Page 86 of Mail Order Christmas (Hawthorne Billionaire 5)

We arrived at Hawthorne Manor. I was greeted at the front entrance by a butler. I was literally afraid to move, the place was so massive and beautiful. The double grand staircase was amazing.

“Welcome, Paige. I’m Diana, the house manager,” she smiled. “I have a room ready for you and, if you are so inclined, a nice hot bath.”

“Thank you, I don’t have a change of clothes, but a shower would be nice.” I fidgeted with my purse strap.

“Come with me. Let’s get you settled in, then I’ll bring you a snack.” Diana waved to follow her up the stairs. “Mrs. Hawthorne has you in the east wing for today. I left some comfortable clothes in there for you in case you want to nap after your bath.”

“Does the whole family live here, Diana?” I asked, looking around at the size of the mansion. “Sorry, I guess that’s nosy. I’ve just never been in a house this large.”

“Only Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne reside here, but the family is always coming and going.” Diana opened a bedroom door. “No one will be here until tonight. This is your stop.”

I walked in, spinning in circles, afraid to touch anything. “I don’t need a room this big.”

“No one does, dear. But this is how they live and, if you’re to be family, you should start getting used to it.” She gave me a warm smile. “Yes, I know what the plan is. She is never wrong about these things.”

Diana showed me how to close the blinds with the remote and how to buzz her, then she was off. I wandered around the room, looking out the window over what appeared to be snow-dusted gardens that would burst with flowers in the springtime. I walked into the bathroom to find a cozy robe laid out for me. A quick shower and soft robe was a gift I’d never forget. I laid back in a chaise by the bedroom fireplace and thought of my mystery man…Asher.

I hope that he’ll want his gift of a wife, and I hope he’ll be happy that it’s me.

Chapter 55

Asher

“What are you doing today?”I texted.

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.”She finally answered.

“Try me.”

“Nah, it’s crazy.”

“Come on, Apple, tell me.”

“I can’t. I’ve missed talking to you.”

“I missed you too. I was worried you’d run off with an iPad or a laptop.”

“Always with the jokes. Thanks for the idea, though.”

“I’m sorry we didn’t get together at the party.”

“Did you tell Santa what you want for Christmas?”She asked.

“Actually, no, I didn’t, but I think I will now. Are you in the mall?”

“Not today. I finally got free.”

“I’m happy for you. Will I ever get to meet you? Will I ever get you back?”I texted.

“Perhaps, but not right now. You’ll have to decide if you want me.”

“I have to go do something. Ttyl. Don’t leave me.”

“I’m not going anywhere. It’s up to you now.”

The charity event was only for two hours and it was already coming to an end. My brothers texted they were on their way to the manor. If I didn’t get out now, I’d miss the stocking opening.

“Can you guys handle getting this shut down?” I asked Gunner.

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