“I’ve always know, Alida. Always.” He cups my cheek, drawing me in for a kiss that quickly threatens to get us in trouble in front of all the littles. He breaks apart the kiss first, resting his forehead against mine. I can feel all the sets ofeyes on us. “You know they won’t let us sneak off to celebrate this momentous occasion the good, old-fashionednakedway, right?”
“I guess I’ll just have to wait to sit on Santa’s lap until tonight,” I say against the side of his beard, just before I kiss him again.
“Have you been a good girl this year, Alida?”
“Nope. I’ve been extra naughty.”
His whiskey brown eyes are filled with liquid heat. “You remember what happens when you’re on my naughty list, right?”
“I brought the blindfold.”
“God I love you, Alida.” He kisses me hard on the lips. “Merry Christmas.”