Page 72 of More Than a Little Spark

Carson yanks on his boots.“You saw what I was wearing most mornings when you were here after I broke my leg.I’m only wearing these plaid flannel pajamas because of the tradition.”

“This is so fun.And y’all look adorable, by the way.Maybe we can get a picture later.Just the three of us.”

“That’d be cool.”Fred scoops up the kitty.“I’ll carry Oreo.”

Decked out in pajamas, we all head to the main house for food and merriment.

Chapter31

Carson

Carson

Istop outside the main house, and Fred slides out.He's all excited about playing on his new PS5.

“I’ll call you when I’m ready to go home.”At least he's acting like that's what he'll be doing.

“Have fun!”Daphne waves.“You sure you’re okay taking care of Oreo?”

“Yeah.”He gives a thumbs-up.“Y’all have a good time.”

It should probably concern me that he’s such a good actor.Based on his performance alone, Daphne would have no clue that I’m about to propose.But my sweaty palms might give it away.Or the thudding of my heart.

Christmas has been magical.Last year was great, like the year before.But this one has been the best yet.

After dragging my hand down my jeans, I clasp hers.“Thanks for sneaking away with me for a bit.”

“Happily.”She squeezes my hand.

If she has any idea what’s coming, she doesn’t let on.

Holding her hand, I drive to the back entrance of the ranch.I intentionally waited until sunset to steal away.More romantic that way.

“I know you didn’t want to leave Oreo.”

“She’s just so cuddly and cute.”Daphne grins.“And watching Fred playing with her warms my heart.”

After entering the code, I drive down the road and stop not far from the cabin.“Even though it’s chilly out, I thought we could walk a bit.”

“How’s your leg?It isn’t hurting, is it?”

“My leg is good.Pretty much back to normal.”

“Are we going to our tree?”

“That’s what I was thinking.”

“Perfect.I love that spot.”

I take her hand, and we walk down the trail and across the river.Before rounding the bend and walking toward our first-kiss tree, I pause and pull her close.“This has been a good Christmas.”

“The best.”She inches up and presses a kiss to my lips.And I can almost see the wheels turning in her head as she says, “You know I love you.Oreo is just an added excuse to visit.But while we were opening presents this morning, I just…” She rests her head on my chest.

Waiting, I rub her back.

She lifts her head, tears glistening in her eyes.“Y’all feel like family.Not just you.Fred too, and I love it.”

That sums up why this Christmas is the best.“Same.This felt like a storybook Christmas.Minus the part where Oreo snagged the breakfast sausage off my plate.”

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