. While it’s been less than an hour since I saw him, I already miss him.

I want to check Knox’s text, but Everett is still looking at me expectantly, waiting for my answer. “Yes. I’m going. ”

The elevator bell chimes. Yes! Fourth floor. I can dart off to my office and end this?—

“Would you like to go with me?”

“What?”

“The holiday party,” he explains patiently. “We could go together.”

“I’m sorry.” I make an apologetic face. “But I’m with someone. So I’ll be bringing him to the party. But thanks for asking.”

The doors slide open and I make a quick exit, tossing over my shoulder, “Have a good day, Everett.” And then I snatch my phone from my purse and tap Knox’s incoming message, smiling to myself as I read it.

Songbird. I miss you already. Everything ok at work?

While I walk, I type out a quick reply.

So far, so good. Just heading to my office now. And I miss you, too!

Just as I’m about to enter my office, I hear a familiar and welcome voice calling my name.

Not annoying Everett this time, but someone I actually want to talk to. My dad.

Turning, I grin as he walks toward me, his long-time employee, Ed, matching his pace alongside him. As soon as he reaches me, my dad hugs me and says, “Lark. I’m glad I caught you before my conference call. How are you?”

“Good.” Stepping out of the hug, my gaze shifts to Ed. He’s one of the senior financial advisors and has been working here since I was in college, and while on the surface he seems nice, I always get the feeling he thinks I don’t deserve the job I have. Not that he’s ever said anything about it, but it’s just a vibe I get from him .

So he’s not my favorite, but he’s been a loyal employee and my dad likes him, so I give Ed a friendly smile as I say, “Nice to see you, Ed. Are you ready for Christmas?”

A shadow moves across his face, but it’s quickly replaced by a smile. “I’m good, Lark. All ready for the holidays, I think. Just a few last-minute things. You?”

“Same.” Turning my attention back to my dad, I ask, “So what’s up? Did you need something? Or just saying hi?”

“Both.” He pauses. “I always like to see you. But also, I wanted to ask—you’re bringing Knox to the party, right? I want to make sure I have seats for both of you at my table.”

“Yes, he’s coming.” Warmth fills my chest. “He’s really looking forward to it.”

“Good, good.” My dad hugs me again. “And I’m really looking forward to seeing both of you for Christmas.” Before he can continue, his smart watch dings, and he glances down at it. “Shoot. My call’s in five minutes. But maybe we can have lunch? My treat?”

“Sounds good.”

After the three of us exchange goodbyes, I make my way into my office and hang my coat by the rack near the door. Sinking into my office chair, I turn to look out the window, admiring the view of downtown Montpelier, all decked out for the holidays. It’s like a larger version of Bliss, with arching steeples and old brick buildings and crowds of people strolling along the sidewalks.

But I like Bliss so much more. It’s cute. Comfortable. In the short time I’ve lived outside of town, I’ve gotten to know the locals, like Alice and Hazel and Max. I like the special events that the entire town shows up for. And I love spending time there with Knox.

And speaking of Knox. Now that I have some privacy, I send him a longer message.

Hey, Just made it to my office. Seemed like everyone wanted to talk today. But my dad asked if you’re still coming to the party. And he said he’s really looking forward to seeing you on Christmas.

I’m not expecting a response right away, since I know Knox is on the Green Mountain Guardians property this morning, scouting for the best locations for the cabins he’s starting in the spring. But his name almost immediately pops onto my screen.

That’s great. I’m looking forward to it, too. And I’m really looking forward to Christmas with you. Spending our first Christmas together, opening presents by the tree.

Grinning, I tap out a reply.

And doing sexy things beside it?

He responds right away,

Absolutely.

Oh. My core clenches at the thought of another sexy escapade by the tree. I know the floor isn’t the most comfortable location, but I bought a plush rug to go beside it, and we lay down blankets, and with the glow of the lights and the flames from the fire…

“Lark?”

Ack! I slam my mind shut on all my sexy thoughts as Ed pokes his head into my office. Flipping my phone over, I command myself not to blush as I ask, “Yes? What’s up?”

He steps inside, concern etched into his features. In a serious tone, he says, “I was hoping I could talk to you about your dad.”

“Oh?” Leaning forward, I rest my hands on the glossy wood of my desk. “Is something wrong?”

Ed pulls the door shut behind him, explaining, “I think this is better discussed in private. I wouldn't want anyone else to hear this. But…” He pauses. “I’m concerned.”

My chest tightens. My pulse races. “Concerned about what?”

He takes a few steps closer, his tone dipping conspiratorially. “I’m worried about your dad, Lark. He’s… been making mistakes. Behaving erratically.”

“He has?” This is news to me.

“Yes. I don’t want to be overly alarmist here, but I am concerned about the future of the company. If he’s… having difficulties. I know this isn’t the best time to discuss this while we’re at work. But I want to help. This company and your dad mean a lot to me.”

Worry and fear hit me in alternating waves. Is there something wrong with my dad? In dealing with all my crap, have I missed something?

My first instinct is to argue, to insist that my dad is perfectly fine. But… I haven’t seen him as much as I usually have. “Has anyone else noticed?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady. “Have you heard?”

“I don’t think so,” he replies. “Nothing solid, at least. But he came over for Thanksgiving, you know. And that’s when I first noticed something.”

Just as I’m trying to figure out the right thing to say, my phone chimes again. Knox.

And I’m desperate for even the smallest connection with him right now, so I flip it back over to read his message.

I have to measure out some dimensions for the new cabins. But I’ll text you at lunch. Love you.

Oh. The belt wrapped around my chest loosens a notch.

I have Knox. And I know, no matter what’s going on with my dad, Knox will support me. Or as he and his friends like to say, he has my six.

Before I answer Ed, I send a quick reply to Knox.

I love you. So much.