Page 3 of Christmas Kisses

"What's Erik going to do?"

"His mom wants him to help her clean and organize the garage. He's going to be busy."

"Oh, you just want to get away from all the cleaning."

"I'll admit that's part of it, but I've really missed you, bestie. We need some quality time together."

"That's what's up, bestie."

We say our goodbyes, and I close my laptop. Today is going to be a long day. I've got to find someone to install the booths for me and do some other adjustments in the coffee shop. I get up and get dressed for work. Maybe I can drop off some coffee for the mayor and touch on the topic of funding for the Christmas Mixer.

Who am I kidding? I can't even say a word to him when he looks at me, much less when he smiles. This whole ordeal happened because he touched me on the shoulder. I cringe and get my stuff together to go to my shop. I get to work and start prepping for the flow of customers that will come in about one hour. My business is not the only coffee shop in Woodland Falls, but I pride myself because it has the most loyal customers in town.

Thirty minutes before opening, my server Amy arrives. Damn, I might have to hire one or two more people for the Mixer. When it's time to open, I flip over the sign and prepare for business.

The handyman is back with one of his brothers. They both smile at me and sit at one of the tables. When I approach to get their order, I notice that the one who was here when the whole Mixer debacle happened is frowning and seems angry. I guessI'll give them some more time to themselves. I need to get the nerve up to ask them about their services.

After a few minutes, Amy takes the initiative and goes to get their order. Honestly, I don't know what's wrong with me. Ever since I agreed to host that Mixer, I've been all over the place.

When their order is ready, I decide to take it to them myself. I go with my tray and stand before them.

"Hello there," I say, giving them my brightest smile.

"Hey, Sam."He knows my name?

I place their coffees in front of them and the pastries they've ordered. I look at the grumpy one who is always frowning and try to recall his name. Nothing comes to mind.

"This is my brother, Danny," he says.

"Hey, Sam. Ben has been nagging me to come for coffee here forever. He just raves about your shop."

"It's nice to meet you." I hesitate and look at Ben. "Um, when you're ready to go, let me know because I want to talk to you about something."

"Sure thing, Sam."

He gives me a big smile, and I swear it changes his whole demeanor. Now, that is an attractive man. No wonder I see women of all ages flirting with him all the time. I give him a smile back, drop a flier for the Mixer on their table, and return to helping Amy with the pastries. Would a man like that be able to help me with my flirting? Or even get me to a point where I can talk to a man without losing my shit?

It's worth a try—if I can get him alone to talk.

Chapter 2

Ben

It's early in the morning, and I'm waiting for my brother Danny to get breakfast at Over the Roast. I have the biggest crush on the owner, but she never gives me the light of day. The thing is, I think she's enamored with the Mayor of Woodland Falls, Gene Mitchell. I really hate that guy. He's overbearing and a philanderer. I certainly didn't vote for him, but the women in town love him.

My brother pulls up in his truck and waves hello to me. My hands are safely tucked inside my jacket because it's really cold out this time of year. He gets out of his vehicle and slaps me on the back.

"You look like a popsicle. Why didn't you wait in your car?"

"I just didn't."

I give myself away when I glance inside the shop.

"Ah, checking out the hot girl. Did that keep you warm in this weather?"

"No. Don't be an ass."

"Come on, let's go in. I'm hungry."

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