#hallmarkholidayromcomchallenge

"I guess Cyclone's wife is part of some fancy supper club and they decided to auction off dates with single aviators as a big prize. I mean it all goes to charity so l guess it's not all bad." Natasha says with a shrug as she digs into her lunch, Bradley looks less than enthused about the whole ordeal and Jake doesn't seem to have a care in the world. "It's more like we got volun-told to do it, the only consolation is a four day weekend, if you ask me we could have at least gotten a gift card or something." Bradley grumbles, and you can't help but agree it does seem pretty meager considering they are basically being sold to a bunch of middle aged women to ogle them. You can't help but be a little annoyed at how chill Jake seems about it though; it's not like the two of you were serious or anything, but the little green monster was clawing at you at the thought of someone else holding his attention. You'd unpack that later, now wasn't the time.

If Jake seems unphased to you then it must be a Christmas miracle, he can’t stop wondering what you’re thinking about this whole ordeal; would you bid on him? Would he have to go on some stupid date with a 50+ year old divorcee and make small talk? He didn’t mind being ogled for charity, it was for a good cause and he’d be lying if he said he didn’t know he looked as good as he does. He should tell you how he feels, just bite the bullet and ask you to be his girlfriend. The thought of you laughing over the ridiculousness of him settling down has kept him from making the declaration, he may seem cocky and cool headed but on the inside? Well he’s a big ball of nerves when it comes to you. You weren’t like anyone he’d ever been into before, and the thought of getting turned down was down right soul crushing. So he’d settled for casual hook ups, late night booty calls and shitty diner food late at night when you wanted company. He wanted more; real dates where he held your hand and got dressed up to eat fancy shit he couldn’t pronounce, waking up and eating breakfast together, goodnight kisses before you passed out in each other's arms. He was getting soft, or at least that’s what Javy said when he got that dopey look on his face when you entered the room. He’d tell you after Christmas block leave, surely by then he’d have his shit together enough to make his case.

You had to admit that while the San Diego women’s supper club was a stuffy bunch, they certainly knew how to throw a swanky affair. The ballroom of the Lafayette Hotel was decked to the brim with an old Hollywood Christmas vibe. Garlands covered in holly and poinsettias covered the doorways, Christmas lights and candles as far as the eye could see, as a jazz band played holiday classics while the crowd of upper class ladies mingled with their crystalline glasses of spirits. It very much felt like stepping back in time; almost as if Sinatra himself was preparing to take the stage. You were definitely glad Phoenix had the forethought to drag you and Halo out to dress shop earlier in the week, your cocktail dress you usually donned for weddings wouldn't have cut it for something like this. The event said black tie and they weren’t kidding, even the guys in the squad had shown up in tuxes, and you had to keep your composure because Jake Seresin in a suit was a feast for the eyes. He mingled a little with the group as he made his way over to you, beer in hand because you can dress him up but he’s still a good ol’ southern boy at heart. His gaze over your frame heated your skin, and he knew damn well he had you flustered, flicking his toothpick around in his mouth as he grinned at you.

“You look good Fawn, damn good.” You felt good too, it was a beautiful night and he was by your side, now if only you could get yourself together enough to tell him how you felt. “I have something I need to talk to you about Jake, before we all go on block leave and don’t see each other until the new year.” He cocks an eyebrow at you and leans in so he can give you his full attention, this is it, just jump off the edge headfirst and tell him you want a real relationship. “I want us-“ You hear someone clear their throat behind you, it’s Admiral Simpson and his wife- beckoning all the eligible bachelors to meet up on stage so the auction can begin. With a groan Jake drops his head to your ear, squeezing your hand as an apology as he asks you to hold that thought. Ugh! You should’ve just said something sooner, now you’ll be left with your anxiety to keep you company while you watch a bunch of women place their bids. The girls make their way back to their seats, Halo suggests that Phoenix should place her bets on Coyote; Lord knows neither of them have been subtle about their hookups these days.

“I doubt any of us has the money to throw around that these rich old bags do.” “Oh my God Phe!” You crack a smile at her crassness, she and Javy seem so solid; nothing like the uncertainty you feel in your gut right now.

“Oh shit, isn’t that Admiral Roger’s ex wife? The one Jake got trash duty for hooking up with?” Halo whispers as an elegant looking woman walks past them with a sneer. “Fuck. Yeah that’s her. She got reported by Mav for stalking Jake too, went completely bat shit after their hookup and wanted to be his sugar mama or some shit. She’s bad news. You don’t think she’ll bid on him do you?” Phoenix said, frown etching her pretty features as she looked at you for an answer. You didn’t have one, you hadn’t even thought about her in months. She’d really fucked with Jake mentally, it was part of the reason you’d kept relationship talk off the table because you were afraid you’d run him off after that train wreck. If she was here it was almost guaranteed that it was to stir the pot, you had to do something, anything to keep him out of her cross hairs. “Phe, I gotta go talk to Mav- but we have to protect Jake. See what everyone’s got in extra cash- we may need it.”

The auction was definitely a success, these ladies knew what they wanted and went for it. Harvard had gone for 5,000 and as the rest of the guys were filing out you imagined the prices would just keep rising. The feeling in your stomach felt more like a boulder as you watched the former Mrs. Rogers and her gaggle of snotty girlfriends ogle over each of your friends. This was supposed to be a fun joke for charity but the more you thought about this woman using it to manipulate the man you loved the more sick you felt. Mav had assured you that he’d handle it as best he could; Iceman seemed confident that combined everyone could place a bet to win Jake and that there was no need to worry but it did little to calm your nerves. Finally Jake takes his turn on the stage, flashing his trademark grin and playing it up for the crowd. He caught your eye and gave you a wink, and as much as you wanted to return it you couldn’t bring yourself to smile. What if someone else won him? What if she won him? I mean yeah it’s just a line dancing date for charity but still. This woman is a nightmare in heels and you’d rather not watch him suffer through an evening with her.

“I’ll start the bidding at 100 dollars!” Mrs. Simpson calls out over the microphone, and a chorus of bids ring out through the ballroom. A bidding war breaks out between Mrs. Rogers and an ancient looking woman seated in the front, bringing the price to nearly 10,000 dollars. Jake looks off kilter as he watches his stalker fight over the bid prices, and you realize that none of you have the cash to help keep him from getting away unscathed. “Oh god, he’s really gonna have to deal with her isn’t he?” You groan, Phoenix rubbing your arm absentmindedly as the price skyrockets to 30,000. It appears though that Mrs. Rogers has finally met her match, at 35,000 she gives up and relinquishes her place to the little old lady. Finally you can breathe a sigh of relief; cheers ring out among your table as the older woman stands up and takes a bow, digging in her purse for her black card. When her name is announced you can’t help but laugh; it turns out she’s Icceman’s beloved mother in law, she loves charity work and has a ridiculous amount of money and nowhere to spend it. She pinches Jake’s cheek as he makes his way over to her, with a robust laugh she shoos him off to the table your squad resides, and he is back to grinning like he won the lottery himself.

“What did she say to you? Ice’s mom?” You say later in the evening, Mrs. Rogers' husband apparently got a very interesting text from her someone about her whereabouts and left shortly after the auction ended with her tail between her legs. “She said I have a damn good squad looking out for me, but it’s more about what Mav said that I want to talk about. How about we take a walk, sugar?” He downs the rest of his whiskey and takes your hand in his, leading you out to the lobby where it’s quieter.

Before you can say a thing he’s got you all wrapped up in his strong arms, leaning in with a gleam in his eye as he kisses you by the obscenely large Christmas tree. You melt into it, the noise of the party drowned out by the rush of blood in your ears, your head going a little fuzzy as he deepens it to the point of indecency. When he finally pulls away you chase his lips and he chuckles, stroking your jaw and soaking up the moment. “Mav told me you saved me from an evening of hell with my stalker, that true pretty girl?” You’ve been caught and you know it. “I just didn’t think it was right; you deserve better than that. A-and if I’m being honest, I didn’t want anyone else to have your time…especially not her.” You frown in frustration and he can’t help but find that little crease between your eyebrows so damn endearing.

“What did you want to tell me earlier? I can take a guess and hope like hell I’m right but I need to hear you say it.” He looks at you with so much love, it’s overwhelming and heats you all the way to your toes.

“I want us. I know we’ve been keeping things casual, but I fell in love with you Jake, and I want more with you. If that’s what you want too.” You’ve got his heart in your hand and you don’t even know it, he leans in to kiss you again as he whispers against your lips. “All I want for Christmas is you darlin’, couldn’t ask for a better gift. I’m yours, loving you is the easiest thing I can do and I’ll do it forever if you let me.” It was the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received.

“This cannot be happening.” She groaned, pulling out her cell phone. “And of course I have no service…because why would the travel gods toss me a bone now?” 

Noelle had just gotten her first big break with the travel magazine she works for to actually write a piece on a fancy new ski resort opening in Vermont. Her current problem was she couldn’t get to the resort…or even the town … because of a blizzard making travel impossible. She grew up in a ski town in Utah and knew that driving in these conditions was stupid. She hadn’t started out driving in a blizzard, it had come out of nowhere, making the roads icy and visibility next to nothing in a very short amount of time. She’d been smart enough to pull off into a wayside overlook when the opportunity presented itself, but she hadn’t banked on a plow coming by not long after and blocking her in. She put her hazard lights on, hoping someone from the road, passing …if they were dumb enough to be out in this, would see her and check to see if she needed help.

“Ok, Noelle… don’t panic.” She gave herself a pep talk. “Someone has to find you. You will not freeze to death on a mountain road… right before Christmas.”

In order to calm herself down, she turned on her Christmas playlist on low, while keeping an eye on the road ahead of her. She must have dozed off at some point because she woke later, freezing. Her car was no longer running so the heat was not blowing. Blearily looking around, she realized her car was now covered in a thick layer of snow. She wasn’t able to see out of her windshield. 

Shivering, she pulled her coat tighter around her. She reached behind her for her boots and slipped them on, taking off her shoes. In the seat next to her was her hat, scarf and gloves, she put them all on before bracing herself and pushing open her door. Ice had started to form so she had to push hard. 

Once outside, the wind and snow immediately started pelting her in the face. She pulled the scarf up higher, trying to cover as much skin as possible. She shut the door and then looked at the front of her car. While the car had stopped running, her hazard lights were at least still on. They were covered by snow so wouldn’t be visible from the road. She realized she needed to get to the road to have a hope of being seen. To do so, she’d have to tunnel her way over the snow the plow had pushed in the way.  She grabbed her phone from the car, deciding she could use her flashlight to be seen at least. She’d go to the road and if nobody came by in a while she’d come back to the car. Some shelter was better than nothing. 

“Ok, universe. I need you to help me out here…might be a week early but if you’re handing out Christmas miracles yet.. I need one.” She whispered, shivering as she made her way slowly to the road, fighting against the wind and snow. 

After what felt like forever, she finally made it to the road , or what she thought was the road at least, more snow had fallen since the plow had been through. She looked down the road in both directions looking for headlights. She was almost ready to give up, too cold and needing to get out of the wind when she saw faint lights. She held her phone up waving it with the little energy she had left. Thankfully the universe had indeed decided to let her catch a break. The truck saw her and slowed to a stop. The driver jumped out and came around. 

“Are you hurt?” he asked, his voice deep and raspy, even having to speak louder to be heard over the wind. In the headlights of his truck Noelle could see he was tall, with broad shoulders that filled out the parka he was wearing. He had on a beanie to keep his head warm. Snow was gathering in the mustache that shouldn’t look good on anyone but he somehow pulled it off. 

