Christmas Wish Come True: All I Want For Christmas / Dreaming of a White Wedding / Christmas Every Day

Christmas Wish Come True: All I Want For Christmas / Dreaming of a White Wedding / Christmas Every Day Gina Rochelle Misty Shaw Jaimie Admans All I Want for Christmas by Gina RochelleDitching her faithless fianc?, schoolteacher Isabella plans to spend the holidays alone. But when she unintentionally inspires a young pupil to make an impossible wish, she joins forces with his – totally gorgeous – uncle to put things right! Could two wishes come true this Christmas?Dreaming of a White Wedding by Misty ShawWhen Scarlet discovered her husband-to-be in a passionate clinch with her bridesmaid, she called off her Valentine’s wedding and ran away to London. But when her sister asks for her help, she can’t refuse…even if it means coming face-to-face with her ex – the man she never stopped loving!Christmas Every Day by Jaimie AdmansEmma loves bumping into Gorgeous Dog Walker, Nick, every evening. But when he ends up in a coma (partly her fault), she ends up taking care of ‘his job’…and his dog! Emma stopped believing in Santa years ago, but this Christmas her world is about to be turned upside down!Christmas Wish Come True is a gift for you this December, snuggle up by the fire, leave the stresses of Christmas shopping behind you…and relax! All I Want for Christmas by Gina Rochelle Ditching her faithless fianc?, schoolteacher Isabella plans to spend the holidays alone. But when she unintentionally inspires a young pupil to make an impossible wish, she joins forces with his – totally gorgeous – uncle to put things right! Could two wishes come true this Christmas? Dreaming of a White Wedding by Misty Shaw When Scarlet discovered her husband-to-be in a passionate clinch with her bridesmaid, she called off her Valentine’s wedding and ran away to London. But when her sister asks for her help, she can’t refuse…even if it means coming face-to-face with her ex – the man she never stopped loving! Christmas Every Day by Jaimie Admans Emma loves bumping into Gorgeous Dog Walker, Nick, every evening. But when he ends up in a coma (partly her fault), she ends up taking care of ‘his job’…and his dog! Emma stopped believing in Santa years ago, but this Christmas her world is about to be turned upside down! Christmas Wish Come True All I Want for Christmas Gina Rochelle Dreaming of a White Wedding Misty Shaw Christmas Every Day Jaimie Admans Copyright (#ulink_7984a6ad-8ae4-5ee2-8302-cfebf57ee1b4) HQ An imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers Ltd. 1 London Bridge Street London SE1 9GF First published in Great Britain by HQ in 2015 Copyright © Gina Rochelle/Misty Shaw/Jaimie Admans 2015 Gina Rochelle/Misty Shaw/Jaimie Admans asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work. A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library. This novel is entirely a work of fiction. The names, characters and incidents portrayed in it are the work of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or localities is entirely coincidental. All rights reserved under International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions. By payment of the required fees, you have been granted the non-exclusive, non-transferable right to access and read the text of this e-book on-screen. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereinafter invented, without the express written permission of HarperCollins. E-book Edition © June 2015 ISBN: 9781474047319 Version date: 2018-07-23 Contents Cover (#ubd2d5bb9-8023-51f6-958a-f27186cb6d12) Blurb (#u6fb1d96b-bf8f-50d9-85e3-4164c4e6f0c1) Title Page (#u5d3db240-06fe-5883-bf5a-e3c1aa042351) Copyright (#uf261386e-11cf-53e3-bec5-5b0316b8ca8f) All I Want for Christmas (#ulink_0a52e054-3af5-54e8-8782-9d853ccf8ae4) Author Bio (#litres_trial_promo) Dedication (#uafb50e7d-0085-5989-8094-6bd3beeb8d18) Chapter One (#ulink_6507fe6f-982d-5621-b304-e7c034d42518) Chapter Two (#ulink_0ac85270-3de9-51f1-bdb8-04db3bcbe7f6) Chapter Three (#ulink_61bdf477-36d1-586f-9cff-446c09afb797) Chapter Four (#ulink_c100f447-d87b-578b-ad06-1207ac9c52b1) Chapter Five (#ulink_35ca8124-d22b-5711-aa1c-f2fc15489adc) Chapter Six (#ulink_950fe2d3-a6a2-50eb-92d9-ef6dfedfa986) Chapter Seven (#ulink_0165b6c1-1651-53e7-bc8f-1460e0ae57cd) Chapter Eight (#ulink_71d09795-ea3a-50ad-bb40-c15dddb23e54) Chapter Nine (#ulink_bfc08873-7860-56e4-9d3f-a9596d5bfafb) Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eleven (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Twelve (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Thirteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Fourteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Fifteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Sixteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Seventeen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eighteen (#litres_trial_promo) Dreaming of a White Wedding (#litres_trial_promo) Author Bio (#litres_trial_promo) Dedication (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter One (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Two (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Three (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Four (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Five (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Six (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Seven (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eight (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Nine (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eleven (#litres_trial_promo) Epilogue (#litres_trial_promo) Christmas Every Day (#litres_trial_promo) Author Bio (#litres_trial_promo) Dedication (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter One (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Two (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Three (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Four (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Five (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Six (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Seven (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eight (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Nine (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eleven (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Twelve (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Thirteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Fourteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Fifteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Sixteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Seventeen (#litres_trial_promo) Endpage (#litres_trial_promo) About the Publisher (#litres_trial_promo) All I Want for Christmas (#ulink_3aef50a0-1cb6-5064-9638-b081ede0f210) Gina Rochelle GINA ROCHELLE was born and raised in the great state of Iowa – America’s heartland – where her love of reading, writing, and nature was nurtured. She couldn’t imagine a better place to grow up, but the dreamer in her was inspired by the beautiful settings and happily ever afters she read about in books. Gina fell in love with romances when she was twelve years old, and it soon became her dream to create her own. For many years she lived in Florida, where she raised her son and worked different jobs…even working as a Disney World cast member. But her dream of becoming a romance writer remained in her heart. Today, Gina lives in colourful Colorado – where she gets endless inspiration from the beautiful Rocky Mountains and is grateful to finally have the career of her dreams – writing romance. For my mom, whose loving encouragement gave me the confidence to follow my dream. And whose love of Christmas has lived on in me. Chapter One (#ulink_3bfdf216-2f56-591c-b171-70ac42e0822b) Isabella Stevens fought the urge to rebel against the hushed quiet that surrounded her. Even the school halls seemed to know how she’d be spending the long Thanksgiving weekend, not to mention the Christmas holidays. Alone. She looked down at her heavy snow boots, tempted to kick them off and slide across the polished floor in her stockinged feet. Maybe it would help her to forget her canceled plans… But no. She was an adult, and a teacher. And even though this job was temporary, she hoped to land a permanent position here at Snow Pass Elementary – the sooner the better. She stopped at the door of the first grade classroom and adjusted her bag on her shoulder, taking a deep breath as she entered. She checked the clock above the door. Seven forty-five. Another half hour of silence until the children began to arrive. She walked to the window of the second-story room and looked out at the gray morning. The roads below were showing signs of the getaway-day hustle and bustle, and she briefly wondered how many of her students, if any, would be traveling out of town. The last few days had been somewhat surreal – getting this job offer, arriving in Colorado, renting a room at an extended-stay hotel. Then the earlier-than-expected call-to-duty. Her plan was to go apartment hunting today, but the early arrival of Cindy Atwater’s baby yesterday had changed everything. With barely any time to catch her breath or familiarize herself with the city of Denver, Isabella was here at Snow Pass – one week ahead of schedule. Fresh off an airplane and a broken engagement – winging it. She shook off her ‘newbie’ nerves. Oh well. It was one day of operating on blind instinct. She had the whole weekend to prepare for class on Monday. Today would be a ‘fun’ day – her alternate celebration, of sorts. An early introduction to her first friends, and job, in her new home state. Isabella moved her focus to the variety of treats she’d brought for the party, arranging them on the long table in the back corner of the room. She frowned as she considered the weather and the holiday. Her intention was to go to the market after school let out, buy all the makings for a small Thanksgiving dinner for one, and snuggle in to her tiny efficiency before the predicted snowstorm hit. But even those plans seemed to be in question now. She sighed. At least she had some soup in her cupboard in the event she had to go straight home this afternoon. Quite a contrast to the festive Thanksgiving she’d planned months ago – before everything fell apart. Little did she know then that she’d be celebrating what should have been her wedding day by doing her laundry, watching some romantic comedies provided by the hotel cable service, and being in bed by ten o’clock. Yippee. The sound of little feet running on the polished concrete drew Isabella’s attention to the door. She smiled with relief, moving to greet the first wonderful student who had made her day seem a little less pitiful by showing up. A deep voice echoed down the hall and stopped her at the door. “Tyler – slow down! Haven’t you been taught not to run inside?” The tiny footsteps ceased as Isabella peeked around the doorway. A young boy who she assumed was one of her students was standing twenty feet away, staring up at the serious face of a tall man dressed in dark jeans, a crisp white shirt, leather jacket, and boots. Isabella’s instant attraction to the man warred with her disapproval of his tone with the child. If this student was the Tyler Butler that the administrator had spoken briefly to her about, then he was only recently transferred to Snow Pass – and she’d been informed that he was seeing the school psychologist three times a week. Before the administrator could explain why, he was called away, and their discussion was cut short. Isabella wondered now if Tyler’s problem could be as simple as the insecurity of being the new kid, or if it was something more. As if sensing her scrutiny, the man turned. Even from this distance, Isabella could see the color of his eyes. Green. Intense. Snaring her. Isabella’s heart thrummed against her rib cage; her breath drew in sharply. And her desire to defend her young student became momentarily quashed as her tongue stuck to the roof of her suddenly parched mouth. Thankfully, he spoke first. “I apologize for my nephew’s disregard for safety, Miss…?” Isabella swallowed. “Hello. I’m Miss Stevens – Tyler’s substitute teacher.” She moved into the classroom, aware of them following behind her. She stopped in front of her desk, grasping its edge as she leaned against it. “I’m happy you’re here today, Tyler.” Isabella smiled warmly at the boy. “I’m going to be your teacher until Mrs. Atwater returns.” He nodded shyly, then moved to the toys at the back of the classroom. Isabella slowly lifted her eyes to the face of the man beside her, flustered by the electricity that seemed to bounce between them as she tried to think of the right words to say on Tyler’s behalf. She was distracted by the strong, sharp line of the man’s jaw and the sensual curve of his lips. His striking looks and sizzling sex appeal, coupled with the fact that Isabella was still upset by his stern tone, made their meeting even more awkward. “I would think you could overlook Tyler’s running in the hall,” she said quietly. After all, I wanted to do the same thing a short while ago. “I mean, considering his…special needs.” She made an effort to sound professional, despite her all-over-the-place thoughts. The man seemed surprised at first. He let out a long breath and shoved his hands in his pockets, turning his gaze to the window. “You’re right, of course.” He forced a half smile, then looked at her again. “I apologize. Tyler has been staying with me, but I’m new to all this…to having a kid around.” He shook his head and looked at his watch. Isabella got the impression he was uncomfortable with their conversation. Which only increased her curiosity. “Forgive my questions – today’s my first day,” she explained. “Is Tyler staying with you temporarily…Mr. Butler, I presume?” For a split second, he looked almost confused. “Sorry…yes, on both counts. I’m Jordan Butler.” He raked his fingers through his hair, then focused on the young boy. “I’m Tyler’s uncle and…temporary guardian.” “Oh…his parents left him in your care?” His eyes narrowed slightly, then he gave a nod. “Yes,” he said stiltedly. “That’s a delicate way of putting it.” He took a step back, toward the door. “Look, I don’t have time for an impromptu parent/teacher meeting right now. My nephew will ride the bus most days, but I drove him today, due to the weather.” He hesitated, then said, “Can we finish this conversation next week sometime?” “Of course…” Her words faded on her lips as he made a quick exit. A group of students entered the classroom, and Isabella welcomed them in, still processing the information her encounter with Jordan Butler had produced. All she’d managed to learn was that Tyler was staying with his uncle, who didn’t seem to be very comfortable with the arrangement. She focused on the quiet child playing with building blocks in the corner. She didn’t know what, exactly, was wrong – but he seemed lonely. She could relate. She walked to the front of the class, summoning her brightest smile. “Please take your seats, everyone.” She waited to continue until all the children were sitting quietly at their desks, Tyler included. “I’m Miss Stevens, your substitute teacher. Mrs. Atwater is staying home with her new baby for the next few weeks. I’m looking forward to getting to know all of you and learning lots of things in our short time together.” She led them in the pledge of allegiance, then took attendance, mentally matching the faces with the names. When the usual morning duties were completed, she smiled again. “I know tomorrow’s Thanksgiving, but I thought we’d start the festive Christmas season a bit early, by writing letters to Santa today. Take your time; do your best to write neatly. And at snack time, we’ll place all our letters in the basket on the back table and have some holiday treats. Won’t that be fun?” Most of the other students let out whoops and hoorays, eagerly taking out their paper and pencils. But Tyler sat still, staring down at his hands on the desk. Isabella went to him and bent down slightly, hoping to sound cheerful. “Tyler, wouldn’t you like to write to Santa and tell him what you want for Christmas this year?” “No.” He lowered his head and hid his face in the bend of his arm. Isabella wondered if she should send him to talk to the school psychologist right now. But she waited a few moments, then whispered, “I’ll make a deal with you. If you write a letter to Santa, I will, too. Okay?” She went back to her desk and sat down, taking out a pen and notepad. Tyler peeked up from the crook of his arm. Sensing him watching, Isabella made a show of it. She rolled her eyes upward, her pen poised at the corner of her mouth. “It’s been so many years…Santa’s probably forgotten me by now.” She mumbled so only Tyler, whose desk was directly in front of hers, could hear. “Maybe I shouldn’t write a letter either – then Santa won’t have to worry about bringing what I want this year.” She was pleased when Tyler whispered back, “I’ll tell him to remember you.” Isabella made eye contact with her student. “All right – it’s a deal.” She smiled again as Tyler seemed to forget his recent refusal and dove into writing. She looked down at her blank piece of paper. She had to hold up her end of it, but she was clueless what to write. She thought of her ex, the man directly responsible for her current state of cynicism. She smirked, feeling reckless. What the heck – this letter will get tossed in a bin at the post office anyway… Dear Santa, This Christmas, I want a man who is breathtaking and gallant. A hero with a heart of gold. Please send a man who wants only me – someone who thinks I’m more beautiful than the snow on Christmas morning. Make him intelligent, and impossibly sexy. And, if this man really exists, could you make sure he’ll love me – for keeps? Sincerely, Isabella Stevens She was so immersed in her vision of the ideal man, Isabella didn’t notice when Tyler finished writing. He was actually smiling at her as she glanced up from her letter. “You were dreaming with your eyes open,” Tyler said. Isabella did her best to hide her embarrassment. “I guess I was – sort of.” The person I asked for only exists in dreams. “You finished your letter quickly, Tyler,” she continued. “Are you sure you remembered to list everything you want for Christmas?” None of the other students seemed close to finishing, she noted, amused. Tyler nodded. “It was easy. I only asked for two things.” “That’s very unselfish, Tyler. I’m sure Santa will like that.” “Miss Stevens?” Tyler said. “Yes, Tyler?” “Do you really think Santa will bring what I want this year?” A brief hope glimmered in his eyes, and Isabella was careful not to douse the tiny spark she’d managed to ignite in him. “Such a short list should be well within Santa’s range of magic. As long as you’re good, I’m sure he’ll do his best.” Tyler seemed content with her answer, if not completely convinced. But Isabella was simply happy for the subtle change in his mood. She went back to her own letter, adding one more wish to her list. P.S. Please try extra hard to make Tyler Butler’s wish come true. *** At eleven a.m., the announcement came over the speaker for an early dismissal, due to the worsening weather. Isabella glanced out the window, checking the sky. The clouds had begun to drop their snowflakes a bit early. The morning news had forecast heavy snow for later in the day. But the looming darkness that framed the Rocky Mountain horizon had her wondering once again if she’d have time to go grocery shopping, even with the early release. A little after eleven-thirty, all of the buses and students had departed. Except Tyler. He seemed oblivious to his uncle’s tardiness. But Isabella was incensed over Jordan Butler’s apparent disregard for his nephew’s needs, let alone his feelings. She wondered how Tyler’s parents had come to entrust their child to him. And why did Tyler’s uncle agree to look after the boy if he didn’t have time for him? Isabella checked with the office. They’d called Jordan Butler at her request after the initial announcement was made. They assured her he was on his way. Isabella got his number from the secretary, and even tried to call him a few times from her cell. But each time, his phone went directly to voice mail. She noted the gathering snow on the ground below, then looked over at her quiet student. The only sounds in the room were the nervous tapping of