Page 86 of Under the Mistletoe

I grip on to his hand, knowing he’s putting his unease to the side for me today. I don’t want to let my aunt and uncle down. I love spending Saturdays with them and hate missing even just one Saturday.

“I’ll be fine.”

“I know. Because you won’t be out of my sight, and I’ve also organized extra security just in case.”

“The file was clean, and Marcus isn’t hiding around the corner, ready to grab me either,” I whisper to him, not that Gordon would say anything; he already knows most things.

Donovan looks at me. “I’ve also organized undercover security that are roaming the streets.”

“In this weather?” I frown, looking outside, seeing it dark and cold, winter well and truly here. We pull up to the shop, a few people milling around.

“See, Marcus won't try anything with all these people around.” I look at him as we stop at the curb.

“The Feds will be storming Jasper offices on Monday. We have two days to wait before Marcus will be investigated and potentially arrested. The media attention will then swing toward him. But until then…”

I swallow. “I know.” My words don’t appease him, so I squeeze his hand in mine. Until then, we have to be careful. Marcus’ threat is still real. The fact that Teflon Teo has probably left town will be enough to let Marcus know something is up. He’s many things, but stupid isn’t one of them, and he’ll be looking for revenge while he can still take it.

“Maybe he’s fled town?” I suggest, because if I was a wealthy businessman, that’s probably what I would do.

Donovan shakes his head. “It’s too hot for him. The Feds may not have arrested him yet, but I’m sure they’re watching him. Expecting it.”

“Well, I’m sure he’s nowhere near me.”

“I just need you safe. You mean so much to me. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I can’t let danger come to you.” His eyes search mine, and I need to pull in air as my eyes feel wet.

“I love you,” I tell him. It’s been a lot this week. Pressure, tension, fear. I look out the window, seeing a small media pack walking toward the car, now clearly aware of exactly who is in it. They have died down a little. Ever since Ashley was let go, the link to them now clear. But there are a few that still stick around, waiting. Watching.

“Are you ready to sell some sprinklers?” I grin at him, breaking the heaviness of the conversation.

“As ready as I’ll ever be.”

Gordon opens the door, and we step out, keeping our heads low and walking right into the store, where Uncle Bob is waiting.

“Hey, kiddo.”

I walk into his embrace, feeling like I’m home. I’ve missed him, even though it’s only been a week or so.

“Come out back. I’ve got sandwiches.”

The shop is empty, the weather today not conducive to sprinkler sales, and with a few boxes around, I know the online sales have balanced out now that Christmas is upon us.

“Mmmmm, they smell so good…” I moan, and Donovan chuckles.

“Donovan.” My uncle shakes his hand.

“Bob. Vivian. Nice to see you both.”

I grin up at him, loving seeing them all get along.

“I’ve missed these…” I help Aunt Vivian pass out the fresh Reuben sandwiches.

“You only missed one Saturday.” Uncle Bob chuckles, and my shoulders immediately lower.

“So are the media behaving?” Donovan asks them as we all dig in.

“They stay on the other side of the street. It’s calmed down a little.”

“How’re sales?” I ask.