“I’m j-just c-cold.” She stuttered through chattering teeth from shivers wracking her body. “M-my c-car g-got plowed i-in. N-now won’t s-start.”

“Come on, my truck is warm, you need to get out of the wind and snow.” He said, guiding her up to the truck. He opened the door and helped her into the passenger seat. Heat immediately engulfed her. “I’m Bradley by the way,” he said, giving her a small smile. 

“N-Noelle.” She replied, trying to smile but too cold still. 

“Is your car unlocked?” He asked

“Y-yes.” She answered, leaning closer to the heat pouring out of the vent. 

“Hang tight.” He said gently, “I’ll go lock it up and get your keys for you. Anything else?”

“P-purse?” She asked. 

“You got it, Sweetheart.” He replied, “I’ll be right back, you stay in here and start thawing out.”

She didn’t even attempt to argue, simply stayed as close to the vent as possible. He closed the door and made his way towards her car. Noelle lost track of time, attempting to get circulation back and warm up. When Bradley got back into the truck, he handed Noelle her purse and looked over, offering a warm, friendly smile.

“I’m guessing the plows are going to be pulled until the weather improves,” He said, “Your car might be stuck for awhile. Were you on your way somewhere specific? I can give you a ride.”

“I don’t think that’s going to be possible.” She sighed, giving him a small smile, “I was on my way to cover the opening of the new ski resort on Stratton Mountain. In my infinite wisdom, I decided it would be fun to drive around Vermont for the scenic view on my way and now it’s probably going to cost me my job.”

“Unfortunately, getting you to Stratton tonight will not be possible.” He agreed, giving her an apologetic smile, “Most likely not for a few days actually. I’m sure if you call your boss and explain, they’d understand.”

“I work for a travel magazine,” Noelle explained, “Getting this assignment was huge for me… my chance to prove I’m capable of more than just fact checking and editing other writer’s work…. But now I’m going to permanently be chasing my tail writing copy ads or editing if I’m lucky.”

“I’m sorry.” He offered, giving her a smile. 

“It’s my own fault.” She replied, “Thank you so much for stopping… at least I don’t have to add ‘frozen to death’ to my list of mistakes.”

“You’re welcome.” He chuckled, “There’s no way I’d have left you on the side of the road. Let’s head to Woodstock. There should be somewhere you can stay until this clears and you get everything sorted.”

“That would be great.” She smiled, sighing in relief. 

Bradley drove slowly on the snow and ice covered roads with the wind now blowing even harder. Visibility was becoming nearly impossible. The wipers were on high but barely making a difference. 

“This is getting worse.” He said, after a few tense, silent moments. “I can barely see the road anymore.” “How much further is town?” Noelle asked, looking worriedly over at him, “Is it even safe to try to make it?”

“It’s about 15 miles.” He replied, “But I don’t know how much further the road will be clear…or somewhat clear.”

“Where were you heading?” She asked, “Is there a town closer?”

“I rented a cabin outside of Woodstock.” he replied, chuckling, “My godfather recommended the town, said it was a great place. He neglected to tell me it was like something out of a Hallmark movie this time of year.” 

“I happen to love Hallmark Christmas movies.” Noelle said, smiling brightly at him. “Maybe that’ll be the silverlining of getting fired… I’ll at least land in a festive, fun town.”

Bradley looked over at her and felt a pull in his chest, seeing her bright smile. He’d realized she was pretty when he’d first picked her up, but seeing her bright smile looking at him, he could see she was absolutely beautiful. 

“There’s definitely plenty to see and do.” He assured her, “At least…once the weather breaks.”

Noelle glanced, only seeing snow and not much else. 

“I’m really glad you came by when you did…” She said quietly, “I’m not sure what I would have done to be honest.”

“I’m glad I was in the right spot at the right time.” He replied, “For once, procrastination was a good thing.”

“Procrastination?” She asked, looking over at him. 

“Last minute grocery run. I went over to another, bigger town to stock up.” He explained, “Maybe a little too last minute.”

The wind seems to have picked up in just the last couple of minutes. Even in the passenger seat, Noelle could tell Bradley was having a hard time keeping the truck on the road. She kept her eyes glued out the window as if willing the snow to magically stop or visibility to at least improve. 

“The cabin I rented should be coming up in a mile or two…” Bradley said, not taking his eyes off the road, “I swear I’m not a serial killer, there’s a pretty comfy bed you can sleep in. I’ll crash on the couch. There’s a fireplace in case power goes out…and thanks to last minute grocery trips… I’ve got plenty of food. We can get out of this storm and reassess the situation in the morning…. Maybe figure out a way to get you to Woodstock…or if by some miracle this breaks quickly… might be able to still make it to the resort and save your job.” 

Noelle looked over at Bradley and laughed softly. “I doubt a serial killer would admit they were a serial killer.” She said, “But… I’m really good at reading people and you are too kind hearted to be a serial killer. If you’re sure you don’t mind a complete stranger invading your space… I would be incredibly grateful for a place to stay tonight. You will not be kicked out of your own bed though. I doubt the couch would even fit you. I’m more than happy to sleep on the couch. I promise to get out of your way as soon as possible so you can enjoy your vacation… or before your family joins you for Christmas.” 

“I promise you won’t be in the way.” He smiled gently. “And it’s just me, so good there too.” Seeing you still shivering, despite the heater practically on high, he adds, “I’ll get a fire going right away, there’s lots of fluffy blankets, you’ll be warm again in no time.”

“You really are a knight in shining armour.” She laughed softly, her gaze taking him in. “Are you a first responder or something?”

“No ma’am.” He chuckled, “Naval aviator. I’m on a much needed two week leave.”

“Impressive.” She replied, “So you fly planes by day and rescue stranded women stuck in blizzards by night?”

“I can honestly say this is a first for me, Noelle.” He laughed.

“You can call me Elle.” She said, smiling across at him, “Only my grandma uses my full name…or my mom when I’m in trouble.”

“It’s a pretty name.” He replied, “Either way.” 

“Thank you.” She said, thankful it was dark in the truck, so he couldn’t see her blush. 

A couple of minutes later, Bradley pulled the truck off the main road onto what she hoped was a driveway, but with the snow, it was hard telling. When a cabin came into view, she breathed a sigh of relief, knowing warmth was within reach and they’d no longer be at the mercy of the blizzard. 

“Hang tight, let me unlock the door and attempt to clear a path of some sort.” He said when he parked the truck. He left it running with the lights on so he could see what he was doing and so the heat would stay running for her. He pulled his gloves back on and headed back out into the brutal wind and snow. 

He made it up to the cabin, only sliding once, thankful he didn’t fall on his ass in front of you. He unlocked the cabin and turned the light on, then grabbed the shovel by the door and started to clear a path from the porch to the truck. The snow wasn’t too high yet, and it wasn’t the wet heavy kind so shoveling went relatively fast. He was back at the truck in no time. 

“Alright, let’s get you inside and warmed up,” He said, opening the passenger door, “I’ll come back out for everything else once I get a fire going.”

“I can help carry stuff in.” She offered, “No sense you making multiple trips in the snow.”

“I don’t mind.” He smiled gently, “You’re shivering again, and I’d rather not risk you getting pneumonia. It would ruin my reputation as knight in shining armour.”

“I guess we can’t have that.” She laughed softly, her teeth once again starting to chatter from the cold.

“Come on.” He chuckled, “You’re on the verge of becoming a snow angel.” 

“I think the saying is ‘becoming an icicle.” She corrected, getting out of the truck, groaning when the wind and snow hit her again.

“Snow angel fits you better.” He said, wrapping his arm around her, trying to use his body to block as much of the wind and snow from hitting her as possible. He started to lead her up the path he’d made in the snow to the porch. “Careful, it’s slippery.”

“I noticed.” She said, chuckling, “Nice save though. Good reflexes.”

“I guess I can thank the Navy for that.” He laughed. “Taught me to think quickly on my feet…or in the air.”

When they got inside heat immediately enveloped them. Elle sighed in relief, thankful to finally be out of the storm.

“Take off your coat and gloves.” Bradley said, “Anything that got wet, you’ll want to get warm and dry as quickly as possible. I have a  hoodie you can throw on to keep you warm.”

Bradley moved to the fireplace to get a fire going, thankfully having already brought in more than enough wood earlier. Once he had a big fire going, he turned to see Elle had taken off her jacket and boots. She’d hung the jacket on the hook by the door. She looked up and smiled at him. He felt his cheeks get flush, having been caught looking at her. Without her coat on, Bradley was able to see all the beautiful curves that had been hidden under the bulky coat. 

“I’ll um, grab the hoodie.” He said, his hand moving to the back of his neck, “Before I run back out to grab everything.”

“Thank you again, Bradley.” She said, softly, “For everything.”

“Of course.” He replied, smiling. He moved to the bedroom to grab one of his hoodies. It was one of his Navy ones, but it would be warm. He grabs the fuzzy fleece blanket from the end of the bed and brings it with as well. When he comes back he sees Elle standing by the fire trying to dry her pants and warm her hands at the same time. 

“Shit, I didn’t even think to ask about a bag or suitcase when I went back to your car, Elle.” He said, looking apologetic. “Let me grab you some sweats or pajama pants, we can toss your wet clothes in the dryer.” He hands her the hoodie and blanket and immediately heads back to go in search of pants for her. He finds a pair of sweatpants with a drawstring that should work. They’d be big, but they’d be warm. He took them out to the living room, finding her still by the fireplace but now engulfed in his hoodie. The sight of her in his sweatshirt felt like a punch to his gut, knocking his breath from his lungs. He’d never seen anyone more beautiful in his life.  

“Here you go, Angel.” he said, handing her the pants. “Go get changed while I grab the stuff from the truck. Need to get warmed up, Elle.” 

“Thank you,” She replied, smiling as she reached out and took the pants. “Are you sure you don’t want me to help?”

“I’m sure.” He said, giving her a tender smile, “Stay in here where it’s warm and change into dry clothes. I’ll be right back in.”

Bradley bundled back up, pulling on his hat, gloves and boots and stepped back out into the blizzard that was not showing signs of stopping. 

Elle made her way to the bathroom, stripping out of her wet leggings and socks and pulling on the sweats Bradley had given her. She’d always been on the curvy side; could never be called “skinny” by any means, and had spent all of her teens and twenties learning to be comfortable in her own skin. Now, in her early thirties, she embraced her curves. Still, she was relieved when the sweatpants  Bradley let her borrow fit and were even a little roomy. 

The hoodie he’d given her to wear smelled like him. It was a woodsy smell with a hint of citrus. She’d noticed it first when they were in the truck. It had been intoxicating. Besides being incredibly sweet and funny, she also found him insanely hot. She had to keep from constantly looking at him or drooling over him. She didn’t want to make him uncomfortable after he’d been so helpful and sweet.  

Elle looked in the mirror, groaning at the state of her hair. Her long brown wavy hair was a tangled, frizzy mess from being in the snow and under a hat. She did her best to run her fingers through to untangle it then quickly braided it into a loose, side braid, securing it with the hair tie that had thankfully been around her wrist. It wasn’t perfect, but it was better than it had been. 

She emerged from the bathroom, after hanging her leggings over the shower curtain to dry, and headed back to the living room and the warmth of the fire. She found the blanket Bradley had brought out with the hoodie and picked it up. She wrapped it around her for added warmth before settling down on the floor in front of the fire, careful not to sit too close. The blanket, like the hoodie, smelled like him. She brought it closer to her face, inhaling the scent while staring into the flame, finally starting to warm up.

