Page 5 of One Golden Ring

Her words hang in the air, and I wonder if she means more than just decorating the library. But before I can say anything, she moves past me, accidentally brushing my arm lightly with hers. It’s a slight touchbutsends a jolt through me, like static electricity.

“You know,” I say, leaning against a nearby bookshelf, “you haven’t even asked me how I feel about all this Christmas chaos in here. What if I say no to more decorations?”

Wynter stops mid-step and turns, giving me a smirk. “Drake, you already triedto say no to me. And that didn’t work. Besides, I’ve started my decorating process, and I know you couldn’t say no to me now even if you tried.”

I narrow my eyes. “Is that so?”

“Mmmm-hmm.” She crosses her arms, tilting her head. “I’ve seen the way you look at me.”

I feel heat crawl up my neck, but I keep my voice steady. “And how’s that?”

“Like you’re just waiting for an excuse to join in the holiday fun,” she says, stepping closer. Her voice drops slightly, teasing. “Or maybe you’re just waiting for an excuse to be close to me.”

My mouth goes dry, but I refuse to let her see that she’s rattling me. I straighten up, stepping forward, closing the space between us. “What makes you think I need an excuse?”

Her blue eyes widen slightly, and I catch her gaze as it drops to my mouth before snapping back up to my eyes.

She swallows, and for the first time, I think I may have thrown her off balance. But it doesn’t last long. She straightens her shoulders, then flashes me a wicked grin. “Careful, Mr. Hudson. You might just end up enjoying yourself this Christmas.”

I chuckle low, shaking my head. “I don’t think you know what you’re getting into with me.”

“Oh?” Her eyebrows lift, and there’s a spark in her eyes now—something mischievous, something daring. “Is that a challenge?”

“Maybe.” My pulse speeds up at the way she’s looking at me like she’s daring me.

“Well then,” she bats her lashes. “I’ll just have to make sure I win.”

I open my mouth, trying to come up with a witty reply, but before I can dig something intelligent from the recesses of my hormone-flooded brain, she turns on her heel, leaving me standing there like an idiot. Watching her hips sway as she walks away, I realize she’s right.

I couldn’t say no to her if I tried.

Chapter Five

Wynter

The Cozy Oven is packed with the usual late afternoon crowd, and the scent of cinnamon and fresh bread swirls in the air. I take a deep breath, letting the warmth of the bakery soak into mychilly bones.

I sit at my favorite table, catching a glimpse of Drake passing by the library's glass doors across the street. My heart gallops at the sight of Drake the Cake. I can’t believe that not only do I find the grumpiest man in Pinegrove devastatingly attractive, butI actually like the man. There’s a playful side to him. And a sexy side, too.

“Wynter!” Rachel bounds towards me, all smiles and energy. She slides into the seat across from mine, dropping an overflowing shopping bag on the chair beside her. “You look… flushed.”

“I’m fine,” I wave a napkin in front of my face. “It’s warm in here.”

She narrows her eyes, leaning forward. “That flush to your cheeks isn’t from the heat, honey. That’s from a man. Oh my God!” She flips her hand up. “It’s Drake! Isn’t it? I knew it!”

I groan, covering my face in my hands for a moment before dropping them back to the table. “Okay, yes. Maybe.”

Rachel lets out a gleeful squeal, practically bouncing in her seat. “I knew my flirting tips would work! See? I told you! A little bit of playful banter, and you’d have him wrapped around your finger.”

I roll my eyes, but I can’t help but smile. “Well, I don’t know about ‘wrapped around my finger,’ but he’s definitely... paying attention.”

Rachel leans back, crossing her arms smugly. “And? It’s not just about wrapping him around your finger to get your way, is it? You like him, don’t you?”

I hesitate, biting my lip. “It’s worse.” I shiver. “I think I’m attracted to him.”

She gasps, covering her mouth. “Wynter! The man you were convinced was a total Grinch with a heart of black coal?”

“Yes.” I huff out a breath. “There’s something about him, Rach. He’s not all moody with me anymore. In fact, he’s playful.”

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