Page 17 of The Mistletoe Promise

Frankie sighs, but I can see the smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "You're impossible, you know that?"

"Impossibly festive," I correct him, linking my arm through his as we walk through the park. "Now come on, I've got to start planning. The local schools have agreed to have the kids perform a carol service each week in the lead up to Christmas."

Frankie's eyes widen in disbelief. "Each week? Mandy, it's barely November!"

I wave off his concern. "Details, details. The important thing is that we're spreading joy and cheer throughout the town. Oh, and wait until you hear about the reindeer petting zoo I'm arranging!"

"Reindeers?" Frankie sputters. "Where on earth are you going to get reindeers?"

I tap the side of my nose conspiratorially. "I know a guy."

"Of course you do," Frankie mutters, shaking his head.

As we continue our stroll through the park, I can't help but notice the way people's faces light up as they take in the twinkling lights and festive decorations.

"See?" I nudge Frankie. "Look how happy everyone is. Once everything is ready everyone is going to be filled with the Christmas spirit."

Frankie's expression softens as he takes in the scene. "Okay, okay. I'll give you this one. It’ll be pretty magical."

"And just think," I say, my mind already racing with more ideas. "This is only the beginning. Wait until everything else comes together!"

Frankie groans good-naturedly. "I'm afraid to ask."

"Trust me," I say with a bright smile. “Everything is going to be amazing.”

I love Christmas, it’s my favorite time of the year, I really needed this, it’s amazing to spread the Christmas joy, and being able to help children in need is fulfilling.

Frankie slides his arm around me, pulling me into his body, tucking my hair behind my ear. I stare up at him, his gaze on my lips. I pull in a ragged breath, my heart pounding. He slants his lips over mine.

The kiss is soft and sweet. When Frankie pulls away, his eyes are filled with desire and hope.

"What was that for?" I ask, a bit breathless.

He smiles, his hand still cupping my cheek. "Because you're you, Mandy."

I feel my cheeks flush, and not just from the chilly air. "Frankie..."

"I know, I know," he says, his thumb tracing my jawline. He reaches for my hand, and we start walking again. "You're busy planning the most elaborate Christmas celebration this town has ever seen. You’re also trying to decide whether or not you’re ready to date again."

My heart skips a beat. I want him, I really do, but I’m not sure if I’m ready for it. Especially after finding out what happened between Aaron and my mom. I’m terrified, utterly petrified of what could happen if I do take the next step and date someone. I don’t want to be hurt again. I don’t think my heart could take it again.

“I’m sorry,” I whisper, hating that I’m hurting him by being so uncertain.

He grabs my arm and brings me to a halt. "No need to apologize," he says with a heavy voice. He looks up and lets out a small laugh as he sees the sprig of mistletoe hanging above the exit gate. Christmas garlands adorn every entrance and exit, including this one, with the added bonus of mistletoe.

He wraps his arms tightly around me and looks me in the eyes. "I want you," he says softly. "But I won't pressure you for a relationship." He pauses, giving me time to process his words. "When you're ready, I'll be here." Without hesitation, he presseshis lips against mine once more and this time, I lean into him as our kiss deepens. When he pulls back, he rests his forehead against mine. “That’s a promise.”

I glance up at the mistletoe and grin. “A mistletoe promise?” I ask with a smile.

"A mistletoe promise," Frankie confirms with a soft chuckle. "The truest of Christmas promises."

I can't help but laugh, even as my heart races. The warmth of his embrace lingers, and I find myself wishing I could stay in this moment forever. But reality intrudes, as it always does.

"Come on," I say, reluctantly stepping back. "I've got a lot of work to do if I’m going to make this the best Christmas ever."

Frankie nods, his eyes still twinkling with affection. "Lead the way, Christmas Queen."

Two weeks later

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