“You look much warmer there,” Bradley said, coming in his hands full with grocery bags. Elle popped up from where she’d been sitting and moved to help him. He was covered in snow already, his cheeks and nose red from the cold. 

“Here, let me help!” She insisted, reaching for some of the bags. “Now you’re going to be the one to catch pneumonia!” 

“I think I’ll be alright.” He chuckled, “I’ve been out in worse weather less prepared before.”

After kicking off his boots he led her to the kitchen area to set the bags down. They quickly got the groceries put up and then it was Elle’s turn to tell Bradley to go change to get warm. While he was in the bedroom getting changed, she found stuff to whip up some hot chocolate which would help to warm them both. She was pouring it into mugs when he returned. He’d changed into a pair of sweats and a Phillies Hoodie.

“That smells amazing.” He said, smiling

“Nothing beats hot chocolate when you’re chilled.” She replied, handing him a mug. “Couldn’t find any marshmallows though, so you’re out of luck.” 

“It’s ok, this is perfect.” He said, taking a sip, then winced, “Ok, maybe should have let that cool off a bit. Damn, it’s good though!”

“It literally just came off the stove…” She laughed, shaking her head, “I’m glad it’s good though, I had to get creative.”

“Let’s go in by the fire where it’s warmer.” He suggested. 

They headed to the living room, Bradley grabbed the pillows and cushions from the couch and tossed them onto the floor by the fireplace. The two of them settled onto cushions by the fire. Elle pulled the blanket around her again. They sat for a moment just sipping the hot chocolate that had now cooled enough to safely drink. 

“Is your family meeting you in Stratton for Christmas?” Bradley asked, looking over at you, “Or were you planning on flying to wherever home is before?”

“The goal was to get home in time so I could be at my parent’s on Christmas morning to watch all of my nieces and nephews open their presents.” She sighed “But if I can’t get to Stratton on time…that timeline might be shot to hell.”

“Where is ‘home’ for you?” Bradley asked

“I grew up in Utah.” She answered, “Park City, specifically. A big ski resort town. All things winter were…are… kinda big there.”

“I’ve actually been there.” He chuckled, “Friends of mine… well more like family I guess… my squadron… we went last year for a ski trip.”

“We may have passed on the streets then,” She smiled, taking a sip of her drink. “Depending on the time of year you went that is. These days, I usually only get home at Christmas and a week or two in the summer if I’m lucky.”

“I would have remembered seeing you.” He said, looking over at you smiling, his eyes sparkling in the firelight. 

“Do you flirt with all the girls you rescue, Sir?” Elle asked, teasingly, a smirk on her lips, her own brown eyes dancing with merriment. 

“I thought we established that this is my first time doing the whole knight in shining armour bit?” He tossed back playfully. “So I mean, since you’re the only girl I’ve rescued… then I guess I do flirt with all of them… unless… is there a boyfriend or fiance … or husband back home? Should I stop flirting?”

“Nobody back home…” She replied, smiling softly, before admitting, “I definitely don’t mind the flirting.”

“You said you only get home at Christmas and maybe in the summer if lucky…where do you call ‘home’ now?” He asked, shifting a little closer. He was feeling a little more confident now that he knew Elle was single. 

“I moved to L.A after college for better opportunities as a writer.” She replied, “I did the whole celebrity scene for awhile, working for an entertainment magazine… and I use the term very loosely. It got old so fast. I found the travel magazine through a friend and I love it. It was a chance to get out of the rat race in L.A. and travel, but I’ve been there for 6 years and this was the first shot I’ve been given at anything big. I mostly cover small B&B openings, write fluff pieces, or edit other writer’s articles… which is what I’ll be back to doing when I fail to produce an amazing piece on the grand opening of this resort as assigned.”

“First of all, don’t get a hold of yourself.” He said, reaching over to brush a stray piece of hair from your face, tucking it behind your ear. “You might still make it to the opening to write a kick ass article. Be optimistic, Angel. Secondly… if you moved out of L.A… where do you live now?”

“Oh I still lived in L.A. until recently,” She replied, with a soft smile, butterflies erupting in her belly, “It was just home base while I traveled, trying to get the good stories and failing and assisting other writers who did get the stories with their work. It got old though. My best friend just moved to San Diego a year ago with her fiance. He’s permanently stationed there… or as close as one can get to permanently with the Navy I’m told. Since I  can work from anywhere with this magazine, she convinced me to make the move to San Diego about 3 months ago.”

Bradley couldn’t believe what he was hearing, couldn’t believe his luck. This beautiful woman that he’d met across the country from where he lived not only lived in the same state but the same city. 

“San Diego?” He said, making sure he’d heard right and it wasn’t wishful thinking. 

“Yup.” She replied, “I’m still learning my way around without getting lost but I like it better than L.A.”

“San Diego is great.” Bradley said, smiling, “I’ll have to pay closer attention when I’m on the streets from now on though. Would be a shame to pass right by you and not even realize it.”

“I always forget it’s got a big Naval air base there… you get that way often?” She asked, “Maybe I’ll have to repay the kindness of this rescue and buy you a drink sometime.”

“I’m permanently assigned there with my squadron.” He chuckled, winking, “Or like you said, as permanent as the Navy allows. Just got back from a temporary detachment with a couple of the others from the squadron though… hence the much needed vacation.”

“Well, what are the odds?” Elle pondered, taking a sip of her now very cooled off hot chocolate. “The offer to buy you a drink definitely stands then…since we happen to live in the same city and all.”

“Rescuing you was my pleasure, Angel.” He said, smiling, “No need to repay anything. Besides, my mom would find a away to come back and haunt me…or slap me if I let you buy me a drink to repay me for rescuing you from a blizzard.”

“We wouldn’t want that.” She smiled softly, “She raised a really sweet son. I’m sure she’d be proud of you.”

“Hope so.” He said quietly. 

After awhile, Elle’s phone was charged again. She looked and saw she had signal and decided to bite the bullet and call her boss. 

“This call isn’t going to get easier…” Elle said, “Might as well get it over with.”

“When were you supposed to get to the resort?” He asked, “When’s the absolute deadline to be there?”

“They’re expecting me tomorrow at the latest.” She replied, “Why?”

“Why not wait until morning to see what the storm does and we can make a plan from there?” He suggested, “That way, if by some miracle the storm stops and plows can get out, you can make it and your boss is never the wiser.”

“Do you really think the storm is stopping? She asked, looking out the window. If anything, the storm seemed to be getting worse. 

“It’s Christmastime.” He shrugged, smiling, “Anything is possible.” 

“I like your optimistic attitude.” She laughed, “Ok, I’ll wait to call my boss then.”

“Let’s see what we can dig up for dinner.” He suggested, “Then I think I saw some board games in one of the closets if you want to play.”

“Sounds like a perfect way to spend a blizzard.” She agreed. 

They headed to the kitchen to look through the groceries Bradley had bought. Ella laughed, as it was mostly easy, ready made meals, or stuff college kids would eat. 

“You can’t cook, can you?” She asked, smirking. 

“I can.” He defended, “The basics at least. I don’t see a need though for just me.”

“Basics like… Frozen pizza, canned soup with grilled cheese, frozen dinners?” She teased. 

“I can make easy things… like spaghetti, tacos, fried chicken…breakfast food.” He defended with a boyish smile. “I can grill food…And… I can bake brownies and chocolate chip cookies.”

“Ok… it’s a start.” Elle conceded, smirking. “But you’re an adult, Bradley… I think it’s time to move beyond this repertoire.” 

“Are you volunteering to teach me, Angel?” He asked, moving in a little closer. Elle’s heart started to beat a little faster. This close, she could smell his cologne, feel the heat radiating off of him. Clearly, he was no longer chilled. 

“Well someone needs to.” She replied, relieved her voice came out sounding normal. “Let’s see what we can do with what we’ve got here.”

Elle looked through the fridge and freezer again, then looked back at Bradley, shaking her head. 

“This is going to be a challenge.” She laughed, “But… I think we can at least doctor up the canned soup to make it taste better… beyond that… I think for tonight at least you’re stuck with grilled cheese to go with it. The more refined cooking lessons might have to wait until back in San Diego… if you’re still wanting them then.”

“I absolutely will want them, Elle.” He answered without hesitation, “And the soup and grilled cheese sounds great. I’m interested to see how you doctor it up though.”

“Well, you’re about to learn.” She winked, then turned to open the fridge and pulled out one of the individually wrapped chicken breasts, some carrots and celery.  

“The canned stuff already has all that in it.” Bradley pointed out. 

“Yes, but you get like two chicken chunks and the veggies are mush.” She replied with a smile, setting down the ingredients on the counter. “Look for a cutting board while I see if there are any seasonings in the cupboards.” 

“Yes, Ma’am.” Bradley chuckled, mock saluting her. He looked in the cupboard by the drawer where the knives were kept, thinking it would be the most logical placement and was rewarded with a cutting board. “Got it on the first try!”

“Good job.” She laughed, looking through the cupboard over the stove, standing on her tiptoes, to reach the basket that seemed to have seasonings and various spices. 

“Need some help, Elle?” He asked, amusement in his voice, coming up behind her and grabbing the basket down. He set the basket of spices and seasonings on the counter next to the stove, not making a move to step back yet. 

“Thanks,” She whispered, feeling the warmth of him at her back, his scent enveloping her. She turned to face him, biting her lip when she saw just how close he was standing. 

“No problem, Angel.” He replied, his voice turning a little raspy. He reached up and brushed a strand of hair that had fallen from her braid out of her  face, tucking it behind her ear. His hand lingered on her face. “Elle… if I’m misreading this feel free to kick me…” he leaned in slowly, giving  her time to pull away or kick him as suggested, when she didn’t, he stepped closer, his other hand moved to her waist and he gently pulled her closer, his lips finally brushing against hers. His mustache tickled her upper lip a little, but was much softer than she’d expected. Elle moved her own arms to slide up his chest to his shoulders, before wrapping around his neck. He took that as permission to kiss her fully. His lips, soft, despite being slightly chapped from the cold earlier, connected with hers, moving tenderly over hers, in an unhurried kiss. He pulled back after a moment, but only far enough to take a breath, resting his forehead against hers.

“You’re not misreading anything.” She whispered, eyes meeting his. Elle leaned in this time, her hands gently pulling him closer, her lips connecting with his, initiating the kiss. He held her tighter, taking the cue that she was in fact on board. Bradley’s tongue snaked out, tentatively licking over the seam of Elle’s lips. She opened immediately, allowing him to slip in, exploring her mouth, deepening the kiss. When they finally pulled apart they were both breathing heavily. 

“I’m really glad you live in San Diego, Angel.” He rasped, “I would be heartbroken if you lived out here on the East Coast.”

“I was thinking the same thing.” She replied, breathily. 

Before either could say anything else Bradley’s stomach rumbled, making Ella giggle. The sound of her giggle made Bradley smile, adding one more thing to the list of things he found irresistible about her.

“Let’s make dinner.” She said, smiling up at him, “It seems someone worked up an appetite saving damsels in distress.”

“I saved a snow angel.” He clarified, “And, in the spirit of full disclosure, I very seldomly turn down food.”

Bradley helped Elle chop up the vegetables while she found a pan for the chicken. She seasoned it and pan seared it before turning the heat down a bit until the chicken was cooked through. Bradley found a pot and dumped the can soup into it then the vegetables when directed by Elle. She pulled the chicken from the pan and chopped it before adding it to the pot along with some more seasoning, water and chicken bouillon she’d found in the season basket.