her foot, and the wind howling outside the glass windows. She decided to save time and put their coats on. After another ten minutes, Isabella rationalized that Jordan Butler must be getting close to the school. She gathered her briefcase and bag of leftover goodies. Then, as an afterthought, collected the Dear Santa letters and stuffed them into her purse. Hoping to bring a smile to young Tyler’s sad face, she said brightly, “I’d better get these sent off today, so Santa will receive them in plenty of time.” He didn’t smile, but there was a slight sparkle in his eye as Isabella led him into the hallway. They made their way down to the entrance of the school. If Jordan Butler didn’t show up soon, Isabella would have to take her student to the office to wait for him. Tyler stared outside for a moment, then looked up at her. “Can we go out and catch snowflakes on our tongues?” Isabella hesitated at first, then decided it might lighten his mood, and hers, to have a little fun. “Okay, Tyler. But I’ll have to put my bags in my car first.” They went outside and headed to the parking lot. There were only a few cars left at the school, belonging to the office personnel still at work. She held Tyler’s hand as they walked hurriedly to her car. As she started to unlock the driver’s side door, the purr of an engine pulled up behind them. Relieved, she turned to stare into the unsmiling face of Jordan Butler as he got out of his large black truck. “Where are you taking my nephew?” He was angry, but Isabella gave him credit for hiding it in front of Tyler. Equally upset with him – not only for his late arrival, but also for thinking she was some sort of kidnapper – she still managed to remain calm. “I’m not taking him anywhere…” she began. “I was just putting my things in my car. I tried to call you several times…” She offered no apology, only lifted her chin defiantly, waiting for his response. It seemed like minutes passed – enough time for Isabella to observe the large snowflakes landing in Jordan Butler’s dark hair, and absently wanting to brush them away with her fingers. Enough time for her to completely forget why she’d been infuriated with him in the first place, as she met the shimmering gaze of his electric eyes. Tyler’s small voice broke into their silence. “We’re gonna catch snow on our tongues.” Jordan looked at his nephew, this time with relief and a touch of amusement, before turning his focus back to Isabella. “You’re his teacher – I should have known he was safe with you,” he conceded. “Of course he is,” she began, then lowered her voice. “As his new teacher…I’d like to talk to you about his…situation. When it’s convenient.” Jordan’s expression was mysterious, and cooler than the wind that blew around them. He smiled politely, but only nodded his agreement to her request. He bent down and lifted the small boy in his arms. “Thank you for looking after my nephew, Miss Stevens. I apologize for being late, but an accident was slowing traffic on the Interstate. I couldn’t get a signal on my cell to call the school.” He hesitated, waiting for her to speak. Isabella found her voice. “My apologies as well. I should have realized it was something like that.” Jordan’s smile was genuine, and Isabella felt herself go warm all over as Tyler chimed in, “Promise you won’t forget to mail the letters, Miss Stevens.” “I won’t forget, Tyler,” she reassured him, a bit shakily. “I promise.” “Happy Thanksgiving, Miss Stevens,” Jordan said. Isabella stood there breathless, watching as Jordan first lifted Tyler into the truck, then got in the driver’s side and drove off into the heavy snowfall. *** Isabella’s Thanksgiving dinner would consist of baked turkey breast, instant mashed potatoes and gravy, canned green beans, and dinner rolls. Followed by a piece of apple pie, topped with vanilla ice cream, for dessert. Then she’d finish the evening with a glass of Pinot Noir while watching her favorite chick flick, The Goodbye Girl, on the classic movie channel. All by herself. She hurried down the grocery aisle, making her way to the checkout counter. She was only a couple of miles from the hotel, but the sky was becoming so dark, it could easily have been five o’clock in the afternoon instead of one p.m. As the cashier totaled her groceries, Isabella reached into her pocketbook for her wallet. The stack of letters the class had written, hers and Tyler’s on top, were tucked inside. She was disappointed she hadn’t mailed them first, when Tyler had reminded her to do so such a short time ago. She rationalized that the weather had distracted her. But in reality, it was Tyler’s uncle who had occupied most of her thoughts in the last hour or so. The questions swirled in her head as she shopped. Why was Jordan Butler so abrupt? Why was Tyler staying with him? Why was she still thinking about the snowflakes in his hair? Why the hell was she wondering any of this at all? After paying for her items, Isabella looked out at the storm, concerned about backtracking to the post office downtown. She shook her head and glanced at the clerk, her guilty conscience propelling her to ask, “Do you know of a box nearby, specifically designated by the post office for ‘Santa’ mail?” Isabella had heard of the program on the evening news, where postal employees and volunteers from charitable organizations would collect letters to Santa from the holiday boxes and, in some cases, make the children’s wishes come true. The clerk chewed her gum and rolled her eyes. “Oh,” she finally said, as if the thought suddenly occurred to her. “I think there’s a Santa box up on Reindeer Ridge, off Highway 36, about ten minutes north of here. At the Toy Shop. It just opened this week for the holiday season. But you’ll have to hurry. I’m sure they’ll be closing soon, with the weather.” Isabella thanked the young girl and hurried to her car, intent on keeping her promise to Tyler. The roads were still manageable and, if the clerk was right, Isabella would save time and miles by going up to Reindeer Ridge to drop off the letters. Minutes later, she slowly navigated the mountain road, trying not to think about the dangers, focusing instead on her mission. But as the path narrowed with the rapid snow accumulation, Isabella began to think she should stop, turn around. She hadn’t passed anyone on the drive up, and she had the sinking feeling that she was already too late. She mentally scolded herself again, then saw twinkling lights through the trees about half a mile up. Yes! She would deliver the letters, then head for home before the roads became too icy. Isabella inched her car toward the Christmas lights. The Toy Shop came into view as she got closer. Festive Christmas decorations adorned the painted glass windows of the lodge-style structure. Near the entrance, a huge lighted Christmas tree captured her attention. Through the heavy snowfall, the enchanting scene beckoned. But, as Isabella’s eyes scanned for human activity, her gaze came to rest on the red CLOSED sign in the front window. Her hopes sank. The letters would have to wait. Isabella softly cursed as she reversed the car. She steered the tires around, then felt a sudden bump. Looking behind her, she realized she’d nearly knocked over a large red mailbox. The gold lettering painted on it indicated ‘Santa Mail’. Of course – it was outside! Relieved, Isabella put the car into park. She hurriedly stepped out, taking the letters from her purse. She opened the box and stuffed them inside. Except hers. Snowflakes landed on the envelope that housed her wish. She wondered who, if anyone, would read her words, and she was beginning to regret writing them. She certainly wasn’t looking for what – or who – she’d asked for. In her attempt to engage Tyler, she’d gotten carried away by a fantasy she’d once believed in – until her ex fianc?, Phillip, showed her how cruel real life could be. But surely no one would recognize the name of the new girl in town, who’d asked for lightning to strike – for a gallant hero to swoop into her life and love her. She shrugged her concerns away and shoved her letter into the box with the others, before she changed her mind. What she wished for didn’t matter. Anyway, not even ‘Santa’ magic could conjure up the kind of man she could take a chance on again. The wind blew harder and Isabella turned up the collar of her coat as she hurried into her car. She started the engine, thankful she’d fulfilled her promise to Tyler. Now, home. She stepped on the gas, spinning the tires on the new-fallen snow. With a sinking heart, she realized she’d backed herself into a ditch. She tried every trick her father taught her to maneuver the vehicle onto the road, but nothing worked. She checked her cell phone, but there was no signal. She looked behind her at the Toy Shop, seeing no signs of people. Still, she had to try. She left her car again and walked toward the Christmassy shop, her chin tucked in against the wind. She was awarded some shelter on the wraparound porch as she knocked on the front door. After a few moments, she tried again, then checked the handle. The door was locked. It dawned on her that she was stranded. She swallowed her panic as the sky became darker and the wind picked up. It was about a mile down the mountain road to the main street. I’m in good shape. I can make it. But a few minutes later, Isabella could barely feel her frozen feet, even though she’d replaced her heels with her snow boots before leaving the school. She urged herself to keep going, and prayed it wouldn’t take long to walk to safety. She was almost more embarrassed for getting herself into this predicament than worried about surviving it. But then she looked ahead of her, horrified to find she’d ventured off the main road. She stopped, suddenly frightened. Every direction looked the same. She turned to follow her footprints back the way she’d come. But the snow had already covered them up. On reflex, she cried, “Help!” The howling wind was all that answered back. “Help, help!” she yelled again, falling to her knees in a moment of defeat. I’m going to die out here…mailing letters to Santa. So much for getting what she asked for. “Hello…” The deep voice of an angel was carried on the wind, reaching Isabella’s ear. “Miss Stevens…” it called. She shook her head, thinking it was a hypothermia-induced hallucination. Then the dark figure of her rescuer emerged through the blinding snow. Isabella struggled to stand as he reached her. He grabbed her shoulders and lifted her onto her feet. She instinctively wrapped her arms around his waist and burrowed her head into his chest as relief, and his strong arms, enveloped her. She found comfort in his steady breathing as he brushed his hand over her hair. She was going to live… He had saved her. “Miss Stevens.” The man’s voice was urgent, concerned. He was too good to be true, an answer to a prayer, and Isabella tingled all over. She huddled closer to his warmth against the wind. When she came to her senses enough to realize he’d said her name, she looked up. Her breath caught as her gaze connected with those unmistakable green eyes… Jordan Butler. “Lady, when you make a promise, you really deliver on it, don’t you?” His expression was relieved and furious at the same time. “Your foolish sincerity nearly got you killed!” Before she could respond, Jordan scooped her into his arms and carried her a surprisingly short distance to his truck. He deposited her into the leathery plush passenger seat, then slammed the door shut with a force that startled her. Isabella watched, dazed, as he went to her car and retrieved her groceries and purse. When he got into his truck next to her, she asked, “What about my car?” “I’m taking you home, Miss Stevens. You need to thaw out and get a good night’s sleep. First thing in the morning, I’ll pick you up and we’ll come back for it.” “But…tomorrow is Thanksgiving,” Isabella reminded him softly. He briefly glanced her way, then turned his eyes back to the road. “I guess you’ll have to put up with me for part of the holiday then.” Pushing back the pathetic thrill she got from the prospect of not spending all of Thanksgiving Day alone, she asked, “How did you know…? “I dropped Tyler off with a friend, who asked me to run a last-minute errand in town.” Jordan shook his head, his eyes glinting down at her. “I thought I saw your car turn toward Reindeer Ridge, so I decided to come out – to make sure you were okay.” His voice held a hint of impatience, but his words warmed Isabella to the core. Gallant. “Thank you,” she whispered. He nodded but said nothing more. When they’d reached the main road, Isabella softly stated her address. Then she closed her eyes and breathed again, as Jordan carefully maneuvered the big warm truck through the storm. Chapter Two (#ulink_93be4bd9-3e4a-5a50-89c7-f0803fcfb3d3) Isabella awoke before dawn. She rubbed her eyes and sat up, swinging her legs off the bed. She felt for her slippers on the cool wooden floor and tucked her feet into them. After a restless night, sleep now eluded her. The frightening experience she’d had in the storm had unnerved her, causing her to toss and turn half the night. She had only herself to blame. She could have avoided the whole episode on Reindeer Ridge by simply fibbing to Tyler, then dropping the letters off at the post office on Friday morning. But, she was honest to a fault. So much so, it could’ve cost her life – as her handsome rescuer had correctly pointed out. She reached for her robe and wrapped herself into its snuggly warmth as she was greeted by the cold morning air on the short walk to the kitchenette. She needed coffee, lots of it. Jordan Butler would be here in a couple of hours and she had to muster every ounce of energy to face him and his nephew. She ran her hands through her honey-colored hair. The natural curls fell around her face and into her eyes as she fumbled with the coffee maker. As the welcoming scent of the rich brew touched her nostrils, she went to the window of her small third-story efficiency. “So beautiful,” Isabella murmured as she gazed out at the blanket of white snow. It sparkled in the fading moonlight of the early morning. Despite her close call with the elements, she loved Colorado. The scene before her now was why she’d come here, all the way from Miami. The peaceful surroundings promoted healing, far away from a man who’d practically left her at the altar to run off with a twenty-year-old flight attendant. Just weeks before her wedding – which would have been today. As the first rays of sun peeked out from the horizon, Tyler’s mysterious uncle entered her thoughts. Why? When her emotions were still raw, so soon after her breakup – why was this man commanding her attention? He was hard, cool, and distant – and her self-confidence was already in shreds. But something about Jordan Butler struck Isabella as extraordinary. He was like the mountains surrounding this place. Strong, tall, darkly beautiful – potentially dangerous. A warning bell went off in her head. Keep a safe distance from both – man and mountain. But she shook it off. After all, she had to make one more trip to Reindeer Ridge with him, to retrieve her car. *** “Uncle Jordan…Miss Stevens…do you think we’ll see Santa?” Isabella sneaked a glance at Jordan’s profile as she rode next to him in the passenger seat. He’d been mostly silent since showing up on her doorstep fifteen minutes ago with Tyler in tow. “It’s Thanksgiving, Tyler,” Isabella answered. “Santa may be spending the day with Mrs. Claus and the elves. But I’m sure he’ll get our letters. I delivered them – my stranded car is proof.” She turned to smile into the face of the boy in the seat behind her. “But if your uncle doesn’t mind, and if it’s open today, I’ll take you to visit the Toy Shop.” “Okay.” Tyler smiled shyly. It stunned Isabella, considering his somber mood yesterday morning. Jordan also glanced at him, then turned back to the road as they reached their destination. He parked the truck in front of Isabella’s car and got out, remaining quiet. Tyler quickly unlatched his seat belt and bolted outside, pulling Isabella’s door open. “Come on, Miss Stevens.” He tugged her hand impatiently as she stepped onto the frozen ground. “Whoa – it’s slippery…” She barely got the words out when her feet hit a patch of ice and slid out from under her. Letting go of Tyler’s hand, she prepared for the hard fall. “Oh!” Jordan’s strong arms caught her. He pulled her close to his solid chest, trapping her hands between them as he held her tight. They stayed that way, face-to-face, for several breathless seconds. Hadn’t she just convinced herself to avoid close contact with him? Yet here she was, locked in Jordan’s safe embrace – again. And his strength, along with his clean male scent, was deliciously intoxicating. She wanted to ignore her female reaction, write it off as desperation – rebound. But Jordan’s sparkling eyes hypnotized her. She melted into him, allowed him to hold her much longer than necessary to gain her footing. His gaze flickered to her lips. With a measure of surprised anticipation, Isabella thought he might kiss her. Then, as suddenly as he’d caught her, Jordan steadied her on her feet and gently pushed her away. He turned abruptly and walked around his truck, pulling a rope from the bed. “I’ll help you,” Isabella offered awkwardly. “No,” came his sharp reply. He barely glanced at her now. “You take Tyler, have fun. I’ll pull your car out and meet you there.” Isabella and Tyler trudged up to the Toy Shop. Surprisingly, it was open – but only until noon. They stepped through the entrance, into a large open space with vaulted ceilings and a massive stone fireplace on the far wall. An oversized red chair sat to the right of the fireplace. A huge Scottish pine stood tall in the corner. It was adorned with shiny ornaments and lights – and a multitude of brightly wrapped gifts beneath it. Isabella’s gaze moved around the room, to the impressive staircase leading to two shops on the second-floor loft. The open landing, decorated in garland, overlooked the enchanting room they stood in. The overall effect was as magical as Christmas itself. The only thing missing was Santa. Isabella’s hope turned to disappointment as her gaze met the kind eyes of a small, gray-haired woman who appeared through the doors of the room below the loft. “Oh my, we expect smiles here. Are you all right, dear?” The woman was soft-spoken and approachable, and Isabella felt inexplicably tempted to tell her everything – how she was supposed to be married today, but instead would be alone on Thanksgiving. Except that, by accident, she was spending some of the morning with her new student and his dangerously attractive uncle. And now, there was no Santa Claus. But she kept it all inside. “I’m fine,” Isabella replied, though her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes. “My name is Mary,” the woman said, taking Tyler by the hand. “You and Miss Stevens have a seat over here, while I go make some hot cocoa.” Isabella was briefly flustered. She didn’t remember introducing herself to this woman. “We’re just waiting for someone,” she interjected. “Yes, the handsome young man outside,” Mary acknowledged. “But he’ll be a little while.” Intrigued despite her qualms, Isabella followed Mary and Tyler to the couch in front of the fireplace. “When Santa visits, he likes to sit right here with a cup of hot chocolate.” Mary winked at Tyler and gave Isabella a knowing smile. “I’ll be back in a jiff.” She retreated through the double doors that Isabella assumed led to the kitchen. Isabella sat quietly while Tyler stared up at the Christmas tree, his gaze glued to a sparkling Santa ornament hanging from a branch just above his head. There were no other visitors milling around, which was understandable, since it was Thanksgiving morning. Mary returned minutes later, placing a mug of cocoa in Tyler’s hands, following his eyes. “Though Santa’s away today, he knows your wish for Christmas. If you’re extra good, Tyler…he’ll bring what you asked for.” She took the ornament from the tree. “For now, he’d want you to have this.” Tyler looked to Isabella for permission. Isabella nodded, giving the woman a guarded smile. “You’ve been very kind, Mary. Thank you for the cocoa, but we should go.” Isabella stood, setting their cups down and taking Tyler’s hand. “Tell Mary thank you,” she reminded him. They turned toward the entrance as the door opened and Jordan entered. Isabella’s eyes met his and she led Tyler to