Page 27 of Saved By Love at Christmas
BEN
I breathed a sigh of relief when six-thirty came around and I could finally leave work. It had been a long day, and I was more than ready for a roast dinner, followed by Tom’s sticky toffee pudding. I’d dreamed about it every spare minute. That wasn’t the only thing I’d thought about. Ruby was on my mind far too often, along with fantasies of kissing her.
When I reached Tom’s home, I smiled. There were Christmas lights hanging from the bushes in the front garden. These two really were excitable when it came to the festive season. But who was I kidding? So was I. I rang the doorbell and heard Fred bark, followed by Ruby’s laughter.
She opened the door. “Hey, Fred! Daddy’s home.”
He bounded towards her and pushed her right into my waiting arms.Fred the matchmaker. We studied each other for a few seconds before Fred jumped up against me, whining.
“Hi, Fred. Have you been a good boy?”
He whined once more and ran off, his paws clicking on the wooden flooring in the hall.
“Come in. How was your day?”
“I got scratched by an angry cat when I clipped his claws and pecked by a stroppy parrot. Apart from that, it wasn’t too bad.”
“How did the op on the cat go first thing?”
“Looks like he’ll make a full recovery.”
She smiled. “That’s great news. Come in. Dinner won’t be long.”
* * *
BEN
As I took my last mouthful of pudding and creamy custard, I groaned and rubbed my stomach. “Oh, God. That was so good. Thank you both very much. And for looking after Fred too.”
“It’s been a pleasure having Fred, and you’re always welcome to eat with us.”
“I see you’ve started on the decorations.”
Tom and Ruby looked at each other and grinned. It warmed my heart to see them so happy and relaxed.
“We couldn’t resist putting a few up. By next week, we’ll have the whole house and gardens decorated,” Ruby declared while she loaded up the dishwasher.
“Ah, there’s something I need to tell you, Ruby.” Tom looked at me and winked. I knew what he was going to say.
“Our trip to Notcutts?” she asked.
“Yes, there’s that, but something else. Next Wednesday, I have a theatre break with the bowls club. It means staying overnight in London.”
“That sounds great, Grandad. I know you love those trips.”
“I don’t know, love. I’m not happy about leaving you alone.”
“I’m off next Wednesday and not in again until Thursday afternoon. Why don’t you come and stay with Fred and me?” I thought if I added Fred into the mix it wouldn’t sound like a set-up.
She pursed her lips. “I’ll be fine on my own. Honestly.”
“I’d feel happier knowing you were staying with Ben, Ruby. I’m sure you’re safe here, but you know how I worry.”
“Are you sure it’s no bother, Ben?”
“Not at all. It’ll be company for Fred and me. Oh, and you need to meet my ladies.”
She frowned. “Women?”