“Now we set the temp to medium-low heat and cover it so it can simmer.” She said, “And we start on the grilled cheese because you can eat that to tide you over until the soup is done.”

“This part I actually know how to do.” He chuckled, pulling bread out from the cupboard where he’d put it away earlier. 

“By all means… show me your skills.” She teased. 

“While I amaze you with my culinary skills, why don’t you put some Christmas music on?” He suggested, smiling. “There’s a bluetooth speaker on the bookshelf by the fireplace.”

She smiled, moving around him to go to the living room, trailing her hand over his back on her way past. She pulled her phone from her pocket and opened Spotify, pulling up her Christmas playlist. Moving to the speaker she hit the sync button and waited for it to connect to her phone before hitting play.  It was set to shuffle and she had to smile when “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby started to play. It seemed appropriate for the weather. 

“Going with the classics.” Bradley said when she walked back into the kitchen, “I like it.”

“Why mess with a good thing?” She asked, smiling. “I’m not a huge fan of the newer Christmas music. I like the classics.”

“Does that extend to your taste in non-Christmas music?” He asked, looking up from the stove. 

“I’m pretty eclectic actually. I love classic rock, country, oldies, some 80s, 90s pop…” She replied, “What about you?”

“I like all of that as well. I tend to like the classics… vintage I guess.” He chuckled. “My friends give me a hard time because I drive a vintage Ford Bronco rather than a modern vehicle and my taste in music leans more old school as well.”

“You have a vintage Bronco?” Elle asked, excitedly, “Oh my god, I love Broncos. I’ve had my eye on the newer ones, but hoping they come down in price… I don’t want a sport one.. I want one of the models that looks more like the classic model.”

“Elle, I’m starting to think you’re my dream girl.” Bradley said, smiling at her, his heart practically melting for this girl. 

With Christmas music playing in the background Bradley and Elle enjoyed their meal of doctored up Campbell’s Chunky Chicken Noodle soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. Afterwards they cleaned up and washed the dishes together then Bradley went in search of the board games while Elle made them more hot chocolate. 

They spent the next several hours playing Monopoly and Scrabble. It was when Bradley noticed Elle struggling to keep her eyes open and to hide her yawns that he laughed softly, suggesting it might be time to call it a night. 

“It seems it’s past a certain Snow Angel’s bedtime.” He teased softly, “You’ve had a long, eventful day… time to get some sleep, Elle.”

“It was pretty eventful.” She agreed, another yawn escaping, drawing a quiet chuckle from Bradley. “I’ll just curl up on the couch.”

“Angel, you’re not sleeping on the couch.” Bradley insisted, “You’ll take the bed. I will sleep on the couch.”

“Bradley… you’re sweet, but you’re not fitting on that couch.” She smiled sleepily. “I am perfectly fine sleeping on the couch. It’s comfy…and I fit on it.” 

“Elle…” He started to argue.

“Bradley.” She replied, raising an eyebrow at him, not giving in. “I’m fine.”

“My mom is so coming back to haunt me.” He mumbled, moving to the bedroom to grab a pillow and more blankets for her. 

“I promise to defend you and take the blame when she comes to haunt you.” Elle laughed softly, taking the pillow and blankets, setting them on the couch.

He stepped over to her, bringing his hands up to cradle her face, and leaned down to softly kiss her. 

“Sweet dreams, beautiful Snow Angel.” He whispered, pulling away. 

“Sweet dreams, Bradley.” She replied, softly, a dreamy smile on her face. 

*******

The next morning Elle woke to her phone ringing. Groaning, she reached for it where she’d set it on the floor the night before. 

“Hello?” She answered groggily, not bothering with caller ID

“Ms. Winters, I trust you’ve arrived at the resort?” Christine Sinclaire, your boss, asked in a clipped tone. 

“Ms. Sinclaire, Good morning, ma’am.” Elle said, suddenly very awake and alert. “Unfortunately, I ran into a blizzard on my way ma’am, I have been unable to get there as of yet. I am hoping the roads will clear as soon as the weather breaks.” 

“You are due to arrive there today, Ms. Winters.” She said, unimpressed, “Need I remind you, this is a very big opening and subsequently a very big article and career opportunity for you?”

“Yes, ma’am, I am aware, and I am very grateful for the opportunity.” Elle said, “I’m doing everything in my power to get there, ma’am.”

“If you’re not there by this evening, Ms. Winters, I’ll be sending another writer to cover the opening.” She warned. 

“With all due respect ma’am, all of the other writers would have the same problems getting there as me… blizzard conditions and all.” Elle reminded her boss.

“A writer who really wanted it would make it happen… regardless of a little snow.” She snapped back before disconnecting. 

Elle tossed her phone to the end of the couch and rubbed the heels of her hands into her temples. 

“So, I’m guessing that call didn’t go well.” Bradley said, his voice still sleep roughened, “I um, checked the weather… and the storm hasn’t lifted yet. Plows aren’t running. I’m so sorry Elle.”

Her shoulders slumped, head dropping to her knees, which she’d pulled up and into her chest. 

“It’s not your fault.” She said quietly, “At least she didn’t say I’m fired… doesn’t mean it’s off the table, but for now I still have a job at least.”

He moved to the couch, running his fingers through her hair, trying to soothe her. He was at a loss as to what to say or do to make things better for her. He knew this was huge for her career. The fact that Christmas was only a few days away, only made it worse. Looking at the weather report, it would be a miracle if she’d make it out of here to get to an airport to fly out in time to make it home for Christmas. There was another storm front coming in directly behind this one. They’d be lucky if they were plowed out by Christmas Eve. He wasn’t going to share that with Elle just yet though. She was down enough. 

“How about I make us some breakfast… that’s in my repertoire, if you remember.” He said, smiling, “Then we can watch a movie or play some more board games.”

“Ok.” Elle replied, giving him a small smile in return. “Thanks, Bradley. For everything.”

“No thanks needed, Angel.” He replied, leaning over to kiss the top of her head before heading to the kitchen to get started on breakfast. 

Elle picked up her phone and was about to open her Instagram when an alert notification popped up from her weather app. She clicked on it and sighed in defeat when she read the report. Not only would she not be making it to the resort to write her story, it didn’t look like she’d be making it home for Christmas this year. 

She opened up her email and typed out a quick email to her boss letting her know the update and that you understand the need to try to get another writer to the resort. She sent it and hoped she still had a job when she got home. 

Elle looked at the time and realized it would still be too early to call Shay or her parents as they wouldn’t be awake yet on the West Coast. 

Opening up her Instagram she saw Shay had posted some new pictures. She was spending Christmas with her fiance at his family’s home in Texas. Elle smiled, swiping through the pictures. She liked the post then clicked out and opened her texts. 

Elle: Love the pics you posted! Looks like you and 🤠 are having fun! Tell him I said Hi. Call me when you wake up… please?

Shay: I’m up! Want to FaceTime?

Elle: Forgot Texas is only an hour behind east coast time. YES PLEASE!

Her phone immediately started to ring with an incoming FaceTime call. 

“Hey! Is everything ok?” Shay asked immediately, going into concerned best friend mode. 

“Define, ‘OK’.” Elle replied, sighing. “I decided to fly out ahead of schedule and see more of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont… driving through the states to eventually arrive at the resort in Stratton. It was going great…. Until I got trapped…literally by a blizzard on the side of a mountain road in Vermont, nowhere near Stratton, in the dark.”

“Oh my GOD!” Shay exclaimed, “Elle! I’m looking at you and talking to you so you survived… how?”

“I was rescued by a knight in shining armour.” She replied, laughing softly. “Actually, funny story. He’s a Naval Aviator from San Diego on leave. He picked me up and I’m currently at his cabin because the roads deteriorated so fast we couldn’t make it to the next town to see about a hotel. My rental car is buried in snow back at the wayside lookout where I’d pulled off because I knew it wasn’t safe to keep driving but not knowing a plow was coming up behind me.”

“Wait, an aviator?” Shay asked, “From San Diego.” She ducked her head off screen and yelled for her fiance, who appeared on screen shortly with her. “Hi, Evie! I hear you’ve been having an adventure.”

“Hi, Cowboy.” You laughed, using the nickname you’d given him when you first met. “Yeah… it’s been quite a ride.”

“Where in Vermont are you now, Evie?” He asked, his green eyes sparkling and the ever present dimple popping with his smile. He had his phone and was looking at something. 

“Going to stage a rescue?” Elle asked laughing, “I think near a town called Woodstock. But not even you and your fancy flying skills are a match for this blizzard.”

“I wouldn’t even try, Evie. I love you, but I don’t love snow very much.” He teased. “Be right back though.”

“Ok… that was weird even for him, Shay.” Elle laughed, “Anyway, I won’t be making the resort opening… so no article. My boss is so mad. She is sending another writer… and I’m low key worried I won’t have a job. To top it all off… there is another storm behind this one and … Shay, I don’t think I’ll get to go home for Christmas.”

Bradley’s phone rang in the kitchen. You heard him answer it while you kept talking to Shay.

“Which means you miss your birthday with your family too.” She said, looking sympathetic. “Elle, I’m so sorry. If your boss fires you over this… she’s a cold hearted bitch and you’ll find something even better. As for Christmas… I know it sucks but your family would want you safe and they’ll be there whenever you get home to celebrate with.”

“Thanks, Shay.” Elle sighed, a faint smile on her lips, “I know you’re right. I’m just bummed.”

“I know…. Especially with how much you love Christmas.” She replied, “But… is the aviator hot?”

“SHAY!” Elle whisper yelled at her friend, feeling her cheeks heat up. She wasn’t about to go into detail about the amazing kisses they’d already exchanged…or how incredibly sexy she found him…or that she could definitely see herself falling for him…hard. At least not on this FaceTime call where they could be overheard. 

“What?” She laughed, “It’s a valid question…” 

Bradley walked out of the kitchen with his phone in hand appearing to be on a FaceTime call of his own, an amused expression on his face. He peered over Elle’s shoulder and laughed.

“Hi, Shay.” He said, “Having fun in Texas?”

“ROOSTER!” Shay exclaimed, then looked at her fiance, “Jake! Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Wanted to make sure it was him first.” Jake laughed. “Bradshaw, Evie is Shay’s best friend and we love her dearly. Thanks for rescuing her, Man.”

“Evie?” Bradley asked, looking at Elle with a confused look. 

“Jake calls me Evie… my middle name is Evelyn.” Elle explained, shaking her head smiling. 

“Her full name is as amazing as yours Bradley…actually it’s even BETTER.” Jake said

“What’s your full name, Angel?” Bradley asked, looking at her.

“Noelle Evelyn Winters.” She replied with a sigh. 

“CHRISTMAS EVE WINTERS!” Jake exclaimed, “Tell me that’s not better than yours, Rooster.”

“Your full name is beautiful, Angel.” Bradley smiled, ignoring Jake, “It’s fitting of a snow angel too.”

“What’s your full name?” Elle asked him, smiling, a blush on her cheeks. 

“Bradley Nicholas Bradshaw.” He replied, “Jake loves to torture me with all the variations he can come up with.”

“You know what I’ve noticed about Jake?” Elle asked, as if Jake and Shay weren’t on the FaceTime calls. 

“What’s that, Angel?” Bradley replied.

“He only gives nicknames to and really messes with people he truly cares about.” Elle said, then looked at Bradley’s phone and smiled at Jake, who was blushing, “It’s his love language.”

