Page 111 of Unwrapping Romance

“Oh my God, Jack. This is absolutely gorgeous. You’re the best dad ever.”

“I know.” I grinned. “Okay, kiddo. It's time to get in your jammies, and it’s off to bed. You had a long day.”

“Will you and Sierra read me a Christmas book?”

“You bet we will.”

Chapter Thirty-Eight

A FEW DAYS LATER

Sierra

I hadn’t stopped thinking about my mother since she was at our home. Our conversation plagued me, and I had a lot of time to think about things.

Ellie was home from school because Christmas vacation had started. Jack told me to stay home with her, and he’d manage without me at the office. His office party was tomorrow, and I needed to find a dress to wear, which Jack willingly gave me his credit card and told me to buy whatever I wanted.

After shopping at Saks and finding the perfect holiday dress, we climbed into the Escalade.

“Home, Sierra?” Eric asked.

“No, Eric. Take me to Sweet Sensations Bakery. I’m sure you already have the address.”

“I do.” He smiled.

Opening the door to the shop, the smell of freshly baked goods filled the air—but not just any ordinary smell. The scent of Christmas. Ellie ran over to the cases where the cupcakes were and placed both her hands on the glass, pressing her nose against the case.

“Please, don’t touch the glass, Ellie.” I pulled her away.

“I want a cupcake.”

“I’ll buy you one before we leave. Excuse me,” I said to one of the associates behind the counter. “Is Jeanine in?”

“She’s in the back. I’ll go get her.”

“Thank you.”

“Sierra?” My mother walked out from the back, wiping her hands.

“Hi.”

“This is a nice surprise. And who is this beautiful little girl?”

“I’m Ellie.” She extended her hand.

“Hi, Ellie. I’m Jeanine.” My mother lightly shook her hand.

“This is Jack’s daughter.”

“She’s lovely. What are you doing here?”

“Can we talk in private?”

“Of course. Maddy, can you take Ellie in the back and show her around the kitchen?”

“Sure. Come on, Ellie.”

“We can talk in my office,” my mother said as I followed her.

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