Page 231 of Daddy's Naughty List

“I’m an illustrator. I mainly draw greetings cards.”

Zoey’s eyes narrowed. “Oh wow! Have you ever worked on a picture book?”

“No! But I’d love to. Illustrating kid’s books is kind of a dream.”

Zoey grinned. "Why don't we put our creative heads together? Bet we could make some real magic! I write the words, you draw the pictures."

Lulu's eyes widened. Work on a project with Zoey? Her tummy fluttered with nerves, but a bigger part of her leaped at the chance. "R-really? You'd want to collaborate?"

"'Course I would! It'll be a hoot." Zoey winked playfully. “Now, let me show you what I’ve got so far.”

As Zoey and Lulu huddled over the Zoey’s notes, their excited chatter filled the air.

Lulu showed more of her own sketches, each one showcasing her whimsical style—anthropomorphic animals in cozy winter scenes, frolicking in the snow or curled up by the fire.

"Ooh, I love this little hedgehog in a Santa hat!" Zoey cooed, pointing to a particularly adorable sketch. "And the mice decorating their tiny tree—too cute!"

Lulu beamed, her earlier shyness melting away in the face of Zoey's genuine enthusiasm. "I'm so glad you like them! I tried to capture the magic of Christmas through their tiny critter eyes."

Zoey nodded, her own eyes sparkling with creative energy. "That's exactly the vibe I'm going for in the story! Friendship, wonder, and the joy of the season, all wrapped up in a fluffy, kid-friendly package." She stopped and winked. “Or Little-friendly.”

Lulu giggled. “Totally.”

Zoey pulled out her manuscript, pointing to key scenes as she explained the plot. "See, the animals of Pinewood Forest are preparing for their annual Christmas celebration, but a blizzard threatens to ruin everything! It's up to Benny the Bunny and his pals to brave the storm and save the holiday spirit."

Lulu leaned in, engrossed. Zoey's passion was contagious, and the story sounded heartwarming. Already, visions of the illustrations danced in her head—the brave woodland friends trekking through the snow, their cozy burrow decked out in twinkling lights and garlands.

"I can definitely see my style meshing with your story," Lulu said, excitement bubbling in her chest. "We could have such fun bringing these characters to life!"

Zoey grinned, reaching out to squeeze Lulu's hand. "I just know we'll make an amazing team. Your art, my words. We'll create something truly special for the ranch."

Just then, she glanced at her watch. “Eek! I’ve got to go meet Daddy for some chores. I’m mucking out the stables today. It’s not much fun in this cold, let me tell you. But I was a naughty girl earlier so Daddy’s giving me a punishment.” She blushed again. “Anyway, let's meet up later in the Nursery and brainstorm. Sound like a plan, creative partner? We can come up with ideas, and have a playdate, too!"

“Sounds great! I haven’t even been to the Nursery yet.”

“You’ll love it, trust me. Okay, got to run!" She paused. “Not literally of course, running’s not allowed inside the ranch, but you know what I mean. Let’s meet in an hour, okay?”

“You got it.”

“Promise I’ll wash the horse muck off myself first.” Zoey headed off, almost skipping with excitement.

Lulu smiled to herself, then plonked herself down in a big armchair and started to sketch. She wanted to have some ideas to share with Zoey when they met at the nursery. For the first time in a long time, it felt as though she was drawing purely for pleasure. It was fabulous.

Ideas buzzed in her head. The animals of Pinewood Forest, preparing for a Christmas carnival. She worked on Benny the Bunny, trying to make him seem as lovable as possible. She decided to give him heart-shaped glasses and a little waistcoat.

“You are so cute, Mr. Bunny,” she mumbled to herself.

Just then, a deep voice said, “Good morning, young lady.”

She looked up to see a tall, broad-shouldered man with salt-and-pepper hair and a warm smile.

“Good morning, Sir.”

“Call me Chuck.”

Holy moly! This was Chuck North, the co-owner of the ranch.

“Mr. North, it’s good to meet you.”

---