Page 199 of The Holiday Clause

“Wren, where am I putting this?” Astrid, still holding her dish, called from the doorway.

“In the kitchen. Follow me. Then you can help me with the centerpieces.”

The maid fussed at the idea of letting others dress the table, but Wren insisted. Soren and Jocelyn bickered overcandle placement. Aunt Astrid argued that the silver clashed with Greyson’s aura. Everyone had an opinion, and Wren tried to compromise, giving up her dream of a centerfold-worthy outcome, and instead settling for a hodgepodge mashup of tacky meets good intentions.

Greyson, sensing her stress, took her hand and pulled her into the kitchen. He didn’t give her a chance to gripe. Instead, he kissed her—slow and drudgingly. “Have I told you how much I appreciate everything you’re trying to do.”

Trying…That wasn’t exactly a rave review.

She nestled into the shelter of his strength. “Is it working? You can lie to me,” she teased.

“Depends on what you hoped the outcome would be.”

She’d hoped for a miracle, but she’d settle for tolerance at this point. “Was it a mistake inviting my family?”

He drew back and frowned, holding her firmly by the shoulders. “Why would you ask that?”

She shrugged. “They’re…you know…a lot.”

“You mean weird?”

“Yeah.”

He kissed her temple and hugged her. “You know I love Bodhi and Astrid.”

“You do, but the others aren’t used to them.”

“Give them time.”

“What about your dad?”

He chuckled. “He’ll adapt. Your aunt settles in with the subtlety of an enema.”

She laughed. “Your dad didn’t look too happy to see my dad.”

“My dad’s never happy, Wren. It’s easier if you just accept that he’s a miserable man.”

She looked up at him. “That’s not true. I saw him…” Her words trailed off as she tried to explain the look in his eyes.

“What? Smile? Impossible.”

“No, not smile, but I saw him get emotional a few times. He’s not as unaffected as you all think.”

“I’m sure it’s a welcomed distraction.”

Maybe her expectations had been too high. “How are you doing?”

“Me?” He smiled. “I’m great.”

She studied his sharp blue eyes. “This isn’t too much for you?”

“No. I can handle it.” He swiped a fleck of glitter off her cheek. “You’re very sparkly.”

Rising on her toes, she kissed him. It was only meant to be a quick peck, but it quickly turned into more. When the kitchen door swung open, Greyson covered her mouth and yanked her into the pantry.

“My god, will you get off my ass!” Jocelyn’s voice carried through the closed door and Wren’s eyes widened.

Greyson slowly pulled his hand away, and continued kissing her.