“And…” Shay chimed in, smiling lovingly at her fiance, “The more he cares about you the more relentless he is with teasing and nicknames.”

“Now why am I being ganged up on?” Jake whined, “This call was about our Evie and how she went and flew across the country to meet the guy we were going to set her up with back in San Diego!”

“JAKE!” Shay exclaimed, tossing a pillow at him, “You weren’t supposed to tell her! Or Bradley!”

“Looks like we saved y’all the hassle of matchmaking.” Bradley laughed, turning to Elle and winking. “I have to go finish making breakfast now. You two have fun in Texas. I’ll see you at New Years.”

“Bring your rescued Damsel to the New Years party at the Hard Deck!” Jake said, laughing before Bradley abruptly ended the call with him. “Did he forget I’m still right here next to Shay on your phone too, Evie?”

Elle laughed as Bradley just shook his head and headed to the kitchen. 

“You’re coming though, right?” Shay asked. 

“I guess it depends on when I can get home now.” Elle said, “I’d still love to see my family at some point and do Christmas.”

“You have to come.” Jake pouted, “Please, Evie? I’ll charter a plane and fly you home personally any other time you want to go.”

“I’ll get back to you.” Elle laughed, “I’m going to go help Bradley finish breakfast. I’ll talk to you two later. Love you both.”

“Love you too!” Shay said

After hanging up, Elle got up from the couch and folded the blankets neatly. She stepped over to the windows and looked out, still seeing snow coming down and wind whipping it everywhere. She could only just barely make out the outline of the truck at this point. 

The rest of the day Elle and Bradley spent keeping occupied with watching movies, playing board games, whipping up some cookies (much to Bradley’s delight), and even finding some Christmas decorations in one of the storage closets and decorating the cabin. The storm continued to rage outside. Elle had officially missed her opportunity to cover the resort opening as nightfall hit; she was not any closer to getting to Stratton. 

They finished another movie and decided to call it a night. Elle had put her leggings back on as they’d dried but had on another one of Bradley’s hoodies. It would be helpful to have her suitcase with all her clothing but it was quite literally buried in the snow in the rental car. She would have to wear some of Bradley’s clothes tomorrow to toss all of her clothes in the wash though. 

“Elle, take the bed.” Bradley tried again, as she started to get the pillow and blankets ready on the couch.

“You’re not going to win this one.” She laughed, turning towards him and walking closer. She put her arms around his waist and looked up. “You tower over me… you are not fitting on this couch.”

He wrapped his arms around her and leaned down, resting his head against hers.

“I feel horrible sleeping in the bed while you’re on the couch.” He sighed, “It goes against everything in me.”

“It makes the most sense, Bradley.” She smiled softly, “I’m shorter. It’s really comfy too. I promise.”

“You’re killing me, Angel.” He pouted, leaning down to softly kiss her lips, “Goodnight. Sweet Dreams.”

“Sweet Dreams.” She replied, smiling against his lips before releasing him and moving to get comfy on the couch. 

Elle woke in the middle of the night, the cabin was absolutely freezing. It was also quiet. Too quiet. And too dark. Looking around, she realized there were no glowing lights from clocks, no sound of the furnace or the hum of the fridge. 

“Shit.” Elle whispered, “Power went out.” 

She got up, wrapping a blanket around her for warmth, and walked to the bedroom where Bradley was sleeping. She opened the door and using her phone for light, made her way to the bed without tripping. 

“Bradley.” She said quietly, not wanting to startle him, “Bradley…wake up.”

“Elle?” He rasped, opening his eyes, blinking the sleep away, “Are you ok? What’s wrong?”

“The power went out.” She said, “It’s freezing.”

“Oh shit.” He replied, “There’s a generator but it’s too dark to go start it.” He pulled back the covers and said, “Come on, get in. You’re shivering. Sleep in here tonight and I’ll get the power back up and running in the morning.”

Elle climbed into the bed, which was nice and warm from Bradley’s body heat. He started to move to the other side of the bed to give her more space but she turned and curled into him, wrapping her arm around him and tucking her head into him. He smiled, putting his own arm around her and pulling her close, keeping her tucked close to him and warm the rest of the night.

***

A/N: Thoughts? Let me know! Comment, Message me, Reblog... LET'S CHAT!

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Ignoring him, she set her suitcase on the chaise lounge and began unpacking. The suite truly was beautiful, with its elegant décor, a bottle of champagne chilling on ice, and even rose petals scattered across the bed. Romantic honeymoon vibes indeed. She cringed inwardly at how absurd the situation was.

“You know,” Jake started, his tone light but laced with mischief, “if we’re gonna share a room, maybe we should get to know each other. You know, break the ice. Make this less… awkward.”

She glanced over her shoulder, eyebrow raised. “And how do you propose we do that?”

He shrugged, his grin never faltering. “We play twenty questions. Or we share some fun facts. Or I can just guess everything about you because I’m exceptionally good at reading people.”

She rolled her eyes and continued organizing her things. “I’m fine with awkward silence.”

“See?” he quipped. “That right there. You’re uptight. You gotta loosen up. It’s the holidays, Snowflake. Enjoy yourself for once.”

Her hands froze, and she turned to glare at him. “‘Uptight’?”

Jake grinned, unrepentant. “I said what I said.”

Her lips twitched, but she refused to give him the satisfaction of a smile. Instead, she perched on the chaise, arms crossed. “Fine. One question. Make it good.”

Jake’s eyes lit up like a kid on Christmas morning. He sprawled on the bed, propped up on one elbow. “Alright. What’s the most reckless thing you’ve ever done?”

She blinked, caught off guard. “That’s personal.”

“Exactly the point,” he countered, his gaze steady. “Come on, it’s just us here. Safe space and all that.”

She hesitated, then relented with a sigh. “When I was sixteen, I went bungee jumping off a bridge in Costa Rica. Didn’t tell my parents. They would’ve killed me.”

Jake’s grin widened. “See? That wasn’t so hard. Reckless and adventurous. I like it.”

“Your turn,” she said quickly, eager to shift the focus. “Same question.”

“Easy,” he replied, his tone suddenly more serious. “I joined the Navy at eighteen. No backup plan. Just jumped in, sink or swim.”

Her gaze softened for a moment. “And you swam.”

“Still swimming,” he said with a wink, though there was a flicker of something deeper in his eyes. “Alright, your turn again.”

They went back and forth, the questions growing more personal until Jake asked softly, "What about your mom? Is she proud of all the places you've been?"

Her expression shifted, a shadow crossing her features as she stiffened. "She passed away when I was eighteen," she said, her tone clipped. The warmth that had been building between them evaporated instantly. "It’s late. We should rest."

Jake leaned back slightly, reading the sudden tension in her body language. "I didn’t mean to—"

"It’s fine," she cut him off, her voice tight. She turned away, busying herself with her suitcase. "Goodnight."

Jake exhaled slowly, guilt evident in his expression. "Goodnight," he murmured. The air between them was heavy, the earlier camaraderie frayed by the unintentional wound his question had reopened.

She stood abruptly. "I’m tired. I’m going to shower and change."

Jake watched her retreat to the bathroom, resisting the urge to call after her. She was a puzzle, and for the first time that evening, he wondered if she wanted to be pieced together at all.

Inside the bathroom, she cursed herself. Her pajamas were far from appropriate for this situation—a tank top and shorts that left little to the imagination. She grabbed them anyway, determined to make it work. When she stepped out, she held her bundle of clothes close to her chest. “Cover your eyes while I get to the bed.”

Jake’s laugh was low and teasing. “Seriously?”

“Yes. Seriously.”

He sighed dramatically but covered his eyes with one hand. “Scout’s honor.”

She darted to the bed, quick as a rabbit, but caught the glint of his green eyes peeking through his fingers. “Jake!”

“What?” he said, feigning innocence. “I’m just making sure you didn’t trip.”

Her glare was withering. “You’re impossible.”

“And you’re adorable when you’re flustered,” he shot back, grabbing his own clothes. He changed quickly, stripping down to joggers. She couldn’t help the way her eyes lingered on his broad chest, the defined muscles stark against his tan skin.

“See something you like?” he teased, catching her stare.

She turned crimson. “I was looking at the floor.”

“Sure you were,” he said with a chuckle, moving toward the bed.

“Nope,” she said, holding up a hand. “You’re sleeping on the floor.”

He groaned but relented, grabbing a spare blanket and pillow. “This is cruel and unusual punishment.”

“Goodnight, Jake.”

The room fell silent, save for the storm outside. She lay in the bed, staring at the ceiling, her mind racing. She’d never liked storms, the howling wind and icy isolation unnerving her. She pulled the blankets tighter, trying to shake the unease.

Jake, lying on the floor, wasn’t oblivious. He’d spent years reading people, and he could feel her tension radiating in waves. “Hey,” he said softly, his voice cutting through the darkness. “You okay?”

She hesitated. “I’m fine.”

He didn’t buy it. “Listen, if you’re scared, you can just say so. I’ll come up there. For my sake, of course. Can’t have you being scared and keeping me up all night.”

She rolled her eyes but shifted over, making room. “Fine. Just… don’t hog the covers.”

Jake climbed into bed, lying on his back. “You’re welcome,” he said, his voice laced with amusement.

She didn’t respond, but the steady rhythm of his breathing soon lulled her into an uneasy sleep. When morning came, she woke to find herself curled against him, her head on his chest, his arm draped protectively around her. Mortified, she carefully untangled herself and slipped out of bed.

Jake’s lips twitched as he watched her tiptoe away, his eyes cracking open. He’d been awake for hours, but he didn’t mind. Letting her think she’d escaped unnoticed was all part of the fun.

The morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow on the snow-covered town below. She wrapped herself in a thick cardigan, the chill in the air still lingering from the storm the night before. After a restless night, she decided that breakfast might help clear her head and shake off the lingering awkwardness from the night spent in Jake's company.

The inn’s dining area smelled of freshly brewed coffee and baked pastries. She scanned the room, spotting an open table near the fireplace. As she moved to claim it, a pair of voices caught her attention.

“You have got to be kidding me, Rooster. Who eats pancakes like that?”

“What’s wrong with syrup on the side?” the man—Rooster—shot back, a teasing grin on his face.

She hesitated, intrigued by their banter. Deciding she didn’t want to eat alone, she approached their table. “Mind if I join?” she asked, her tone friendly but tentative.

The woman, Natasha, looked up and smiled. “Of course not. You’ll be a welcome distraction from his terrible eating habits.”

Rooster scoffed, offering a hand as she sat down. “Bradley Bradshaw. Everyone calls me Rooster.”

“Natasha Trace,” the woman added. “And you are?”

She introduced herself, explaining she was stranded in town due to the snowstorm. Rooster nodded, launching into a story about how he and Natasha had detoured here during a cross-country trip. Their easy camaraderie made her feel instantly at ease.

As the conversation flowed, the dining area door creaked open, and Jake’s unmistakable presence filled the room. He sauntered in, looking infuriatingly relaxed, his hair slightly tousled from sleep. Spotting her, he grinned and made a beeline for their table.

“Morning, Snowflake,” he greeted, sliding into the seat beside her without waiting for an invitation.

Rooster raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Snowflake? That’s cute. You two married or just engaged?”

She choked on her coffee, her cheeks burning. “What? No! We’re not—”

Jake cut her off, a slow smirk spreading across his face. “Aw, Snowflake, don’t deny our love story. You’ll break my heart.”

Her glare could have melted the snow outside. “Jake.”