him. Tyler turned to wave shyly and murmur ‘thank you’ to Mary as Jordan took him outside. Isabella stayed behind for a moment, asking, “You know my name – have we met before?” Mary smiled, rocking back on her heels. “We have a mutual friend, dear.” Isabella was amused, thinking Mary was referring to ‘Santa’. But she turned her focus to her student now. “I know you mean well, but Tyler is…fragile,” she said. “I’m worried about your assurance he’d get his Christmas wish.” Isabella had told him herself that Santa would try his best, but Mary had practically guaranteed it, hadn’t she? “Yes, his expectations may be great.” Mary seemed to read Isabella’s thoughts. “So, we’ll just have to make sure we don’t disappoint him.” The older woman stayed in character as she continued. “What Tyler wants might seem out of reach. But, with lots of love – and a little Christmas magic sprinkled in – I’m convinced that anything is possible.” She reached under the tree. “This is for you,” she said, placing a small snow globe in the palm of Isabella’s hand. A glittering star floated freely amongst the white flakes inside its clear walls. Isabella studied Mary’s face, puzzled. The older woman smiled. “Some wishes are meant to come true.” Minutes later, Isabella met Jordan and Tyler outside. The bemused look on her face prompted Jordan to ask, “You okay?” “I’m not sure,” she replied, adding quickly, “It’s just a bit unsettling being up here…after yesterday.” Jordan nodded and glanced back over his shoulder as he carried his nephew across the icy parking lot. He sat Tyler in the truck, then made his way back to Isabella, now seated in her car. “I’ll follow you, to make sure you get home okay.” Jordan shut the door on her slight protest, then got into his own truck. He tailed her as promised, and Isabella tried to take her mind off the strange thrill of it by centering her thoughts on Mary’s words. The fact that the older woman seemed to know what Tyler wanted for Christmas could only mean she’d read his letter. Which, of course, meant Mary had read her wish, as well. And explained how she knew her name. Isabella pushed past her embarrassment by wondering instead what Tyler had asked for. She’d assumed it was the latest toy or gadget released this holiday season – but Mary had implied differently. And as Isabella parked in front of the hotel, she made a mental note to simply ask Tyler about it, if and when the opportunity presented itself. Tyler needed to use the restroom, so he and Jordan followed Isabella up the stairs to her small efficiency apartment. She opened the door and a cloud of smoke greeted them. “Oh no!” she exclaimed. Jordan pushed past her, rushing inside to the kitchenette. Before Isabella could stop him, Tyler darted through the doorway, close on his uncle’s heels. “Wow!” Tyler’s boyish delight over the burnt turkey disaster his uncle pulled from the small oven drew an unexpected roar of laughter – deep and sexy – from Jordan’s chest. Isabella tried her best to be upset, but couldn’t stifle a smile at Tyler’s glee. “You sure can’t cook,” the young boy cracked. He pointed to the charcoal mess in the pan on the counter, falling into a fit of giggles. “I’m glad you both find my bad luck amusing,” Isabella said, pretending to be hurt. “While you’ll go home to a lovely Thanksgiving dinner, I’ll be stuck here with a can of soup.” She regretted the words instantly. They were meant as a joke, but Jordan seemed to pick up on the underlying truth, and Isabella avoided his scrutiny as she helped Tyler to the bathroom. Minutes later, she busied herself disposing of the blackened turkey, all the while feeling Jordan’s burning stare. She nearly jumped when he finally spoke in a serious tone behind her. “You know, my nephew won’t accept you staying here with a can of soup. You’ll have to join us now, for Thanksgiving dinner.” Though Isabella wanted to refuse – wanted to curl up with a bottle of wine and drink to the fact that this day wasn’t meant for her – she knew Jordan was right. Tyler would not enjoy his Thanksgiving knowing his teacher didn’t have a proper meal. Reluctantly, she nodded in agreement. “I’ll bring something,” she offered. “Not necessary,” Jordan replied. “Just bring yourself.” Isabella’s heart stuttered at the unexpected gentleness in his words. She allowed herself to study him from beneath her lashes. Good Lord, he was handsome. And I am pathetic. Of course she knew she was simply reacting to the first gorgeous man with a kind word, after being so coldly jilted. And she also knew she should decline Jordan’s invitation, stay home. Her vulnerability was only intensified with the holiday season. The last thing she needed was to put herself out there, on the rebound – especially now. But the happiness on Tyler’s face when Jordan told him he’d invited her stopped her refusal. “All right, Tyler. I guess you’ll have company for the day.” She smiled at him affectionately. “I’ll just get my coat.” *** Later that afternoon, Isabella was struggling to get over the awkward nerves of being an impromptu guest in Jordan Butler’s home. “I designed and built it myself,” Jordan offered as they went on a mini tour of the beautiful residence, located in the foothills of the Rockies. “I’m impressed.” Isabella smiled. She saw the hesitant pride that glowed in Jordan’s eyes before Tyler took her away to his room to show her all the toys a six-year-old boy could possibly want. Jordan lagged behind, disappearing in the direction of the delicious aroma of roasted turkey and freshly baked apple pie. Tyler ended his tour and he and Isabella returned to the living room, where the young boy quietly showed Isabella a hotel he’d constructed with blocks. Just like the real ones his daddy and Uncle Jordan worked on, he said. Isabella’s interest was piqued. She had intended to go over her student files last night, particularly Tyler’s, but her briefcase was left in her stranded car. Before she could ask Tyler about his father, Jordan reappeared and ushered them to the oval mahogany table in the spacious dining area. A large turkey with all the trimmings was displayed on a platter in the center of the feast. Isabella’s stomach rumbled as Jordan held her chair out, playing the perfect host. “Thank you,” she murmured. Her heart did a flip as she sat down, despite her efforts to remain cool. Jordan seated Tyler in the chair to Isabella’s right, then took the seat directly in front of her. He met her gaze from across the table. “I hope you’re hungry,” he said, his voice warm and honey smooth. Heat crawled up Isabella’s neck. She quickly lowered her eyes and murmured, “Beyond starved.” She tried to push back her embarrassment, and moved her attention to Tyler, who seemed itching to dig in. A short, round woman with salt and pepper hair came bounding through the kitchen door, in a rush. “I’ve left dessert on the counter to cool, Jordan. You should have everything you need…oh!” She stopped mid-sentence, spotting Isabella. “I’m so sorry,” the woman continued, eyeing her. “I didn’t realize you were having a guest for dinner, dear. Were you going to introduce us?” “I apologize, Emily. But Tyler has monopolized Miss Stevens’s attention.” Jordan stood, including both women in his polite smile. “Emily Baron, this is…” He looked uncomfortable for a moment. “Sorry – I didn’t get your first name.” His humility was charming. “Isabella.” She stood and extended her hand to Emily. “It’s wonderful to meet you.” Emily’s face softened and Isabella thought she looked strangely pleased. She shook Isabella’s hand, saying, “Yes…I recall Tyler mentioning you last night. You’re his teacher – the one Jordan found up on Reindeer Ridge yesterday.” Before Isabella could respond, Emily continued. “Well, you’re a beauty – but that’s to be expected, with Jordan’s taste. Still, it’s a nice change for him to bring someone home for dinner.” She caught Jordan’s disapproving glance and brushed it aside, asking, “Do you cook, dear?” Tyler spoke up suddenly. “She can’t cook.” The memory of Isabella’s culinary disaster no doubt drawing the uncharacteristic chuckle from him. Isabella smiled again, feeling the need to correct Emily’s assumption. “Yes, Jordan rescued me from a snowstorm yesterday. And from the pile of ash that was once my Thanksgiving turkey today. But…I’m here as Tyler’s guest.” Jordan remained silent through all of this, taking his seat again, facing the smug gleam in the older woman’s eyes. “Emily is a good friend,” he said for Isabella’s benefit. “Let me guess, you won’t be staying for dinner?” “Of course not, dear,” Emily replied. “You know where I’ll be. But it seems I’m leaving you in good hands.” She winked at Isabella then made her way over to Tyler, bending to kiss him on the cheek. “Make sure your pretty guest has a good time, darling.” Tyler nodded, fidgeting in his seat, staring at the golden turkey in front of him. Emily moved around the table, giving Jordan’s shoulder a slight squeeze as she walked past him to the front door. When she had gone, Jordan began to carve the bird, hesitating as he read Isabella’s look. “Would you like to say grace, Miss Stevens?” Always the teacher, Isabella made an effort to include her student. “Tyler, would you like to say what you’re thankful for?” Tyler remained silent, suddenly distant again. Isabella gently pressed on. “Aren’t you thankful for your family, for instance?” “That’s enough.” Jordan’s low command stifled Isabella’s coaxing. She looked sharply at him, confused. Tyler was still for a moment, then mumbled something inaudible. Isabella ignored Jordan now, asking softly, “What did you say, Tyler?” “I’m thankful for Santa,” he said. Isabella noted the look of relief that shot across Jordan’s handsome features. He even asked, “What was your wish to Santa, Tyler?” Jordan’s attempt to make up for his terse attitude warmed Isabella. She eagerly waited for Tyler to answer the question that had been on her mind, as well. “I asked Santa to bring my mommy and daddy home,” Tyler answered. “I’ve been good, so Santa’s magic will work. Miss Stevens said so.” He took a bite of his dinner roll, oblivious to the startled look on Isabella’s face and the ice-cold stare Jordan shot her way. Realization dawned and a cold dread gripped her. She finally understood why Tyler was staying with Jordan. And why Jordan had every right to be upset with her now. Chapter Three (#ulink_2251fe9a-2da4-5cc5-a390-26c52e874ca3) Jordan was stunned. He had to get out of there, breathe some cold mountain air, clear his head. He needed some space from Isabella’s deceptively innocent stare. He couldn’t believe Tyler’s teacher, a woman who should know better than to make such potentially damaging promises, had been so reckless and irresponsible with his nephew’s emotions. Jordan stood and stepped away from the dinner table, speaking calmly, despite his mood. “I’ll be back in a few minutes,” he said slowly, not meeting Isabella’s shocked stare. “Stay here with Miss Stevens, Tyler. Enjoy your meal.” Jordan went out the back door, not bothering to get a coat, not caring that the temperature was twenty degrees. He wasn’t cold. He was angry – and confused. And he wanted to blame it all on the woman sitting at his dinner table, who had suddenly entered his life via his nephew – and some silly letters to Santa. He wanted to believe that she alone, with her paralyzing blue eyes and kissable pink mouth, was to blame for his current state. But, as he breathed the wintry air, the whole picture played out in his mind’s eye. He relived the past events he had tried so hard to forget. And the recent tragedy that had brought on this new, unimaginable reality. Nearly seven years ago, he declared his brother, Derek, dead to him. And all this time, he shut himself off from feeling anything for him – not love, not even hate. But now, Derek’s death was real – and shattering. Final. Jordan had lost the only person who shared his life memories – good and bad – and he’d become an uncle and a surrogate father in the blink of an eye. Both Tyler’s parents were killed in a fiery crash on a slippery mountain road almost two months ago, and the tragic accident left unsettled issues and a brokenhearted child behind. Jordan didn’t know how to come to terms with any of it – or even if he could. And to make matters worse, Tyler believed Santa was going to bring his parents back to him on Christmas morning. Holy hell! How could he make the boy understand that they were never coming back – when he could hardly believe it himself? He hadn’t felt this desperate since Kim left him – for Derek. The torturous images flooded Jordan’s mind. He recalled the sparks that flew between the two people he loved and trusted most. The way Kim looked at Derek when she thought Jordan wouldn’t see – and how his brother obviously fought his feelings for the woman Jordan loved. Though Jordan had witnessed the hidden smiles and light touches between them, he’d refused to believe his own eyes. So, when Kim and Derek came to him seven years ago, saying they never intended to hurt him, but they’d eloped – a cage locked around his broken and betrayed heart as he quietly ordered them out of his life. He’d shut them out so completely that he’d only just learned of Tyler’s existence after their deaths. His six-and-a-half-year-old nephew. Kim had assured Jordan that Derek refused to sleep with her while she was still with him. Given Tyler’s age, she must have gotten pregnant immediately after eloping. Or she’d lied. Which only cemented his lack of trust in women and relationships. He fought the urge to leave now, drive off into the cold night. Stay gone until the hurts of the past were tucked into the back of his mind once more. But how could he do that now, when the living, breathing proof of Kim and Derek’s betrayal was sleeping under his roof, looking to him for comfort and security…and love? And Tyler’s beautiful teacher hadn’t helped matters at all. He hadn’t been this blindsided since Kim. Isabella was exasperating. Her icy-hot looks – coupled with her misplaced but good intentions – shot sparks through him. The last thing he needed was to want Isabella Stevens. Thank God he had the freezing night air to cool off, as he recalled the feel of her soft curves pressed tightly against him on Reindeer Ridge this morning. The strong physical pull toward her scared the hell out of him. She threatened the inner stability he’d struggled to find since that dark time seven years ago. But she was also Tyler’s teacher. And she’d created a situation that he, admittedly, couldn’t remedy by himself. He found them sitting on the sofa by the fire when he came back inside. Tyler was snuggled next to Isabella as she read a children’s book to him. He stood in the shadows, unnoticed, listening to the soft cadence of her voice as the words lulled Tyler into a peaceful sleep. He waited while she covered his nephew with a blanket and smoothed the hair from his forehead. A look of worry flitted across her delicate features. Where was this concern when she played fast and loose with promises that not even Santa – if he existed – could deliver? “Emily won’t be coming back tonight,” Jordan whispered, glancing at Tyler. “He’s been having trouble sleeping – I don’t want to wake him now.” Isabella stood, her tired eyes focusing on Jordan in the firelight as he spoke. “You’re welcome to stay here for the night but, if you’d rather go home, I’ll call a cab.” “I’m sorry. Tyler insisted I read this story to him,” Isabella said softly. “I didn’t know how long you’d be…out.” She handed the book to Jordan. He absently flipped it open and read the note written inside. “To my son, Tyler – you made my fairy tale come true.Love, Mommy.” He closed the cover, noting how the princess sitting amidst the seven small men resembled Kim. “It’s Tyler’s favorite – he sleeps with it sometimes,” he said, almost to himself. “I think it reminds him of his mother. He misses her…” A brief sadness crept in, along with regret. But it was quickly replaced by the bitter remembrance that Derek had been Kim’s happily ever after. They’d even died together. “I meant no harm when I suggested Tyler write a letter to Santa,” Isabella made a nervous effort to explain. “I had no idea about his parents. Everything was so crazy at school, with it being the day before Thanksgiving, and my first day teaching…I wasn’t informed. He seemed so sad – I just wanted to help him find some Christmas joy.” “Which will be blown all to hell on Christmas morning.” Jordan heard Isabella’s soft gasp and immediately regretted his sharp tone. “I’m sorry,” he said. “No…you’re right,” Isabella whispered. “I wish there was a way I could fix this…” Jordan stayed silent for a long moment, resisting the urge to tell her it was okay. Because it wasn’t. And he needed help figuring it out. He was new to this parenting business, and he had no idea how to handle any child, let alone a six-year-old whose fragile emotions were about to be shattered on what should be the happiest day of the year. “You could move in here.” He said the words before the idea fully formed in his head. He forced himself to meet her stunned gaze. “What…?” Isabella’s surprise was almost equal to his own. Jordan threw up his hands, frustrated. “It’s just an impulsive thought – probably even a reckless one. But…I’m desperate here. And Tyler seems to like you. A lot. You’re good with him – when you’re not promising him miracles, that is.” He noted the embarrassment tinting her skin, and the spark of doubt in her eyes. “Forget I even suggested it.” He mentally kicked himself for thinking out loud, and moved to Tyler, lifting him from the sofa. He gently carried his nephew down the hall. Isabella followed and stood in the shadows as he tucked Tyler into his bed, under a cozy, animal-print blanket. His skin pricked with awareness as he felt her stare. Was he crazy, asking Tyler’s beautiful teacher, a woman, to move in with him? He looked down at his sleeping nephew. He’d asked it for Tyler, not himself. And he’d pushed his own doubts, and fears, aside to do it. Isabella walked back to the living room, and Jordan left Tyler, catching up with her near the fireplace. For a few moments, they stood side by side, silently staring into the flames. “I’m sorry I’ve made matters worse,” Isabella spoke first. Jordan shook his head and shoved his hands in his pockets. “I didn’t expect any of this – my brother’s death, meeting my nephew for the first time. Taking him in.” He felt Isabella’s surprised glance. “It’s a long story – but my brother Derek and I were estranged. Besides the fact that I barely know Tyler, my job requires much of my time and attention.” He sighed. “This arrangement is only temporary, and Emily’s a big help, but still…” Isabella’s attention snapped to his face. “What do you mean?” Jordan ignored the guilt that spiked his conscience. “Tyler’s stay here can’t be permanent. I have a nice couple in mind – Derek’s friends in Boulder, the Forresters. They recently contacted me about spending time with Tyler. I think they could be good for him – they love kids, apparently. So, when he’s strong enough, I plan to send him on short visits to their home. With any luck, they’ll become Tyler’s new parents.” He defended himself against the disbelief in Isabella’s eyes. “Surely you can see I’m not father material, Miss Stevens. But I’m Tyler’s only living relative. It’s my responsibility to bring him through this first Christmas without his parents – which hasn’t been made any easier by your ‘Dear Santa’ project.” A long, pregnant silence filled the room. He didn’t know why he was compelled to appeal to the woman whose mere presence put pressure on the protective cage around his heart. It would probably be wiser to call a cab, send her off – into the night, and out of his life. And so he surprised himself again with his next words. “The offer to move in still stands. You said you wished you could fix this. So, will you help me, Isabella?” *** Isabella. He’d said her name for the first time…so soft, so sweet… So terrifyingly seductive. It sent electricity pulsing through her veins, and left goose bumps on her skin. Reason enough to throw his offer out the window. And leave. The way he affected her only added to her worries – and drove her up the wall. On one hand, he infuriated her with his calculated, almost cold planning of Tyler’s future. Then, on the other hand, he made her go warm all over with just a word or a look – and made her wish for things she had no business thinking about. She should