Page 6 of Celebrating the Season

He cocked his head. “You’re saying you’re not the real Santa? Damn.”

I snorted. “My name’s Ellery.”

“Ellery.” He said it as if tasting my name on his tongue. “I like that. Can we go now?”

“What’s the hurry, boy? We’ve got all night.”

“But I don’t want to wait.” Boaz pouted, his full lips tempting me to kiss him again. “Come on, Ellery. Take me home.”

The way he said my name sent a shiver down my spine. I glanced around the bar, taking in the bachelor party, which was surprisingly tame and even wholesome. Then I looked back at Boaz, with his tousled curls and eager smile, and made my decision.

“Alright, let’s get out of here,” I said, grabbing his hand. “My truck’s outside.”

The drive to my place was a study in contrasts. Outside, the world was hushed and still, blanketed in fresh snow glittering under the moonlight. Inside the truck, the air crackled with unspoken tension and simmering desire.

I kept my eyes on the winding mountain road but was acutely aware of Boaz beside me. His presence filled the cab, warm and vibrant. Every so often, his knee would brush against mine, sending a jolt through my body.

“So, Ellery.” Boaz broke the silence, a teasing lilt to his voice. “Do you often whisk strangers away to your secret mountain lair?”

I chuckled, stealing a glance at him. His eyes sparkled with mischief in the dim light of the dashboard. “Only the ones who fall into my lap at bars.”

“Lucky me,” he purred, placing a hand on my thigh.

The touch sent heat coursing through me, and I had to force myself to focus on the road. “Careful there,” I warned, my voice husky. “I’d hate to end our night by driving off the mountain.”

Boaz laughed but mercifully removed his hand. “Fair enough. I’ll behave…for now.”

As we climbed higher, the trees grew denser, their snow-laden branches creating a tunnel of white. “It’s beautiful,” Boaz said dreamily. “Like a winter wonderland.”

“It is.”

My home—a humble log cabin halfway up a mountain overlooking Forestville—wasn’t luxurious, but it had everything I needed, including a massive shed where I stored my equipment and could do my projects during the winter.

“That’s your house?” Boaz asked as I pulled into the driveway.

“Yup, that’s home.”

“It’s like a fairytale, which makes you my Prince Charming.”

I rumbled out a laugh. “Not sure charm is my best attribute, boy, but let’s find out.”

As soon as the door closed behind us, I pulled Boaz into my arms, claiming his mouth. His lips parted eagerly, and he kissed me back passionately. My hands roamed over his lean body, feeling the heat of his skin through his clothes.

Boaz moaned into my mouth, his fingers tangling in my hair. My Santa hat had landed on the floor somewhere. “God, Ellery,” he gasped when we broke for air. “You’re driving me crazy.”

I grinned, nipping at his lower lip. “Just getting started, sweetheart.” I couldn’t remember the last time I’d felt this level of instant connection, this burning need to explore every inch of someone.

“Fuck,” Boaz breathed, his brown eyes wide and dark with lust. “Where’s your bedroom? I need you. Like yesterday.”

Chuckling at his eagerness, I took his hand. “Follow me.” I led Boaz down the hallway, my thumb tracing circles on his wrist. His pulse raced beneath my touch.

As we entered my bedroom, I turned to face Boaz. His curls were tousled, lips swollen from our kisses. He looked young and vulnerable, yet a fire in his eyes made my breath catch.

“You’re gorgeous,” I murmured, reaching out to cup his face.

Boaz leaned into my touch, a soft smile playing on his lips. “You’re not so bad yourself…even in that ridiculous red suit you’re still wearing.”

I ran my thumb over his full lower lip, feeling a surge of possessiveness. “Take off your clothes for me,” I said, my tone leaving no room for argument. “Now.”

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