Sleigh Bells and Rings

Sleigh Bells and Rings By Dahlia Rose Copyright © December 2011, Dahlia Rose Cover art by For the Muse Designs © December 2011 ISBN 978-1-936668-43-4 This is a work of fiction. All characters and events portrayed in this novel are fictitious or used fictitiously. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book, or portions thereof, in any form. Sugar and Spice Press North Carolina, USA www.sugarnspicepress.com

Sleigh Bells and Rings

Dahlia Rose

Chapter One November 29th… “EOD Team Two we are at a stand still and waiting for removal of IED.” The scratchy voice came over the radio in the over-packed humvee. Major Dave Scott rolled his eyes behind his sunglasses as he popped a piece of the spearmint gum into his mouth. It staved off the hunger pangs in his stomach that reminded him that he hadn’t eaten since lunch the day before. He hated the fucking ready-to-eat meals in his truck. He’d had them for the last four days and couldn’t wait to have an actual meal at the FOB. This was the last bomb-clearing mission for this stretch of road. Sometimes it felt so useless what they did each day. Just as many homemade bombs they removed, double popped up. Dave had no doubt in a few weeks his team would be back on this same road looking for new bombs. The voice came again. “Team Two, do you copy?” Dave snatched up the radio and felt his irritation rise. He tried to squelch it down before forcing the words through gritted teeth. “We copy, Convoy Four. We are heading to the target area now. Trust me we can’t just drive up and yank it out the dirt and put it in a trash can.” His driver grinned and kept his eyes on the road. They were all at the end of their last nerve because of the job. He sometimes missed the unit he was in with Caine. He amended his thought, not sometimes, all the time. He didn’t know what he was thinking taking on bomb disposal. His ego had been upped a notch when he was approached with leading EOD Team Two. The commander called him the best, and every soldier wanted to hear that. He didn’t think of the stress each time they dealt with a new explosive device. But still he was saving lives, not only of soldiers but also the citizens of Afghanistan.

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Al Qaida had no problem killing their people—men, women, children it was all collateral damage. He was going home in two weeks. Well not exactly home but to North Carolina to see his friend, his wife Danika, and their son Joshua. They had a new baby girl, and he was appointed as godfather. He planned to take the role very seriously. He put his mind to the task at hand as his driver slowed to their target destination. The bridge was ahead, and from the intelligence that was gathered, the IED was in the ditch just before the bridge. He called the second humvee in his team from his headset. “Keith, put the robot on the ground and let’s see what we got.” “Roger that, Major.” Specialist Keith Pope was the expert with the unmanned robot they sent in. But they were all trained to use it. In Iraq, finding IEDs was done on foot for the first part of the war, until they designed robots that could use a camera to help locate the bombs without risking lives. He heard the familiar whir of the robot’s engine and looked out the window of his humvee to see it roll by on the rocky road. “Camera on, Keith. I want to see everything till we’re right on it,” Dave ordered. “Roger that.” Dave turned the screen on in his humvee. The droid was connected to both vehicles so they could see the road it moved slowly up. “If there was a secondary detonation line wouldn’t we have run over it?” his driver asked. “You know how sneaky these bastards can be. I’m just making sure,” Dave explained. “There’s probably someone watching us right now, checking out our procedure on how we do things and holding a trigger for detonation.” “I bet you five bucks it’s a pressure plate,” Chris said. “You’re on.” Dave smiled, and they pounded fists to seal the bet. Chris Morrison was new to the unit. Dave worried about the twentythree year old who was way too gun ho about being in a unit that dealt 2

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with explosives. That’s why he put him as the driver for now and limited him from dealing with too many issues with ordinance when they came up. He wanted the kid to slow down, but he was like a kid in a candy store when it came to dealing with explosives. Yet he was good, and he took great care when dealing with the threat of a buried IED. He liked Chris. He was funny, and when they were at the FOB, the boy could have the entire team cracking up with antics or impressions of movie stars. Eventually the energy would subside into a cool, calm, and collected soldier. They watched in silence as the robot got to its destination, and Keith rotated the camera to the obvious bump under the soil. The fuckers didn’t even bury it all the way, Dave thought angrily. Whoever it was hoped the convoy would roll by so quickly they wouldn’t know until they passed right over it and it exploded. Not this time, assholes. “It’s a buffalo buster, looks like RPGs with detonation cord coming out the back,” Keith said. “Probably running to a pressure plate in the road. They had to rig the nose cones with shrap.” “Five bucks, hoooahhh,” Chris crowed. “Don’t count your money too fast,” Dave said softly looking at the screen closer. He noticed something on the monitor that had him worried. “Keith, move the bot in closer. There’s another cord. If it’s there, use the arm to trace it back… very slowly.” “Roger that, Major.” The whirr of the robot came to their ears easily as Keith maneuvered it closer. Sure enough there was another cord partially hidden in the sand. “There she is,” Dave whispered. “Now let’s see where it leads us.” Dave watched as they maneuvered the droid and it pulled the wire from the sand. At one point it was spliced. The wire broke off in two different directions. He watched in horror as it went to both sides of the humvee. The people who planted the explosive had boobie trapped both sides of the road. “”Fuckkkkk.” 3

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He heard the long expletive drawn out from Keith on his head set and ordered both drivers. “Roll back slowly.” “EOD Team Two, how much longer, over?” The question came over the radio. Dave let his temper loose. “It will take as long as it fucking takes! Both sides of the road are rigged, and we might be parked on a fucking bomb ourselves. Do you want to come and take care of it?” There was a moment of silence before the voice came back. “Roger that, take your time.” “Chris, stop the truck.” The order came from Keith in the second humvee. The newbie had enough sense to listen and braked instantly. “What do you see?” Dave asked. “Pressure plate under right front tire, the dirt moved off while we were going backward,” Keith explained. This was what they wanted all along, Dave thought. The merciless bastards who roamed the mountains and fought in the name of a crazed religious zealot wanted to maximize the death toll. “Well shit looks as if I won.” Chris chuckled. Dave could hear the nervousness in his voice. “Orders, Major?” Keith said. “Call in another unit to disarm this beast,” Dave said. “We can’t move…. Shit, Chris, close the fucking door!” Chris’s eyes glittered excitedly. “I can get this, Major. It’s right within my reach. I can cut it without even stepping out of the cab.” “No way, we wait….” But Chris already had his cutter out of his utility belt and leaned out of the humvee. Dave tried to grab at him but only got his belt. He tried tugging him back in and fully intended to beat the shit out of the young soldier for disobeying orders and being just plain stupid. “Damn it, boy, I said get back in here!” Dave shouted.

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Chris slapped his hand away and sat up just a little. His body was still partially hanging out the humvee. “Give me a chance. Let me go, Major. I got this….” Those were the last words that Chris said. His first instincts were correct that someone was watching with a switch in their hand. Maybe if the kid was in the cab of the truck with the plated door closed it would have saved him. Dave heard the bomb go, and Chris’ wide eyes met his before the truck flipped. They would tell him later that because it flipped the way it did, was why he wasn’t dead in the passenger seat. He would hear that he was thrown free when the second bomb went off. There would be claps on the back telling him how lucky he was and what a good leader of the team he was. The laugh would come sarcastic and unbelievable when he heard that he did the right thing. But nothing he heard could fill the pain in his chest or the anger that burned in his gut. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw Chris’s frightened look when the bomb went off. Reality hit at that very moment, and it all became clear that they were not invincible. He could see clearly the soldier, the newbie to the team not even in theatre for six months. His body broken, battered, and crumpled as they dragged him from the wreckage and his hazel eyes staring at nothing and no life left in his body. The twenty-three year old funny kid was lost on his watch. Half the time when they talked to him while he was waiting for transport out of Germany to the United States talking about a medal and commendations, he looked at them in disbelief. Sergeant Chris Morrison, from a small town in Nebraska was dead before he even had a chance to live. How could they be congratulating him because of that?

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Chapter Two One week before Christmas… The roads were slick, and a thin layer of snow lay on the dark surface. Silence reigned inside the car because he wanted no music as he drove. Dave could hear the wet slush as he maneuvered the sleek new Dodge charger up the mountain roads. The rental place had told him that there would be snow before the evening was out. He’d planned to be holed up in the cabin well before that. He had another three to five hours of driving before he got to the absolute seclusion of a cabin that was rented to him by a friend of Caine. He knew it was the holidays, but he didn’t much feel like celebrating. He’d made a quick stop to see his new goddaughter, and from one look at him he could tell Caine knew he needed to be alone. That night they’d talked over a beer out on the deck, and even though Caine heard about what happened, Dave told him exactly how he was feeling. By the end of the conversation, the cabin was his, and he left the next day. Danika kissed him on the cheek and begged him to take care of himself and to heal. Dave didn’t know if he could promise to do the last one, heal… He thought of young Chris Morrison everyday, his funeral and the grief of his family when he saw them. His mother couldn’t even speak when he walked over to them. It struck him hard in the gut and grabbed his heart with a tight fist and squeezed. There was no fix for this, but with time alone maybe he could learn to cope. He had brought every man home from each mission he was ever on until this last time. Caine told him not to carry the burden alone, but there was no one he could share this with, no one.” He shook his head and brought his attention back to the road. He noticed that flakes began to fall, and it wasn’t just a sprinkle. They floated from the sky as if they were chasing each other to reach the ground. An hour later, he could hardly see in front of him as the sun went down and the weather system picked up in strength. He looked at the time on the 6

