Page 33 of More Than a Little Spark

I pull him close again.“I’m sorry you lost your mom, but I’m really happy you came to live with me.Never forget that I want you here.”

He swallows, still serious.“Is it okay if I call you Dad?”

“I’d like that.”I swipe at a tear.“A lot.”

He wraps his arms around me and buries his head in my chest.“Thanks, Dad.”

I hold him close and whisper, “Merry Christmas.”

Because I can’t think of a better gift than the one this kid just gave me.Having lousy parents was something Fred didn’t deserve, but hopefully knowing that I chose to be his dad will make his life a little brighter.

The main houseis overflowing with people, food, and gifts.Lilith has outdone herself with the decorating.It looks like the set of a Christmas movie.I’m not sure I’ve ever seen so many decorations in one place.

Lilith, Ava, and Joji offered to wrap gifts for me.All I had to do was choose what paper I wanted them to use.So I didn’t have to hide Fred’s gifts in the house, and his presents will look nice before he tears into them.Living here is spoiling me.And I’m not complaining one bit.

I step into the kitchen and stand beside Ava.“How can I help?”

She wipes her hands as she turns toward me.“You can’t.It’s all taken care of.Enjoy yourself.Want me to make you a latte?”

“I’ll make one for myself.Thanks.But if you need something, I’m willing.”

Arms open, she motions for me to hug her.“You’re a good one, Carson.I’m very happy you and Fred found your way to the ranch.”

If I get too much more of this mushy stuff, I’m going to be a blubbering mess.“Me too.”

Poppy rubs my arm as she walks past.“Hey, did Fred give you his gift?”

I nod.“And I mostly held it together when he asked if he could call me Dad.Thank you for taking him shopping.It truly was a surprise to see that mug.I’ll treasure it forever.”

Poppy smiles and says, “He’s such a sweet kid.And you’re doing a great job as a dad.”

“Thanks, Poppy.”

Ava gives me a side hug.“She’s right.You are.Now, go make yourself a fancy coffee while I get the food set out.”

“Yes, ma’am.”I wander toward the espresso machine and join Archer and Tyler.

Tyler pours froth in the shape of a heart onto the top of a latte, then steps back and whistles.“I win.”

Nodding, Archer laughs.“My heart looked more like a blob.You definitely are better at this.”He turns to me, eyebrows raised.“Want a latte?Tyler will make it pretty.”

“Sure.Sounds great.”

Tyler points to the syrup bottles lined up along the back of the buffet.“Pick your poison.”

“Surprise me.”

This is only our second Christmas on the ranch, but I look forward to many more.Growing up, I never enjoyed big family Christmases.When I was little, my sister made it special, but after she left, it wasn’t very merry.

But being here makes up for many years of missing out.I hope it’s filling Fred’s tank the same way.

Who knew a job could be life-changing?

My phone buzzes, and I slide it out of my pocket.

Daphne:My brother showed up this morning!He flew in from Alaska, and Dallas snuck off to pick him up really early.I hope y’all are having a great day as well.

Knowing how much family means to Daphne, I send a heart.I’m glad her brother flew down.

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