Natasha and Rooster exchanged amused looks, clearly enjoying the show. “Newlyweds, huh? Explains the chemistry,” Natasha teased.

“No!” she and Jake said in unison, though his tone carried more mock offence than denial. The laughter that followed set the tone for the rest of breakfast, with Rooster and Natasha’s playful teasing making her simultaneously flustered and amused.

After breakfast, she decided to explore the town. The storm had turned the streets into a picturesque winter wonderland, with snow-covered rooftops and icicles glinting in the sun. Her wanderings led her to a small café, where she spotted Penny and a man she instantly recognized as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell. They were standing outside, deep in conversation, their expressions tense.

Curiosity got the better of her, and she approached. “Is everything alright?” she asked.

Penny looked up, a mix of surprise and relief on her face. “Oh, hi! Not exactly. The town’s big Christmas Eve festival is in trouble. The storm’s blocked all the roads, so no deliveries, no performers, no decorations. It’s a mess.”

Pete sighed, running a hand through his hair. “We’ve tried calling around, but it’s looking like we’ll have to cancel. Everyone’s pretty heartbroken.”

She frowned, thinking back to the events she’d planned in the past. “Cancelling isn’t the only option. Maybe we can work with what’s here. I have some experience planning events. I’d be happy to help.”

Penny’s eyes lit up. “Are you serious? You’d do that?”

“Of course. I’m stranded here anyway. Might as well put myself to use.”

Pete and Penny exchanged hopeful looks before Penny nodded. “Alright. Let’s do it.”

Jake found her later in the town square, where she was sketching out ideas with Penny and Pete. A small group of locals had already gathered, taking her directions as she began organizing tasks. He leaned against a lamppost, watching with an amused expression.

“Snowflake, you never cease to surprise me,” he called out.

She didn’t look up from her notes. “Jake, either help or stop standing there smirking.”

“Alright, boss,” he said, pushing off the post. “Put me to work.”

Despite his usual cheekiness, Jake proved to be a valuable asset. Whether it was lifting heavy decorations or charming the locals into donating supplies, he threw himself into the tasks with surprising enthusiasm. She couldn’t help but admire how he managed to bring levity to the chaotic planning process.

By evening, the square was a flurry of activity. Though far from finished, the progress was undeniable. Strings of fairy lights twinkled against the snow, and a few makeshift booths were already taking shape. The sense of community was palpable, with townsfolk pitching in wherever they could.

Jake found her standing near the centre of the square, surveying the scene with a mix of pride and exhaustion. “Not bad, Snowflake,” he said, handing her a cup of hot chocolate. “Think you’ll save Christmas?”

She took the cup, her fingers brushing his briefly. “One step at a time,” she replied. “There’s still a lot to do.”

“Good thing we’re stuck here together, then,” he said, his tone softer than usual.

For a moment, they stood in companionable silence, watching the townsfolk work together to transform the square. The snow continued to fall lightly, adding a touch of magic to the scene. Though they had a long way to go, she couldn’t help but feel hopeful—not just for the festival, but for the unexpected connections she’d found in this snowbound town. Maybe Santa was right after all, this place does feel magical. 

Her fingers brushed the edge of the photo, a sudden ache blooming in her chest. She remembered this moment vividly, though it felt like a lifetime ago. Her mum had loved Christmas, the magic of it, the traditions. It had been their thing, once upon a time. But those memories belonged to another world, one she’d locked away years ago.

A booming laugh interrupted her thoughts. She turned to see a man dressed as Santa ringing a bell beside a donation bucket. He was smiling warmly at passers-by, his laughter echoing through the chilly air. Something about him drew her in.

“Rough day?” he asked, his voice kind.

She managed a small smile. “You could say that.”

He glanced at the photo in her hand. “Sometimes, people lose their way. All they need is a little help to look back at where it all started.”

Her chest tightened. “That’s what my mum used to say.”

“She sounds like a wise woman,” he said. “You know, I couldn't help but overhear your predicament. If you want a place to escape for the holidays, I used to visit a little town called Sweetwater around Christmas. Magical place. Feels like stepping into another world.” He winked. “Might be just what you need.”

She hesitated, then typed the name into her phone. Sweetwater. Her heart raced as she found a flight and booked it.

“Sweetwater,” she whispered to herself. “Here’s hoping you live up to your name.”

The plane touched down in Texas under a heavy gray sky that promised snow, the kind of weather that seemed out of place this far south. She bundled herself against the cold as she stepped into the small airport, her breath curling in the air as she dragged her suitcase toward the exit. The town’s name, Sweetwater, greeted her from a modest wooden sign outside. It was quaint, the kind of place where time seemed to slow down.

The cab ride was quiet, the driver a friendly older man who chatted about the approaching snowstorm. “You picked an interesting time to visit,” he said with a chuckle. “Storm’s coming in strong. Could be a while before the roads clear.”

She looked out the window at the swirling snowflakes, a mix of nerves and curiosity stirring inside her. This was a far cry from the meticulously planned holidays she usually orchestrated. She felt free in a way that was both unsettling and thrilling.

The cab stopped in front of the inn, a charmingly rustic building with a wraparound porch draped in Christmas lights. She stepped out, her boots crunching on the fresh snow as she took in the scene. It was straight out of a holiday card: a roaring fireplace visible through the window, wreaths hanging on every door, and the faint sound of carols drifting through the air.

She was halfway to the entrance when the door burst open, and a tall figure stepped out, lugging a suitcase. Before she could react, they collided—her heel catching on an icy patch. She flailed, teetering backward, only to find herself caught firmly in his arms.

“Whoa there,” he said, steadying her with ease.

She looked up, her breath hitching as she took in his sharp features. Tousled hair framed a face that was rugged yet annoyingly attractive. He raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a grin.

“You okay?”

“I—uh, yeah,” she stammered, pulling herself upright.

It wasn’t until she dusted herself off and glanced down that the horror-struck. Her beloved planner—her lifeline—was dripping with hot chocolate, the brown liquid seeping into the carefully organized pages.

Her gaze darted to his other hand, now empty. The Styrofoam cup that had once contained the drink was lying crushed in the snow.

“You let go of your drink to catch me,” she said, her tone caught between disbelief and irritation.

“Seemed like the right thing to do,” he replied, unapologetic.

She held up the planner, its ruined state glaringly obvious. “This is my life. Do you know how long it’ll take to fix this?”

He shrugged, that infuriating grin still in place. “Could’ve been worse. You could’ve ended up face-first in the snow.”

Her glare could’ve melted the frost under their feet. “Thanks for the silver lining,” she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

“Anytime,” he quipped, brushing past her and heading toward the door.

Inside, the warmth of the inn wrapped around her like a hug. Penny, the innkeeper, greeted her with a wide smile and a steaming cup of cider. “Welcome to Sweetwater! You got here just in time—the storm’s rolling in fast.”

“I noticed,” she said, glancing out the window at the thickening snow.

“Good news is we’ve got plenty of space,” Penny continued. “Well, almost. Looks like you’ll be sharing the last suite with one of our other guests.”

Her jaw tightened. “Sharing? With a stranger?”

“Only option left, I’m afraid,” Penny said, her tone apologetic but firm.

Before she could protest further, the door opened again, and the man from earlier strolled in, brushing snow from his shoulders. His eyes widened slightly when he saw her, then narrowed as Penny handed them the key.

“Wait, we’re sharing a room?” he asked, his voice laced with disbelief.

“It’s a suite,” Penny corrected, her smile never wavering. “Plenty of space for the two of you. And with the storm coming in, it’s better than being stuck out there.”

They exchanged a look, equal parts wary and exasperated. Finally, she sighed. “Fine. But just for the record, I’m not thrilled about this.”

“Noted,” he said, his tone matching hers.

Penny clapped her hands together. “Great! Now, let’s get you two settled.”

Later in the day, as you and Jake passed the town square, when you spotted Penny and Pete in the midst of a heated discussion. Penny’s arms were crossed, and Pete was gesturing animatedly toward a stack of crates.

“What’s going on?” you asked, approaching.

Penny sighed, looking visibly stressed. “As you know, the snowstorm’s blocked the roads, and the big shipment of supplies we needed for the Christmas festival can’t get through. Without it, we’re going to have to cancel the main event.”

Pete added, “We’ve tried calling around, but no luck. Everyone’s stuck until after Christmas.”

Your brow furrowed in thought. “Maybe there’s a way to work around it. In my planner, I have a section for last-minute event disasters. We had something like this happen once at a fundraiser, and we managed to improvise.”

Penny’s face brightened slightly. “Really? I don't want to be a bother, you've already helped so much. Besides, these were supposed to be your holidays. ”

“It's no bother really,” you said firmly. “It’s Christmas. We’ll figure something out.”

Jake crossed his arms, giving her a playful grin. “Living up to your last name, Miss Hallmark.”

She rolled her eyes, a small laugh escaping. “Real funny.”

Pete and Penny exchanged a glance, something unspoken passing between them. “Remind you of anyone?” Penny murmured to Pete, who chuckled softly.

As the day went on, Natasha pulled you aside while you were sorting through decorations in a storage shed.

“So,” Natasha began, leaning casually against a stack of boxes, “what’s the deal with you and Jake?”

You nearly dropped the string of lights you were untangling. “What? Nothing. There’s no deal.”

Natasha smirked. “Come on. You two have been glued to each other all day. The banter, the looks—it’s pretty obvious.”

“You’re seeing things,” you said firmly. “We’re complete opposites. And after the holidays, we’ll go our separate ways. It’s not like we’ll ever see each other again.”

Natasha’s smile softened. “Sometimes opposites work. And sometimes, taking a leap of faith is worth it.”

Meanwhile, Bradley found Jake lounging near a fire pit, sipping on a hot chocolate. He plopped down beside him, grinning.

“So, when’s the wedding?” Bradley teased.

Jake rolled his eyes but smirked. “Real original, Bradshaw. She’s just helping out with the festival.”

“Sure, sure,” Bradley said, nudging him. “You’re totally not into her.”

Jake didn’t answer right away, his gaze flickering toward the storage shed, where you and Natasha were still talking.

“She’s… different,” he admitted finally. “Not what I expected.”

Bradley grinned. “And that terrifies you, doesn’t it?”

Jake scoffed, trying to play it cool. “Please. She’d be lucky to have me.”

Bradley laughed, clapping him on the back. “Keep telling yourself that, Hangman.”

As the sun dipped lower, casting the town square in hues of gold and amber, Jake and you worked together to hang string lights. You balanced on a ladder, carefully stretching to hook a string over a tall beam. The lights swayed in your hand as you leaned a little too far, and suddenly, your footing slipped.

“Whoa!” you yelped, arms flailing.

Jake moved faster than you could react, his hands steadying you around the waist as you fell against him. He smirked, his green eyes alight with mischief. “How many times are you going to fall for me?”

You let out a shaky laugh, brushing off your embarrassment. “Maybe stop standing so close to ladders, and we’ll find out.”

He chuckled but kept his hands on you a moment longer before helping you down. “Alright, Hallmark Queen. Where’s the next string going?”

You arched an eyebrow. “You call me Hallmark Queen again, and you’ll be the one falling. Off the roof.”

But Jake’s attention drifted to your open planner on the table nearby. He picked it up, flipping through the meticulously organized pages, a mix of curiosity and amusement on his face. “What’s this? ‘Christmas Eve Fireworks Contingency Plan’? ‘Backup Hot Cocoa Recipe’?” He snorted. “Do you plan your whole life like this?”

You snatched the planner out of his hands, glaring at him. “It’s called being prepared. Not that you’d understand.”

