Page 29 of Lakehouse Mistletoe
Carolina and Hannah shook their heads.
“Absolutely not! We should all feel like Cinderella from time to time. Nothing wrong with that,” Carolina stated firmly.
Helen glanced around at Hannah’s elaborately decorated home.
A massive Christmas tree decorated in millions of white twinkle lights and tons of sparkling ornaments stood near the large picture window facing the lake. The large mantle of the fireplace was heavily adorned in garland, large red ornaments, and colorful pink and red ribbon. Garland and lights were draped dramatically up the staircase, and the scent of cinnamon and spice hung in the air like sugarplums dangling over sleeping children’s heads.
A large banquet table was set up with silver platters of heavy hors d’oeuvres and decadent cookies. Glasses of champagne were quickly being filled and refilled by the servers along with glass cups of hot cider. Laughter and conversation bubbled up around the room while Christmas music played in the background.
“Carolina, I thought you might want this.” A handsome gentleman about Helen’s age handed Carolina a flute of champagne and smiled adoringly at her.
A faint blush creeped across Carolina’s face as she accepted the glass. She looped her arm through his and turned to Helen. “Helen, I want you to meet Thomas Harding. Thomas, this is Helen Dunn. She’s new to Hopeton.”
Helen shook his outstretched hand. “Nice to meet you, Thomas.”
He gave her a smile. “I hear you are the new caretaker for the Laurel Cove Bed and Breakfast. How are you liking our town of Hopeton? I hope everyone is making you feel welcome.”
Helen nodded and Hannah handed her a flute of champagne from a waiter passing out drinks. “Everyone is very welcoming. I’m really enjoying the town and its weather. I moved from Arkansas, so I’m not used to getting so much snow. But I love it.” She took a sip of her drink.
“That’s great.” He turned his head as another man called his name from across the room. “If you ladies will excuse me.”
They watched Thomas walk away. Once he was out of hearing range, Helen turned to Carolina. “I take it you two are an item?” She arched her brow.
Carolina’s face seemed to brighten. “Yes. We’ve been exclusive for about a year now.” She sighed dreamily. “I never thought I would find love again. I wasn’t even looking for it. Thomas knows I want to take things slow. And he’s been wonderful.”
Helen smiled at her new friend’s happiness.
“Speaking of new love,” Hannah cleared her throat, “here comes Oliver.”
Helen’s heart thudded in her chest. She shot Hannah a glare. Carolina giggled.
Before she could say anything, Oliver approached their little circle. His eyes widened when his gaze settled on Helen.
“Wow.”
Helen blushed and swallowed hard. “Hello, Oliver.”
He stared before snapping out of his stupor. “Helen. You look beautiful.” He held her gaze.
She pressed her hands together and smiled. “Thank you.”
He ducked his head. “Forgive me for my lack of manners. You seem to have me wonderstruck. Would you like a glass of champagne?”
“Actually I just finished one, but I’m taking an Uber home, so I guess I’ll take you up on your very nice offer. Thank you.”
He headed over to the table and Carolina elbowed her playfully. “Looks like you’ve got Oliver under your spell.”
Helen snorted. “I most certainly do not. Besides, I’m not even six months out from being divorced. I am most definitely not jumping into something else. I rather like my freedom.”
Hannah lifted her chin and smiled. “You’re right. Take your time. No need to rush. But, in the meantime, don’t push a potential suitor away. Even if you and Oliver don’t end up together, you could still be wonderful friends.”
Carolina looked at her and nodded in agreement.
Oliver approached them with two glasses of champagne. Hannah and Carolina both excused themselves and headed over to the fireplace to chat with an older couple.
“Thank you.” Helen took the flute and lifted the glass to her mouth. The bubbles danced over her tongue.
“Is this your first Christmas party of the year?” Oliver asked.