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dashboard and frowned. The cabin was still a few hours away, and the snow was getting heavy. He wondered if he would make it in time. Another hour and more than once he had to slow to a crawl. Where the fuck are the snowplows? he wondered angrily. This was one of the reasons he loved living in New York City. Before an inch of snow was in the ground, a team of trucks were salting the streets. At least he was off the winding cliffside roads, but that was the only good thing. The trees and the roads were packed with snow and even though he had the high beams on. He couldn’t see one damn thing. He made the mistake of looking at the GPS and frowning when it was standing still. The weather was so bad the damn thing wasn’t working, and he tapped at touch screen furiously. “You people created NASA satellites and this thing can’t penetrate a damn snowstorm?” He hit a patch of ice under the snow, and the car tailspinned. Dave fought for control, and the car skidded off the road into a snow-banked ditch. He took a deep breath and assessed his body for damage. Finding none he stepped out the car to survey if he fucked it up. The ditch was deep. There was no way he was powering out of it, and he looked around. No houses, no light, nothing. He was essentially stranded. With a sigh he brushed off his leather jacket as he got back in the car. The GPS was still frozen in place, so he had no clue where he was. Dave picked up his cell phone and looked at it with a frown. No signal. He still dialed nine-oneone, and through the static he heard a voice. “Hey, can you hear me? I ran off the road off I-40, heading toward Border Lake!” he yelled and blocked his right ear so he could hear through the static. The person on the other end was still unintelligible. He tried to recall the last town marker he’d passed. Was it Merry? I think that was it, he thought and yelled back into the phone. “If you can hear me, look for a navy blue twenty eleven Dodge truck in the ditch outside a town called Merry… Merry, North Carolina… Hello, hello!” Even the static was gone, and he threw the phone into the passenger seat with disgust. Jesus, with all the technology in the world a snowstorm 7

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knocks it all out. He got out the car again and took his bag out the truck along with the emergency pack he always carried and his boots. He might have to hike toward the small town, but he couldn’t until the storm was over. It was easy enough to get turned around in a place like this, and he didn’t intend to be found as a Popsicle in the spring thaw. He cleaned the snow off the muffler so he could turn on the car for heat when he got back inside. If it was blocked, he would be flying high and not in a good way, until he died. He got in the car and turned on the car before cranking up the heat. One hour on and two off, he would alternate until he was rescued or until he could walk out himself. He tore open an energy bar and chewed it thoughtfully. He hoped he could get the car fixed or replaced in Merry and pick up supplies. The way the weather was looking ice fishing would be out of the question. It was an hour or so then Dave swore he heard bells ringing, or did he? The silence was almost deafening around him as the snow fell briskly. There it was again, and this time he could see lights through the snow in front of him. Dave leaned forward and sure enough he did hear bells, and then he saw horses and lights through the snow. Holy shit, is that a red sleigh? Dave had a ridiculous thought about Santa Claus and pushed it out of his head. Whoever it was in the sleigh was too small to be a Santa impersonator. Plus they were dressed in white. The horses came to a stop. The sleigh was ornately decorated for the holidays, and Dave thought maybe the muffler had actually been clogged and he was hallucinating. He got out of the car, and the crisp air stung his nose. Snow bunny. The thought ran through his mind when he figured out it was woman. When she turned to him and smiled, she took his breath away. Dave amended the thought to chocolate snow bunny, and she was simply gorgeous. “Hi, I see you’re stuck.” Her voice was husky, and it reminded him of whiskey. “Are you real?” he asked and cringed at his own question, then asked, “How did you find me?” 8

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She laughed. “I’m real, and the dispatcher caught bits and pieces of where you were. I figured it out, and I have the only transportation that could get up here.” She took off her glove and held out her hand. “Hi, I’m Sophia.” Dave took her hand in his and didn’t want to let go. “Dave Scott.” “Well, Dave Scott, let’s get you out of here and into Merry. I own the hotel on Main Street, so you can get a room there and something to eat. We had a Christmas party, and there’re tons of leftovers.” He grabbed his cell phone from the seat and shoved it in the pocket of the duffel bag. He took that and his emergency pack out and locked the truck. “Is this some of the southern hospitality I’ve heard about?” She waved her hand toward her sleigh and smiled. “It’s holiday cheer, come aboard.” “Thanks.” Dave threw his duffel on the floor and got into her ride. The seats were red leather, and she sat beside him before throwing a soft fur blanket over their legs. She glanced down at his bag. “Military duffel, huh? Are you enlisted?” Dave gave her a mock salute. “Major Dave Scott at your service, ma’am.” “I just rescued a major very cool,” she teased and nudged him with her shoulder. Dave couldn’t help but grin. She made him feel lighter just being around her, and they met only a few minutes ago. “What do you do in the army?” Sophia asked conversationally. “Explosives Ordinance disposal, in small terms I play with things that go boom,” Dave said. “Sounds like a really tough and scary job,” was her reply. “A bit of both.” He didn’t want to talk about his job, and he hoped she wouldn’t ask anymore about it. She seemed to take the hint and let it alone and went on to something else. “I should warn you about Merry.” 9

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He looked to her curiously. “Ummm should I be scared?” Sophia laughed. “Not in that way in the least. We just like Christmas a lot in this town. Sit back and enjoy the ride.” She wasn’t kidding when she said the town of Merry liked the holiday. From the time he rode into the town, he sat up and looked around with his mouth agape. Every building and home had lights attached from the roofs down. Giant santas, lighted reindeers, Christmas trees, snow globes, and more adorned lawns. A huge Christmas tree that could give Rockefeller’s tree in the heart of New York a run for its money stood in the square. It not only had lights but ornaments, and large candy canes hung from what he could only say was every branch. How the heck did they get candy canes so big? Large signs that were made of lights across Main Street announced “Merry says Merry Christmas,” and even though it snowed like heck outside it didn’t mean that people weren’t walking through the snow with shopping bags. Some were sitting in coffee shops sipping steaming drinks. At the hotel a lighted wire cutout of a sleigh with Santa Claus and his reindeers was on the roof blinking merrily. “A lot to take in, huh?” Sophia’s voice held humor. “It’s something.” Dave looked around. “I think I’m glad my sunglasses are on.” This time Sophia laughed out loud, and he found the sound very pleasing. “You’ll get accustomed to it. Welcome to Merry.” She hopped out of the sleigh with an easy lithe move, and Dave watched her appreciatively for a moment before he got out and grabbed his bag. A young man came running up, and Sophia smiled at him. He couldn’t quite call him young. He was tall and broad shouldered with dark wavy hair and looked like he belonged on GQ instead of being in small town ,North Carolina. “Jimmy, take Barry and Lola home. Get them settled in the warm stable and give them an extra apple for being such good horses,” Sophia said. “I’ll need them back here at two in the afternoon to start the sleigh rides.” 10

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“No problem.” He grinned at her before giving her a wink and waving his hand in front of her body. “Sophia, I am loving the whole white fur thing you have going on,” Jimmy said. “Red boots next time, darling. Let’s give it a little pizzazz.” Jimmy stroked the neck of both horses before he got into the sleigh and with a soft clicking noise got the horses to move slowly away from the front of the hotel. “You don’t live here at the hotel?” Dave asked. “Oh I do sometimes, especially around Christmas, so I’m here until the seasonal guests are gone. I have a house on the outskirts of town for me and my animals,” she answered. “Let’s get you in out of the cold.” Inside was just as decorated as the outside with garland and poinsettias. Lights glinted everywhere, and people sat in front of at least two fireplaces he could see. The smell of cinnamon and apple spice filled the air, and soft holiday music played to set the ambiance. She took off her hat, and brown straight hair fell to her shoulders. He could see how truly gorgeous she was up close and personal. Full lips, pink and delectable, skin like milk chocolate caught the light like it was gold. Her eyes were happy. He didn’t know if that was the right description, but when he looked into the chocolate brown depths, it made him want to smile as well. Sophie went behind the desk and looked at the computer. “I have only two rooms available, and one is being taken tomorrow if my guest gets through the snow.” She looked up at him. “The other one is a single room with only a shower not a tub. Is that ok?” “Do I look like the kind of guy who takes a tub bath?” he asked with dry humor. Sophia winked at him. “You never know unless you try.” Why did her voice make his cock jump? He doubted she even saw it as an innuendo, but it sure felt like one. He leaned on the counter. “Whatever you’ve got is fine. I won’t be here long anyway. I’m heading up to Border Lake as soon as I get my truck out of the ditch and get it looked at.”

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She pulled a key from the drawer and handed it to him. “You’ll be here for a bit, Dave. With this snow you are not going to get anywhere near Border Lake until spring time. It’s coming down here which means it’s snowing in droves up near the lake, and the road into those cabins are blocked until the thaw.” “Well that’s just great to hear,” he muttered and pulled his credit card out. “Fine, I’ll head back to Fayetteville when I can travel. You can put it on this card.” She folded her fingers over his and closed his palm over his card. Her touch was soft, and she didn’t remove her hand. Instead she leaned forward and was practically nose to nose with him at the desk. “Keep your money. Call this my gift to one of the boys in uniform,” Sophia said. “Tell you what, how about you stay in Merry for the holidays? You look like you could use some good cheer.” “Doesn’t sound like my cup of coffee,” he replied. “Border Lake was to get me away from people, not put me right smack dab into holiday central.” “You think about it, and trust me if you don’t want to be bothered, you can stay in your room without seeing the world.” Sophia patted his hand. “But I doubt that will happen.” Dave couldn’t help but smile. “You sound very sure of that, Sophia Martin.” “I have holiday magic on my side.” She waved her hand down the hall. “The stairs are down the hall, and your room is on the third floor.” “Where do you sleep?” he asked. “Third floor,” she replied. “Well things are definitely looking up,” he murmured. He hoped she didn’t hear him. Sophia was looking at the computer again and cast a glance his way. “Come downstairs when you’re settled. I’ll make you a hot buttered rum and a plate of food.”

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Dave grabbed his bag from the floor and went looking for the stairs. He found his room easily enough, and when he stepped inside, he was impressed with what she called a small room. In the military those words meant exactly what they said—small, cramped, and unimpressive. The room she put him in was far from the latter. It was decorated in rich colors, and the coverlet looked like it was made of satin and red wine. He could see she wanted her guests to enjoy the holiday to the fullest. He had no doubt the rest of the rooms looked like this and would probably change as soon as the holiday was over. She looked like the kind of woman who paid attention to details. He found a clean pair of jeans and a black shirt in his duffel and went into the bathroom to clean up. In the mirror he took off his shirt and looked at the scar on his chest where a piece of hot shrapnel had scarred him. It was still red and a little bit tender. He rubbed it absently and pushed the hurtful memories away. Dave got into the shower and turned the spray on to full, adjusting the temperature until it was just a few degrees away from scalding. He stuck his head under the hot spray, and a moan of pure enjoyment escaped him. He didn’t think the cabin would come equipped with a shower like this. The water started to pulsate, and he looked up. Automatic massage showerhead, I may never leave. He smiled knowing he had already made the mental decision to stay. He could stay in his room and find the same peace as in a cabin. Sophia intrigued him, and he doubted that solitude would be something he sought while she was around. He lingered in the shower. Who wouldn’t when the water jets pulsated at three different levels. Dave came out feeling definitely refreshed and dried off before pulling on his jeans and shirt. His stomach rumbled reminding him that he hadn’t eaten for awhile. The plate she offered him was sounding better by the minute. He locked the door and descended the stairs to find Sophia.

