Page 42 of The Princess Home for Christmas

A tall man in a suit, young, with a pretty blonde joined them on the stand. Thomas shook his hand and presented him with a plaque. Dahlia searched the crowd. No one seemed to grasp the charged emotional significance of what was going on in front of them all.

“We bestow upon them the Torren Hero’s medallion, and thank him for his service.”

Thomas gestured that he and his wife step aside, off the stand and then he introduced them to Theresa and the children.

Anna stepped forward. “And now we will begin passing out the gifts!”

The crowd broke into cheering once again. Music started up through loud speakers. People began to dance in place, children lifted up to shoulders, smiles all around. Helpers throughout the crowd stood to guide children to approach the tree.

Then Thomas led them off the platform. A large dance floor that was roped off allowed for an opening and Thomas led her out onto the space. “Would you dance with me?” His smile, his relaxed manner, his very happiness made her grin in return.

“Is that man—”

“Joe’s father.” His eyes were filled. “He wants to be involved in their life, to help. His wife can’t get pregnant. I’m not sure how it will work out between them, but this meeting is a great first step.” He pulled her close and rested his chin on her head. Other couples joined them.

“This holiday season has been one of the most challenging and most rewarding of my life I think.” He let air leave slowly through his mouth, his shoulders relaxing.

“For me as well.” She ran circles with her finger on his shoulder. “All the best parts have been with you. Thank you, Thomas.”

She was pleased to see a touch of red rise on his cheeks. How lovely it would be to simply date Thomas, to enjoy him, spend time with him not shaded by such dire problems.

“So, I was wondering...” His eyes held some hesitation, which she found endearing.

“Yes?”

“Can we get out of here, go somewhere where it is just us?”

“I’d love nothing more, my prince of the tree lighting ceremony. But every time we try that, something difficult happens.”

“Not every time.”

“True.”

“I’d like you to experience my favorite Christmas tradition.”

Intrigued, she smiled. “Does it involve any crazy press?”

His eyes clouded. “It always could, I’m afraid.”

She nodded. “I know that. And now that the refugee village doesn’t rely so completely on my secrecy, I don’t mind the press so much. They are the Valdez way of life you know.”

He seemed relieved to hear it. “But this activity won’t involve daring rescues or disguises. Are you up for something so devoid of the extraordinary?”

“Yes, oh yes, that sounds like the best thing in the world right now.”

“Excellent, then come with me.” He led her by the hand, through the crowds, who were mostly interested in their own families. A few smiled at the two of them, but no one crowded or shouted or anything.

They made their way toward a parking lot, and Thomas stopped in front of a motorcycle. “You game?” His grin inviting, irresistible.

“Awesome!” She took the helmet he offered, then climbed onto the bike behind him.

He tilted the bike, lifted the brake stand and then started it up. Her dress was just stretchy enough. She leaned onto him and wrapped her hands around his waist.

He turned his head. “I could get used to this.”

She laughed. “Where are we going?”

“The highlands.”

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