Page 48 of Daycare Santa

Gina’s doting expression made Zack want to have that look turned on him. While he ate pistachio ice cream and savored the dark fruit cake with just the right amount of rum, his gaze went to Gina, who pulled in a deep breath at that moment.

Her lackluster smile pained him, and he swallowed hard at the realization that made his heart pound as if he’d been running a marathon. Despite his mishap with Alana, he’d walked into Gina’s path with his heart wide open.

He focused on Gina, who stared at the bowl in her hands. Then his gaze went to Luca, whose mouth was messy with ice cream. His enjoyment pulled a grin from Zack, whose attention shifted to Seya. Her serious expression morphed into a smile. She winked and mouthed, “Be patient.”

He nodded to acknowledge Seya, then smiled warmly at Gina. One thing was certain—he loved Regina Wright with everything in him. A sane man wouldn’t put himself in front of a freight train, but that was exactly what he’d done, falling for her.

Zack couldn’t do anything less than care for her the best way he knew how, but Gina didn’t want him or anyone else to assume that responsibility. She was stuck on doing things for herself.

Until she opened her heart and life enough to realize she didn’t have to do it all, Gina wouldn’t allow herself to be vulnerable enough to need anyone.

When Luca snuggled against Gina’s arm, dozing, Zack knew it was time to go.

Seya rose and beckoned to Luca. “Come, sugar plum. Let’s get you cleaned up.”

“Bye, Uncle Zack,” he mumbled as he stretched.

“Good night, Luca.”

“Give me a moment,” Gina said, gathering the plates and dishes. She went to the kitchen, carrying the stacked trays, then returned to the living room.

Zack stood and gripped her arms. “Thanks for having me over.”

Tipping her head back, Gina rested both hands on his chest. “Aren’t we past that kind of politeness yet?”

He let a few seconds pass before he spoke. “I’d think so, too, except for the times you keep me at arm’s length.”

Gina stepped back and folded both arms across her chest. “I know you’re talking about me moving, but you should also respect my wishes.”

“Trust me, Gina, I’m doing exactly that. I’d never force myself where I’m not wanted.”

She winced and shuffled her feet. “It’s not like that.”

“It’s exactly like that.” He chuckled, a bitter sound he hoped Gina wouldn’t read as such. “You accept help on your terms and that’s fine.”

“I’m sorry if I’ve offended you.”

He touched her cheek and pulled her closer. His heart sank again, but he chose not to offer any platitude. Instead, he placed soft kisses on her lips.

A few seconds went by before she responded. Her arms slid around his neck and he held on to her waist to anchor her in position while they exchanged a mind-numbing kiss. He forgot where they stood until Luca’s high-pitched voice plummeted him back to earth. “I thought you went home.”

“I’m leaving now.” Zack stepped away from Gina, who released him and faced Luca.

The boy walked farther into the room, ready for bed, in pajamas and a Santa hat slanted at a jaunty angle. Luca rested both hands on his narrow hips as he asked, “Uncle Zack, are you going to be my daddy?”

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