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Chapter Three Well isn’t that just something, Sophia mused as she worked in the kitchen. She piled one plate high with ham and creamy mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, candied yams, and fresh made rolls. When the dispatcher had called and asked for a favor who knew she would end up rescuing a soldier from a snow bank. And a pretty sexy one at that. Thinking about him while she sliced the three layered red velvet cake made Sophia smile and then frown. He was a man that was hiding a deep wound. Something had happened to him because there was sadness in those green eyes. She didn’t want to pry but wished she could make the crooked smile he flashed once or twice carry to his eyes. “Major Dave Scott.” She said his name, experimenting on how it felt coming from her lips. His green eyes were piercing almost making her breathless when he looked at her over the front desk. Sexy lips and low cut midnight black hair framed a really rugged jaw and broad shoulders. He had to be about six one or two she mused to herself as she pulled a red cloth napkin from the drawer and silver utensils. She was about to find the cart so she could set up his meal in front of the fire when he came through the kitchen door. Guests didn’t venture into her kitchen but then Dave was not like any guest she’d had before. “I was going to set up in front of the fireplace,” she said. “You could have the ambiance of the main parlor.” Dave smirked and pulled up a stool to one of the counters. “I’m good right here thanks, and there is a fireplace right here. It’s nice.” Sophie put the plate with his dinner in front of him and stood back. “I hope you enjoy your meal.” “You’re not going to join me?” Dave asked. “I’ll grab something in my room later,” Sophia said. “I have to make sure the guests are alright.”

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“There are no guests to take care of. It’s deserted out there. I’m assuming they are snug in their rooms cuddling while the snow falls,” Dave said. As if he knew exactly where they would be, he pulled out the drawer with the utensils and handed her a fork. “Join me. There’s more than enough for two.” “Alright.” Sophia took another stool and sat close to him. She dipped the fork that he gave her into the mashed potatoes and took a bite. “They’re good.” He grinned and sliced into the meat. “Try the ham.” Sophia mirrored his smile before she took a bite. “It’s pretty good. Thanks for sharing.” “You should tell the chef.” Dave took a bite of his own food. “That would be me then.” She winked. “That compliment can earn you an extra piece of red velvet cake.” “Well then you are the paragon of cooking abilities. Your cuisine should be showcased in France where the critics would applaud,” Dave said solemnly. She laughed. “That’s a little too thick, but I’ll still gave you more cake.” “You must be an angel,” he said. “Just a woman who likes to see a man enjoy her cooking,” Sophia replied and took another bite of his food. “So exactly why does this town look like the North Pole on steroids?” he asked. “Doesn’t the name speak for itself? It started out that one family thought since we were called Merry we should do it up for the holidays, and it took off,” she said. “I guess I should tell you it’s my family that started the little tradition.” He chuckled. “I think I could figure that out from the huge Santa on your hotel.” “Since we’re sharing tales, want to tell me yours?” Sophia asked.

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“Not much to tell, been in the military most of my life and got back from Afghanistan a few days ago, and here I am,” Dave said. He was trying to be nonchalant, but there was the underlying strain in his voice that she picked up on. “So you came straight off the plane and decided to go to the seclusion of Border Lake?” she asked. “I went to see my best friend Caine in Fayetteville. He is stationed at Fort Bragg now, and his wife just had a baby girl. I’m her godfather,” Dave said. There was pride in his voice when he spoke of his friends, and his eyes lit up. “Her name is Caelyn, and she is as cute as a button.” “Then why aren’t you spending time there as opposed to trying for the solitude of the lake?” Sophia asked. She cleared his empty plate away and cut an extra slice of cake to put on the second plate. She grabbed two forks and sat again and met his green gaze that had lost it’s light. She was absolutely sorry that her question caused it, but she’d learned from her parents that hiding the darkness and allowing it to fester was worse than facing it head on. “I need some alone time, to think, reflect…” he began. “Beat yourself up….” Sophia murmured. He gave her a direct stare. “You might be right, but it’s my choice isn’t it?” She shrugged. “Maybe so, but I’m in full belief of fate, and you were sent here….” “Stranded here,” he amended. “Tomato, tomatoes, all in the same,” she continued. “But you were put in my path for me to help make you happy for the holidays.” “Really,” he said dryly. “Am I going to find sugar plums in my bed?” Sophia was a flirt, and when it came to a sexy man like Dave, she didn’t hold back. “Is that what you’re going to call me? How sweet.” “You plan to be in my bed?” Dave asked. She took a big bite of the cake in front of her and chewed thoughtfully before speaking. “You never know what might happen. It’s Christmas 16

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after all. Santa might give you a gift even though you must’ve been naughty. I don’t mind naughty.” Dave laughed out loud. “You were sent to tempt me, that’s for sure.” She pointed her fork at him. “I’ll take that as a compliment.” “You’d better.” His voice was a low growl, and their gazes held for what seemed like minutes. “So Jimmy, the guy with the horses, did you guys have a thing?” “Jimmy?” she asked. When he nodded and took more of the cake, Sophia couldn’t help but laugh so hard until her eyes watered. She wiped away the tears from her eyes and sighed with mirth. “I take it you found something funny,” Dave commented. “Yes, because Jimmy was probably checking you out instead of me,” Sophia said. “I’m amazed you couldn’t tell he was gay.” Dave shrugged. “I don’t go around looking at guys wondering if they are gay or not. As long as they can drink a beer, watch a game with me, and be a good friend, a person’s sexual preference doesn’t matter in the least.” “How enlightened of you.” Sophia could feel herself warming from his personality. They didn’t make guys like him much anymore. Strong and masculine but didn’t have to be a brute to show it to the world. “Why are you asking about Jimmy?” “Just in case I get the urge to kiss you, I don’t have to fight off any boyfriends.” Dave took the last piece of cake before getting up to leave the room. “Great dinner, thanks, Sophia.” “You make a statement like that and head out the door?” she said with a laugh. “There isn’t much left to say. I gave you notice a head of time,” he replied. “So you plan on kissing me, huh?” He nodded. “Oh yeah, I’ve decided there will be kissing.” “Well if there’s kissing then you can go with me to the Winter Festival tomorrow,” Sophia announced and stood to begin clearing the plates. 17

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“There will be lights and music, ice-skating, and Santa Claus. Not to mention tons of food at the hall.” “So no kisses if I don’t go?” Dave appeared to weigh the thought of being around all the holiday cheer versus kissing her. “Can’t I just work it off here like building a chimney or something?” She walked up to him slowly and put her hand on his chest. His heart jumped beneath her touch. “I know you’ve been through some stuff. Anyone can look into your eyes and see you’re troubled. Come with me and forget just for a little bit, and if you don’t like it I’ll give you a free sleigh ride.” He swallowed and patted her hand. With a quick nod he turned and walked away, and she opened the swinging door to watch him head up the stairs. Sophia let the door close and went to clean up the dishes. She pondered why Dave affected her to the point that she wanted to save him. He wasn’t a kitten or some homeless man she would take a meal everyday until he got into a halfway house. He was a soldier that had been in a place she couldn’t even imagine doing things very few might have heard about. But she was certain that he was the type to take on guilt and try to carry the burden alone. Dave Scott’s biggest enemy was of his own making, and she didn’t know if she could save him from himself. Later that night she learned how much she was right when she was in her office. It was after one in the morning, and when she heard someone downstairs, her heart jumped in her chest. None of the guests were up that late, and she could catch up on paperwork while the house was quiet. She was just about to close down her computer and head up for the night when the sound came loud and distinct to her ears. A chair scraping across her hardwood floors made her grit her teeth. If there were scrapes, she might have to restrain herself from going postal. Re-surfacing her floors was not cheap. Who the heck is up so late anyway? she thought crossly and locked her office door. She headed down the hall looking for the loud offender and found Dave sitting in front of the fire he’d reignited. He didn’t see her standing there, and to Sophia he seemed restless. He got up and paced 18

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before passing his hand over his hair in frustration. He leaned his hand against the fireplace and bent his head before sitting once more and staring into the fire. The turmoil came off of him in waves, and she found herself walking toward him hoping to offer some small measure of comfort. He stiffened under her hands when she touched his shoulders. “Shouldn’t you be wrapped up all toasty warm in bed upstairs,” she asked softly. “Lately sleeping seems to be one of the things I can’t achieve,” he said ruefully. “Did I wake you?” “I was working in my office when I heard you,” Sophia explained. “Want to talk about it and share a little bit of that load?” He shook his head and leaned back against the chair. “It’s not your load to carry.” “But I’m a friend, so that’s what we do.” Sophia sat on the hearth in front of the fireplace and leaned against his knees while the warmth of the fire warmed her back. “Talk to me.” “I don’t know how,” he admitted. “It’s not the kind of thing I do.” “You carry it all on your own,” she said softly. “You start at the beginning.” He cupped her face. “Thank you but I can’t right now.” “I understand. I’m here if you want to talk,” she offered. “Want some hot chocolate? It might help you sleep.” “You should go up and get some sleep. I’m a big boy, Sophia. I’ll be up for a bit,” he replied. She slapped his knee and said firmly, “Then I guess we’re going to be up. What’s your game, monopoly or checkers?” “You’d actually stay up with me knowing you have a hotel full of guests and a holiday festival tomorrow?” he asked. “Popcorn and hot apple cider with a touch of brandy to go along with it,” she said looking up at him. The man was gorgeous by firelight. “I’ll take my kiss.” His voice was a low sensual whisper that made goose bumps rise on her skin. 19

