Page 85 of My Greatest Joy

As soon as I get to the farm, I notice the full parking lot and see a line of people standing outside the shop.

It’s going to be crazy as fuck.

When I walk in, Mom greets me with a wave. She’s all smiles as she helps customers check out. Lucy’s behind the counter, handing out baked goods.

“Hey, sis.”

“Get back here and make yourself useful.”

I bark out a laugh. “You gonna come help me cut down trees, then?”

She gives me a murderous look that tells me to get lost.

I grab gloves and an extra walkie-talkie from the office, then make my way outside. I do a quick walk around and see if any areas are struggling to keep up with the demand. We have a record number of employees here, so I’ll help wherever needed.

I help a dozen customers load their trees and tie them to their roofs or truck beds. Christmas music blasts through the outdoor speakers, and it’s impossible not to think about Fallon and her distaste for it.

At first, I thought it was weird that anyone could hate the holidays as much as she does. But now I understand her reason, and it’s completely valid. With the anniversary of her mom’s passing coming up, I’m going to do whatever it takes to be there for her the best I can. Though I can’t say I know how she feels, I can listen if she wants to talk or help distract her if she prefers.

Either way, I’ve blocked the day off only for her.

I plan to make New Year’s special for her and give her a new memory to hold onto.

When I get the chance to check my phone, I smile at the texts from Fallon.

Fallon

I think you have some new competition.

Then she sends a pic of Dasher snuggled up to her in bed, one of his paws on her chest. The little fucker is smiling too.

Levi

Tell him he better get off my woman before I remove every one of his paws.

Fallon

Levi White!

I chuckle.

Levi

Are you having a good day?

Fallon

Worked after you left and came to your bed because I missed you.

Levi

I miss you too. We should go out for a drink once I’m done. You can experience the nightlife, and I can kick your ass at darts.

Though I’ll be exhausted and the festival is tomorrow, I’m not passing up the chance to have some fun and show her off. I can function with as little as three hours of sleep, so it’ll be worth it.

Fallon

You sound pretty confident…but okay, I’ll take you up on that offer. Loser has to give the other a mind-blowing orgasm.

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