Page 109 of Unwrapping Romance

“Can we stop in this bookstore?” Sierra asked.

“Sure. Is there a specific book you’re looking for, sweetheart?”

“Christmas books for Ellie.” She smiled.

“Ah, good idea.”

I kept glancing at my watch as we browsed the children’s section.

“Have you found anything yet? We really need to go.”

“Daddy, Daddy! I want this one!” Ellie held up the book How The Grinch Stole Christmas.

“Appropriate, isn’t it?” Sierra whispered in my ear. “It’s like she knew you were the Grinch.”

“Really? What about you? You were just as bad as I was.”

“Was I really, Jack.” A sly grin crossed her lips as she held a stack of books in her arms.

“You’re buying all those?”

“No. You’re buying all these. Aren’t we teaching her the magic and excitement of Christmas?”

I sighed, taking the books from her and walking up to the cashier.

“Don’t forget this one, Daddy.” Ellie smiled.

Eric dropped us off exactly where we needed to be. Leaving the bags in the car, I took Ellie out and extended my hand to Sierra.

“What are we doing, Jack?”

“This is surprise number one.” I grinned.

“Look at the horses!” Ellie squealed.

“Jack, you didn’t.”

“Oh, but I did.” I lifted Ellie up into the carriage. “Madame.” I extended my hand to Sierra.

After climbing up into the carriage, Eric walked over and handed me two cups.

“One hot chocolate for the little lady to keep her warm.” I smiled, handing Ellie her cup. “Be careful. It’s hot. And one peppermint mocha with an added bonus for my beautiful girlfriend to keep her extra warm.”

“Thank you, Jack.” A warm smile crossed her lips. She took a sip and looked at me. “God, I love you.” She grinned.

I chuckled. “I love you too, sweetheart.”

“You didn’t get anything?” Sierra asked.

“No. I didn’t want anything. Besides, I’ll hold Ellie’s hot chocolate so she doesn’t spill it.”

“You can have some of my mocha,” Sierra said.

“Thanks, baby.” I winked.

It was nothing but a wintry backdrop as we rode through Central Park. The trees lining the park were lightly covered with snow, and strings of twinkling lights were weaved throughout the branches, casting a soft, golden glow. For a moment, time slowed, and the bustling of the city faded as the only soundsheard were the clip-clop of the horses and the jingling of sleigh bells that filled the crisp evening air. My grandfather was right when he told me that you could see the beauty of the holidays once you open your heart and let it all in. I lived here my whole life and never saw the beauty of Central Park at Christmas time for what it really was: magical.

“I love you, Jack.”

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