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Sophia felt the nervous flutter in her stomach. “Ummm, now?” “Do you have a problem with that?” he asked with a raised eyebrow. “None in the least.” He gripped her by the shoulders and pulled her against his chest. She was on her knees between his legs, and the contact with his body was doing delicious things to hers. His mouth descended to hers and gave her lips a soft bite. She held her breath waiting for more, and another sexy nibble made her purr. He traced her lips with his tongue before crushing his mouth to hers, and the sensation rocked her. She was sure the house shook with the passion that burst free from them both. She opened her mouth inviting him in to taste her deeper. With a low groan he sank his tongue into the deep recesses of her mouth. She reached up and gripped his shoulders trying to anchor herself and pull him closer at the same time. Without breaking their kiss, he pulled he onto his lap and buried his hand in her hair while he feasted on her lips. By the time he raised his head and she stared into those deep green eyes, she didn’t know what to say. She stared at him with parted lips and her breath coming in shallow pants as he caressed her damp lips with his thumb. “Damn, I could sink myself inside you and stay there,” he murmured. “I don’t think I would be telling you no.” Her voice was a sensual purr. He kissed her again. “Not yet, but soon very, very soon.” “Walk me to my room and say that,” she whispered and bit his neck. “I go by my instinct, and it’s telling me to get you naked, Major.” He groaned and shuddered. “The way you talk.” “I don’t play shy and demure. I’m not that kind of girl,” she replied. “And I don’t want you to be.” Dave stood and allowed her body to slide against his until her feet touched the floor. “I’ll be a gentleman and walk you to your room.” They went upstairs slowly, holding hands, and outside his door, she welcomed his kiss once more. “Do you think you’ll be able to sleep tonight?”

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“I’ll be dreaming of how you taste so that’s a possibility,” he answered. Sophia chuckled. “Charming but you’re a liar. Open the door to your room.” “I thought I was walking you to yours,” Dave pointed out. “I have something better in mind.” His raised eyebrow caused her to laugh. “I’m not going to force myself on you. Don’t worry.” He took the key from his pocket and opened the door, and Sophia led him inside. She pushed him to sit on the bed and took off his shoes before lifting his shirt over his head. All the while his eyes watched her with what she could only call curiosity at what she was doing. When he stood and she pushed his jeans down his waist, she thought about taking him in her mouth and tasting him. This was not the time. He was right. He needed to sleep and to relax. “Under the blankets,” she ordered firmly but gently. Dave did as she bid him, and she slipped her shoes from her feet and climbed in behind him. He turned on his side, and she cuddled behind him pressing soft kisses against the broad expanse of his back. “Sleep, I’ll keep the bad dreams away for a little while,” she whispered. He inhaled deeply, and his breath came out as a sigh. Sophia caressed his chest as his body relaxed and listened to him breathe as he fell asleep. She closed her eyes and willed his bad dreams away as if she had the power to do so. First night here and you’re in bed with the man, she teased herself mentally. Being next to him felt infinitely perfect.

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Chapter Four Dave woke up with a start and sat up in bed. The night came flooding back to him, and he instinctively looked over expecting to see Sophia sleeping. She was gone, and he lay back with a sigh. He could still smell her perfume on the pillow next to him. It was probably the first time he ever been in a bed with a woman he wasn’t sleeping with. Not that he’d had a decent night’s rest in a while. The last girl he dated in New York was talking marriage by the first date, and he could literally see her spending his paycheck in her mind. It was completely different to interact with a woman who wasn’t expecting anything. She was trying to be a friend first. That kiss they shared was not a friendly peck, and thinking about it made his cock throb to take her. He looked at the clock on the bedside table and was surprised to see it was after eleven in the morning. Well shit, he thought and sat up again. Since he’d been home he had been averaging maybe four hours or so when he slept. He usually went to bed around two in the morning and was up by six. The dreams would make anyone not want to go back to bed. He had slept more than six hours, and he could tell his body was grateful for the reprieve. The shower beckoned, plus his stomach growled from hunger. Dave got up and took advantage of the wonderful pulsing showerhead in the bathroom. It made his body feel like a thousand little hands were massaging it. He got dressed quickly thinking about breakfast and Sophia. He wanted to see her, needed to see her face. By the time he got downstairs the hotel and lobby was a mass of people coming in and out, and a low hum of activity came from outside each time the door opened. Sophia wasn’t behind the counter, but a brunch buffet was laid out in the main dinning room that people were taking advantage of. He figured she was busy and headed in that direction. The coffee mugs were tall, and he sent thanks heavenward while he grabbed a cup and piled a plate with sweet rolls, eggs, and ham. He stuck a bear claw in his mouth and took his 22

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plate and coffee close to the windows so he could look out onto the winter wonderland that was called Merry, North Carolina. People were busy. He saw a temporary ice rink going up in the middle of the town square close to the massive Christmas tree. Amazingly, there was no traffic, only snowmobiles pulling loads of whatever they needed to get the festival together. Garland hung from one side of the tree to the other with lights blended into the green. Large bunches of mistletoe hung from them as well, and he made a note to catch Sophia under a few of them when they actually went. If he was being forced to take part in the activities he would take his every advantage to taste her. There were kids dressed for the weather running around, and he caught sight of Jimmy and Sophia’s sleigh decorated with lights ready to give people rides. He’d never seen anything like it, and it piqued his curiosity. In New York, Christmas was just a mass of people rushing around buying gifts, not looking left or right but focused on themselves and their families. Bumping, grumbling, yelling, screaming, and getting aggravated trying to find the best deal. In Merry, people stopped to talk to each other or to hand a child a peppermint stick. It was a culture shock to say the least. He downed the last few bites of his breakfast and drained his coffee cup before looking around. There was still no sign of Sophia, and he wondered if she was outside. Dave decided to check her office and went hunting for the room. He walked down the hall next to the front desk until he came to the door that said manager. He knocked and entered without waiting for a reply. She was on the phone and looked a bit irritated as she spoke. She held up a finger asking him to wait for them to talk. “Mr. Albertson, are you trying to ruin my Christmas spirit? I need that pipe fixed today, right now. It’s being held together by plumbing tape, and if it bursts, my guests are going to be very upset to be bathing in freezing cold water,” Sophia snapped and listened then rolled her eyes. “You said today not next week. Mr. Albertson, that’s way too long, and you do this every time because you are the only plumber in Merry and you monopolize the market. You think you can do this to people because 23

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you’re some little man with a Napoleon complex. You have a plumbing shop not a kingdom.” She listened some more, and her eyes narrowed. “You’ll push me down the list if I keep it up? Is that a threat? Well take me off the list, buddy, because I’ll contract someone from a neighboring town or buy a book if I have to, you troll of a man. Why don’t you….” She looked up when Dave pressed the button on her phone to disconnect the call. “Why did you do that?” Her eyes sizzled, and he couldn’t help but grin. “Because in about two seconds I could see you walking out of here to Mr. Albertson’s shop to beat him with one of his own pipes.” “I didn’t think of that.” Her head fell against the desk, and she moaned. “What am I going to do? The snow will keep anyone from getting in here for weeks. I need that pipe fixed before I have a flood in the basement and angry people wanting their money back.” “I have a solution,” Dave said. She lifted her head and looked at him with wide hopeful eyes. “Do you have a grenade in your duffle I can use?” He laughed. “Nothing that drastic, but I do know how to do plumbing work. My dad had a shop in Redhook when I was growing up. I can have the pipe fixed in no time.” She got up. “Really?” Dave nodded. “Just take me to the basement and let me look at what needs to be fixed, and I can even run to Albertson’s shop to get the parts. He won’t know it’s for you.” She clapped her hands and laughed with glee before dancing around the desk to throw her arms around his neck. She kissed him once then twice and laughed. “Take that, you fascist plumber ass! You are an amazing man, Major, and I am going to bake you something to prove it!” Her eyes twinkled with happiness, and laughter bubbled from her lips. Dave did the only thing he could do in a situation like that holding her in his arms. He bent his head and kissed her long and deep. He could taste the coffee she drank and something sweet she had to be eating at her desk, 24

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but beneath that was her true taste, the one that he was already addicted to and couldn’t get enough of. When he finally pulled away, the sultry drowsy look in her eyes made him want to scatter everything on her desk and take her right there. “Good morning,” he said. “Uh huh,” she replied and licked her lips. “You were gone when I woke up,” he pointed out. “I didn’t know how you would react if I was in your bed when you got up,” she replied. “Plus I had to see to breakfast and then the plumbing….” “It’s ok, but just remember one thing.” “What’s that?” Dave kissed her again hard until they were both breathing hard. “The next time you’re in my bed you’ll be waking up with me.” She tapped her finger against her temple. “It’s saved right here.” “Good to know.” Dave swatted her on the butt. “Now show me the basement and your busted pipes.” “Don’t start a spanking unless you want to finish it, Major,” she teased. “I hope the pipe is not too bad. I want to take you out to the festival by three or four.” “I’m sure it will be a piece of cake,” Dave said. He figured it would be two or three hours work when he looked at the pipe. The leak was coming from a broken u-joint that had a crack in the worst place. She had it wrapped with plumbing tape. That was smart, but it was only a temporary fix. He also found some tools he could use. All he needed was the replacement joint and he could have it done. Luckily, the hotel would be empty of guests once the festival started outside. Then it could be fixed without them even knowing the water had been stopped while he worked. Sophia let him use one of the snowmobiles she had outside, and he went down Main Street in a flurry of snow. The flakes were thick and heavy as they fell from the gray cloud-filled a sky. It was a winter wonderland, and people waved as he came through.

