Page 56 of Santa of the Creek

“I bet he’s thrilled with me.”

“He’ll live.” Dean seems unconcerned.

“How did you manage to say no and have him listen to you when he hasn’t before.”

“I threatened not to fund his next campaign.”

I gape at him. “You threatened the mayor?”

“Who do you think is his primary backer? I told you; I have money from the accident. I also took great investment advice.”

I lick my lips. “So what you’re telling me is you’re rich.”

“I am. I’m also someone who struggles to hold down a job. Can you deal with that? My head doesn’t always work.” He taps his temple.

I know that was the case after the accident. I wonder if he’s just gotten into the habit of thinking that now.

“You volunteer everywhere. You give to the community,” I say, because I see how hard he works even if others don’t. I lean forward to kiss him.

“It’s my way of salving my conscience about the money,” he admits.

“You could live in a mansion.”

Dean looks horrified. “What for? Can you imagine me rattling around in a huge house? Danny needs the mansion, not me. This place suits me fine, and anyway, I need the money to support local charities.”

I lean forward and kiss him. “You’re a good man.”

“It’s nice to hear that.”

I tug Dean closer to me. “As neither of us have to be anywhere, I have a little problem that needs taking of…”

Mirth lights his eyes. “Oh?”

“Hmmm, I woke up with morning wood.”

Dean slides his hand down my body. “I think I can help with that.”

Chapter Twelve

20th December.

Dean

Abrush on my cheek disturbs my nap.

“I’m home,” Echo says.

I smile, relieved that he's home safely. There was a fresh dump of snow last night, and I always worry about Echo driving because he's still not used to driving in snow and ice.

“I'm glad you're home,” I murmur.

“I didn't think Randy was going to ever close. The place was rocking. But Tina protested and led a mutiny. I think Randy realized he'd gone too far.”

I frown, sitting up so that I can focus on him. “Do you want me to get Danny to say something to him?”

“I'm a big boy, Dean, and I can deal with my boss.”

I realize I might have offended Echo, and I lean forward to kiss his cheek. “I know you can, but I also know Randy, and it's always about the dollar with him.”