run as far from his piercing eyes and magnetic pull as she could get… But what would happen to Tyler? He’d lost too much already. His situation was a mountain compared to her own small pile of issues – it consumed her self-preservation instinct with each new disclosure Jordan shared. Still, staying here… There must be some other way to help. “This is all…overwhelming,” she started. “I’ve only known Tyler for a few days. And we can’t forget that I’m his teacher. I don’t know if it’s ethical…” “You’re living in an extended-stay hotel, for God’s sake. We could make this work. I have a guesthouse. You could stay there, and compensate me by looking after Tyler when I’m gone. Emily checks in, but she’s especially busy this time of year. And what could be more ethical than a teacher trying to help her troubled student?” Jordan’s argument was valid, she thought. The orphaned boy – her student – had already grabbed her heart to the point where it would be unethical not to help him in any way she could. “The idea of moving in here…is huge. I have to consider whether it’s the right thing for Tyler. And yes, there’s the issue of my job. I hope to secure a permanent position at Snow Pass someday. Even if I agreed to stay, I’d have to check with the school first.” “That’s understandable,” Jordan replied slowly. “But surely they won’t object if we’re not technically living together.” It was crazy to even consider it. Being near him scared the living daylights out of her, let alone the idea of moving in next door. But… Tyler needed her. “You’ll consider my proposition then?” Jordan’s intense gaze sent her hormones into overdrive – again. No! Her warning bell sounded. A sudden fear of the possible consequences, should she stay, sent chills through her. “I don’t know…” A small, strangled cry cut through the night, stopping their discussion. Jordan moved first, rushing down the hallway, with Isabella close behind. He pushed into Tyler’s room and went to his bedside. Tyler was sitting up, sobbing uncontrollably. “I want my mommy,” he cried. “Tyler, I’m here,” Jordan whispered softly. He ran his hand over the boy’s head in an effort to calm him, but Tyler pulled away from his touch and flung himself back on the bed. He kicked his feet and his sobs shattered the quiet night. Isabella watched the scene, waited for Jordan to hold his nephew. But when Tyler screamed for his mommy once more, Jordan’s eyes sent her a silent plea. Tyler must have seen her there, and he cried out, “Miss Stevens!” She went to him without hesitation, bending over and pulling him up into her embrace. She sat down on the bed and gently rocked him in her arms. She caught Jordan’s stare over the top of Tyler’s head, reading the unspoken panic in the shimmering green depths of his eyes. It did something to her heart. In that moment, she felt for Jordan almost as much as she did for her orphaned student. The fact that this should have been her wedding night did not compare to their pain. When Tyler’s sobs calmed, she kissed the top of his head and eased off the bed, laying him down and tucking his blanket under his chin. Jordan was standing close behind her and she turned, without looking up at him. “I’ll stay the night, in case Tyler wakes up again. But that’s all I can promise, for now.” He nodded, and it seemed as if a partial weight lifted from his shoulders. “I’ll show you to the guesthouse…” “No. I’ll stay here, in this chair by the bed. There’s an extra blanket, and it’s big enough, and comfortable-looking.” Jordan watched her, then unexpectedly reached out and swept his thumb along the curve of her jaw. Her heart beat wildly and she dared not look into his eyes. Thankfully, he dropped his hand and stepped back, inhaling a ragged breath. “All of this has thrown me for a loop, Isabella.” Jordan’s tortured whisper broke into her thoughts and she finally looked at him. The soft glow from Tyler’s nightlight illuminated the sharp angles of his face. He shook his head cynically. “I’m struggling to figure this out, but I want to do what’s best for my nephew.” “I want that, too.” She spoke firmly, surprising herself how well she hid her churning emotions. She wanted Tyler to have his Christmas wish come true – and knew it could never happen. “But we’ll have to see about my staying, okay?” Jordan ran a hand through his hair and nodded. “Fair enough.” He left the room, then hesitated in the doorway. “Thank you, Isabella.” “Goodnight,” she responded softly as he shut the door behind him. She wrapped her arms around herself and sat down in the oversized chair. Tyler’s calm, steady breathing did little to ease the terror that gripped her. Even if the school administrator approved the proposed living arrangement, should she really agree to it? Could she move in next door to the dark stranger who swooped into her life, rescued her, and wreaked havoc on her senses? A man she’d only known for a few days? The only thing stopping her from bolting was the orphaned child beside her. His cries haunted her.He’s been having trouble sleeping through the night… She had to consider staying, for Tyler’s sake. But even as she thought this, Isabella wondered if she had enough love left to give to the boy whose heart had been broken beyond measure. And enough courage to crack Jordan’s hard exterior, when her faith in men had been shaken so completely. *** Isabella was waiting in Jordan’s kitchen, coffee brewing, by the time Tyler came down the hallway. She went to him and took his hand. He rubbed his eyes and looked up at her. “Did you sleep here, Miss Stevens?” Isabella hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “You fell asleep before your uncle could take me home last night, so I stayed.” She smiled at his innocent, wide-eyed stare. “Are you happy I’m here?” Her heart leapt as he nodded his head vigorously. “Can I have some corn puffs?” She was relieved last night’s trauma had passed, for now. “I’ll see if your uncle has some hidden in the cupboard.” He nodded and moved to his toy box in the corner of the room. Isabella searched for the cereal, feeling slightly uncomfortable with the task. The coffee pot had already been pre-set to brew, so she hadn’t had to do that. When she found the cereal, she turned around. Jordan was there, pouring a cup of coffee and glancing at her out the corner of his eye. She didn’t know what mortified her the most – the fact that she’d been pillaging his cupboards, or her hormonal reaction to his clean-shaven good looks and dark hair, still damp from a shower. And then there was the fact that she’d simply splashed water on her face and rinsed her mouth this morning – not exactly attractive. She raised a hand to her finger-combed hair. Jordan’s piercing gaze captured hers and a slight smile touched his lips. “Good morning, Isabella.” “Good morning.” She didn’t return his smile. “I was just getting Tyler some cereal.” Tyler went to Jordan, stretching his neck up at his uncle’s tall frame. Isabella was touched as Jordan knelt to Tyler’s level. “Is Miss Stevens living here, Uncle Jordan?” To her relief, Jordan focused on his nephew, tousling the young boy’s hair. “Well, I don’t know, Tyler. Would you like that?” Tyler nodded again, then turned hopeful eyes to her. Isabella didn’t know what to say. Thankfully, Jordan did. “Miss Stevens has to check with the school first, since she’s your teacher. But at the very least, I’d like her to spend some extra time with you till Christmas – is that okay with you?” “It’s okay,” Tyler said, stepping up and taking a chair at the table. “But I’d like it if she lived here.” Isabella took his bowl to the table and set it in front of him. “I think I’d like that, too, Tyler.” She winked down at the young boy. “We’ll see what the school says on Monday – okay?” “Okay,” Tyler said, stuffing a bite of cereal in his mouth with one hand, and rolling a toy truck on the table with the other. She felt Jordan’s gaze on her. Finally, she looked at him. “Would you like me to cook something for breakfast?” “Absolutely not,” Jordan responded. “Sit down. I’ll cook.” Isabella sat opposite Tyler at the table, staring out the large window behind him. She tried to focus on anything other than the awkwardness of being in Jordan Butler’s home while he cooked for her. Wow. She wanted to go back to her hotel room and hide under her covers. But she was here for Tyler. And, as uncomfortable as she felt sitting here in the same clothes she’d worn yesterday, she was grateful to be in Colorado, with thousands of miles between her and Florida – and Phillip. She lowered her eyes, nervously playing with the corner of a napkin. Phillip Monroe was a pilot, based in Miami. She’d stayed in Florida for him – wasted years in that bad relationship. And all she’d come away with was the bitter wisdom to know better next time. “Do you like omelets?” Jordan asked, bringing her out of her thoughts. Isabella suppressed the familiar tears that came with her regret. “Oh – yes,” she replied, forcing a too-bright smile. Jordan regarded her, then nodded and went back to cooking. Refusing to waste another minute feeling sorry for herself, Isabella centered her thoughts on Tyler. He chewed his cereal and quietly pushed the metal truck along the designs in the tablecloth. He was an adorable boy, with dark hair and green eyes, just like his Uncle Jordan. The family resemblance was striking, and Isabella assumed Jordan’s brother must have looked very much like him. “I was wondering…” Jordan pushed her breakfast in front of her, sitting next to her. “I’m on a tight schedule this morning – and I haven’t asked Emily to come by. Would you mind spending some time with Tyler today?” “Well,” she started, touching her hair again. “I haven’t had a shower yet…” “Of course, I’m sorry.” Isabella sensed the cool return of the emotionally distant man she’d met for the first time at the school. “You probably have your own plans for the day.” “Well, no. I don’t, actually.” She looked over and noted Tyler was listening. “I’d love to spend the day with Tyler. If you wouldn’t mind driving us to my suite, I’ll freshen up and get my car. Maybe take Tyler to the mall. I haven’t had a chance to get out and about yet. And it’s Black Friday.” She winked at her student. “Maybe Tyler can help me find all the best holiday deals.” “Would you like to go shopping with Miss Stevens today?” Jordan asked his nephew. Tyler gave a short nod and a tiny smile. Isabella caught Jordan’s glance as she took a quick bite of her breakfast. Visibly swallowing, she said, “This is delicious. You’re a good cook, Jordan.” Jordan shrugged, leaning back in his chair and crossing his arms over his chest. “I learned to do a lot of things on my own, out of necessity. My mother died when I was very young.” A look of dread touched his features, obviously remembering his nephew’s recent loss. Thankfully, Tyler was drinking the milk in his bowl, unaware of the adult conversation. Jordan cupped his hands over his plate and leaned his forehead into them. “Like I said…” he spoke softly “…I’m not used to this.” Isabella reached out, touching his arm gently. Jordan’s gaze settled on her hand, so small in contrast to his muscular forearm. When he lifted his eyes to hers, there was an emotion in them that shot heat to her core. She pulled her hand back quickly, standing to take their dishes to the sink. Jordan stopped her with his words. “Why don’t you get your coat? I’ll take care of the dishes.” *** Jordan stayed with Tyler in her apartment while Isabella quickly showered and threw on a pair of skinny jeans and an oversized white sweater, belted at the waist. She applied a light eye shadow and a touch of pink lip gloss, and blow-dried her hair straight. Jordan was seated on the edge of the bed with Tyler, watching a cartoon when she emerged from the bathroom. She saw the look of approval in his eyes, though he quickly stood and ruffled Tyler’s hair. “Looks like I’m not needed anymore, buddy. I’m headed to work – have fun with Miss Stevens.” Isabella met his gaze as she slipped on her boots. “Shall I bring him back here…?” Jordan shook his head. “I’ll meet you at my house. Say, two o’clock?” “Yes, that’s fine,” Isabella replied as he walked to the door. “See you then.” He nodded and left. Isabella used her GPS to navigate her way to the Park Meadows Mall. As she parked her car in an empty space, she absently noted how the sprawling structure looked like a giant-sized version of the Toy Shop on Reindeer Ridge. She led Tyler through the entrance into a colorful feast for the eyes. But, despite the festive decorations and the general air of excitement all around, Isabella had no success bringing Tyler out of a sudden bout of sadness. He withdrew, just like the day before Thanksgiving. “What’s wrong, Tyler?” she asked gently. They sat by the cozy fireplace in the center of the huge food court, watching an electric train go around the track beneath one of the many Christmas trees there. Isabella bought Tyler treats, but he barely took a bite or even spoke to her. After a moment, she sat back and sighed, assuming he wasn’t going to speak. “Mommy brought me here last Christmas,” he said quietly. His surprising statement broke Isabella’s heart. “That’s nice, Tyler,” she replied, treading softly. “Did your mommy take you to a special shop you’d like visit today?” Tyler shook his head firmly. “She took me to see Santa…but he wasn’t the real one. Mommy told me it was okay – the real Santa knew what I wanted.” His chin trembled. Isabella sensed where this was leading, and she wanted to spare him the pain of his memories. But she assumed it was good to let him talk about it. “He didn’t bring me what I wanted last Christmas,” Tyler continued. “But I wrote him a letter anyway, because you did, too.” Isabella absorbed his words. Tyler believed Santa let him down last year. And this year, he’s asked for the impossible. She struggled for a solution as a new dread gripped her. She let her instincts guide her and asked, “What did you wish for last Christmas, Tyler?” Tyler peeked at her, hesitating to trust her with such precious information. He kicked his foot up and down. Isabella reached over to smooth a lock of hair from his eyes and he stopped the nervous action. “I wished for a dog,” he blurted. “But I didn’t tell Mommy, ’cause she would say no.” Isabella felt a slight spark of hope. A dog was possible! Gently, she asked, “Why wouldn’t your mommy let you have a dog, Tyler?” “Because they make her sick.” The words poured from him now. “I asked Santa for a magic dog that wouldn’t make her sneeze – but all he brought me was toys.” Tyler turned to Isabella and put his head against her shoulder. “I still want a dog,” he stated softly. “But I didn’t ask for one this year, ’cause then Mommy won’t come back.” Chapter Four (#ulink_0d51a9fd-b1e6-5003-ae66-023d5db2430e) When Isabella and Tyler returned that afternoon, Jordan pulled into the driveway just moments behind them. As he unlocked the door, his eyes moved to Tyler’s sleepy face, then back to Isabella. She smiled guardedly but remained silent as she led Tyler to his room. “Are you gonna stay here again, Miss Stevens?” he asked sleepily as Isabella tucked him in for a nap. “Not tonight, Tyler. But you’ll have lots of fun with your uncle and Emily this weekend, won’t you?” He nodded and yawned. “I’ll see you Monday, at school,” she said. But he was already asleep as she smoothed the hair back from his forehead. She sought Jordan out on the back patio. He was standing there, staring at the sun shining on the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies, strikingly attractive in his black cargo pants and black shirt, casually unbuttoned at the neck. Focus. She had to talk to him about Tyler and his disturbing, unwavering belief that his mother was coming back for Christmas. Jordan seemed to pick up on her stress and took a deep breath as she stood next to him. “Did something happen today?” Isabella faced him, her shoulders squared. “Your nephew is very confused, Jordan.” She shook her head, feeling suddenly helpless. “He wants a dog for Christmas. But he didn’t ask for one because his mother’s allergic, and he’s worried she won’t come home if he gets one.” She sighed. “I’m afraid he needs more help than you or I can imagine.” Jordan absorbed her statement, then spoke carefully. “Don’t you think I know that, Isabella?” His voice was intense, and he let out a humorless laugh. “I don’t have a clue what to do for him. That’s why I asked for your help. My God.” He raked his hand through his hair. “I know he’s my nephew – and I want him with me through the holidays. But this is just further proof that he needs people who are prepared to fill the enormous void in his life.” Jordan’s words hung in the frigid air, and Isabella was crushed by a wave of sickness and anger. “Why not you?” she lashed out in frustration. “He’s just a little boy. What would it do to him if you send him away?” Her question failed to knock the firm resolve from his face. “Why should I waste my time trying to help him? Any progress you or I make in the next few weeks could be wiped away if he loses you, too.” She speared him with her accusation. “What you’re considering could damage him further.” “I’ll be giving him a family, Isabella. He wished for his parents. He wants a mother and father more than anything else.” Isabella couldn’t argue with that. But, despite the fact that Jordan was partially right, she wasn’t convinced he should give up on keeping his nephew with him. “You’re his family, Jordan. He needs you…not strangers.” “Just leave this alone, Isabella.” Jordan’s words, low and deep, sent a warning. “You don’t understand.” “Jordan, please…” Isabella’s plea was cut short. “My nephew’s mother was my fianc?.” He caught her quick look, a bitter smirk on his lips. “She left me for my brother, Isabella.” He stepped close enough so that she could see the flash of pain in his eyes. “Tyler – their child – is a constant reminder of that betrayal.” Isabella’s first instinct was to defend Tyler, but her heart ached equally for Jordan. Still raw from her torn engagement, being betrayed was something she could relate to. “I’m sorry they did that to you.” The conviction in her words grabbed Jordan’s full attention. “You’ve been hurt, in the worst way. But it’s not Tyler’s fault,” she asserted. “Please, Jordan. Don’t punish him for something he had nothing to do with.” Isabella finished, then looked away from his burning scrutiny. He reached out and touched her cheek, turning her gaze to his. Damn those eyes. They drew her in, held her there – though every warning bell told her to run. “Isabella…” he whispered, tortured. He pulled her to him; his eyes fell to her lips. Their hearts did a dance, chest to chest. She felt so alive when she was this close to him – so dizzy with desire. This man – this exasperating stranger – somehow reached her in a way Phillip never had. He churned a fire within her, brought her to the point of losing control of her judgment. God help her, she wanted him to kiss her. Yes… The thought of Tyler’s sad face today brought Isabella crashing to reality. No! She couldn’t let this happen between them. Not now…not ever. This was wrong – on so many levels. There was Tyler to consider, and Jordan was still pining for the woman who left him for his brother. Not to mention, she was a jilted bride… Isabella mustered her strength and pushed against Jordan’s chest. A shock of wintry air came rushing between them as his arms released her. Jordan stared at her in the early evening shadows, exhaling slowly. Isabella wrapped her arms around herself and tore her eyes from his tormented expression. If she looked at him one moment longer, she’d crumble. She didn’t trust her own urges right now. The last thing she needed, or wanted, was a rebound roll in the hay. And certainly not with her troubled student’s uncle! “This,” she hissed. “This thing between us is exactly why I’m not comfortable with the idea of moving in!” She shocked herself with her brutal honesty. “But after today…” “After today – what?” he asked quietly. “You’ve decided to stay?” She pushed her hands through her hair and stared into the doorway, as if expecting Tyler to appear. “I thought I had. But then you started talking about sending him away again. Because his mother broke your heart, you’re going to break his, as well. And I won’t stick around to see that.” “It’s not set in stone,” he said quietly, surprising her. She speared him with a laser glare. “Don’t play me, Jordan. I won’t