Jake leaned against the table, folding his arms. “I just don’t get it. Why plan every little detail? Big moments—especially with people—are supposed to happen naturally. If you care about someone, it shouldn’t feel like a checklist.”

Your fingers tightened on the planner. “Maybe not everyone can afford to sit back and let things happen. Some of us have to make sure things work.”

“Work? It’s Christmas, not a military op. Relax a little,” he said, trying to keep the mood light.

But your voice turned icy. “Easy for you to say. You’ve probably coasted through life, grinning your way out of trouble. Not everyone gets that luxury.”

Jake frowned, sensing the sharpness beneath your words but unsure of its source. “Whoa. Where’s this coming from?”

You hesitated, struggling to keep your emotions in check. “It’s nothing. Just drop it.”

Jake tilted his head, studying you. “You know, for someone so good at planning everyone else’s joy, you’re pretty lousy at opening up about your own stuff.”

Your eyes flashed, and you bit out, “You wouldn’t get it. People like you never do. You joke, you charm, you let everything roll off your back—and when things fall apart, someone else has to fix it.”

The sting of your words hit him, but his gaze softened as he caught sight of a faded photo sticking out of the planner. It was of a woman with kind eyes, unmistakably your mother.

“Is this your mom?” he asked gently.

You stiffened, snatching the photo away, as if protecting a piece of yourself. “Just leave it.”

Jake hesitated, sensing the depth of your guardedness but unable to stop himself from saying, “You know, sometimes you’re so uptight, it’s like you were raised by a drill sergeant.”

Your breath caught, and you turned on him, your voice trembling with barely restrained anger. “You have no idea what you’re talking about. And maybe if people around me weren’t so carefree, I wouldn’t have to be this way!”

Jake’s frustration bubbled over. “Carefree, huh? So I’m the problem now? Maybe people like you should try letting go for once instead of trying to control everything.”

Your voice rose, shaking with emotion. “Control? You think I want to be this way? I have to be. Because if I’m not, then everything—everything—falls apart.”

The rawness in your tone caught him off guard, but before he could respond, you stepped closer, your words cutting deep. “You think life’s just a series of lucky breaks, Jake? It’s not. Some of us have to fight for every bit of security we get. And I plan because it’s the only way to make sure no one else feels as lost as I did.”

Jake faltered, realizing too late he’d hit a nerve he didn’t understand. “I didn’t mean—”

“Forget it,” you interrupted, your voice breaking. You turned to walk away but froze when he called after you.

“Hey,” he said, his tone quieter now. “I wasn’t trying to—”

You stopped, glancing back over your shoulder, tears glinting in your eyes. “Save it, Jake. Just stick to the lights.”

As you walked away, Jake rubbed the back of his neck, guilt and confusion warring within him. Watching your retreat, he muttered to himself, “Way to go, Seresin. Real smooth.”

You'd protested weakly, muttering something about 'community spirit' and 'holiday goodwill,' but you still ended up shoulder to shoulder with Jake Seresin, your name scribbled in glitter pen next to his on a volunteer sign-up sheet.

So here you were, in the middle of the gymnasium, balancing on a ladder to string up fairy lights while Jake held it steady below.

“You sure you don’t want me up there instead?” he called, glancing up with a lopsided smile that had grown frustratingly charming.

“If I trusted you not to slap lights up all uneven, maybe,” you replied, reaching for another hook.

“Ouch. Right in the confidence.”

You bit your cheek to hide your smile, focusing instead on the task at hand. Jake looked particularly relaxed today—flannel sleeves rolled up, easy grin in place. It was annoying how well he wore holiday cheer.

"You know," he added, voice a little softer now, "I think I preferred being trapped with you overnight. Less climbing. More beanbags."

You paused. Your heart gave a traitorous flutter. But before you could form a response, someone called your name from across the room.

"Well, I’ll be damned. Is that you?"

You turned, blinking in surprise. “Lucas?”

He stood with that same lopsided grin you remembered, hands tucked in the pockets of a worn winter jacket. Lucas: the boy who used to share firefly jars with you during childhood summers, who once climbed halfway up a tree to pick you a flower and got stung by a bee for his efforts.

“In the flannel-covered flesh.” He opened his arms, and you laughed, giving him a quick hug. “Wow,” you breathed. “I had no idea you were still going around towns”

“Well, I moved here back last year,” he said, smiling. “Wasn’t expecting to run into you again, though. Thought you were off planning parties in some big city.”

“I was. Am. Kind of... got stranded here,” you admitted, rubbing your neck. “Storm changed a lot of plans.”

Jake watched silently from the ladder base, lips pressed in a neutral line, as you and Lucas talked and laughed like no time had passed.

“Apparently for the better,” he teased, flicking a glance over your shoulder — and that’s when you remembered Jake, standing a few feet away, now unusually quiet.

“Oh—Jake,” you turned, gesturing. “This is Lucas. Lucas, this is Jake Seresin.”

Jake gave a small nod, his smile not quite reaching his eyes. “Nice to meet you.”

“Same,” Lucas replied, polite but focused on you. “So, you’re part of the decorating crew too?”

“Against my will,” you joked, nudging him. “They caught me in a vulnerable moment.”

Lucas laughed. “Well, good thing they did. This place could use a little Hallmark magic.”

Jake’s jaw shifted subtly, but you didn’t notice it right away. You were too busy catching up with someone who once knew a softer version of you — before grief, before ambition hardened you.

When you walked off with Lucas to carry a tub of garlands, Jake stayed back, arms crossed, watching.

You didn’t notice the shift in Jake’s expression, but Natasha, who had just walked in with a box of ornaments, certainly did.

She smirked as she passed him. “Looks like someone from her past is full of holiday cheer.”

Jake didn’t answer, just watched the two of you carry a tub of garland off to the corner. His hands flexed slightly at his sides.

Lucas was a piece of your life Jake hadn’t known about—and he didn’t like that.

Natasha sidled up beside him, eyebrows raised. “That wouldn’t be a jealousy scowl I’m seeing, would it?”

“He’s an old friend,” Jake muttered.

“Mmhmm. And yet you look like you want to throw that garland tub at his head.”

He didn’t answer. He just kept watching, as if trying to understand why the sight of you laughing with someone else made his chest feel tight.

You didn’t notice his expression. Not right away. But when you returned to Jake's side, you could feel the shift.

"Something wrong with the lights?" you asked.

"Nope. Just watching our new team recruit make his move."

You blinked. "What? Lucas? He's just being nice."

Jake scoffed. "Sure. Nice. In that 'I-wanna-see-if-she’s-single' kind of nice."

You crossed your arms, a little defensive now. "Even if he was, it’s none of your business."

His eyes locked with yours. "Isn't it?"

There it was again. The air thickening. Something almost real stirring beneath the surface. But you turned away, retreating to the storage boxes under the pretence of needing more tinsel.

By the time evening fell, the whole town seemed to be buzzing with whispers.

Jake and you had been spotted together again. First, the scavenger hunt. Then, the overnight incident. Now, Gala prep.

Mrs. Ellery, the local postmaster, had not-so-subtly winked as she passed by. "You two planning to be on the Gala's kissing contest list? Just saying, there’s a sign-up sheet."

You groaned. Jake, of course, grinned. "Depends. Would I be kissing her as part of the contest, or just because she can't resist me?"

You swatted him with a ribbon spool.

Later that afternoon, you and Jake found yourselves alone again, sorting through tangled tinsel and trying to make sense of an extremely disorganized box labelled “misc.” Jake was unusually quiet. You didn’t notice at first—not until you’d said something about adding bells to the photo booth backdrop, and he hadn’t offered a single sarcastic retort.

“You okay?” you asked. He shrugged. “Just didn’t realize you had someone like Lucas waiting in the wings.”

You frowned. “He’s not waiting. We’re just catching up.” Jake’s eyes flicked to yours. “You looked happy.” You hesitated. “It’s… complicated. He’s from a time when things were simpler. Summer nights and lemonade kind of simple. That doesn’t mean it’s what I want now.” Jake nodded slowly. “Right. The simpler time. Before donuts and Texas boys with too much attitude.”

A laugh escaped you, but you quickly sobered. “I’m just trying to figure things out. I wasn’t expecting… this.”

He stepped closer. “Neither was I.” After that it was quiet, but Jake didn't press. He just nodded and went back to sorting through ribbon. Still, something had shifted. You could feel it in the silence between you, heavier than before.

By evening, the decorating was nearly done. The gym looked like something out of a snow globe—twinkling lights, velvet ribbons, and mistletoe hung at strategic corners.

“Nice work,” Jake said, surveying the space. “We made a decent team.”

You smiled, brushing a bit of glitter from your cheek. “Against all odds.”

Jake stepped closer, just enough to feel the tension hum again between you. He looked down at you like he had something on the tip of his tongue.

“You ever think about staying?” he asked.

You blinked. “What?”

“Here. In Sweetwater. You said it reminds you of a town when you were a kid. You seem… like you fit.”

You swallowed. “Jake, this is temporary. I’m only here because I got sent by a Santa.”

He nodded slowly. “Right. Of course.”

But the way he looked at you—soft, almost unsure—told you that maybe he was starting to wish it wasn’t so temporary.

You opened your mouth to say something, maybe even soften it, but then your phone buzzed. A text from Lucas.

Got the cocoa station lights working. Still up for cocoa tonight?

You felt Jake glance at the screen. You didn’t answer right away.

And that silence said enough—for now.

Jake stood too. But he didn’t chase the moment.

He just said softly, "You know, I meant it. Something changed."

You turned to him fully, heart caught somewhere between fear and hope. “So what now?”

Jake looked at you, really looked, like every ounce of charm was stripped back. “Now, well, It's up to you. It's your move, but maybe… maybe you could let me keep trying to earn a place in your plans.”

You didn’t say anything right away.

Because something had to change. And that was the scariest part of all.

Assuming Jake was off wooing someone else far, far away from you, you plan to keep your hands occupied. The greatest way to gain the peace and quiet you needed to think was for him to be somewhere—anywhere—but close to you.

No such luck.

You spotted him across the square, helping a kid fix their bike chain. Of course, he was being annoyingly sweet. You turned back to your garlands with an irritated huff, only to find Natasha watching you from a few feet away, arms crossed and a smirk tugging at her lips.

“You’ve been rearranging that same gold ribbon for ten minutes,” she said, stepping closer.

“I’m organizing,” you replied flatly.

She raised an eyebrow. “Organizing. Uh-huh. You know what else helps people sort through things? A friendly team-building activity.”

Your eyes narrowed. “You’re not subtle.”

“I’m not trying to be.”

Across the way, Bradley had cornered Jake by the cocoa stand. “So, hey, there’s this couples’ scavenger hunt later today,” he said casually, too casually. “Town council wants everyone to partner up to encourage… community bonding. And stuff.”

Jake frowned. “And stuff?”

“Yeah. Plus, Natasha and I may have already signed you up.”

“You what?”

“Relax. You’re partnered with someone who’s great at lists and loves control. It’ll be fun.”

Jake’s jaw clenched. “You mean her.”

Bradley patted him on the back. “Just try not to insult her family this time, huh?”

Back with you, Natasha leaned in and handed you a tiny envelope. “Meet your scavenger hunt partner in front of the bakery at noon.”

You hesitated. “Who is it?”

She smiled wickedly. “You’ll see.”

