Page 77 of Bragg's Christmas

“I have all I need. Thank you.”

The ladies depart and we continue on our way to the coffee stand.

“Did she not hear my question? All she needs? What did she mean?”

I shrug since I’m not explaining how I think we’re the latest Gossip Gal project and his arm drops. I don’t miss his warmth surrounding me. The protection his closeness makes me feel. Nope. Not I. Love Hill is a one-woman show.

“Who knows?” I lie. “The residents of Winter Falls love to bet on everything. She probably has some bet going on how long I’ll last as your nanny.”

“And I’m winning it, girl,” Bryan says when we reach the coffee stand.

Bryan works at theBake Me Happybakery. He’s also a Winter Falls implant and one of the few people in town who are nice to me.

“Hi, Bryan.”

“What bet?” Damon asks.

Bryan bites his lips and studies him. “Damn. Those Bragg brothers are some sexy dudes.” He sighs. “I don’t suppose you’re gay or bi-curious?”

Damon chuckles. “Sorry. Nope. Boring straight guy.”

There was nothing boring about Damon the straight guy last night. No, siree Bob. The way he made me feel. How he made me… I fan myself.

“This is good. Very good.” Bryan smirks at me. “Girl, you are going to make me some money.”

I roll my eyes. “I wouldn’t bet on it. Pun intended.”

“But I would,” he sings.

“We’re searching for the spiked eggnog,” Damon says.

“There’s a bar in the corner.”

I blink. He can’t be serious. “What?”

He chuckles. “You’re not used to attending Winter Falls’ events, are you?”

I duck my chin before he can notice the blush spreading across my cheeks.

“Not shaming you, girl. Now, go get yourself a hot mulled wine or spiked hot cocoa. You’re going to need it.”

“And you aren’t?”

He lifts his mug with a wink.

“Daddy! Daddy!” Skye crashes into Damon. “Look what I made.” She shows him her wreath.

“It’s beautiful. Good job.”

This is one of those rare occasions when a parent is not actually lying about his child’s crafting abilities. The wreath is gorgeous.

“A present!” Skye squeals when her gaze catches on the gift ‘Santa’ gave Damon. “You got me a present.”

Before Damon can protest, she snatches it out of his hands. She tries to rip the wrapping away but doesn’t succeed. I kneel down to help her and notice there’s a note.Twist here to open.

“You need to twist it open.”

“No, don’t—” Damon tries to stop us, but Skye ignores him.

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