waste my time. And I won’t forgive you if you hurt Tyler in any way.” “This isn’t a game, Isabella. Can’t you see I just want to do what’s right?” She set her jaw, forced herself to say the words she knew she might come to regret after Christmas. “If that’s true, then I’ll help you. You made a proposition to me, now I’m making one to you. If you promise to at least consider making this Tyler’s permanent home, I’ll stay.” She held up her hand as he let out a relieved puff of air. “I still have to clear it with the school – I’ll let you know definitively on Monday.” Without another word, she turned and left him standing outside. She walked through the front door and got into her car. As Jordan’s house disappeared from her view, she wished she could shut him out of her thoughts, as well. He was a devastating man. Though the woman inside her screamed for his touch, he hadn’t forgotten his painful past. She was just a schoolteacher and he’d reached out to her in a moment of frustration. He didn’t want her – he wanted a ghost. Isabella knew the sting of being an emotional stand-in – and she wasn’t about to let what happened with Phillip be repeated with Jordan. *** What the hell am I doing? Jordan vowed years ago that he’d never put himself at the mercy of a woman again – let alone expose himself to any sort of emotional vulnerability. Now, because of circumstances beyond his control, he’d not only taken his orphaned nephew in, but he’d also practically begged Tyler’s teacher to live on his property – the woman who had invaded his thoughts since he’d met her. And she’d even persuaded him to consider making this Tyler’s permanent home! Jordan had been successful in isolating himself from relationships for seven years, and made his work the focus in his life. He was content to keep it that way. Okay, so he’d make a serious effort to try – as he’d promised Isabella. But he’d do what was right for Tyler, whether that meant keeping him here indefinitely or finding him a new family. He hadn’t promised to get attached to anyone – that simply wasn’t going to happen. Because of Kim. Beautiful, with dark hair and dark eyes – Kim was the type of woman he’d always been attracted to. The type he thought he’d spend the rest of his life with. She’d literally bumped into him on the sidewalk in front of a coffee shop in Denver nearly eight years ago. He was immediately attracted to her, and wanted to get to know her. He bought her a cup of coffee and they were inseparable after that. They fell into a relationship, without even thinking about it, without stopping to take a breath. They slept together almost immediately, and moved in together soon after. He’d been certain Kim was the one. She fit his ideal completely. But he couldn’t have been more wrong. He couldn’t have been a bigger fool. And now, here was Isabella. Damn. She didn’t fit his type – But beautiful…she was definitely that. And, God help him, he was more drawn to her than any woman he’d ever met. Blonde hair, blue eyes, fragile. And the way she looked at him with those eyes, so full of disapproval when she’d first met him…then lit with desire tonight. She was a complete surprise to him. She was dangerous. It would be so easy for him to start up with her, as he had with Kim. But he wouldn’t repeat the past – it would only end badly. And he wouldn’t go down that road again. Isabella was just another woman. Despite her thoughtful words and gestures, despite the fact that she didn’t have to do any of this, yet she agreed to, for Tyler – despite it all, she was still a woman. And when it came down to it, they were all the same… His mother left him first, dying on an Aspen slope when he wasn’t much older than Tyler. Then, years later, Kim left him for Derek. If he allowed Isabella in, she would soon follow suit. After all, their tentative agreement was only until Christmas. In the end, they all left. So, this time, he wouldn’t give a damn when it was time for Tyler’s beautiful teacher to go. *** Isabella had spent her Saturday and Sunday as she’d originally planned, getting caught up on her student files and preparing for class on Monday. She’d purposely waited to read Tyler’s file last. Even though she was aware of the reason Tyler was transferred to Snow Pass, actually reading the circumstances surrounding his situation only cemented her determination to convince the school administrator to allow her to spend more time with him. It took some compelling persuasion from her and approval from the school psychologist to bring the administrator around, but finally he relented, saying that Tyler should have whatever support they could offer him – as long as Isabella kept to basic ethics of conduct and she wasn’t actually living in the same house as Tyler. That was a relief. “Good morning, Isabella.” Jordan’s voice brought the inevitable goose bumps and Isabella looked up from her desk, a ready smile for the two people she’d spent most of the weekend thinking about. She swept her gaze to Jordan’s face then purposely focused on Tyler, ignoring her skittering pulse. “Good morning.” Tyler mumbled ‘morning’ then shyly shuffled off to the blocks in the corner. “I drove my nephew today, in the hopes you’d have an answer,” Jordan said quietly. Isabella waited until a few of the other students entered and sat at their desks before stepping up next to him. “I hope Tyler’s weekend went smoothly.” He nodded. “He woke a few times last night, but Emily was there. Thankfully.” Isabella looked at him. She wondered why Jordan had such a hard time comforting his nephew. It was like there was a wall around him. “I spoke to the administrator. He’s fine with my living in your guesthouse, as long as I stick to the school tenets.” She met Jordan’s stare, her underlying meaning understood. The change in his demeanor was instant. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. You’ll be there for Tyler, that’s all.” His cool reassurance should have eased her mind, especially after their heated moment on his patio Friday afternoon. But strangely, it left her feeling hollow. “After I finish here for the day, I can have my things packed in no time. Shall I come over tonight?” “That’s fine – perfect, in fact.” He forced a smile. “I’ll ask Emily to prepare dinner – you’re welcome to join us after you’re settled.” “Oh – okay. Thank you.” She absently tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and dropped her gaze to the floor. “See you tonight then,” he said, his voice taking on a gravelly edge. “Have a good day.” “You, too,” she said quietly, glancing up again as Jordan left the classroom. Isabella went through the morning motions but, even after the lunch break, she was still distracted by thoughts of her new living arrangement. She felt strange, detached from her recent life. Just four days ago, she had planned to spend Thanksgiving – and Christmas – alone. And now she was moving next door to this small family, whom she felt a personal obligation to. Though the stay was only temporary – she had a new purpose, outside of school. And she tried to convince herself it was a good thing, despite her perplexing attraction to Jordan. Difficult as it was, she hoped that thinking about Tyler and working on his relationship with Jordan would take her mind off her failed personal life. Phillip had discarded her. Made her wary of men. But Tyler needed her. And, as much as she hated to admit it, Jordan needed her, too. She just had to remember that her only goal was to convince him to open his heart to his nephew. And the thing between the two of them was just their personal frustrations coming to the surface – period. “Miss Stevens, can I go first?” Marty Showeiler raised his hand and spoke up, breaking into Isabella’s thoughts. The class was patiently waiting for her to begin their show-and-tell. Isabella smiled warmly at her student. “Of course, Marty. Come to the front and share what you have with us.” Marty began their afternoon with a display of animal pictures, mostly dogs. He explained how they didn’t have owners, and were in need of good homes. He added that his mom worked at the local animal shelter, and informed the class that if they wanted a pet for Christmas, they should ask Santa to rescue one. Marty finished with a photo of a yellow Lab with big sad eyes, who’d been at the shelter eleven months. Isabella ventured a glance at Tyler. His attention was glued to the picture of the dog and she recalled his wish from a year ago. He looked down at his desk as Marty returned to his seat, not glancing at the board of pictures again while waiting for his turn. After all the other students had given their presentations, Isabella called his name. “Tyler Butler?” She spoke gently, and smiled encouragingly toward the student she’d unexpectedly taken under her wing. “Do you have anything you want to share with us?” Tyler slowly walked to the front of the class. His head was down and he held a picture in his left hand. He waited a few moments before he started to speak, quietly at first. He avoided eye contact with anyone, but held up the photo, focusing on it instead. Isabella was relieved when he introduced the person in the picture as his friend Emily. His voice was low and Isabella asked him to speak a bit louder. He looked at her, uncertainty clouding his eyes. Isabella nodded and Tyler held the photo in front of him, as if to hide behind it. “I just wanted to show you this picture,” he began slowly. “She’s my friend – Emily.” He stared at his shoelaces, though speaking loudly enough for everyone to hear him. “She’s my uncle Jordan’s neighbor, and the nicest person I know, because she helps people who don’t have homes or food. She cooked for me when my mommy and daddy went away. My uncle Jordan says she’s an angel on earth.” A little boy in the back of the classroom snickered. “Does she have wings?” And Tyler seemed to visibly shrink. His eyes met Isabella’s again, terrified. “I, for one, believe there are angels among us.” Isabella came to his rescue. “Especially at Christmas time. That’s something we should all think about. You don’t have to have wings and live in Heaven to be an angel. Anyone who helps someone less fortunate than themselves is doing the work of an angel.” Every face in the room looked intrigued by this notion. “Tyler has touched on the spirit of Christmas.” She smiled at him. “As a matter of fact, I think we should base our Christmas show-and-tell on Tyler’s idea. I want you all to think of someone you know who is an angel on earth, and share their story with us. Your presentations will be due the day before Christmas break. Thank you, Tyler,” she said as he proudly made his way back to his seat. Isabella was pleased by the excitement stirred up over the assignment. She listened, amused, as the children compared stories of their own real-life angels, their creative juices already flowing as they prepared to go home for the day. Isabella looked over at the young boy who had surprised her once again. He was sitting at his desk, playing quietly with a small toy truck, unaware how proud she was of him. And how he touched her heart. Chapter Five (#ulink_4db7b498-86ee-5e8a-a826-fb12ff53d99e) Luckily, everything Isabella owned fit into two suitcases, so it was still daylight when she loaded them into her car that evening. Since she’d paid for her suite at the extended-stay hotel through the month of December, she let the super know she’d be gone a few weeks, but would return after Christmas. At least she’d have a place to go if she didn’t find something permanent by then. Right now, the hotel was affordable, and she had to think of her limited savings, especially since she’d only have three weeks’ income from her current substitute-teaching job. She pulled into Jordan’s circular driveway as the sun began to set behind the Rockies. As she stepped out of her car, the front door opened and Jordan stood there, his hand resting on Tyler’s shoulder. Tyler shrugged from his grasp and ran over to her. She shut her car door and bent down as he approached her. “Hello, Tyler. Better get back inside – it’s cool outside without a coat.” Tyler remained silent but took hold of her hand and practically tugged her to the house. Jordan stepped aside as they entered. “Supper’s ready, Miss Stevens,” Tyler said. “Oh, good. I’m really hungry – are you, Tyler?” He nodded and waited as she removed her coat and hung it on a hook by the door. Jordan remained silent through all of this, but spoke up behind her as they walked to the kitchen. “I’ll let you two eat; I have a business call to make. When you’re finished, I’ll show you to the guesthouse, Isabella.” “You’ve already eaten?” she asked, disappointed that he wasn’t having dinner with his nephew. “I ate a large lunch. But I’ll join you when I finish my call.” Isabella tamped down her irritation, for Tyler’s sake. But as she sat at the kitchen table with Tyler, eating a delicious macaroni and cheese casserole Emily had prepared, she couldn’t help but think that Jordan was taking advantage of the situation. Though she loved being with Tyler, she had no intention of allowing her presence to take away from Jordan’s time with his nephew. Quite the opposite, in fact. Still, as he retreated into another room, she realized this was going to be even more challenging than she originally thought. “Are you happy I’m going to stay in the guesthouse, Tyler?” she asked the boy, who’d fallen into silence as they ate. “Yes,” he said quietly, then took another small bite of the casserole. “I’m looking forward to spending lots of time with you, getting ready for Christmas. Maybe your uncle could take us to get a Christmas tree sometime soon. Would you like that?” Tyler nodded and looked up at her. A light of wonder sparked his sad eyes. “Emily said we should have one, for when Santa comes.” “Yes, we should,” she agreed. Curious about Emily’s role in Jordan’s life, she asked, “You said Emily’s your uncle Jordan’s friend, right?” Tyler nodded again and Isabella wondered how long Jordan had known her. Which he answered as he entered the kitchen. “I’ve known Emily all my life,” he said. “She was my mother’s best friend.” He sat down at the table, and scooped some of the casserole onto the plate in front of him. “She was a young widow. She sort of took it upon herself to look after me and my brother when…well, you know. So, my father hired her as our nanny. To me, she’s family.” Isabella remembered his revelation about his mother’s death. Which brought up so many other questions – “You said you built this house yourself. And Emily’s your neighbor…” “My father owned this property – fifty acres of prime Denver real estate. He’d planned to build a family estate here when he was young. It, um, didn’t work out. After he was gone, I built Emily’s house first, and set this lot aside for myself.” He glanced over at Tyler, who looked as if he didn’t have any interest at all in the adult conversation. Jordan lowered his voice, nevertheless. “My brother wasn’t interested in this acreage. So, I got permits, split the land, built and sold eighteen more houses on the property. Made enough money to start my own construction company.” “Uncle Jordan, can I go play with my blocks now?” Jordan turned his attention to his nephew. “Sure, buddy,” he said gently, to Isabella’s delight. Tyler scooted off his chair and ran to the living room. Both adults watched him, then Isabella said, “I think he takes after you, wanting to build things.” “I don’t have anything to do with it. He’s thinking about his father, most likely.” He met Isabella’s gaze. “My brother and I inherited my father’s company, Butler Enterprises. A construction conglomerate, specializing in high-profile contracts, mostly hotels in the US and Canada. We were partners for a while. But after Kim…I left it to him.” Isabella was quiet, unable to relate to Jordan’s privileged, yet unhappy life. Her parents weren’t rich, but they’d given her a happy home, and a good education. She’d lost them both to natural causes within five years after graduating college, and missed them every day. Especially now, since her breakup. She finished her casserole and took her plate to the sink. Jordan followed her lead. When she started to rinse the dishes, he touched her forearm. “No. You’re my guest, Isabella. I’ll clean up later.” She stopped the action and scooted out of his proximity. “Well, thank you,” she said awkwardly. “It was delicious.” “If you’ll sit with Tyler for a few minutes, I’ll take your things to the guesthouse.” She agreed, but made a mental note to talk to him about her role with Tyler when they got a moment alone. Which came about half an hour later, when Emily popped in. Jordan informed her he was going to show Isabella to her new living quarters. “It’s just this way,” he said, looking slightly perturbed by Emily’s pleased smile as she took Tyler to his room. He led them out the side door, through the covered breezeway between the two residences. He opened the door to the guesthouse and flipped the switch on the wall, illuminating the small but beautiful interior. It was only slightly larger than her efficiency – but it smacked of good taste and money. There was a lovely kitchenette, a cozy living area with a TV and sofa – and, in the far corner, a midsize bed with a desk set up just next to it. Her eyes rested there, as her reservations waged war with her desire to help Tyler. “I’ve never used it,” Jordan said. “But I keep the basics here, just in case. If there’s anything else you need, just help yourself in the main house.” When he started to leave, Isabella walked with him to the door. “This is lovely,” she said. He stopped and turned to her. “I want you to feel at home, Isabella. I’m grateful – you don’t have to do this.” “I want to,” she said firmly, wondering if she were trying to convince herself as much as him. “But…” She hesitated, then shook her head. “What’s bothering you, Isabella?” His voice was low, almost a whisper. “You promised to make an effort. Yet tonight, you made a phone call at dinnertime. Sharing at least one meal a day with Tyler would be a good start.” He looked uncomfortable under her scrutiny but nodded as he stepped through the door. “You’re right. I’ll work on it.” “Thank you.” She smiled at him then, open and unguarded. He stared at her for a long moment, then said, “Goodnight, Isabella.” She barely got out a softly spoken “Goodnight” before he closed the door behind him. She went to her suitcases on the bed, pulled out a warm nightgown and slippers, and roamed her gaze around on her way to the restroom. The homey atmosphere didn’t ease the sudden panic that nearly choked her. She’d taken on a lot of responsibility, moving in here with the Butlers. And she wondered if she was emotionally strong enough for the task before her. She wondered if she was filling the emptiness left by Phillip with all the sadness of an orphaned boy and his emotionally distant uncle – knowing there could be serious disappointment in the end. It would only take the slightest encouragement for her to fall into the strength and safety of Jordan’s arms again. But she couldn’t do that. She wouldn’t do that. Her wants, her needs, didn’t matter now. At least that’s what she told herself as she lay in bed that night, listening to the winter wind outside her window, and thinking about the man who had saved her in the storm. *** The rest of the week went smoothly. Isabella and Tyler fell into a routine. They had breakfast together every morning, then he’d ride to school with her. And she’d stay with him at night until Jordan came home. Jordan spent long hours working, but she’d expected that. He had told her from the start that his job took most of his time. But, he did make a point to eat at least one meal a day with his nephew, as promised. It was a start. The following Saturday, three weeks before Christmas, Isabella was surprised to have the morning to herself. Emily offered to take Tyler along to the homeless shelter where she was volunteering for breakfast, then planned to take him shopping afterwards – stating that she’d neglected him through the week, and she wanted to make it up to him. Jordan left before dawn to check on a project which, he’d briefly explained, was close to getting its final inspection. He hadn’t said when he’d return and Tyler and Emily wouldn’t be back until the afternoon. When everyone left, Isabella considered how to spend her unexpected free time. The fact that she was here to help Tyler was foremost in her thoughts. She’d been formulating