Page 9 of Santa's Coming

The month of December always flies by. There is a never-ending stream of holiday parties, school concerts, and yuletide obligations. It’s been two weeks since I first encountered Saint Nick himself—Santa, as he’s saved in my phone. Why haven’t I unraveled the mystery behind the man in the red suit? Why am I caught in the spell of Santa’s allure? It’s all delightfully mad.

As the days tiptoe toward Christmas, a flurry of preparations surrounds me, but my connection with Santa lingers in my thoughts. Our exchanges, sprinkled with playful banter and subtle flirtation, have become a delightful highlight of my days. With Christmas Eve here, my phone chimes. I eagerly open my newest message.

Santa:Emily, it’s Santa here. I hope I’m not on your naughty list for texting you right now.??

His playful tone prompts a grin, and my fingers dance across the screen as I craft my reply.

Emily:Not at all. Stockings hung, presents wrapped and under the tree. All set!

Santa:Won’t spill the secret, but I’m sure you’re the best Santa. I come a close second—in this way and others.

My heart skips a beat at the suggestive invitation. Clearly, this man is not coming over here tojustgive me a foot rub. It’s going to be more—something I’ve been wishing for but haven’t said aloud. I take a deep breath before replying.

Emily:Are you coming down my chimney, or should I leave the front door unlocked?

Santa:A gentleman always knocks.

Emily:Softly knock right at 8 p.m.

Santa:Dasher and Dancer will have me there in a flash.

The anticipation builds within me, and a mixture of excitement and nervousness courses through my veins. I text my BFF group chat.

Emily:Santa’s coming … He’ll be here in an hour.

Rachel:Excuse me, who is this, and what have you done with Emily?

Sarah:Get it, girl!!

Emily:So, if I go missing … it was Santa.

The idea of Santa’s imminent arrival at my door is surreal, considering I don’t even know his real name. ’Tis the season, they say, and I shake my head at the delightful absurdity of it all.

The clock ticks away the minutes until a soft knock at the door sends a mix of excitement and trepidation zipping throughme. Before opening the door, I take a deep breath to calm my nerves. There stands Santa, mischief twinkling in his eyes. He’s in the same red suit and Santa hat he was wearing at the bar. In the brighter light of my front stoop, I take note of more details about him. He’s giving my top two dream dates, Sebastian Stan and Theo James, a run for their money as the hottest guys on the planet.

“Merry Christmas, Emily,” his deep, sexy voice greets me, and I notice a small, beautifully wrapped box in his hands.

Chapter 12: Presents From Santa

Tuesday, December 24th

Tonight was meant to be a journey into the unknown, and I must say, I’m hoping for an enchanting evening with Emily. Spending time with her is treat enough, but the thought of something more excites me. As the door swings open, revealing her in a red, satin bowling shirt and shorts, I feel a jolt of anticipation. Flannel or yoga pants might have been expected, but the sultry choice, the fabric clinging to her curves, sends a satisfying shiver through my veins. It’s chilly out, and she wouldn’t be flaunting those sexy, toned legs unless she wanted something more tonight. My mind pictures unwrapping her like the most enticing Christmas present.

With my Santa sack brimming with small gifts slung over my shoulder, I step into the house, silently hoping none of her neighbors caught a glimpse. It could either be mistaken for the cutest surprise or, more scandalously, that she ordered a certain type of entertainment. I chuckle inwardly at the potential mistletoe mischief.

Boots kicked off, I follow her to the couch, and the warmth of her home wraps around me like a scarf. Her living room is adorned with holiday cheer and a crackling fire. Her son is so lucky to have such a magical Christmas morning ahead.

Nodding toward the gift in my hand, I feel a buzz of excitement as she takes it from me. Emily nervously smiles, and I wink, encouraging her to open it. Nestled among tissue paper, a sprig of mistletoe waits, dangling like a promise of Yuletide kisses. Before she can react, I lean in, capturing her lips in a gentle, lingering kiss.

The warmth of the touch and the sweetness of the kiss weave a spell. As we pull away, a grin lights up my face. Her cheeks flush with surprise and delight. The promise of a night filled with passion, playfulness, and unforeseen delights hangs in the air, creating an atmosphere of excitement.

“You’ve been incredible, initiating this festive charade.” She smiles, sliding my Santa hat off and scooting closer to me on the couch.

“Anything to put a smile on your face,” I flirt, running my hands through my brown hair.

She rolls her eyes at the cheesiness of my remark and then says, “I’d like to get to know the man behind the red suit. I think I’ve seen you before …” She trails off, squeezing my thigh.

Contemplating her request as we sit, I admire her body and tease, “Let’s keep the fantasy going just a little bit longer. I have another present for you.”

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