Page 8 of Levi

“I see. That’s why I prefer not living in neighborhoods.”

“Well, I do like some of the neighbors though.Abbie Wells, well, McBride now, used to live across the street from me, but after she married Creed, she rented her home to Celine Nelson.”

“Celine from the coffee shop?”

“Yes, we’re good friends. Are you ready?”

“Yes ma’am, if you are.” He paused and looked toward the floor, then at her. “You have a cat,” he said.

“Yes, this is Tootsie.” She smiled.

Levi chuckled. “Tootsie?” He shook his head. “How did you come up with that?”

Kinley looked at the cat. “Tootsie rolls. The miniatures are my favorite candy.”

“Okay. Let’s go before I change my mind and stay inside where it’s warm.”

Kinley nodded and reached for her coat on the peg, but Levi took it from her and held it out for her to slip into.

“Thank you,” she said with a smile.

“My pleasure,” he responded with a nod as he opened the door for her to step out first.

She locked the door behind them and walked toward his truck while he stopped beside her car and grinned.

“I can see why you couldn’t get a tree with your car.”

“I may love my Mini Cooper, but it’s not exactly meant for hauling trees.” She reached for the handle of Levi’s truck, but he beat her to it and opened it for her with a smile. She slid onto the seat and inhaled deeply, taking in his scent. He always smelled so good.

“It would look like the Griswold’s station wagon inNational Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” he said with a grin.

Kinley laughed. “So true!”

“Well, I’m happy to help. Let’s get you a tree.” He backed out of the driveway and headed for the Christmas tree farm.

Chapter Two

As Levi pulled into the parking area, he glanced around and shook his head.

“This place sure packs them in.”

“It does. I was hoping by getting my tree early, I’d beat the rush,” Kinley said.

“It looks like everyone had the same idea.”

“Do you know Nick?”

“Yes. Do you?”

“Yes, I’ve known Nick and his brother, Wilder, for years. They’re both great.”

“Yeah, they are. I suppose you meet a lot of people from working in the pharmacy,” Levi commented.

“I do for sure.”

“Are you a pharmacist like Addison?”

“I’m a pharmacy technician. I basically assist Addison. I can fill prescriptions, but Addisonis responsible for ensuring patients receive the correct medications, and she talks with them about how to take the meds.”

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