Somehow, it seemed you were cursed by the universe. Maybe it was karma for all the times things had gone your way when they shouldn’t have, or fate’s way of punishing you for arguing with Jake at dinner. At exactly noon, you stood alone in front of the bakery, the crisp air biting at your cheeks, the envelope clutched tight in the hope that its contents wouldn't betray you. You imagined for a fleeting second that he was just a name on a list and that someone else would be standing with you. Maybe a stranger who wasn’t an incessant reminder of last night’s spat and of how much you wished things had gone differently.

The busy streets hummed with activity, shoppers bustling past in festive oblivion as you kept an eye out for your partner. You told yourself the odds were on your side, that you might even be lucky enough to pair up with someone you could actually stand. But, in the pit of your stomach, you knew better. Your eyes scanned every approaching figure, a small bubble of hope blooming and then bursting as each face came into view. You cursed yourself for letting hope even have a chance.

And just when you were foolishly starting to think that maybe—just maybe—you’d dodged the bullet, you saw an unmistakable silhouette heading your way, his hair ruffled by the wind.

Naturally, the universe had other plans.

Jake strolled up with his signature swagger, hands stuffed into his jacket pockets, eyes flicking to yours with a mixture of hesitation and defiance. “Guess we’re the lucky couple.”

You opened the envelope without a word. Inside: a long scroll of holiday-themed challenges, written in Natasha’s perfectly looped cursive. At the bottom, in glitter pen, it read:

“Rule #1: You must complete every challenge together. No splitting up. Happy bonding! <3 – Nat & Brad”

You exhaled sharply. “I'm so killing them.”

Jake glanced at the list. “What’s first?”

You skimmed it. “Take a selfie recreating a romantic Christmas movie poster… Seriously?”

Jake grinned. “I call dibs on being Ryan Reynolds.”

You rolled your eyes but followed him to the oversized sleigh photo booth set up by the florist. You posed stiffly beside him, arms crossed, while he threw his arm around your shoulders like it was second nature.

Click.

Your face in the photo said grumpy elf. His said unbothered golden retriever.

“Next,” you muttered, dragging him toward the town square.

The library challenge was supposed to be easy—find the hidden candy cane stash nestled somewhere in the children’s section. But thirty minutes in, you were both elbow-deep in a chaotic mess of toppled books and badly deciphered clues, your patience unravelling with each passing second.

“I’m telling you,” Jake muttered, brushing dust off an oversized encyclopedia as he crouched beside a tilted bookshelf, “it’s got to be an anagram. ‘Sweet story’ could mean something—like Hansel and Gretel!”

You groaned, clutching a mangled copy of The Polar Express. “Or it just means literally any children’s book. This is not The Da Vinci Code.”

Jake shot you a look, half amusement, half challenge. “Well, at least I’m trying to think—”

Before he could finish, you tugged at a shelf that seemed suspiciously deeper than the rest—and the entire display buckled forward, sending a waterfall of hardcover picture books cascading onto the floor.

A heavy silence fell over the aisle.

Then, from behind the circulation desk, the librarian's voice rang out like a war horn. “OUT. Now!”

You and Jake bolted, half-tripping over scattered candy cane wrappers and each other’s feet, laughing breathlessly all the way to the pavement.

Later, in the town square gazebo, the mood shifted.

You paused beneath the next clue’s location—a delicate sprig of mistletoe hung from the arch above. It swayed slightly in the evening breeze, as if daring you both to acknowledge it.

Jake noticed it first, naturally. His grin was immediate, infuriatingly confident.

“Well, well,” he drawled, stepping into your space like it was the most natural thing in the world. “Looks like it’s your lucky day. You can just pretend I’m not irresistible.”

You didn’t even flinch. “I pretend that daily,” you replied flatly, though your voice lacked its usual bite.

But when he reached up—not to kiss you, but to gently brush a piece of tinsel from your cheek, his knuckles grazing your skin—you forgot how to breathe.

It was a simple touch. Light. Almost innocent. But the air between you suddenly felt too tight, too electric.

Jake’s eyes lingered for a second longer than necessary. He looked like he might say something, something real, something that would complicate things.

But the moment passed.

You stepped back, clearing your throat, pretending your pulse wasn’t hammering in your throat.

The next challenge brought you to the bakery, which—unsurprisingly—had run out of both time and actual snow. So, like any deranged duo determined to win, you and Jake improvised.

Flour. Cotton batting. Some crushed candy canes for flair.

Your “snowman” quickly devolved into a competition of petty sabotage.

Jake’s snowman sported an unsettlingly accurate version of your planner taped to its face.

“Oh, I see,” you said, arms crossed, surveying the abomination. “Trying to manifest organization in your life through art?”

He grinned proudly. “Figured if I couldn’t win your affection, I could at least earn a page in your colour-coded schedule.”

In retaliation, your snowman began to suspiciously resemble Jake. Messy tuft of faux snow for hair. Smug little candy cane grin. And, of course, the name tag on its chest: “Hi, I’m Trouble.”

Jake laughed out loud when he saw it. “Admit it,” he said, nudging you with his elbow. “You like me just a little.”

You rolled your eyes, but the corners of your mouth betrayed you.

Just a little.

By the time the final, neatly folded clue led to the community centre, the sun was already dipping low in the sky. The horizon blazed with an orange glow, mirroring the flicker of moody lights from the newly opened holiday stalls. Despite your best efforts to resist, the day’s misadventures—and Jake’s relentless charm—had started to chip away at your resolve. Laughter you hadn’t intended to share had slipped out more than once, and though you’d never admit it, even to yourself, your walls were undeniably beginning to soften. You opened the door with cautious determination, stepping into the wide room filled with glittering decorations, knowing that somewhere in here the last ornament awaited.

The promise of victory spurred you into action, and you strode toward a display of presents, determined to finish first. Jake followed, just a step behind, and with a flourish of his arm, reached out to grab the elusive final ornament for your hunt prize. A silver bell chimed as he lifted it triumphantly. “I think this calls for a speech,” he announced, but the moment was short-lived. To your horror, the door slammed shut with a resounding thud.

Both of you turned in stunned silence, the echo of the heavy door like a mocking laugh. Jake was the first to recover, casually walking back and jiggling the handle. “Uh-oh,” he said, cocking an eyebrow with maddening casualness.

“What?” you asked, crossing the room quickly, a note of panic edging your voice.

“It’s locked,” Jake replied with a shrug, a mischievous glint in his eye, as though the universe’s latest trick was a mere inconvenience.

You stared at the solid door, then at him, the absurdity of the situation sinking in. “We are not spending the night trapped in here,” you insisted, but the flare of worry in your voice betrayed you.

“Yup,” Jake said, settling in with a familiar ease. “Stuck. Probably a timed lock, or maybe we’re just cursed.” He grinned and pulled a plaid blanket from one of the decoration boxes, shaking it free of dust like he was settling in for a cosy evening.

You sighed deeply, arms crossed. “We’ve already survived a scavenger hunt, a fake kiss, and each other. How hard can one night be?” Jake seemed to be enjoying this far too much, and the thought both irked and amused you.

He tossed the blanket onto a pile of bean bags with a carefree air, lounging back as if the building were his own personal retreat. “Famous last words.”

The fluorescent lights buzzed above as you paced near the community centre doors, phone held high in a futile attempt to find service. No bars. Of course.

Jake was already lounging on a pile of bean bags like this was a five-star ski lodge. “You’d think a place with twelve types of hot cocoa would have decent Wi-Fi.”

You shot him a look. “You could help me figure out how to get us out of here.”

He held up a tangled string of Christmas lights. “Hey, I’m being useful. Festive, even.”

You sighed and slid down against the wall, finally letting yourself feel how exhausted you were. From the hunt. From the week. From pretending like none of this affected you.

Jake eventually sat beside you, leaving just enough space between you for plausible deniability. The silence stretched, but it wasn’t awkward. Not exactly.

Then, softly: “You’re really good at this, you know.”

You glanced over. “At scavenger hunts?”

“At… making everything feel like Christmas. Like it matters.”

You looked away, throat tightening. “It does matter. Especially when things feel like they’re falling apart.”

Jake hesitated, then nodded. “So, your mum—was she the reason you love Christmas so much?”

Your fingers fiddled with the corner of your sleeve. “She made it feel like magic. Like, we could pause real life for a few days and just… breathe. Laugh. Eat too much. Watch movies on the couch.”

He was quiet, then asked, “What about your dad?”

You stiffened. “He wasn’t really around. Not much before. Even less after.”

Jake’s expression shifted, like he understood too late how close to the bone his earlier comment had been.

You added, with a bitter laugh, “It’s fine. I just learned to take care of everything myself. Made a plan. Stuck to it. At least if something went wrong, I’d only have myself to blame.”

He nodded slowly, voice low. “That explains a lot, actually.”

You turned to him. “Yeah? Like what?”

He met your gaze. “Like why you try to make everything perfect for everyone else. Why you can’t stand letting go of control. You think if you hold it all together, nobody else has to feel what you felt.”

Silence. It was too true.

And then—because he was still him—he added gently, “It’s kind of exhausting to watch, but… also kinda incredible.”

You laughed once, surprised, unsure. “Thanks?”

He nudged your shoulder with his. “You’re welcome.”

Somewhere in the storage closet, an old stereo clicked on. A scratchy rendition of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” floated into the room.

Jake stood and held out a hand. “C’mon. One dance. For our scavenger hunt win.”

You hesitated, but your hand found his. He pulled you in gently, his touch warm and steady, the soft hum of music wrapping around you both.

“I still think you’re a control freak,” he whispered.

“I still think you’re a cocky jerk,” you replied, but there was a smile in your voice now.

“Then we’re even.”

As you danced in the empty community centre, surrounded by fairy lights and half-hung wreaths, it felt—for a brief, breathless moment—like maybe things didn’t have to go according to plan to be perfect.

Jake shifted on the beanbag, the one he’d dragged over beside, where you’d eventually fallen asleep. The twinkling Christmas lights cast a soft glow over the room. It should’ve felt ridiculous—being trapped overnight in a glorified holiday craft storage unit—but it didn’t.

It felt… kind of perfect.

He watched the rise and fall of your breathing, the way your hand rested protectively over that worn planner even in sleep. Always planning. Always bracing.

He hadn’t meant to hit a nerve earlier. He really hadn’t. That quip about being raised by the military? God, what a dumbass thing to say. But it was how you were sometimes—so tight-laced he couldn’t tell if you were about to bark orders or have a breakdown. He used to find it funny. But now?

Now he got it.

You had to grow up too fast. You were holding the damn world together with glitter glue and to-do lists and pretending like you weren’t terrified of everything falling apart again.

And maybe what gutted him most was how good you were at hiding it. Until you weren’t. Until tonight.

Jake rubbed a hand over his face, his heart doing something weird in his chest he didn’t want to analyse too hard. He was supposed to be the flirty one. The funny one. The guy you didn’t take seriously.

But now, all he could think about was how fragile your voice sounded when you talked about your mum. How fiercely you tried to protect everyone else from chaos because no one had done the same for you.

And how maybe—just maybe—he didn’t want to be the guy you laughed at any more.

He wanted to be the guy who got to see the real you. The girl who danced in the dark when no one was watching. The girl who remembered every little thing that made the holidays special. The one who’d built her own kind of magic out of loss.

Jake leaned his head back, staring up at the ceiling tiles.

“You’re screwed, Seresin,” he whispered to himself, letting out a small laugh. “So screwed.”

But he didn’t move. He just sat there, in the glow of paper snowflakes and tangled tinsel, listening to the soft rhythm of your breathing.

And for once, he didn’t feel like running.