a plan to get him a dog for Christmas since their trip to the mall, but she’d have to check with Jordan first, of course. It wouldn’t be everything Tyler wanted, or needed, but she hoped it might make his Christmas morning a bit more bearable. It was unseasonably warm this morning and Isabella finished her second cup of coffee on the back patio. Jordan had given her free access to the main house, and she couldn’t resist spending some time out here, admiring the mountains in the distance. Inevitably, she recalled the last time they were out here. He’d nearly kissed her. She closed her eyes, remembering her reaction – her desire to feel his lips on hers. Jordan Butler was a surprise – and not a welcome one. Hadn’t she learned her lesson with Phillip? After her breakup, her plan was to move on, far away from her ex, and any dreams of a happily ever after. She hadn’t expected another man to be so squarely centered in her life again, regardless of the circumstances. She’d trusted Phillip Monroe with her heart, and he’d broken it. Now, Jordan was astonishingly making it beat again. But what the hell was she thinking? Though he was far different from Phillip – and quite clear about his own disenchantment with love – Jordan was a bewildering force in her life. Isabella could sense the danger of imminent heartache, but resisted the urge to run and hide from it. She couldn’t leave Tyler when he needed her. She just had to listen to her head where Tyler’s complicated and off-limits uncle was concerned. She went inside, focusing her thoughts on her mission – to bring Tyler and Jordan together, permanently. She surveyed the huge split-level living room. The decor was sparse – the masculine furniture and cool tones lacked warmth and welcome. Nothing a little holiday cheer couldn’t take care of, she thought. The idea took root, and Isabella hurried to her house, changing into an old pair of worn-out jeans and a light gray sweatshirt. Next, she wondered where Jordan might store his Christmas decorations – if he had any at all. She first looked in the garage, then entered the house and scanned the ceiling, her eyes coming to rest on a hatch door in the hall between the kitchen and foyer. Moments later, she was climbing the ladder she’d found in the garage, pushing the small door open. The attic was immersed in darkness. The only light coming into the room was from the roof vent. Luckily, the sun was shining in a clear sky this morning, and the sunbeams slanted through the slats of the vent enough so Isabella noticed the boxes stacked in one corner. She turned on the flashlight she’d retrieved from the kitchen and pointed it at the corner, looking for something that might resemble tinsel or ornaments. Only half of the room was being used as storage, filled with a few old pieces of furniture and the boxes that had been left seemingly undisturbed for years. Isabella took a seat on a small upholstered stool, deciding to rummage through them here without lingering too long on each one. She shined the flashlight on the contents of the first box, fascinated. It was filled with tiny clothes and stuffed animals, and various keepsakes themed toward a new baby. She assumed the items must have belonged to either Jordan, or his brother Derek, lovingly saved by their mother. She ran her fingers over a soft stack of baby blankets, encountering a hard object beneath them. Moving the blankets aside, Isabella uncovered a slightly tarnished silver chest. It was medium size, about ten inches long, six inches deep. She shook it. The muffled thudding indicated that the contents were unbreakable. She fumbled with the latch for a moment or two, finally concluding that, minus a key, it wouldn’t open without prying it. She set the intriguing chest aside, and focused on raiding the other boxes for holiday booty. About an hour later, she emerged from the attic with a box full of festive decorations. On a whim, she’d placed the silver chest on top, having all but forgotten it until she’d done a final sweeping glance around the room before exiting. Another two hours later, after happily arranging the tinsel, garland, and lights throughout the house, she stood in the dining room. She could see nearly every angle of the beautiful open-floor plan of the house from her vantage point, and Isabella realized there was one glaring piece missing – the Christmas tree. She ignored the spike of nerves at the thought of accompanying Jordan to a Christmas tree lot. A family outing would be good for him and Tyler. She headed for her place and a shower, then remembered the silver chest. She briefly wondered again what it held inside, then shrugged and tucked it safely in the box with the Christmas lights and ornaments, carrying it to the guesthouse for safekeeping. *** “You climbed into the attic by yourself?” Jordan had come home early, surprising Isabella by arriving before Tyler and Emily. She’d gone back to the kitchen for a diet soda and hadn’t showered yet. She was self-conscious standing there in her old jeans with the frayed hems and ripped knees, and avoided Jordan’s stare. “I wanted to decorate for the holidays. I thought it would be good for Tyler.” “You should have waited for me.” Jordan eyed the ladder still leaning against the wall in the hallway behind her. “You could’ve fallen.” His green eyes slid over her, first checking for injuries, then becoming darker as he noted her worn-out, casual clothes. Isabella’s heart beat wildly against her ribs. “I’m capable of climbing a ladder, Jordan.” She checked the slight tremor in her voice, wondering if it was nerves or his attractive appearance, slightly disheveled after a day’s work, yet sexy in his white shirt and casual faded jeans. The hint of his aftershave in the air reminded her of being scooped into his arms twice… And when he’d almost kissed her. “I have to change,” she said quickly, exiting the house and his vicinity – hoping a warm shower would clear her straying thoughts. But, even as she stepped into her robe twenty minutes later, the memory of their romantic close calls still lingered on her mind. She sat on the edge of the bed and towel dried her hair, resisting the urge to pound the mattress in frustration. A light tap on the door startled her. She stood quickly and pulled the tie on her robe tight. “Yes?” “Isabella,” came Jordan’s deep voice from outside. “I’d like to talk to you.” She hesitated a moment, then walked the short distance and opened the door a bit, peeking out. “I’m not dressed. What do you want?” A spark lit his eyes and her treacherous body responded, despite the warning bells blaring in her head. When he stared at her like that, every fiber in her came alive, hummed. Phillip had left her cold – it was a shock to her system. Just a simple look from Jordan could set her on fire, and make her feel beautiful again. Ignoring the reminder she’d given herself this morning, she opened the door wider for him to enter. “I want to apologize,” Jordan started, hesitating as his gaze moved up her bare legs, to the fuzzy robe tightly cinched at her waist, accentuating the swell of her breasts. He cleared his throat and looked away. “The decorations look great, Isabella. It was thoughtful of you to do it – thank you.” He raked his hands through his hair, stepping back toward the door, about to exit. “I’d better go.” Despite the apology, and his approval of her decorating efforts, Isabella suddenly needed – wanted – more from him. “Jordan.” The urgency in her voice made him stop. His eyes settled on her face, away from her current state of dress. “You’re welcome,” she said, softly now. She moved toward him, throwing caution to the wind. She wanted to know he was attracted to her, not just seeking an escape from his past. His expression went from surprised to smoldering as Isabella loosened the tie on her robe. She heard his quick breath and her heart fluttered in response. Lifting his hand, she placed it inside the soft fabric covering her chest. She sighed, bending her head back slightly as he slowly rubbed his thumb across the soft skin of her breast. “Dear God…” The hesitation in his eyes was momentary, then he was pulling her to him, crushing her mouth with his, forcing her lips apart. Isabella wound her arms around his neck as they moved toward the bed behind them. His hands caressed her, spreading electricity everywhere he touched. He moved his mouth to her neck, trailed hot kisses along her sensitive skin. When he reclaimed her lips, his tongue mingled with hers, stirring a fire deep in her core. Oh my… Isabella’s knees went weak, and she slowly pulled him down with her to the bed. She held her breath, waiting, anticipating. Wanting him to make love to her. She saw the raw hunger in his eyes – the hesitation warring with desire. He started to move in again – then stopped. His heated expression was replaced by an unreadable mask as he pulled away. His words were cold water, dousing their fire. “I can’t do this – Emily and Tyler will be back soon.” But she knew it was more than the threat of Emily and Tyler’s return that stopped him. She recognized the flash of pain in his eyes – she’d seen it when he told her about Kim. He couldn’t do this. Not as long as Kim still haunted him. Isabella closed her eyes and nodded, pulling her robe shut. She heard him close the door and mustered the strength to get dressed and comb her hair. Her cheeks burned with embarrassment over her blatant behavior. What had come over her? She’d never acted like this before. But no one, not even Phillip, had ever affected her this way. Thank goodness Jordan had the sense to put a stop to things before they’d gone any farther. Oh yes, she wanted him – badly. But her reaction to him today was proof that Jordan could wipe away whatever footing she’d gained in her emotional salvage, since Phillip. And she might never fully recover if she put her heart in Jordan’s line of fire. Chapter Six (#ulink_e653cbf4-15ac-5dde-9a6b-9e4fc1852280) “Miss Stevens!” Tyler’s excited squeal cut through the heavy snow that had begun to fall. Isabella rushed to keep up with him as he ran through the Christmas tree lot. “Tyler, wait for me! I don’t want to lose sight of you.” Jordan trailed behind, telling them to go ahead, and he’d load the tree as soon as they picked one out. Isabella didn’t argue, and he assumed she was just as uncomfortable as he was over their encounter a few hours earlier. Emily and Tyler had returned while Isabella was getting dressed from her shower, and thanks to her efforts at decorating, Tyler’s uncharacteristic excitement pushed their steamy kiss to the back burner. However, they had yet to look each other in the eyes since then. Jordan took his time catching up to them. He wanted to think about what had happened between him and Isabella. The refreshing winter air helped to clear his head, without feeling as if the walls were closing in on him. Ever since Isabella had moved next door, he’d tried to be on his best behavior, both in spending time with Tyler, and in reining in his attraction to her. But he couldn’t fight the fact that he was completely uneasy – with all of it. He’d put all his survival instincts on the shelf and was doing exactly what he knew he shouldn’t – looking forward to seeing them every morning, and every night when he came home from work. He couldn’t help but worry that he was coming dangerously close to forming some sort of attachment to them. And that couldn’t possibly end well for him. But he asked Isabella to move in, and he trusted her advice where Tyler was concerned. He had to put his nephew’s happiness ahead of his own. And as excruciating as it had been, he’d done that today. It had taken all of his willpower to leave the ravishing Isabella lying there on her bed, all soft and willing, after that mind-blowing kiss. Oh, man. This was going to be a long month. Maybe if he concentrated all his attention and frustrations on trying to restore light and laughter into his nephew’s childhood, he’d forget about how much he wanted to kiss Isabella again, among other things. And, he might even be able to make Isabella forgive his actions this afternoon by trying to get into this festive Christmas outing. He’d do exactly what he’d agreed to do – make an effort. And he’d pretend their hotter than hot kiss this afternoon had never happened. *** Isabella trudged through the lot, keeping a close eye on Tyler’s red hat through the blowing snow. When she caught up to him, he was standing in front of what had to be the largest tree there. “Can we buy this one, Miss Stevens?” The hope in his eyes warmed Isabella’s heart. He was doing better this week, rarely falling into his somber moods, acting like a normal six-year-old most of the time. She wondered if Jordan had noticed the change in him, as well. “Well, it’s a big one, Tyler.” Isabella followed his gaze to the top of the nine-foot tree. She returned her attention to him, catching the touch of uncertainty fleeting across his features, not wanting to do or say anything to set his progress back even a little bit. “But, you’re right – it’s the only tree on the lot we could possibly consider taking home,” she reassured him quickly. To her delight, he threw himself at her, hugging her tightly. She bent to reciprocate, laughing gleefully. “I see you found the one.” Jordan’s voice cut through the wind and their laughter. Isabella’s head jerked around at the warm sound of it, catching the surprise in his eyes as he witnessed their embrace. “Uncle Jordan! I found our tree!” Tyler pulled away from Isabella, pointing and jumping as Jordan walked over to him, effortlessly scooping his nephew up into his arms. “It’s big,” he said with false concern. “Miss Stevens says it’s the only one we can con…sitter,” Tyler insisted, worried Jordan would disapprove of his choice. “Ahh, but…” Jordan suppressed a smile at his nephew’s pronunciation, pretending to reason with him. “Miss Stevens doesn’t have to load it, unload it, or carry it into the house.” Tyler wiggled in Jordan’s arms. Jordan put him down, then walked around the monstrous tree, rubbing his chin with his thumb and forefinger. Tyler watched him, intent on his uncle’s every move. “Can we have this one, Uncle Jordan? Please?” Jordan shook his head again, staring at the tree as if sizing it up. Isabella caught on immediately. She knew it was all a show, and Jordan seemed to be enjoying it. So, this afternoon wasn’t a total disaster, after all. He was teasing his nephew, and actually engaging him. Isabella smiled quietly. Well done, Jordan. “Please, please,” Tyler begged. Jordan turned to his nephew now. “It’ll be a lot of work getting this tree home, Tyler. But…” he knelt down to the boy’s level “…I’ll make a deal with you.” Tyler nodded his head quickly, looking as if he’d explode from anticipation. Jordan glanced briefly at Isabella before continuing. “If I agree to carry it all the way to the truck, then into the house, then set it up…you have to do the most important job. Once it’s decorated, you have to put the star on top. Okay?” Tyler threw his arms around Jordan’s neck, hugging him fiercely. Isabella saw Jordan hesitate, then he put his arms around the boy and squeezed him back. Isabella watched Jordan’s features soften before Tyler pulled away. “I’ll do it, I’ll do it! Yay!” Jordan continued his pretend concern, and Isabella stifled a chuckle. He must have read her smug satisfaction. Their recent avoidance of each other was all but forgotten as he pinned her with a stern look. “As for you, Isabella. I know you decorated the entire house but, if I have to do all this heavy lifting, there’s one more thing you have to agree to.” Tyler stared at her expectantly. “Of course,” she agreed slowly. “What is it?” Jordan seemed to enjoy her uncertainty. “Well, Tyler has the most important job.” He winked at his nephew, who visibly puffed up. “But…” he pierced her with his gaze “…you must agree to do the most difficult part.” He paused for a moment. The snow was coming down even harder and there was an announcement over the speakers piping Christmas music through the lot – they’d be closing soon. “Hurry up,” Tyler urged him. “All right, it can wait until we get this monster home,” Jordan declared. “Yippee!” Tyler went with Jordan, adorable as he tried to help his uncle hoist the gigantic tree into the truck. Isabella took the ticket to the attendant. “It’s already been paid for, ma’am,” the young man said. “Who…?” She looked toward the dark truck in the parking lot. “Your husband – who else? He more than covered the price of any tree on the lot.” The attendant smiled at her quick glance. “Merry Christmas to you and yours.” “He’s not – I mean, they’re not…” The attendant had already started ringing up the next customer and Isabella shrugged. “Yes, Merry Christmas,” she replied, tucking the receipt into her pocket, pleased by Jordan’s generosity and thoughtful participation in his nephew’s quest for a Christmas tree. And strangely, not as upset as she should be by the attendant’s incorrect assumptions. *** “It’s a perfect fit.” Emily smiled, standing back to watch Jordan, Isabella, and Tyler struggle to stand the very large Christmas tree in the living room. Jordan looked at her over his shoulder. “Straight?” Emily nodded enthusiastically. “Perfect,” she said again. Jordan finished tightening the bolts in the stand and Isabella and Tyler let go of the tree, joining Emily. “Tyler picked the best tree on the lot,” Isabella declared. “He did, indeed,” Emily agreed. Tyler beamed as he ran to the box of ornaments Isabella had retrieved from the guesthouse. He excitedly began pulling the shiny baubles out, one by one. “Whoa, buddy.” When Jordan spoke up, everyone turned around. He winked at Tyler, smiling wickedly. “Miss Stevens hasn’t fulfilled her part of the bargain yet.” All eyes went to her, and Isabella felt the heat crawl up her neck. Finding her voice, she said, “I have to know what it is before I can do it.” Jordan walked over to the box, then hesitated. His expression changed from playful to serious in mere seconds. He turned around, a blank expression on his face. “The lights,” he stated. “Tyler found the tree, I…” He stopped, then corrected himself. “Tyler and I loaded it, and…” He looked at Isabella for a long moment. It was obvious he’d lost his enthusiasm for the project, and Isabella remembered he had his own issues to deal with. She finished for him. “My job is to string the lights on the tree.” She made a face for Tyler’s benefit, and he giggled a little, tugging at Emily’s skirt to follow him back to the box and dig around for the lights. Isabella caught and held Jordan’s gaze. She searched his eyes for a clue to what was bothering him, but his expression was guarded. There was no sign of joy or even the sparkle she’d seen in them this afternoon. She wondered if he was thinking about his brother. “I have to go out – will you look after Tyler?” Isabella nodded and he went to Tyler and ruffled his nephew’s hair. Thankfully, Tyler was absorbed in his treasure hunt and barely noticed Jordan leaving. Emily shared a look with Isabella. It seemed she’d noticed the sudden change in Jordan’s mood, as well. “Work again?” Emily asked as Jordan found his coat and walked to the door. Jordan’s answer was coy. “Don’t hold dinner for me; I don’t know how late I’ll be.” Isabella joined Tyler’s search as the door closed behind his uncle. “I found the lights, Miss Stevens!” He held up a bag full of tangled strings in every style of bulb you could imagine. Some were traditional, some were shaped like icicles, some were small, multicolored twinklers. “Oh my! They’re beautiful, Tyler! I can’t wait to see what they’ll look like on the tree. But first, we have to test each strand, to make sure they work.” Emily stood, brushing her hands over her skirt. She was obviously disappointed by Jordan’s abrupt departure. “I’ll finish warming the casserole,” she said, exiting the living room quickly. Isabella wanted to talk to her. After all, the more information she could collect from Emily, the better equipped she’d be to help Tyler – and Jordan. But, for now, she put her concerns aside. Because they had a beautiful Christmas tree, and Tyler was happy tonight. And she was thankful for it. *** “I’m so happy you stayed for dinner, Emily.” “No, no,” Emily protested. “I’m being selfish.” She winked at Tyler. “It’s my favorite… How could I resist?” Tyler nodded his head happily, scooping another bite of macaroni and cheese into his mouth. Isabella chuckled. She’d lived