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In Albertson’s shop, he picked up what he needed without even an argument from the older man. Dave gave him one look that meant no questions and no argument. He got the things Dave told him from the list in his head, and in minutes he was heading back to Sophia’s hotel. She winked at him as he came through the foyer and headed toward the basement. He wanted to make quick work of the plumbing issue so he could spend more time with her. The water gauge was not moving, which meant no one was using the water, and he shut off the main. He set his purchases down and got to work. By three, he was wiping his hands and turned on the main pipes to check if the joint would hold. No leaks. Dad would be proud, he thought. It felt good to go use his hands for something other than defusing live explosives. He used the time to recall good memories growing up in Brooklyn playing stickball with his friends in the streets. Times were simpler then, before the towers came down and war bloomed between nations. He’d get another chance to do things he loved, to tinker and create with his hands. Destruction was not the only thing his life would see. Chris Morrison wouldn’t get to see the better times, to have a wife or to see Christmas. That thought alone threw a blanket of guilt and grief over him once more. He let it consume him as he walked up the stairs. “All done?” she asked as he passed the front desk. The hotel was quiet, and the music could be heard coming from outside. It was cheerful and bright, the laughter of children blended in with the lively tune. He wanted no part of it right now. “Yeah, um I think I’m going to head up to my room,” he said. Sophia came around the desk and looked up at him. He could see the worry in her eyes. “Why, Dave? Are you ok? I thought we were going to go to the festival together.” “I’m not in the mood. A little silence sounds good right now,” Dave answered and turned to walk away. She stopped him with a soft hand on his arm and pleaded with him. “Dave, don’t let it take over. Please talk to me. Let me help.” 26

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Dave lashed out. “Exactly how are you going to do that? Try to tell me it’s all ok when it’s not? Take me to a festival where people are laughing and having fun and expect me to join in? I watched soldiers die under my watch. I’ve seen children blown up by their own people to justify some damn holy war. And you think some tinsel and holiday music will cheer me up. There’s more going on in the world, Sophia. It’s time to take your head out of the clouds and see reality.” He saw the hurt in her eyes and knew he put it there. He instantly felt remorse for lashing out at her, but the words had fallen from his lips, and there was no taking them back. “I prefer to see past the inhumanity that man has against each other regardless of where its happening,” she said softly and lifted her chin. He saw tears shimmering in her eyes, and if one fell he didn’t know what he would do. “I try to make my little slice of this world happier for myself and anyone who happens to be in my area. I won’t pity you for your life. You made those choices to help others, and I will honor you for it. I will pity the things you had to see that have made you so jaded. But because I choose to be happy or we’ve shared a few kisses doesn’t mean you get to poke at me with a stick. I poke back.” She took a deep breath. “Enjoy your afternoon, Major Scott. I’ll be outside with the community enjoying the day. You are more than welcome to eat anything you find in the kitchen since there will be no dinner served today. Enjoy your stay. If there’s anything else I can do to make your time more comfortable, please leave me a note on the desk, and I’ll see to it as soon as I get back.” With that she turned and went to the coat rack and took a bright red cloak with a hood and threw it over her shoulders. She opened the door, and a gust of cold wind blew the fabric backward and showed the amazing contrast of the color against the white jeans and fur boots she wore. She didn’t even look back at him as she went through the door, and he felt desolate because of it. She was right, and he was wrong. It was as simple as that. He wanted to be alone, and he surely got it as he went up the stairs to his room. He turned the TV on, and even the noise of a game did 27

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nothing to relieve the silence that seemed to swamp him. It had nothing to do with the hotel but with the loss of Sophia’s bright smile. He felt empty without it already and knew he had to remedy what he broke if he could. **** Sophia brooded over what happened with Dave while she carried children and adults in her sleigh. Beneath all her laughter and the jingling of bells as the horses trotted through the snow, she fumed. How dare he act like me being happy lessens what’s going on in the world? She’d done everything she could to support the troops. She offered a free room program to military families who needed to get a vacation and reconnect. Plus military discounts all through the year. If he wanted to wallow in selfpity then he could go ahead, but she would not be the one to take the lashing when his black mood overflowed. “Honey, the steam coming from your ears is liable to melt the snow,” Jimmy said casually. They were heading back to the starting point to pick up another group of riders. This was after dropping off some sleigh riders at the coffee shop for hot chocolate and the kids to see Santa who was being portrayed very nicely by the mayor of Merry. “I just can’t believe he said that stuff to me,” she replied. She’d told Jimmy everything, and he listened with a best friend’s ear, agreeing where needed and consoling her. “Sophia, you can be a five-three body packed with Christmas cheer,” Jimmy said with amusement. “Plus you don’t know exactly why he is acting this way. Something had to happen to make him try to be alone for the holiday. To leave what you explained was close friends and a new goddaughter.” Sophia narrowed her eyes and looked at him. “Are you taking his side?”

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Jimmy pointed at her. “Don’t give me that look, Ms. Thang. Your stare of doom does not work on me. All I’m saying is that if the chemistry is that hot, do you want to give up on it so easily?” “So I give in and the next time he decides to have a moment he takes it out on me again and hurts my feelings?” Sophia shook her head vehemently. “Wrong. Chemistry can bite my ass if it that’s what it takes.” “Sophia Martin, you know I’m not telling you to do that. All I’m saying is if he apologizes you put him in his place and give the guy a second chance,” Jimmy explained. “It’s been two years since I’ve seen you with a guy. You’ve got to be building up all kinds of horny.” “Maybe I’m looking for something more than a roll in the proverbial hay,” she pointed out. “And suppose he is that guy? Did you ever feel this way before? Kissing and almost sleeping with a guy the same night you meet him is not your usual MO, darling.” Jimmy reached up and tucked some of her hair under her fur cap. “I think he is going to come on his knees begging for you to forgive him because you are fabulous. Use your instincts, but I say bag the hunky piece of military man. And moisturize. This weather is hell on the skin.” Sophia laughed. “Dating and skin care advice all in the same conversation. You are one of a kind, Jimmy.” Jimmy threw her an air kiss. “Remember that when it’s gift giving time. Is the Christmas party at the hotel still on for Christmas Eve?” She nodded. “Yes, it is. The caterers will be there in three days to set up, and we will party like rock stars.” “I can’t believe you aren’t cooking this year,” he mourned. “Davis will be very disappointed.” Davis was Jimmy’s partner who worked as a professor at a small community college close to Merry. They moved in together, and now Davis drove an hour and a half each way to work and back from the small town.

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“Well last year I spent more time in the kitchen than having fun, and I chose to be in a gorgeous dress instead of an apron,” she said firmly. “Davis will just have to wither away without your red velvet supreme cake,” Jimmy said dramatically. “No, because I’m making two and one he gets to take home,” Sophia replied. “He will love you forever and love me later that night. Your cake makes him all kinds of frisky.” Jimmy rubbed his hands in glee. Sophia laughed and covered her ears. “I don’t want to know. You are so dirty, Jimmy.” “He likes me that way.” Jimmy winked. Jimmy had done a lot to perk her mood up, and as the evening progressed, she found her laugh was less forced. The music and the festival was not some place that you could stay in a bad mood. She watched people dance and sing along with the holiday classics. The joy and laughter from children as Santa handed out presents from her sleigh was infectious. But in the midst of it all, more than once she glanced toward her hotel and wished that she would see Dave coming out the door. As much as she wanted to deny it, his happiness was in her thoughts. Was there some way to heal what was broken inside him? She didn’t know, but she wished he would open up and let her in. The night ended with the star being added to the tree, and then everyone started to filter away. She headed back to her hotel with guests who were talking and laughing about everything they’d seen. As soon as they came through the doors it seemed as if tiredness washed over them, and they all headed up to bed. She closed up and made sure the fireplace was banked for the night and went up to her room. Her shower beckoned, and with a soft moan, she got under the spray, and the water chased away the chill from her skin. Fifteen minutes later she dried herself off with a satisfied sigh and slipped into a pair of her comfy short pajamas. She hadn’t seen a sign of Dave when she came upstairs and was filled with

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disappointment as she got into bed. I guess he isn’t the type to apologize, she thought and pulled her blanket up around her shoulders. Minutes later while she hung in the soft area between sleep and wake, a tap came from her door. She sat up when she heard it again, this time more insistent. Usually if there was a problem in the night, a guest would call the number on the card next to their bed, and it would ring in her room. She grumbled to herself and slipped from between the warm covers to answer the door. On the other side of the barrier Dave stood, and he held up a plate with a slice of cake in his hands. “Well yippee you found cake, good for you.” She went to close the door, and he stopped her with one hand on the mahogany surface. “I brought this for you,” he said simply. “I know where to find cake in my own kitchen, Major,” Sophia said coldly. “You’re not going to make this easy, are you?” he asked quietly. “And why should I?” Sophia asked. “You had no problem ripping me a new one this afternoon. Now you want a simple out?” Dave ran his hand through his short hair. “You’re right. I suck, and you should slam the door in my face.” “I really should, and yet I can’t seem to do it,” Sophia answered. “Do you know why? Because I feel something for you, and you are a buffoon for what you did.” “If you let me come in, I’ll try to talk to you, and if you still want to kick me out, I wont stop you,” Dave said. “Please?” She stepped back and let him into her room. She pointed to the chair that sat in the corner for him to sit, and she sat on the bed with her feet tucked under the warm blankets. She said nothing, waiting for him to start speaking if he could. She could already see the turmoil written all over his face. Dave began his story, and she listened intently. “We’d just had thanksgiving dinner at the FOB. I mean it was a few days after, but the fun was still in the air. No bombs had been launched. There were no injuries 31

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with convoys coming in or leaving, and it was like a kind of cease fire. We actually got to sleep, chill out, and relax. The guys even started a soccer game. So when the call came in for a possible IED on one of the roads we used and it stalled a convoy, we geared up and got the buffalo to head out.” “The Buffalo?” she asked. “It’s a really big truck that is armored to hell and back in case we accidentally run over a device. It will fuck the rig up, but whoever is inside will be pretty much safe. But again it depends on the size of the explosive,” Dave explained. “I ride in the lead humvee because I’m team leader.” “Is that armored too?” she asked. Already she wanted to bite her nails with worry. “Not as much as the buffalo, but we’re safe,” Dave replied. “My driver was the new kid. Chris was a hoot and a half but like any new kid he had this energy that I hoped would taper off. He respected explosives, and he figured out that this was a serious job. His hands were sure, but that day what they planted in the ground was something we didn’t expect. They spliced off a secondary bomb that ran alongside the road and a pressure plate where we’d least expect it. Our truck ended up on it, and we were basically fucked. I asked for another unit to be called in to help us, but Chris leaned out the truck and swore he could cut the wire. The kid didn’t listen to me, and I was grabbing at him to get him back inside the humvee with the door close. We’d have a better chance that way.” Dave’s breath seemed labored, and Sophia slipped from the bed and went to where he sat. She did the only thing she could and wrapped her arms around his waist before pressing her head against his chest. She held him tight as he finished relating what happened. “He looked at me, and I said I got this, but we were being watched, and the bomber detonated the bomb. His door was closed, and it flipped our humvee over and over. The first device went off because of the percussion or because the fucker thought hey let’s do it again. I don’t know but by the time it was over, I 32

