Page 46 of Wedding Bells in Silverwood

Her heart pounded in her ears as she was sure he would reject her proposition.

“Make a day of it, huh?” His eyes roamed over her face. “All right. I’m in.”

Chapter Seventeen

Nick and Holly stood on Rachel and Eddie’s front porch. Nick rang the doorbell, and Holly smiled as the bells chimed to the tune of “Angels We Have Heard on High.” Cupid sat on his haunches, waiting for someone to answer. His breath caused vapors to float out onto the cool night air.

“Are you sure your father is up for this?” Holly removed her wool hat. “Shouldn’t he be resting or something?”

“He insisted because it’s Christmas Eve. You know how he is. Besides, the doctors said he was fine. They gave him the green light.”

“All right. Good.” Holly fidgeted with her scarf.

“Holly!” Avery immediately wrapped her arms around Holly’s waist after opening the door.

“Merry Christmas, Avery.”

“Merry Christmas. I’m so glad you’re here.” She widened her eyes dramatically. “I’m starving.”

Holly laughed. “Okay. I can’t decide if I should be flattered or not, but it’s good to see you too.”

Dasher ran to the door and barked. Cupid barked back and chased his canine brother into the belly of the house.

“Hi, Uncle Nick.” Avery smiled up at him.

“Hey, kiddo. Merry Christmas.” Nick ruffled her hair.

When Avery skipped off, Nick leaned closer to Holly.

“Am I not cool enough to get hugs anymore?” he whispered as they entered the house.

Holly rubbed his back. “Don’t worry. You’ll get extra ones from me.”

A playful glint danced in Nick’s eyes, his lips curling into a knowing grin.

A familiar chuckle from the living room entrance made Holly turn.

“Well, I see we’ve bumped up this party to a ten.” Mr. Mason came forward and embraced Holly before placing a small peck on her cheek. “Merry Christmas.”

“Ignored again,” Nick joked.

Mr. Mason emitted aho-ho-holaugh and embraced his son, slapping him on the back for good measure.

“Merry Christmas, Mr. Mason.” Holly placed a hand on his arm. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m right as rain, dear.” Mr. Mason took her coat. “Don’t you fret about me.”

A figure moved into the foyer, redirecting their attention. It turned out to be Rachel’s husband, Eddie, who nodded at them. His sandy-blond hair sat in waves atop his head. His knit sweater fit snuggly around his biceps as he stuffed his hands in his jeans pockets.

“Nick, Holly,” Eddie called. “So happy you could make it. And, Nick, I could really use your magic touch with some of the dinner preparations.”

“I’m beginning to think that’s the only reason I’m invited over anymore,” Nick teased. He pushed up his sleeves. “But if that’s the price I’ve got to pay, get ready for some magic.”

“Where’s your mother?” Mr. Mason looked over Holly’s shoulder.

“She’s out with Rachel,” Holly replied.

“Rachel? I was wondering where she was. What are those two up to?”

---