here long enough to know that it was Tyler’s favorite dish, too. And, he’d worked up quite an appetite decorating the enormous tree. He was anxious to put the star on top, but Isabella stalled him, telling him dinner would get cold, hoping Jordan would return in time to share the simple, but special task. Isabella moved her attention back to Emily. The older woman had been unusually quiet since Jordan left. “It’s very admirable that you dedicate a big part of your life to helping others, Emily. You spend so much time at the shelter, yet you drop in on Jordan and Tyler as often as you can. You’re a true blessing.” Emily’s hazel eyes warmed as they regarded her. “Don’t be silly, dear. I know Jordan is perfectly capable of taking care of himself, but coming here is a joy to me. I love my boys.” She referred to Jordan and Tyler with a smile. “And the shelter, well…it’s in my heart. I have to do it.” “That’s wonderful,” Isabella responded. She thought about the Angels on Earth project Tyler had been working on. Isabella assumed Emily would be his subject again. She wondered how he was doing with it. But she let it be, allowed his creativity to flow, maybe bring on the healing he needed. He was very secretive about it anyway, the few times she’d offered her help. “So, dear,” Emily broke into Isabella’s thoughts. “Would you help me with the dishes?” “Certainly.” Isabella stood, collecting the plates as Tyler finished drinking his milk. She quickly settled him on the couch, switched on the TV, and found a coloring book to keep him busy. When she was sure he was content, Isabella returned to the kitchen. To her surprise, Emily had already finished washing the dishes. “Oh – you’re quick! Let me dry and put them away.” Isabella found the towel in the drawer, and began the chore. “Tyler’s watching a holiday cartoon,” she said, making conversation. “You’re very good with him, you know,” Emily replied. Isabella was touched by the compliment, but wondered what was really on Emily’s mind. Emily didn’t waste time, or words. “You’ve gone above and beyond a teacher’s duty, though. Moving into the guesthouse, helping to fill the void in Tyler’s life.” Isabella hesitated slightly, then continued drying the dish in her hand. “What are you trying to say, Emily?” “Oh, I’m not insinuating anything.” The older woman smiled kindly, patting Isabella’s arm. “I certainly understand the desire to help others, without wanting anything in return.” “I don’t want anything in return,” Isabella repeated Emily’s words. “Except for Tyler to be happy.” “We all want that. But…” Emily hesitated. “Please, Emily,” Isabella prodded. “What’s on your mind?” Emily took Isabella’s hand, leading her to the dining room table, speaking in a hushed tone as she looked past Isabella to Tyler, who was still engrossed in the holiday TV special. “Tyler has suffered an unthinkable loss,” she said. “But he seems to be doing much better, thanks to you.” Her smile didn’t hide the concern lurking in her hazel eyes. “What is it then, Emily?” “You’re Tyler’s teacher, and he’s your priority, of course. But Jordan…oh, my.” She sighed sadly. “He’s a lost soul. Sometimes I think he’s in a much worse state than his nephew. He refuses to live, Isabella. All he does is work. He’s been hurting for a very long time now and, even though he says he doesn’t care about Derek or…Tyler’s mother, I know their sudden deaths were a shock to him. So, I won’t deny that I’m delighted you’re here for him, too. I’ve seen how he looks at you…” Emily smiled at the surprise in Isabella’s eyes. “He likes you, Isabella,” she continued. “That’s a big step for him after…what he went through.” She shook her head and sighed but forced another smile to her lips as she covered Isabella’s hands with hers. “For years, I’ve prayed for someone like you to bring him back to life.” “Emily,” Isabella rose from her chair. “This arrangement is nothing like that!” Emily stood, too. “But you are helping him, my dear,” she insisted, then shrugged sadly. “I’m sorry if I’ve offended you. I hope you’ll forgive an old romantic?” Isabella felt guilty for being secretly thrilled. Jordan liked her? Well, if their kiss was any indication, he was as attracted to her as she was to him – but she was certain his feelings ended there. “Don’t be silly, Emily,” she reassured her new friend. “You care about Jordan. I understand that you want him to find happiness – I want him to be happy, too. But…he’s not looking for a relationship. And, quite frankly, neither am I.” Emily sighed again, but didn’t pursue the subject. Instead, she stared out the window at the new-fallen snow. Isabella’s gaze followed hers as Emily asked, almost to herself, “Where has that young man gotten to?” “I’m sure he’ll be back soon. Will you stay awhile longer and watch Tyler put the star on the tree?” Emily nodded. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” They went to the living room and took seats on opposite sides of Tyler. Together, the three of them became happily immersed in the animated world of snowmen and forest animals while they waited for Jordan to return. *** Jordan wasn’t ready to go inside and face the disapproving glares from Emily and Isabella. He’d had good reason to leave over an hour ago, good reason to rethink the way he’d been conducting himself. What the hell was he doing – letting his guard down, allowing himself to begin to feel something again? This had to stop – the way he’d been running around, acting all father-like lately. And even kissing the one woman he had no business kissing. Seeing the silver chest sitting in the box amongst the ornaments woke him up. Maybe he should go back to the coffee shop. He’d sat in his truck across the street from it for over an hour. But he hadn’t had the nerve to go in there either. Nevertheless, it was a hard reminder of how much loving someone could hurt. He’d hoped it would stop the regret that had gnawed at him since losing his brother. Or wipe away the nighttime cries of the little boy who’d unexpectedly entered his life. And, not least of all, erase the memory of Isabella’s sweet lips. But not even visiting the place where he’d first met Kim and began this long, sad course in his life had helped him forget any of that, or the people in his house now – happily decorating the tree, probably waiting for him. If he just hadn’t seen the jewelry box – bringing to mind the last Christmas he’d had faith in love. Seven years ago. Kim found the engagement ring nestled under layers of tissue paper inside. She said yes. He thought they were happy. Then Derek arrived. Jordan turned off the engine. Man up, his inner voice shouted. He heard the faint sound of laughter coming from inside the house. Before he realized what he was doing, he was at the front door, pushing his way inside, like something had pulled him there. He looked at the small group, his gaze resting on his adorable nephew sitting between the women on the couch, laughing at a Christmas cartoon Jordan remembered watching as a child. His heart did a flip. It took him by surprise. But, even worse than that, it worried him. *** Isabella saw him first, but it was Tyler who jumped up to greet his uncle when Jordan entered. “Uncle Jordan! We waited! We waited!” He ran to the box and retrieved the star, then went to Jordan. “Lift me up!” Jordan dutifully obeyed, hoisting Tyler to the top of the tree. “Now the lights, the lights,” Tyler insisted, waiting in gleeful anticipation as Isabella plugged them in. They all stood together, gazing at the beautiful spectacle in the middle of the living room. Emily, pleased by the sight of the three of them looking like a happy family, decided to slip out quietly. She stepped past the coffee table, catching her knee on the edge of the ornament box, tipping it over. The silver chest slipped out, falling with a thud on the hard wood floor. The three adults looked toward the noise simultaneously. The lock was sprung and the chest popped open. Jordan’s expression was fixed on the diamond solitaire ring that rolled out, watching as it twirled to a stop by the wall. Isabella picked up the chest, quickly tucking back some photos that peeked out. “Oh no,” Emily exclaimed, moving to the ring and scooping it up. She stood there holding it, her eyes filled with concern. “I’m so sorry,” she said to Jordan. Jordan clutched Tyler a bit closer, as if to shield him. “No worries. It’s not doing any good in that box anyway, Emily. You take it – sell it. Donate the money to the shelter.” “Well, all right – if you’re sure?” “I’m sure,” he said firmly. “What about these?” Isabella asked quietly, holding the box open to reveal the stack of photographs. Jordan barely glanced at them. “They belong to him.” His eyes moved to the boy in his arms. “When he’s ready.” He set Tyler down and ruffled his hair. “You did a great job tonight, buddy. I’m going to take a shower. Would you like Isabella to tuck you in?” When Tyler nodded, he said, “I’ll see you in the morning, okay?” “Okay,” Tyler replied, his head down. Isabella watched as Emily hugged Tyler. “It’s a beautiful tree, darling. Soon, Santa will come and admire it, too. Aren’t you excited about that?” Tyler nodded again, but the familiar uncertainty returned to his face. Isabella wondered if he was remembering his disappointment over last year’s wish. Or maybe he recognized his mother’s silver chest. Either way, she was more determined than ever to make things as close to right as possible for him. Chapter Seven (#ulink_e8fbdae6-a94d-5a66-8016-5815c31c610a) It was a quiet Sunday morning. Jordan left early, and Emily took Tyler along once again, saying he’d done such a good job decorating his Christmas tree that she needed his help with the one at the shelter. Isabella was grateful for this time alone. She needed to recharge her batteries from her first week of non-stop efforts where Jordan and Tyler’s relationship was concerned. She was just a substitute teacher, not a family psychologist. Thank goodness Tyler had someone to talk to at school. But here at home, Isabella was overwhelmed by the prospect of explaining why Santa couldn’t bring his parents back on Christmas morning. Not to mention the looming disaster of Jordan’s probable plan to let the Forresters take Tyler in. With the baby steps they’d made since she’d been here, she hoped there was a chance Jordan would change his mind. She threw herself back in her bed, succumbing to the wave of helplessness that hit her. Jordan’s work had been keeping him so busy, getting an opportunity to speak to him was a challenge in itself. And, the last time she’d been completely alone with him, very little talking had been done. Isabella closed her eyes, remembering how he’d kissed her. So hot. And though the foolish dreamer in her wished for more kisses, more of Jordan, her inner realist could only hope that Tyler would be okay when Christmas was over. She rolled onto her side. How well did Jordan know the couple who wanted Tyler – Kim and Derek’s friends? He’d only just learned about Tyler after his brother and sister-in-law were killed, but surely he’d met them, at least. She’d known him long enough to be sure he’d do what he thought was best for his nephew. So, they must be decent people. She hoped. Isabella jumped out of bed and headed to the main house for coffee. The kitchen telephone was ringing and she hurried through the door to answer it, thinking it could be Emily or Jordan. “Yes…hello?” “Oh. Hello. Er – is this the Butler residence?” The woman on the other end sounded surprised. “Yes,” Isabella answered her. There was a slight pause, then the woman responded carefully. “May I ask who I’m speaking with, then?” A cattiness rose in Isabella. She had the distinct impression the woman assumed she was Jordan’s girlfriend, and Isabella surprised herself by allowing her to think it. “Isabella. Jordan is out. Would you like to leave a message for him?” “This is Abby Forrester. I’m…” She sounded choked up. “I was Kim’s best friend.” Isabella’s interest sharpened. She attempted to make the woman feel at ease now. “I’m sorry for your loss, Mrs. Forrester. I’m Tyler’s teacher and…live-in guest.” “You mean, his nanny?” Abby Forrester asked. “No, I wouldn’t say that. The arrangement is only temporary…” “I’m sorry, Miss…Isabella,” Abby said. “It’s none of my business, really. I called to talk to Jordan about visiting Tyler today, if that’s possible. Kim wanted my husband – Zach – and me to be a part of his life.” Isabella was at a loss for words. She hadn’t considered that Kim might have chosen the Forresters as Tyler’s guardians. Thankfully, Abby Forrester eased her concerns. “Don’t get me wrong,” Abby continued. “Jordan is Tyler’s uncle – and he should be with family now, of course. We discussed visits later on, but since we’re in the area, we’d like to stop by, if you think Jordan wouldn’t mind?” “Well, I don’t know.” Isabella paused. It wasn’t her place to give consent for the couple to visit Tyler. But, since Jordan was considering them as possible parents for Tyler, he shouldn’t mind if they came over. And anyway, she’d like the chance to meet them – see what she was up against on her mission to keep Tyler with Jordan. “When did you want to come over?” “I know it’s short notice, but we’re Christmas shopping in Denver today. And…it seemed like a perfect opportunity to drop off the gifts we bought for Tyler.” Isabella knew Emily wouldn’t be home with Tyler until sometime after noon. And Jordan, well, that was anybody’s guess. “I’m the only one here this morning. However…” she took a deep breath “…I don’t see why you can’t stop by and drop off the presents. Tyler’s with Emily, but maybe they’ll return before you leave.” Abby Forrester hesitated, her voice muffled as she spoke to another person. Isabella assumed it was Zach Forrester. “All right, Isabella,” she answered after a moment. “Thank you. We’ll be there within the hour.” *** Jordan stared at the sprawling brick structure. It was a single-story building, but with lots of square footage, enough to fill the needs of the entire city. This project had been his saving grace, since the accident. It occupied his thoughts, kept him from falling into the dark abyss of regret. He’d spent every spare minute orchestrating the construction, even rolling up his sleeves and doing some heavy lifting himself. It took his mind off the deaths. First, burying Kim. Then accepting that Derek was gone, too. Jordan was told the couple died after their car went over a steep cliff above Horsetooth Reservoir, in Fort Collins, just north of Denver. His brother was never found, and the search for him had gone from rescue to recovery within a few days of the accident. So, Jordan took Derek’s son in. And his work kept him from facing the decision that weighed on him now. In the weeks since he’d met his nephew, he’d become more attached to him than he wanted to admit. Hell, who was he kidding? Those sad eyes had drawn him in from the start. Of course, he knew Tyler wasn’t responsible for the sins of his parents. But how could he be a loving influence on him if he couldn’t get over the mountain of hurt from the past? He could see that Tyler needed love and security. With those basic comforts, he might eventually be okay. But it was Jordan’s own emotional instability that forced him to consider allowing another couple, possibly the Forresters, to adopt Tyler. Now, with this project nearly wrapped and ready for the unveiling, and two other high-rises he’d contracted on hold due to negotiations, he had more time to spend with his thoughts. And they scared the hell out of him. Not just the ones concerning his nephew, but those of the beautiful and sexy Isabella Stevens, as well. She’d come into his life unexpectedly, and he was terrified that he’d already fallen for her…hard. And too fast. Just like he had for Kim. But Isabella was nothing like Kim. Not at all. She was the day to Kim’s night. She was a ray of sunshine in his gloomy world. And he wondered now if it could possibly be different this time. If he could take a chance on another potentially heart-crushing relationship. God help him. He got into his truck, unzipped his leather jacket, and leaned back in the plush seat. For the first time since it happened, he let his mind return to Christmas Eve seven years ago, when he’d asked Kim to be his wife. He’d planned it all out, had the round solitaire ring made to his specifications, and bought the jewelry chest to put it in, so the size wouldn’t give away the surprise. He’d popped the question, and Kim said yes. They made love beside the Christmas tree they’d decorated together. A few hours later, Derek – the younger, more sophisticated Butler brother – showed up. Kim never looked at Jordan the same way again. Three months later, when Derek returned from the job in Canada, it was over. And Jordan hadn’t put up a tree, or celebrated Christmas since. But Tyler and Isabella brought the holidays back into his life. He started the engine, but he wasn’t ready to go home yet. He didn’t want to be alone with Isabella. It was a few weeks till Christmas – he’d have to start thinking about setting up visits between Tyler and the Forresters. Isabella wouldn’t be happy about that. She’d done a decent job of bringing his nephew out of his shell in a short time. But the fact remained: Tyler was six years old and needed a family. He needed two parents who loved each other. He needed a mother. And Jordan couldn’t offer him any of that. So, Santa be damned. The Forresters were his best hope to fill Tyler’s needs. *** Isabella was more nervous than she’d been on her first day substituting at Snow Pass Elementary. She watched out the window as a black sedan pulled into the driveway and parked. A tall, striking man with dark hair got out of the driver’s side and walked around to open the passenger door. Already, Isabella was keeping mental points, and she had to admit that this was ‘one’ for Zach Forrester. He was a gentleman…good. As Abby Forrester stepped from the luxurious car, she stared up at the house, visibly admiring the stone architecture that was Jordan’s creation. She was pretty, Isabella thought. Not beautiful, like she imagined Kim had been, but fresh and clean. There was no makeup on her face, and her hair was past her shoulders, nearly as dark as her deep-set eyes. She looked like a mom. One point for her. Isabella had pulled her own hair back into a ponytail and changed into a gray skirt and sweater just moments before the couple arrived. She checked her reflection in the mirror on the wall of the foyer as the doorbell rang. It was almost like open house, meeting her student’s parents for the first time – something she hadn’t had the privilege of doing at Snow Pass, having arrived well after the school year began. But this wasn’t school, and these weren’t Tyler’s parents. Not yet, anyway. She opened the door, greeting the Forresters with a polite ‘nice to meet you’ and ‘Merry Christmas’. They were carrying several brightly wrapped packages of various sizes and Isabella led the way to the living room where they placed them under the tree. “Would you like some coffee?” Isabella’s smile was guarded. “Yes, thank you,” Abby replied. Isabella motioned for them to sit down, then went to the kitchen. It was as if she was outside her own body, doing something that had to be done, but she loathed having anything to do with it. She couldn’t help but think she was betraying Tyler. As she poured the hot coffee, tears filled her eyes. She was so emotional, with Tyler’s heartbreaking situation, the holidays – and maybe even because, so far, the Forresters seemed perfect. Which was good, except that it would probably sway Jordan’s decision in their favor. Isabella composed herself and entered the living room, setting their cups down on the table. “Here you are.” She took a seat opposite the couple on the couch, smiling with a false brightness, feeling as if she were preparing for an interview. Which, she supposed, she was. And it would be the interview of her life. A six-year-old boy’s future depended on it. “So, have you known Tyler long?” Zach Forrester remained silent, his gaze moving to his wife, who seemed ready for Isabella’s questions. “Oh, yes,” she said. “I’ve known him ever since he was born. Actually, Kim and I met at the doctor’s office the day she confirmed her pregnancy. And eight months later, I was there when Kim gave birth.” Perfect, Isabella thought. Another point. “How well do you know Jordan? You’ve met him?” This time, Zach answered. He