Page 52 of Snowed Under

“Sparks fly whenever you and him are near each other.”

I laugh and settle back in the seat for the ride. “Well, we made out that night before you called me about Mom. He already had me seeing stars by that point without even getting me naked. And one thing lead to another later in his truck...” I think the relief of seeing that Mom was okay, combined with the intoxication of Cole’s presence, overtook me.

Emma gasps this time, probably because I’ve never really talked like this before. Or had a one-night stand, not that it was one, but I’m pretty sure we’re dating.

“Ains!—”

“I know. I’ve kept it quiet from you and I’m sorry. There’s just been a lot going on today, and it all happened so fast. He came over to discuss the snowball fight we’re collaborating on, and one thing led to another.”

“This is fantastic, you know that. Actually fantastic!”

“You think so?”

“Cole is hot.”

“I know. And I really like him. I was worried I might not be the usual type he goes for. We don’t exactly hang out in the same circles, nor have I ever seen him in the library. He tells me I’m beautiful and sexy, and I know it’s just words, but it’s nice. He also said he’s had his eye on me since last year at the speeddating night, but it’s not just that, it’s in his actions. His thoughtfulness. The way he’s protective and sweet at the same time.”

I see Emma visibly clutch the steering wheel with glee. “Ohhhh I knew it!”

“You did?”

“I’ve always thought he had his eye on you. Eric thought so, too.”

“Well, it seems I was the last to know.” I laugh. “Better late than never.”

“This is so cool, Ains. Cole is such a catch.”

“Aren’t you going to warn me that he’s a bad boy that’s dated half the town?”

A little giggle escapes her mouth. “Well, he’s kind of the resident bad boy that’s good on the inside, ya know? And who cares if he’s dated half the town? He’s had his eye on you for the past year, that’s what counts.”

“Yeah, I was on and off with Drake at the time. Stupid me.”

“Well, now you’re not and Cole has swooped in.” She’s giddy in her seat and it makes me laugh. Em has always been the one to give it to me straight, so if she thinks it’s a good idea, then its gotta be. “You’ve gotta give me more, Ains. You’re keeping your cards very close to your chest and you know I like details.” She’s already pulling up at a vacant parking space in front of the Town Hall, so there’s no time to give her any deets. The other thing is, I don’t know exactly what Cole and I are yet, which is something I need to get to the bottom of as soon as tonight. Yes, he said that thing to my mom about dating me, but we got so carried away afterward, we didn’t officially discuss it.

“Later,” I tell her.

“Bet you’re dying to see him, right?”

“Chomping at the bit!” I giggle back. I don’t know if it will get any easier being around someone as big and strong as Cole. He is so sweet and attentive, it would be pretty tough for anyone else to measure up, and I’m here for it. So, if he wants more, I’m here for that, too.

We unbuckle and make our way out of the car toward the festivities. It’s six-thirty, so things should kick off soon.

We link arms and walk up the pathway of the Main Street, just up from the town square. You can’t miss the giant inflatable Frosty, or Travis and his posse strategizing before the big reveal soon. Boys will be boys.

I immediately see Presley holding April and standing next to her sister, Parker, with her husband Chris, and their kids, Celeste and Gray, who are running around with Molly and Oscar. Plus, two other mutual friends in the group, Rory and Ali.

“Hey!” I wave as we both walk up to greet them all. The snow is only lightly falling, and the excitement in town of everyone gathering for the tree decorating and the yearly traditions of eggnog and the light supper at the Town Hall, is palpable.

Everyone turns around to look at us. “Hey!” Parker gushes as she greets me with a big hug. She’s always been super friendly and a barrel of laughs.

“Great to see you both,” Chris says, while trying to contain the kids who are running around, all chasing each other with laser beams.

I scruff Oscar’s hair as he dashes past. “Hey, Ainsley!” Molly waves on her way by. I can see Hank over by the enormous Christmas tree with some of the committee members.

Presley gives me and Emma a hug while jostling the little one.

Everyone immediately asks about my mom and I give them a quick rundown on what happened and that she’s going to be fine. It’s really sweet of them all to be concerned.

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