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had shrapnel in my chest, and Chris… he was this broken battered lifeless body. His eyes just stared, and there was nothing that could be done. I kept hearing his laugh, kept seeing him playing football or running the robot through obstacle courses of his creation. In only a few seconds all that was lost under my watch and…. He was twenty-three years old, and he died with me being his team leader… I should’ve…” He swallowed thickly. “I should’ve done something, and then I had to see his mother grieve. At the funeral it was like all the strength left her body, and she crumpled to the ground. I can still hear her crying, still see his sister and father try to hold her up as she called for her baby. She said that… kept repeating it, ‘my baby, my baby.’ Her son was lost because of me.” Tears were falling from Sophia’s eyes. For Dave because she knew he wouldn’t or couldn’t cry, and he blamed himself, and for a family who lost a son. She looked up at him unabashed because of the tears on her cheeks and cupped his face. “Don’t you see, this isn’t your fault. You were his team leader, but you didn’t kill him,” she said. “I should’ve left him on the FOB or put him in the buffalo,” Dave said. “And then someone else would have been in his place, and you’d blame yourself all the same,” Sophia pointed out. “Dave, he was killed by evil people who needed no justification other than the teachings of a mad man to wreak havoc. He was killed by a war that you fought in but didn’t start, not by you.” “I haven’t even called his family since the funeral. I couldn’t bring myself to do it.” He looked at her with tortured eyes. “What kind of man does that?” One that’s grieving, baby. You’ll call them when you can make the words come to help heal them and you,” she whispered. “And if you’re ready and you can’t make the call, I’ll help. You shouldn’t and don’t have to carry this alone.” “I didn’t want to be around anyone until I came here and you filled me with something that erased the darkness for a little while,” Dave 33

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explained. “I was down in the basement, and I fixed the pipe. I thought of my dad and how proud he would be of me, and then I thought of Chris’s dad who wouldn’t get any more of those moments. I lashed out at you, and God, I’m so sorry. But I can’t think about not being able to see you smile or have you mad at me. For some reason that feels terrible, and it makes me hurt worse knowing that you’d stop looking at me with those chocolate brown eyes.” She kissed him once, then twice. Each kiss became longer and deeper until his hands wrapped around her waist, and he dominated tasting her mouth, which left them breathless. Sophia stood and held out her hand to him. “Then let me take some of the hurt away. Let me in all the way. Dave, I’ll hold onto you tight. I promise.” He nodded, and she kissed him softly, then with growing passion. Dave’s hands were strong, and he pulled her close, molding her body against him. With nimble fingers she unbuttoned his shirt and pushed it off his shoulders. She traced the scar of his wound and traced her finger over it gently before pressing her hand over his heart and it thrummed beneath her touch. He trailed his fingers over every curve of her body. He cupped her breasts through the material of her pajama top. They undressed each other slowly, and Sophia led him to the bed. The mattress dipped as he climbed into the center of it and held out his hand to her. She followed him, and they knelt facing each other. Their lips hungrily sought each other, and heat infused her like nothing she’d ever experienced before. He roamed her body leaving fire wherever he touched or kissed. Dave lifted her high and took her nipple into his mouth, sucking at the tip until she cried out. Sophia trembled as his hunger increased, and Dave ravenously switched from one breast to the other. He laid back and pulled her over him. His hard cock was pressed between her legs and ached to have him inside her. “Touch me, Dave.” Sophia’s whisper was raw with desire.

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She sat up and straddled his body, leaving her open to his touch. She bit her lip when his hand slid down between her breasts to her flat stomach to cup her pussy. She whimpered and almost drowned in his gaze that was filled with need. He moved his hands slowly to tease her, and Sophia’s body jerked as desire careened though her like a bolt of electricity. She was already dripping wet, and he watched her intently as he used his fingers to please her. Dave slowly rubbed her clit then with more pressure. Her lips parted as little moaning pants escaped from between them. “Yes, baby, let it come,” he whispered. “You are so fucking wet. I want you so much.” “Oh, God,” she moaned. She felt it building inside her, tightening in a sweet coil. She was reaching for something she craved, and when he plunged two fingers inside her with his thumb still pressed against her clit, she found her release with a scream, and her body gushed. “More, give me more, “ he whispered harshly. “Come again for me.” He fucked her hard with is fingers, and she rode the two digits with abandon. Sophia came apart. Her body shook as she fell over into the abyss. He whispered her name and stroked her hair as she lay against his chest, her body still shuddering from the climax that rocked her to the core. She lifted her head and looked at him and held his gaze. She reached between their bodies and slipped his manhood into her wet aching pussy. A groan escaped his lips as he filled her. He was thick and long, stretching her walls until her muscles contracted around him, holding him in and taking him deeper. His grip was tight on her hips as she rode him. With every movement of her hips, she wanted to scream with wild abandon and let the primal ache take over. “Ride me hard. Take all of me,” Dave said through gritted teeth. “Oh, God, I want more,” she said desperately and pistoned onto his rigid cock. She felt her body’s response to having him buried inside her, and it was unlike anything she had experienced before. She was trying to hold onto the last thin thread of her control even though she felt as if she 35

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was melting from the inside out. “I know how you want it. I can tell,” he said harshly and pulled her against him hard until a small scream escaped her. “You want to be fucked hard, so do it, baby. Don’t hold back. Let me see you come apart in my arms.” She moaned low in her throat, and she let go of the last of her restraint. She ground her hips against him, taking his cock even deeper. The intensity grew, and she rode him. Her fingers gripped his shoulders, and in turn his hands were tight on her hips, lifting her and impaling her onto his rod harder. She threw her head back in ecstasy and cried out. “I’m going to come, Dave, yes!” “Yes, baby, ah shit, yes!” His body was taunt beneath her, and his neck arched as the pleasure became too much to bear. Once again she exploded like a new star being born, and her body seemed to be encased in heat. Dave followed her over the edge, spilling his seed inside her. Sophia collapsed against him, pliant, sated, and completely blown away by the intensity of their lovemaking. She rose up on her elbow, pushing her hair out of her face to look at Dave. His eyes were closed, and there was a contented smile on his face. She made a move to roll off him, but he stopped her with his hands. “Don’t move. Stay here for awhile,” he said without opening his eyes. “Ok,” she whispered and kissed him gently before lying against him again. Sometime as she laid there listening to his heartbeat, she fell asleep. Nothing felt more right than sharing her bed with him.

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Chapter Five Sophia had known happiness and laughed readily, but she didn’t think she’d know bliss until she met Dave. Since the night when he came to her door with an apology and a slice of cake everything made her happy. The sun seemed to make the snow gleam brighter. The sounds of holiday music were merrier. She looked at herself in the mirror on Christmas Eve night while she dressed for the party. She could see a definite glow to her skin and face. Sophia had to admit she was head over heels—would go fishing if he asked her—in love with the handsome Major Dave Scott. And that was saying a lot because she hated fishing. She pulled the ruby red dress over her head and fixed the matching earrings to her ears. Dave came up behind her and nuzzled her neck, and she smiled at the reflection they made in the mirror. “You keep that up and the hostess will be late for her own party,” she murmured and pulled his head closer. His hands roamed down her hips, and he kissed her ear before whispering, “Is that really such a bad thing?” She shivered, and pulled away firmly. “You can ravish me later. Right now I’ve got guests waiting.” “Fine.” He sighed. “I’ll be good.” “You don’t have to go, baby. I understand if the crowds aren’t your thing right now,” Sophia said softly. In the last few days he had shared a lot with her, and she understood him better. If he wanted seclusion his missing the party wouldn’t mean a thing. He wore a crisp black shirt and casual dark jeans and definitely fit the tall, dark, and handsome category. He pulled her close. “It’s alright. I want to go. I’m feeling festive.” Sophia laughed. “Are you going to get drunk and dance with a lampshade on your head?” “Only if you do it with me,” he teased in return. “Ready to go dance the night away?” 37

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“On the arm of a very handsome Major, of course I am.” She slipped her hand into his and stepped out of her room. “You’re mine, you know.” He bent low to whisper it in her ear as they went down the stairs. Those words thrilled her because she loved him madly, and maybe he was feeling what she was as well. She wouldn’t push it or force the issue at the end of the holiday, and when he left she would be heartbroken but would cherish the time they had if that was how it was meant to be. But she hoped and prayed that he would stay. Downstairs her hotel gleamed, and crowds mingled. The party was not just open to guests but other residents of Merry as well. The mayor and his wife were there along with the chief of police and his spouse. She saw many faces she had known for years blended in with her guests. The music was lively, and the mood was fun and infectious. Soon she was laughing and kissing cheeks while Dave spoke to Jimmy and his husband Davis. All three tipped their beers in a toast, and she wondered what it was about. Knowing Jimmy he was picking Dave for information about their relationship. Her focus was drawn away by one of her guests talking with her about booking for next year in the spring. She smiled and told the couple to see her tomorrow at the front desk where she could see availability, but right now they should enjoy the party. Schmoozing and playing host kept her attention for most of the night, and on a few occasions, she caught Dave’s eyes on her. The intensity made her breath catch more than once, and she wished they were alone. “May I have this dance?” He came up to her while she was talking with the mayor. “Sophia was just telling us you are in the army, son. We thank you for all you do and are quite pleased that Merry has you as a guest for the holiday.” The Mayor beamed as he spoke. “It was purely happenstance, but I find that it happened at the perfect time. Merry has a lot to offer, more than I ever expected,” Dave replied. His eyes never left her face, and Sophia knew he meant her. “Ready for 38

