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Fallon let out a big breath. “We moved a lot. My parents learned to be efficient with packing and unpacking. Household decorations of any kind, not just holiday stuff, fell into the impractical category.”

He almost said he was sorry, but that would be wrong. If she didn’t know any better, Fallon probably didn’t feel she lacked for holiday traditions.

She leveled her gaze at him. “We did have one tradition I’d guess you’d call it. It might have lasted a few years when we lived near my grandparents in Albuquerque.”

“What was that?”

“My grandpa had this tree in his backyard, a juniper.”

He nodded and sat forward.

Fallon smiled wistfully. “He’d take my brother and me outside a week before Christmas, and he’d spread a blanket on the ground for a picnic lunch. There were tiny pinecones scattered on the ground so we’d pick them up, roll them in peanut butter and birdseed, then tuck them inside the branches and scatter them on the ground.”

He watched her expression grow softer. Kade felt a twinge in his chest. Her decision to share the personal story touched him.

“When that tree was flush with birds, it was prettier than any Christmas tree full of lights and ornaments I’ve ever seen,” she said quietly, still staring at the bookshelf. He wasn’t sure if he heard a crack in her voice or if he imagined it, but when she rubbed the corner of her eye inconspicuously it was obvious this memory still had a strong hold on her heart.

In the other room, Fred could be heard rummaging in the refrigerator, muttering about the lack of pulled pork. His feet scuffed across the wood floor until they were muted on the carpeting as he passed into the family room.

“I hope today wasn’t too exhausting for you.” He kept his tone light, hoping to steer her away from anything too sad. “I’m sure you’re anxious to get back to your own quiet room.”

She gave him a weary smile. “I am tired. But I had fun. Your family is very sweet.”

“Having been away for so long, I can see that a little more clearly. A new, grown-up perspective and all.” He grinned and let out a little chuckle. “There was a time when my opinion was not so…favorable, I guess you’d say.”

“Ah,” she said with a knowing look. “I bet you were more than ready to leave home when you joined the Marines?”

“You could say that. Were you anxious to get away from home at that age too?”

Fallon broke into a wide grin. “Very much so. I knew the answer to everything, didn’t want to listen.Verystubborn.”

“There’s nothing wrong with having strong convictions.”

She laughed. “Except when they were my undoing.”

His laugh came out a little too loud.Well, that’s something. He and Fallon were ornery firstborns, a surprise. He hadn’t thought they’d find anything in common.

“I’ve had a few of those moments myself.”

They stared at each other for a few seconds, her smile lingering.

Fallon stretched and moved to the edge of her chair. “Well, I’m going to head upstairs.”

He wished she’d stay a little longer. Was there more common ground between them? He’d like to find out. But tonight was too soon, and she was right. It had been a long day.

Instead, he nodded. “Sleep well.”

ChapterNine

An incoming text woke up Fallon the next morning. She didn’t recognize the number through her sleep-induced blurry eyes, but as soon as she was able to focus on the message, she sat up and let out a little squeal of delight.

Hi Fallon, This is Darcy Stetman at Blueberry Point Lodge. Sorry to send this so early but I’m hoping to catch you within the next hour. Agnes DeLina mentioned you’re in need of a room. One of our guests is leaving early so I have an opening. Have to act fast though since I have a waiting list. Can you contact me within the next hour? Beyond that I’ll have to offer it to the next in line.

She sent a hurried text back:

Yes, please!

Thank goodness. Fallon lay back against her pillow and breathed with relief. Now to get on with what she came here to do. Not that she didn’t appreciate the Behars’ hospitality, but it was hard to concentrate.