Page 52 of Unwrapping Romance

“Whichever one is best for her.”

“Come with me. This is our new iPad Air.”

“We’ll take it,” I said.

“And which color do you want, little miss?” he asked Ellie.

“Pink.”

“I would also suggest a case for it,” the sales associate said. “We have some over on this wall. Go check them out while I grab a pink iPad.”

We walked over to the wall where the cases were, and Ellie picked out a pink one to match her iPad. After handing over Jack’s credit card, I thanked our sales associate for helping us so quickly.

“Enjoy that iPad, little miss.” He smiled. “Happy Holidays.”

“Happy Holidays,” Ellie said.

I cringed at the words as we left the store. After climbing into the Escalade, I asked Eric to take us to the hair salon where Becca worked. She squealed the moment she saw us.

“What are you doing here?” She hugged me.

“We were out shopping. Ellie, this is my best friend, Becca. Becca, I’d like you to meet Elianna Atlas.”

“You are a beautiful young lady.” She ran her hand through Ellie’s hair. “Who desperately needs a hair trim. I have time right now.” Becca looked over at me.

“That would be great.” I smiled.

Chapter Nineteen

Jack

As I was talking to Daniel in my office, my phone kept pinging with text messages from Sierra—pictures of Christmas decorations everywhere. I ignored her because I knew she was doing it out of spite.

“More Christmas pics?” Daniel laughed.

“Yes.” I sighed, throwing down my phone. “I really wish she’d just go home.”

“I don’t understand. You said she hates the holidays as much as you do. Why is she sending you pics?”

“Because she’s in holiday hell and making sure I am too.”

“That’s what you get for making her take Ellie shopping. What are you three doing for Thanksgiving?” he asked.

“Have you forgotten who you’re talking to?” I cocked my head.

“No. But this year is different. You have your daughter and a beautiful woman in your home now.”

“It’s no different. I don’t celebrate Thanksgiving or Christmas, and nothing will change that.”

“So you’re going to deny your innocent four-year-old daughter of Christmas? Does that make you any better than your father?”

“Seriously, Daniel?” My eyes narrowed.

“All I’m saying is break the cycle. It doesn’t have to be that way for Ellie. And frankly, I’m worried.”

“Worried about what?”

“That poor kid doesn’t stand a chance between you and Sierra. I have to get to a meeting. I’ll talk to you later.”

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