Page 24 of One More Yule Log

“It is. So is nonwork time,” Gray said, and he got it. They were both swamped-with-work kinds of guys. Though Gray’s job seemed… cozier.

“Yes. I’m off work earlier than you this season.”

“I can find time.” Gray was looking hungry, but maybe for him and not for food.

“Saturday night after our day at the festival?”

“That sounds amazing. Fran will be gone, though?”

“We have a babysitter I can call…”

“Daddy! Daddy, can I spend the night with Emily Saturday night? She’s having a movie marathon.”

Well, there it was. “I think so, baby girl. As long as it’s okay with her mom and dad.”

“Miss Mari asked me ’fore Emily did.”

“Well then, all right. You can go.”

“Yay!” She twirled off again, and Gray looked at him, smiling.

“Must be meant to be.”

“Christmas magic.” He couldn’t stop his smile.

“Yule.” Gray’s expression boded well for their date.

“Yule.” He was so tempted to lean down and take a kiss.

“I really want to kiss you. That would probably be bad, huh?”

“It depends on your position on applause.”

“Not unfavorable, but I want our first kiss to be private.” They both said the next word. “Saturday.”

“It’s going to be a long couple of days, hmm?”

“It so is.” Gray lowered his voice. “I know what I’ll be doing tonight.”

“I’m not sure single dads are allowed to do that…”

“Oh, I think so long as your kid is asleep…” Gray’s cheeks flushed bright pink.

“And the door is locked. Twice.” He grinned over, the laughter right there at the edge.

They cracked up again, this time catching smiles sent their way instead of curious stares. He’d missed this—having someone to share secrets with, laugh with.

If nothing else, well, he wanted a new friend. He and Gray felt like they had crazy chemistry, though, and he intended to see what happened, at least for a few.

He kinda thought Gray had the same intention. Which made him grin.

There was something good about…whatever this was. Attraction. Interest. Jonesing on each other.

“Can we go get a cupcake now, Daddy?” Oh, someone was drooping.

“We can.” He smiled down at her. “Did you say your goodbyes?”

“I did. I told Mrs. Harris thank you too.”