Page 87 of Under the Mistletoe
“A few orders to pack, but it’s slowing as expected.”
“I think it will slow down until after Christmas, and then we might run another campaign?” I suggest, and my uncle smiles at me.
“I came by your apartment during the week. Have you been out?” my aunt asks innocently. They don’t know anything about Marcus Jasper or Teflon Teo. They think we are just battling the increased media attention on our relationship. If that’s all it was, I wouldn’t be so concerned.
“Oh, I’ve been staying with Donovan in the city this week.” It's true, I have. I just skip the part where I tell them my life was threatened, and my safety is a priority right now. Donovan and I still haven’t spoken about me officially moving in, but it is probably a moot point at this stage. I am there every night and have no plans to go home.
“I didn’t like her getting home so late. My apartment is a few blocks from the office, so a much easier commute,” Donovan tells them, and my uncle nods in approval.
“Better than driving in the weather or even worse on that train.” He looks at me pointedly.
“Maybe you should all come around for dinner sometime soon? Jessica makes a fantastic spaghetti,” Donovan offers, and my aunt practically beams.
“We would love that,” she gushes.
“What, no more instant ramen?” Uncle Bob teases me as he raises his eyebrow.
“Stop!” I laugh, the tension that has built up over the last week slowly leaving my body as everyone laughs. This feels nice. This feels like life is supposed to feel. Full of life and laughter. Not my parents’ opinions, not feeling unloved. It’s right at the moment I feel immense gratitude to the people around the table. The love my aunt and uncle have for me hasn’t wavered. They are my family. They are my parents. They are my backbone.
“What are we doing for Christmas this year?” I ask, not believing that it’s mere days away.
“After the debacle of Thanksgiving, I didn’t think you would want to do anything.” Uncle Bob looks at me seriously, and I give him a small smile, assuring him I’m fine.
“Well, I don’t think Mom and Dad will be back anytime soon.” I feel relief as I say the words.
“How about we go to Lake Placid?”
At his suggestion, the three of us look at Donovan.
“Lake Placid?” I can’t fight the grin because I know how beautiful it is, and Uncle Bobby and Aunt Vivian would love it. Plus, they could do with a break, the shop all-encompassing lately.
“Sure. It’s great at Christmas. The lake will freeze over, so no fishing, but we can do some ice fishing nearby or ice skating. They have this cute little Christmas village we can check out, too.”
“Oh, that sounds wonderful!” My aunt smiles brightly, looking at her husband.
“I’ll organize it all. A few days away will be nice.” Donovan looks at Uncle Bobby with a nod.
“I think that’s a great idea and very generous. Thank you.”
“I’d love that,” I tell him, and he looks at me like I hung the moon. He reaches under the table and squeezes my leg, the warmth running up my thigh.
“You were right about the sandwiches…” Donovan says quietly as my aunt and uncle step out front to serve a customer.
“Oh yeah?” I grin as I take another bite.
“Best sandwich with the best company.” His wink makes me giddy.
“Hang on.” He puts his sandwich down and pulls out his cell. His frown is immediate, and he looks at me as he answers.
“Yeah…”
I swallow, not able to hear the person on the other end.
Donovan looks at his watch.
“I can be there in thirty minutes,” he confirms, and I hold my breath as he ends the call.
“My contact at the Feds. Needs some clarity on a few things before they make a move.”