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that dance?” She nodded and took his hand. She heard the mayor’s wife whisper, “That man is smitten,” as they walked away. He pulled her into his arms, and she was a perfect fit. Everything about being with him felt as if it was meant to be. She was an incurable romantic but also a realist. She decided to say screw reality for now and enjoy being with him. “How long before this party winds down?” he said against her ear. His deep voice made her tremble. “I have a severe need to get you out of this dress.” “Midnight and then everyone goes away to open gifts or whatever,” she replied. “I got you a present,” he said with pride in his voice. Sophia gave a soft laugh. “When did you get a chance to buy me a gift?” “I’ve been outside the hotel on occasion, so I got a chance to do a little shopping.” He grinned. “Well then I should admit, I got you something too,” Sophia announced. He mimicked her, “When do you get a chance to get me a gift?” She laid her head against his chest. “I have skills.” Sophia heard his chuckle deep in his chest. “I won’t dispute that in the least.” Later he stood with her while people left and guests retired for the night. He helped her with clean up and directing the caterers who wanted to pack up their trucks so they could spend Christmas at home. It was well after two when he finally lifted her into his arms and took her upstairs. They teased and lathered each other in the shower and then climbed into bed naked. He picked up a picture frame from her bedside table. “Is this your sister with you on the beach?” “No, that’s my best friend, Trudy. I’m an only child.” Sophia smiled remembering that vacation where Trudy’s family took her with them. She 39

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said the words without any pretense. “My family life was not the greatest.” “Want to tell me about it?” he asked. Sophia shrugged. “There’s nothing much to tell, deadbeat father who came and went as he pleased. I had a mom who blamed me because when she got pregnant he didn’t want her anymore. I took care of myself more often than not since I was about eleven years old. Saved my money from working at fast food joints, and when I was eighteen I took off. Ended up in Merry, went to school at night while I worked, and bought this place with a serious interest rate attached. But it was mine, and I made it what it is today.” “Sounds like you are a survivor,” Dave said. “There was no Christmas when I was growing up so that’s why I do it up like this each year. I’m just me. I had to be strong, and there were times when I wished I didn’t have to be, but it made me who I am,” she replied. “Leggy and a Christmas fanatic?” he teased. Sophia laughed and pulled a pillow out to whack him with. He caught it and gave it a tug, pulling her toward his body. Sophia looked up at him, and he searched her face with an intent stare as if expecting to see some hidden answer to a question he had. She could feel every contour of him, the hard sculpted body that the army training had created. He pulled her head down to his for a long kiss, and she was lost. Sophia opened her mouth willingly to accept his tongue and his taste. His hands roamed against her back massaging her body and made her want more. She made a little sound of pleasure in her throat as his hands moved to cup her breasts, slowly massaging the firm round globes. Her nipples hardened against his palms, and Dave groaned into her mouth. Their tongues mated, and she pressed her body more intimately against his, trying to feel more of him. She had this need to be closer to him and meld their bodies until they were one. Dave tore his mouth away from hers and looked into her eyes. “Yes?” Sophia echoed his word. “Yes.” “For always?” he asked with urgency in his tone. 40

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“Forever,” she whispered. It could be nothing else but yes for her. This time she kissed him and poured all the love she felt into that one act. She hadn’t said the three words because she didn’t know how he would react. But when she said forever it was the truth. He broke the kiss to hold her tight against him for a moment and pressed her face against the smoothness of his chest. She heard his heart beat speed up when she touched his hardness. “I want you, Sophia. I’ve never wanted another woman like I do you,” he whispered. “You have me. I meant it when I said forever,” she responded, and she lifted her lips up to his for him to claim. He kissed her and rolled so he was on top of her body. She loved the weight and feel of him as their lips dueled and passion grew. She got one of her legs out from under him and used the leverage to roll once more so she was on top, and kissed her way down his body. Sophia wrapped her lips around the tip of his cock and took his length in her mouth inch by slow inch. Dave’s breath hissed out between his teeth as she teased him with her lips and tongue. He combed his fingers through her hair and buried them. He called her name and lifted his hips in a silent plea for more. Sophia obliged, and with every movement, she took his cock deeper into her mouth. Every sound that Dave made in pleasure fueled her need. He pulled Sophia away from his erect cock and kissed her hungrily, pressing her body back into the bed and covering her with his own. “My turn to taste,” he said. His lips traveled down to her breasts, and he took the hard nipple in his mouth. She was lost in the sensations as he moved from one to the other, hungrily tasting. She cried out as ecstasy shot to her core. She bucked against him wanting to feel him inside of her, but Dave took his time in pleasing her. His hand traveled down her smooth stomach to the apex of her thighs. She felt his fingers slip between the moist folds of flesh and rubbed against her clit. Sophia could only press her hand against her mouth to smother her cries of passion. 41

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“No.” Dave pulled her hand away. “I want to hear you come for me. Don’t ever hide that sound from my ears.” He replaced his hand with his mouth, and she felt his tongue delve between her pussy lips to penetrate her. She grabbed his head trying to push the pleasure away. Everything was just too much. She didn’t think she could stand it. He pulled her hands away roughly and pinned them to her sides while he tasted her. Her hips rose and fell in earnest against his seeking mouth, and she thought she’d die from the intensity of it all. He stopped before she could find that precipice that would set the ache inside her free and moved back. On his lips she could taste her own musk, and his low guttural groans told her he was as lost as she in the moment of time they had carved out just for themselves. She closed her eyes, and his fingers slipped inside her. His thumb pressed against her clit rubbing gently. It took only seconds before she fell over the end of reality by his touch under his watchful gaze. She felt her come and how it flowed over his fingers. He did not let her catch her breath before she was filled with his thick cock. “Dave, please, oh please,” she said on a breathless whisper. She wished she could explain to him how good it felt to have him buried inside of her and how the ache increased instead of dissipating. Sophia looked up at him and could see that no words were needed. His eyes had gone to a dark green with desire as he moved inside her, and her own vision blurred as she was lost once more. She wrapped her legs around his waist and lifted her hips to take more of him. He groaned her name, and he slipped his hand under her bottom to pull her into his every thrust. His breath was harsh against her ear. She could hear him whisper his need in her ears, telling her how much he wanted her, how much she meant to him, and his words heightened her pleasure. “Dave…I’m going to come…please don’t stop,” she pleaded trying to catch her breath in between words. “No, baby, I could never... God, you feel so good, Sophia. I can’t hold back,” he moaned. “Never like this, dear heaven it’s never been like this.” 42

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“You don’t have to. Come with me, lover. I want to feel you with me.” She held onto his shoulders and let herself go, crying out his name and flying to the stars. She felt his body tense and shuddered against her as he pumped inside her. The sound of her slippery wet body meeting his filled the room. Dave’s fingers grabbed her hair. “ Look at me Sophia I want to see you come and it’s me that is making you feel this way. Damn I need you to come for me again.” She opened her eyes hardly seeing through the blinding pleasure as he thrust into her mercilessly and sent her spiraling into another orgasm. Her vision cleared, and she watched Dave’s face as pleasure passed over it and his body tensed. His neck arched, and a primal groan escaped his lips as he spilled himself inside her. He only stopped moving when he had drawn out the last drop of enjoyment for them both and then slumped against her. With his head against her, they waited for their bodies to stop shaking and their hearts to resume a normal rhythm. All the while she caressed his body, luxuriating in the feel of him and enjoying it as he did the same to her. “Merry Christmas, Major, she murmured sleepily as he moved and pulled her against him. “Merry Christmas, my love,” he whispered against her hair and twined his fingers with hers. My love. She heard the words as she drifted off to sleep and never felt so cherished in her life. The best gift he could have given her was those words.

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Chapter Six The day of Christmas began with laughter and breakfast with everyone in the hotel. All the while he kept his eyes on her. There was more than one gift he had in store for her. But first he knew there was something that needed to be done. He needed her by his side when he did it because Dave knew without a doubt that in the time he had spent with Sophia, he was in love with her. Maybe it was the first time she pulled up in the sleigh in a flurry of white snow and warm fur, or when she ate dinner and cake off the same plate as he. All he knew was that her warmth and love was something he didn’t want to do without. Before leaving Fort Bragg he had made the decision to transfer back to Caine’s unit in the army. This reinforced what he planned to do because being away from her would not do in the least. She was a truly amazing woman with a smile that could light a room and fire that could boil a man’s blood. Sophia was his, and she would belong to no other man but him. He already commandeered the sleigh via Jimmy for later in the day, but for now when he took her hand after breakfast and led her upstairs to the privacy of their room, it was lovemaking on his mind. “Isn’t a bit early for bedroom time,” she teased as he closed the door. He laughed huskily. “There’s no such thing as too early when it comes to loving you. But no I needed you here when I make a call.” She looked at him with knowing eyes. “To Chris’s parents?” He nodded. “I need your support and strength right now if that’s ok.” “You have more strength than anyone I know.” She sat next to him and placed her hand over his that held his cell phone. “Call them and let them know we’re thinking about them for Christmas.” This was why he loved her. She readily took on his burden as her own. Dave sighed and pressed the number that he tried to call many times. He heard the phone ring and almost wished that no one would pick up. When the soft voice said hello, he had to clear his throat and try to speak. He put it on speaker so Sophia could hear the conversation. She was there with 44

