Page 65 of Merry with Me

“Oh, I bought it for you.”

“I thought that was for your mom?”

“Well, I decided you needed it more. Really livens the place up, don’t you think?” I hold my breath, waiting for his grumpiness to appear.

“You liven the place up, Blake. Stand for a minute.”

I do as he asks, my heart sinking. I’m certain he’s going to unplug the tree and tell me to take it with me. Instead, he lies down on the couch and pats the space in front of him.

“Come on, baby. You’re missing your movie, and my arms are empty.”

I open my mouth to ask him how he feels about the tree but decide against it. He’s not going to grump, and I’m not going to complain about a Christmas movie and snuggles from him.

I can’t remember a more perfect day.

CHAPTER

SIXTEEN

Oliver

If you had told me six months ago that I’d be here, I’d have laughed in your face. If you’d also told me that I’d be the most relaxed I’d been in years, that too would have resulted in laughter.

However, here I am with my back against the arm of the couch, my legs propped up on the coffee table, with Blakely lying on my chest, her legs stretched out on the couch, and you guessed it, we’re watching another Christmas movie.

“Gah, I love this time of year,” Isla says, standing and stretching. “I need to go, or I’m going to be late.”

“Where’s Todd taking you?” Blakely asks her.

“I don’t know. It’s a surprise. All he said was to pack an overnight bag.”

“Nice.” Blakely nods. “Are you packed?”

“Not yet.” Isla grins.

Blakely chuckles. “Do you want me to help you?”

“No, I’ll be fine as long as I get moving.” She takes off down the hall, leaving us alone.

“Are you getting hungry?” Blakely asks me.

“I can always eat,” I tell her.

“Are we cooking? Ordering in? Going out?” She holds up her fingers, lifting one with each choice she presents.

“Whatever option keeps us here. A quiet night with you is what I’ve been craving.” I run my fingers through the silky strands of her hair.

“Well, that eliminates option three. I don’t mind cooking, but I’m kinda craving a steak hoagie with banana peppers.”

“Then we order in. Do they deliver?”

“They do.” She scrambles from the couch and rushes to the kitchen. She comes back with a menu and hands it to me. “I have them on speed dial.” She waves her cell phone in the air. “Look that over, and I’ll place our order.”

“Just get me the same thing.” I hand the menu back to her.

“Okay, and how do you feel about breadsticks?”

I laugh. “I can eat a couple of breadsticks.”

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