Page 35 of One Hundred Humbugs

They reluctantly disentangled themselves from each other and the warm cocoon of blankets. As they got dressed, their eyes met in brief, playful glances.This thing between them was new and exciting, but it also felt surprisingly comfortable, like coming home.

“Ready to face the day?” he asked, offering his hand to Ruby as they headed for the door.

“As long as there’s food involved, absolutely,” she replied, lacing her fingers through his.

Together, they stepped out into the crisp afternoon air, the events of the morning having deepened their connection in ways neither had anticipated.

The walk to Maisey’s was quick, their growling stomachs spurring them on. As they strolled down Main Street, they admired their handiwork from the night before. The garlands swayed in the breeze, and ornaments caught the winter sun, transforming Aspen Cove into a magical Christmas wonderland.

“It does look magical,” Ruby said, her eyes bright as she took in the scene. “I can’t believe we did all this in one night.”

Becket grinned, giving her hand a squeeze. “We make quite a team, don’t we?”

As they entered Maisey’s, the cheerful tinkling of the bell above the door announced their arrival. The familiar scent of coffee and bacon enveloped them, and Becket noticed Ruby relax beside him. Through the diner’s large front windows, they could see their decorations.

“Well, look who decided to join the land of the living,” Maisey called out from behind the counter, her eyestwinkling with amusement. “I was beginning to think you two had hibernated for the winter.”

Becket’s cheeks heated up, and a quick glance at Ruby showed she was blushing too. ‘We, uh, had a late night,’ he mumbled, guiding Ruby to a booth near the window.

“I bet you did,” Maisey winked, following them with menus in hand. “What with all that sneaking around and decorating the town.”

Becket and Ruby exchanged startled looks. “How did you?—”

“Oh, honey,” Maisey said, “in a town this size, news travels faster than you can say ‘Christmas spirit.’ Sheriff Cooper’s security cameras caught you red-handed.”

Becket groaned, burying his face in his hands. “So much for our covert operation.”

“Are we in trouble?” Ruby asked, her voice tinged with worry.

Maisey’s laugh rang out, drawing the attention of the other diners. “Trouble? Darlin’, you two are the talk of the town! Everyone’s buzzing about how this will be the best Christmas Aspen Cove has seen in years.”

Emotion surged through Becket, her words hitting harder than he expected. Beside him, Ruby squeezed his hand, her eyes shining with relief and joy.

They ordered a feast fit for, well, two hungry people who’d skipped breakfast. As they waited for their food, the diner’s door chimed again, and Katie from the bakery bustled in, her cheeks rosy from the cold.

“Oh good, you’re here!” she said, spotting them. She hurried over, practically vibrating with excitement. “I’ve been looking all over for you two. I wanted to thank you for the decorations—they’re absolutely perfect! And I wantedto make sure you’re both ready for the cookie exchange tomorrow night.”

Ruby looked at Becket, a question in her eyes. Becket turned to Katie. “We’ll be there. I’m planning to make my gingerbread cookies. They’re always a hit.”

Katie clapped her hands in delight. “Oh, that’s wonderful! You know, everything’s coming together so nicely for the festival. Doc’s even agreed to dress up as Santa for the tree lighting ceremony. The one thing we’re missing is the reindeer!”

She glanced at her watch and her eyes widened. “Oh, I’ve got to run! I just wanted to say hello and thanks. I’ve got loads of brownie batter to make for tomorrow night. See you both then!”

With a quick wave, Katie hurried out of the diner, the bell chiming again as the door closed behind her.

Their food arrived, and they dug in with gusto. Between bites of syrupy pancakes and crispy bacon, Ruby glanced at Becket. “So, tell me about these gingerbread cookies of yours. Are they that special?”

Becket grinned, leaning in conspiratorially. “Well, if you must know, it’s an old family recipe. Been passed down for generations, and I’ll have you know it’s won the unofficial ‘Best Cookie’ title three years running at my mom’s church social.”

Ruby raised an eyebrow. “Is that so? Sounds like I might have some competition then.”

“Oh?” Becket leaned back, crossing his arms. “Planning on dethroning the cookie king, are you?”

She shrugged. “Maybe. I guess you’ll just have to wait and see.”

As they finished their meal, Becket marveled at how natural this all seemed—sharing a meal, teasing each other,making plans for the day. It was as if Ruby had always been a part of his life here in Aspen Cove.

After settling the bill, and enduring more good-natured teasing from Maisey, they headed out.

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