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him, and it was her right to be part of the conversation as well. “Mrs. Morrison… this is um Major Dave Scott. I was Chris’s commander.” His voice was rough with emotion. “Yes, Major, I remember Chris speaking of you, and we saw you at the funeral. Merry Christmas,” she said. “Merry Christmas, ma’am. I’m sorry I didn’t call sooner….” Dave began. She stopped him. “Let me get my husband. He will want to be here for this call, one moment, Major.” There was silence for a brief moment before she came back. “We’re both here, Major.” “Please, sir, ma’am, just call me Dave,” he asked. He could feel the desolation trying to creep into him and pushed it back. “As I said before I’m sorry I haven’t called and checked on you both. Honestly, it was quite difficult even doing this now. I feel as if I owe you a debt for the loss of your son, one I cannot repay. He was lost under my watch, and I can never ask you to forgive me…” “Don’t go any further, Major,” Mr. Morrison said. “We don’t blame you for Chris’s death. He died being what he always wanted to be, a soldier.” Mrs. Morrison spoke next. Her voice held whimsy and a hint of a smile when she spoke. “He was four when he said, ‘Mommy, I’m going to be a solider’ and showed me his little plastic army men and don’t you know that when he was old enough to sign those papers he did. Major, my heart aches for him everyday and night, to hold and to kiss him again. I dream of him, and he is in his uniform as proud as can be. He says ‘Mom, don’t be upset. I’m fine, and I’ll see you again. I promise. Don’t be sad anymore.’” Her breath caught, and Dave looked at Sophia who had tears trailing down her cheeks. Mrs. Morrison continued. “My boy is fine, and I miss him, but we don’t blame you. We never would.” “He wrote us about you and talked to us about Major Dave Scot who was the coolest commander he ever had,” Mr. Morrison said. “We know 45

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you grieved with us, but, Dave, none of this was your fault.” “Thank you for saying that, sir. Chris was more than a soldier. He was a great man,” Dave said huskily. “I put him in for a commendation, and I will follow up to make sure he gets his medal. I know it’s not any comfort, but his bravery was unmatched, and I know he would have gone far in the military. He was honorable and funny…” Dave laughed. “He had a bit he used to do with you, Mr. Morrison, from when he crashed your car, but we could tell how much he loved you both. I am so sorry I couldn’t have saved him.” “Major, we’re glad to know you were with him at the end and that he wasn’t alone,” Mrs. Morrison said. He could tell she was crying. “Please come see us and tell us about him sometimes. Knowing that you will remember him and he won’t be forgotten gives me great comfort.” “I will,” Dave promised. “I’ll bring some videos I have of him on the FOB. They are yours to keep when I do.” “That would be wonderful.” Mrs. Morrison sighed. “They will be pieces of him we can cherish. Merry Christmas, Major… I mean Dave. Our daughter and her children are here, so we must get back to them. Please keep in touch with us.” “Yes, ma’am, and Merry Christmas to you both.” Dave pressed the button to disconnect the call. He turned and held Sophia tight as emotions wracked him. Holding her was his anchor. “Hard, but not too hard,” she said gently. “Yeah, I expected them to hate me for their son dying,” Dave said. “They were proud of him and you,” Sophia said. “And I am too. You are amazing, Major Dave Scott.” “How did I get so lucky to find you in the middle of a snowstorm?” he asked and meant it with everything in him. “I feel just as lucky,” she replied. “I think it’s time for my gift to you.” She pulled out the drawer from the bedside table, and Dave laughed as she handed him a small box. “If I knew it was there all the time I would have peeked.” 46

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“Luckily, it’s been only there since this morning.” She winked. “Open it.” The box was small and red wrapped with a big gold bow. He untied it and opened the box to reveal a silver heart. He picked it up, and it had weight yet small enough to fit in his pocket. It was engraved with two hearts entwined, and he read it softly. “My heart, your heart, always.” “I know it’s kind of sappy, but I figure if you ever get deployed again, you could carry it with you,” Sophia explained. “Because you are loved by me, and I want you to remember it even when you leave. You don’t have to say anything in return, Dave. I express myself, and this is it. Simple as that.” “I think it’s perfect,” he said and pulled her into a kiss. “Absolutely perfect.” The call to Chris’s parents had eased his sorrow some, and Sophia filled his heart with love. He wasn’t meant to reach Border Lake that day when he crashed in the snow. He saw what Caine meant when he said he’d known Danika was the one from the very first moment. Somewhere inside him, Sophia made his breath still and his heart jump. Instinct knew she was meant to be his. A primal force that was instilled in everyone to sense his or her true love had been activated when she came into his world. “I think we should go,” he said and stood. “I’ll grab my coat from my room, and we’ll head out.” She looked confused. “Um where are we going?” Dave grinned. “Back to the beginning.” He went to the room that she had given him the first night, and that was the only time he slept in the bed. Things ran like a whirlwind from then, and he had been swept away in the magic. He took his coat off the hook behind the door and met her in the hallway. She was wearing her fur lined coat with the matching hat, and he took her hand. Together they walked down the stairs and out the door. The sleigh was there, and Jimmy held the reins. When they walked up to him, he jumped from the seat with agility and grinned at Dave. 47

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“Your carriage awaits, sir and madam.” He bowed with a flourish and walked way. “Merry Christmas,” he called over his shoulder with a friendly wave and headed into the hotel. “You asked Jimmy for my ride?” She nudged him with her shoulder. “I think someone promised me a private ride, and I’m collecting,” Dave replied. He climbed in and helped her up. After they were settled under the blanket, he took the reins and with a soft flick to nudge the horses they trotted off slowly. The air was crisp and sometime while they slept it had snowed again, and a fresh layer coated the ground. He took the path that Jimmy had told him about the night before at the party. When he stopped the sleigh in the middle of the clearing and looked around, he could see why he suggested it. The trees formed a canopy that was covered in snow, and holly bushes peeked out with red berries from their own blanket of snow. He saw two rabbits scurry past, probably looking for a quick meal before they went back to warm holes to sleep. It was a quiet serene place and perfect just for them. He turned to her when the horses stopped. Sophia pulled the blankets around his shoulders and snuggled close, pressing her lips to his for a kiss that left him reeling. It amazed him how she could affect him to the point that he forgot the world around him and immersed himself in her. He had good intentions when he came out there with her, but when she cupped his erection through his jeans, Dave took control by cupping her face and burying his tongue deep into her mouth. “Why can’t I just be content with one taste of you?” he muttered against her mouth. “Because I feel the same way about you.” Sophia gasped and struggled with his belt buckle. “I need to feel you.” They slipped from the seat to the floor of the sleigh wrapped in the warm fur blanket, all the while trying to drive each other higher with desire. The cold air outside did not compare to the heat they were creating. He got her pants off and panties before delving his hand between her legs 48

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and driving his fingers into her. Her cry echoed around him and ran through him until he shuddered. She was liquid heat coating his fingers as he fucked her with two digits and pulled her to him roughly so he could take her nipple into his mouth and suck it with fervor. She cupped his head to her body and rocked against the penetration of his fingers. “Take it all, baby. Come for me,” he said harshly and drove her higher. She fell apart under his onslaught with his name a breathless cry on her lips. He positioned her over his hard cock and rammed himself inside her. “God, Sophia.” He said her name almost reverently as she began to move. It was like being encased in liquid velvet as she took him in and undulated her hips. He’d never felt so good. He could die there and be complete. Together they strove for completion. He found the secret places that made her tremble. She squeezed his balls, and he almost lost it right there. Dave flipped her over and rammed himself into her deeply. She clutched his head and brought him down for a passionate kiss. “Now?” she asked breathlessly. “Please say it’s now!” “Yes, fuck yes,” Dave said harshly. Together they flew, letting go of all restraint and taking that leap into pure bliss together. At the end of it, they lay together, a mass of tangled limbs and trying to regain their breath. “This isn’t why I brought you our here,” Dave said. Sophia laughed. “I don’t think we could control this even if we wanted to. So why did you bring me out here?” He rolled and found his pants and pulled the box out of his pocket. He opened the lid and said the simple words. “Marry me?” She looked at him shocked. “We’ve known each other for a week and….” “You said you love me, that silver heart you gave me and the words you said, right?” “Yes, but I also told you I didn’t expect anything back,” she reminded him. “And I thought about this before your gift this morning,” Dave replied. 49

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“Last year around this time my friend Caine met Danika and her son. He brought them home with him from a bad situation, and I sat there and asked him why. I was convinced I would be the eternal bachelor, and Caine told me that one day I would find out. It’s like when I saw you someone closed a fist over my heart and squeezed, and then branded your name in it. Sophia, I love you. Jesus, woman, I love you more than I thought was humanly possible. Do you think I could possibly let you go and walk away from here like it was a casual roll in the hay?” “But your job…” she managed to say weakly. “Before I left Bragg I put in my papers to transfer into Caine’s unit. I’m a good soldier, but EOD is not my thing. I can’t watch people and children being blown up by bombs and feel useless. I cleared so many IEDs away, and in a few days, twice as many would be back. It felt as if Chris was loss and the next day was just another day in the park. I need to see what we do matters. So I’m transferring to Fort Bragg, and if you’ll have me, Merry will be my home.” He caressed her face as she stared at him. “Border Lake was to help me heal, but I found that in you. So, yes, Sophia, I want you to marry me, and I’ll write it on banners and shout it from a mountain top until you do.” She giggled. “That would be interesting to see, but you don’t have to do that. I don’t want you to jump through hoops. I just want you.” “So that’s a yes?” he said with a slow smile spreading across his face. Sophia grinned and nodded. “It’s more than a yes. It’s a promise to love you forever.” He kissed her and slipped the ring onto her finger. “I love you.” “I love you too.” Sophia sighed and looked at her finger. “To think I found you in this sleigh. Now here we are, and it ended with a ring.” “I hope you can use it in the spring because we should use it to get married,” he murmured and ran his hand possessively down the curve of her thigh. “We should probably get dressed and go home before we freeze important things,” she teased. 50

Sleigh Bells and Rings

Dahlia Rose

Dave felt the familiar stirring of desire whenever he was close to her. He rolled until she was beneath him and took her lips in a searing kiss. “I think I can find a way to keep us warm.” Her husky laugh blended with his chuckle, but then it broke off in a moan as he touched her once more. They left the world outside covered in icicles and snow, and while families shared gifts, Dave and Sophia built a cocoon of warmth in each other’s arms.

The End

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About the Author Dahlia Rose is the best-selling author of contemporary and paranormal romance with a hint of Caribbean spice. She was born and raised on a Caribbean island and now currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her five kids, who she affectionately nicknamed “The Children of the Corn,” and her biggest supporter and longtime love. She has a love of erotica, dark fantasy, sci-fi, and the things that go bump in the night. Books and writing are her biggest passions, and she hopes to open your imagination to the unknown between the pages of her books.

 

 

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