sat forward, clasping his hands together while resting his elbows on his knees. He lowered his eyes and nodded his head. “Yes – I know him. I went to boarding school with his brother Derek, and I worked with him when he was co-owner of Butler Enterprises.” He cleared his throat before continuing. “He left after Derek and Kim got married. We haven’t spoken much since then.” Isabella met Zach’s gaze. She saw kindness and a touch of uncertainty in his striking blue eyes. He seemed vulnerable in a way, and she found it endearing. Despite the fact that she wanted to dislike him, she felt the opposite. But Abby Forrester was unreadable, mysterious. Isabella turned to her. “Do you have children of your own, Mrs. Forrester?” “Call me Abby, please,” she responded with sugary sweetness. “And,” she continued, “to answer your question – sadly, we don’t. Although it’s not from a lack of trying.” She smiled at her husband, who seemed slightly embarrassed by her remark. “And to answer your next question, Zach and I have been married for five years, but we met at Kim and Derek’s wedding. They asked us to stand up for them when they eloped.” Ohhh. Take a point away from each of them – even if they were just being loyal friends. “It took a few years, but I finally got Zach to come around,” Abby finished, laughing nervously. “By then, Jordan had…made a new life. I haven’t had the chance to get to know him very well.” Isabella wondered why she sounded so tense. Another point down. The Forresters had broken even, and Isabella was surprised to find herself disappointed by that. After all, if Jordan decided to send Tyler to live with them, she wanted to be certain Zach and Abby Forrester were stable parents. “How do you feel about pets, dogs in particular?” Might as well throw it in there. After all, she hoped to give Tyler something he wanted for Christmas. And he might be moving in with them, eventually. “Love them,” Zach spoke up, displaying a devastating grin. “So, you’re Tyler’s teacher?” Isabella returned his smile. “Yes.” She nodded. “He’s a wonderful boy.” “He is,” Zach agreed. “How did you come to this arrangement – if you don’t mind my asking?” Abby interjected. Isabella had already anticipated the question. “Well,” she started, “Jordan and I agreed it would be good for Tyler to have as much support as possible during this difficult time in his life. So, I’m staying in the guesthouse until after the holidays.” “But why you – his teacher? Or are you and Jordan…?” “Abigail.” Zach’s voice was low but firm. “That’s none of our business.” Isabella took a deep breath. She’d expected this question, as well. “It’s all right, Mr. Forrester. And please, call me Isabella.” She smiled again. “Call me Zach,” he returned. “All right,” she agreed. “And since we’re on a first-name basis now, I’ll answer. I understand your concern for Tyler’s welfare.” She looked at Abby. “I’m staying in the guesthouse, and I’m here for Tyler. Jordan asked me to stay, to help Tyler get through his first Christmas without his parents.” She met Abby’s cool stare. “Jordan and I are not a couple.” “That’s right.” Everyone turned to the front door as Jordan entered. His eyes were guarded, and Isabella found it impossible to read them. But, she imagined he wasn’t pleased that she had guests without his knowledge. Especially these guests. “Zach, good to see you again.” Jordan moved into the living room. Zach stood and the two men shook hands. “Good to see you, Jordan,” Zach replied. “I’m sorry for your loss.” Jordan hesitated, then looked down. “I didn’t have a chance to talk to you at the memorial. Thank you for arranging it.” Isabella sensed his uneasiness and made an attempt to change the subject. “The Forresters were Christmas shopping in Denver and stopped by to drop off some gifts for Tyler,” she explained. “It’s a shame he’s out with Emily at the moment.” Jordan regarded her suspiciously, and Isabella was shocked at how well he seemed to know her already – that she was happy Tyler wasn’t here, on display for the couple who wished to take him home with them. “Oh, Emily,” Abby chimed in. “How is she?” “You and Emily are friends?” Isabella was stunned. Emily hadn’t mentioned knowing the woman who might become Tyler’s new mother. “Oh, no – just acquaintances,” Abby said. She looked out the corner of her eye at Jordan, who was chatting with Zach about business on the other side of the room. “I met her here, in fact.” She lowered her voice. “When I came over to help Kim move her things out.” If Abby Forrester broke even on points a few moments ago, that comment definitely put her in the hole. Isabella moved to clear the empty coffee cups from the table. She walked to the kitchen with them, and Abby followed, making it all the more difficult for Isabella to refrain from engaging in conversation that bordered on gossip. But Abby kept talking, trying to draw her in. “It’s not your concern, but I was wondering if you could ask Emily a question for me?” she asked sweetly. I’ll decide if it’s my concern or not. “What is it, Abby?” Isabella’s tone held the same false sweetness. “Well…” Abby hesitated for the first time, which spiked Isabella’s interest more. “I’m not even sure if Emily would know about it, but I believe Kim may have had something with her when…well, you know. I was informed by the police that their personal effects from the accident were brought here.” “What are you looking for?” Isabella asked quietly, holding her breath. “Kim would have wanted me to have it. But when I went through her things at their home in Boulder, it was nowhere to be found.” “Abby, what would Kim want you to have?” Abby was quiet for a moment before meeting Isabella’s stare. She dropped her voice to a whisper and looked into the living room to be sure the men wouldn’t hear. She turned tear-filled eyes back to Isabella. “The silver jewelry chest.” Chapter Eight (#ulink_4ba65b5d-26c9-557e-a3b7-b28dda9516c0) Isabella nearly dropped the cup she was holding, which didn’t go unnoticed by her guest. Abby put her hand on Isabella’s shoulder. “You do know about it.” She sounded relieved and worried at the same time, especially when Isabella didn’t immediately confirm it. “Please, Isabella. The chest is filled with old photos. I’d like to look through them – for one, in particular.” “Well,” Isabella conceded, “I have the chest.” She searched Abby’s face. Abby genuinely seemed to miss her best friend, judging by the enormous importance she placed on a few photos. “But – Jordan said the pictures belong to Tyler, when he’s old enough…” “And I shouldn’t have any of them. Is that it?” Abby’s remark startled Isabella, who eyed her suspiciously. Abby immediately apologized. “I’m sorry, I’m just stressed-out over…all this. I don’t want all of them…” She looked toward the living room again, lowering her voice to a whisper. “Kim was a notorious pack rat – she never threw anything out. There are even a few photos of her and Jordan in there that might confuse Tyler. I don’t think Jordan would want them, but…whatever you decide. There’s really just the one that’s extra special to me. It’s of Kim, baby Tyler, and me. It was taken at the hospital, right after he was born.” Isabella had wondered about the photos, but didn’t give in to her curiosity. As much as she wanted to know more about Tyler’s mother, she couldn’t convince herself to invade Kim’s privacy. And she wasn’t sure if Abby had the right either. “I think we should clear it with Jordan first.” A cold glint flashed in Abby’s eyes. It made Isabella uneasy – and unsure of Abby’s sincerity. As if reading Isabella’s thoughts, Abby sighed softly. “I’m not here to argue. I’ll ask Jordan, if that’s what you want. But why open old wounds? I’ll leave any photos with Jordan in there, and just take the one. There should be several others of Tyler and his mother, without me in it.” She smiled warmly when she noticed Isabella’s softening expression. “It would mean so much to me.” Isabella’s better judgment told her to refuse. But Abby was right. Kim would probably want her best friend to have the photo. “All right. You can look through them, see if it’s in there.” But she wouldn’t allow her to take any others, without Jordan’s permission. “Follow me. The chest is in the guesthouse.” As the women made their way past the men, Isabella caught Jordan’s curious look. “Just girl stuff,” she said vaguely in explanation. Jordan nodded, then turned back to his conversation with Zach. Abby stepped just inside the doorway as Isabella retrieved the box from the bureau. “I hope it’s in there,” Isabella said. Leaving her post by the door, Abby quickly stepped forward. “I do, too.” She took the chest from Isabella and sat down in a chair by the door. When she opened it, Isabella thought she saw a touch of disappointment flash across her features. Abby glanced up, catching Isabella’s stare. “It’s bittersweet seeing her so happy, and knowing how it ended. I hope I don’t break down… We were so close.” There was something resembling desperation in her eyes. “You understand?” “Of course,” Isabella replied as she watched Abby remove the photos from the box. After such a heartfelt statement, she was surprised when Abby shuffled through them so quickly, without lingering too long on any of them. When she’d finished, she set the stack on the side table and inspected the empty chest. “It’s not here,” she whispered, almost to herself. “Oh, that’s too bad,” Isabella said. “Is there another one you might like to take?” “No. Just that one.” Abby stuffed the photos back into the chest and handed it to Isabella. “Thanks anyway.” She turned to leave as Isabella placed the box on top of her dresser. This whole scene with Abby Forrester had left her feeling strange. Definitely not ‘points’ in Mrs. Forrester’s favor. The men stood as the two women re-entered the main house. “We should go, Abigail,” Zach said to his wife. “Oh, darn. I’m sorry we didn’t get to visit with Tyler today.” Abby looked almost as disappointed as she had over the missing photo. She was hard to figure out, Isabella thought to herself. But there was no doubt she cared about Tyler. And, in the end, that’s what mattered most. *** “Well?” “Well, what?” Isabella shifted her gaze, connecting with Jordan’s sparkling eyes. She wondered if he noticed the fluttering pulse in her neck as they stood in the foyer, mere inches apart. “You and Abigail seemed to hit it off,” he said. “I assume that means the Forresters have your approval?” “You know what happens when you assume, Jordan.” Her voice was prim, matter-of-fact. Isabella expected him to be annoyed with her remark, and was surprised when he laughed. Deep, sexy, amused. “This isn’t funny,” she insisted, though the beginnings of a smile tugged the corners of her mouth. Jordan noticed and laughed again, causing Isabella to break into a fit of giggles. It felt so good to share a light moment with him – for once. She held his gaze, trying to suppress her outburst, covering her mouth with her hand. A strand of hair fell from her ponytail, capturing Jordan’s attention. He reached up to touch it, his own laughter halted as he rolled the silky strand between his thumb and forefinger. “Your hair…is beautiful,” he whispered. “You shouldn’t pull it back.” Isabella was mesmerized by his movement as he reached around and released her hair from its band, letting it flow about her shoulders. Their eyes reconnected and Jordan slowly lowered his lips to hers…hesitant at first, sweet. He lightly brushed her cheek with his lips, then moved his kiss, feather soft, to her eyelids, before connecting again with her mouth. She reached out, touching his taut waist, pulling him closer. He groaned. His tongue parted her lips with an urgency, darting inside, demanding her response. Isabella didn’t resist. She couldn’t. Right now, there was no one else in this world but them. Nothing more she wanted than to forget the past, throw caution to the wind… The door burst open and Tyler bounded inside. Jordan quickly pulled away. Isabella caught the smile on Emily’s face as she entered behind Tyler. The young boy stared up at them. “Are you and Uncle Jordan getting married, Miss Stevens?” he asked innocently. Mortified, Isabella smoothed her hair as she knelt beside him. “No, Tyler. We’re not getting married.” She looked to Jordan for support but he seemed at a loss for words. “You were kissing,” Tyler insisted. “Mommy and Daddy are married, and they kiss.” Jordan finally interjected. “Miss Stevens and I are just friends, Tyler. Sometimes friends kiss each other.” Emily cleared her throat. “Now that’s settled, I’ve got to go visit a friend of my own.” She bent and kissed the top of Tyler’s head, winking at him as she pulled back. “You see? Your uncle Jordan was right.” She exited quickly. Tyler made his way to the living room as a children’s program diverted his attention. He lay on the floor by the Christmas tree, resting his chin on his hands as he silently watched TV. Isabella noticed Jordan’s gaze fixed on him. “He looks tired,” she said. “I’ll cook an early dinner, then get him into bed.” Jordan didn’t argue about her taking on the responsibility in the kitchen tonight, instead heading to the couch to watch the program with Tyler. And that hopeful picture, along with the still-tingling feeling from Jordan’s kiss, was enough to distract Isabella from her uncomfortable meeting with Abby Forrester. At least for now. *** Isabella welcomed the sharpness of the cold night air as it cooled her cheeks and cleared her head. After the unusual events today, she’d warmed a beef and potato casserole, then she, Tyler, and Jordan ate an early meal in relative quiet. Except for the few questions Jordan asked his nephew about their day at the shelter. Tyler was sleepy most of the afternoon and, after he’d had his bath, Isabella tucked him into bed. She casually mentioned that she was going for a run as she passed Jordan on her way to change into her sweats. She didn’t wait for his reply, scurrying away before she found herself alone with him again. The moon was full and bright, illuminating the snow-covered ground. Jordan’s home was situated on four acres, twenty minutes outside the Denver city limits, and Emily lived about half a mile down the road from him. He had a long paved driveway that led through a wrought-iron gate onto the road just outside the property. As Isabella exited the gate, thoughts of Abby Forrester crept into her mind, despite her best efforts to concentrate on her jog and the icy winter scenery around her. There was something about the woman that rubbed Isabella the wrong way. Kim Butler’s photos were so important to Abby at first, and it struck Isabella as odd how she didn’t want to take any of them, after all. Except for the one she didn’t find. Isabella made a mental note to look through the photos herself, see if Abby overlooked it somehow. Even though she dreaded seeing the images of Jordan with the woman he’d loved. Isabella closed her eyes for a moment, replaying the mesmerizing scene this afternoon, when he released her hair…then touched his lips to her mouth, her eyes, and, oh…her neck… Damn – she’d done it. Jordan Butler was in her head. He commanded her attention, even when she was alone in the quiet night. She couldn’t deny there was something happening between them, though it was too confusing for even the schoolteacher in her to understand. It was physical, not academic. Although she and Jordan hadn’t gone farther than kissing – two times, but who was counting – the chemistry between them was electric. She couldn’t help but indulge in the delicious fantasy tripping through her mind as she jogged… Until she literally tripped – on a log, by the side of the road. In a blink, she was flying forward, her hands reaching out to break her fall. She hit the frozen ground, a bit dazed. There were a few inches of powder with ice underneath. Isabella rolled onto her back for a moment, catching her breath. The moon was like a spotlight and she wondered if any neighbors had seen her stumble. She looked around, scrutinizing the houses within view, in the neighborhood Jordan had built. Thankfully, she seemed to have escaped the embarrassment of having witnesses to her clumsiness. Or so she thought. Moments later, the crunch of tires on the icy road and the familiar growl of a large engine sounded behind her. She quickly sat up and turned around to see Jordan stepping from his truck. Defeated, she flopped back in the snow, hoping he’d take the hint and go away. But she wasn’t surprised when he knelt beside her. “Isabella, are you all right?” She answered his question with her own questions. “Why are you out here? What about Tyler?” “It seems to be my duty to catch you when you fall,” he quipped. “Looks like I was a little late this time.” Jordan shook his head as she shot him a humorless glance. “Emily came over. She saw you jogging past her house and thought you’d slipped on the ice just before you were out of view, so I came to check on you.” His eyes sparkled and Isabella wondered if it was anger or concern in them. Or both. “I wouldn’t leave Tyler home alone,” he finished. Of course. Isabella knew that. Jordan was careful of Tyler’s safety – he just didn’t know what was best for him. Yet. And the part about it being Jordan’s job to catch her falls, well – Isabella’s embarrassment squelched the momentary rush she got from hearing it. Feeling like the biggest klutz on earth, she attempted to push herself to her feet. “Oh!” she cried out, falling back and grasping her right wrist with her left hand. Jordan cursed. “What is it?” He gently inspected her painful limb, causing her to wince. “Come on,” he said, putting his arms around her waist and lifting her to her feet. He helped her to his truck and opened the door for her. She seated herself, turning away as he got into the driver’s side. Without a word, Jordan drove down the road, toward town. “Where are you going?” Isabella asked sharply. “To get your wrist checked out,” Jordan replied. “I don’t need a doctor!” She stared at his profile in the muted darkness as he continued to look straight ahead. “Really, Jordan, this is completely unnecessary.” Though her wrist throbbed, her pride hurt worse. “I’ll be fine. Please, turn around!” Jordan glanced at her, his voice serious. “You’re staying on my property. I’m responsible for your safety and comfort. You’re injured, Isabella. I’m not taking you home until you’re seen by a doctor.” Isabella was suddenly too tired to argue. “Yes, you’re definitely responsible,” she managed to whisper as she laid her head back against the soft leather seat and closed her eyes. She wondered what Jordan would think if he knew what she’d been fantasizing about before taking a tumble in the snow – and was grateful the darkness in the truck hid the fiery heat in her cheeks. As they pulled up to the emergency room, Isabella grudgingly allowed Jordan to assist her inside, secretly pleased by the envious looks of some nurses. It did her self-esteem good – something she wasn’t accustomed to, since Phillip. Nearly two hours later, Jordan and Isabella returned home. Emily pushed Isabella onto the couch and clucked over her, then headed for the kitchen to make some herbal tea. Jordan sat next to her, his eyes trained on the splint around her arm. Emily returned with the tea, then fluffed the pillows around her. Exasperated, Isabella addressed them both. “Really, I’m all right. It’s just a slight sprain. I’ll be good as new in a few days.” “Thank goodness it wasn’t worse,” Emily agreed. “You need rest. Drink your tea while I run a warm bath for you.” She exited the room again and Jordan spoke for the first time since he and Isabella had left the ER. “I’m sorry,” he said, surprising her. “For what?” Jordan shoved his fingers through his dark hair. “For laying a guilt trip on you, asking you to stay here until Christmas,” he said. “Don’t apologize, Jordan,” she insisted. “I want to be here – for Tyler.” His eyes pierced hers. “I shouldn’t have asked you to help me with my nephew.” Emily returned and shuffled Isabella to her bath before she could respond to Jordan’s statement. As she soaked in the huge bathtub just across from Jordan’s bedroom, she played his words again in her head. What had brought this on? she wondered. She fell and suffered a minor injury. She felt like an idiot, so why was Jordan apologizing to her? Then she remembered. She was upset over his insistence that she see a doctor, and she inferred that he was responsible for her injury. If only he knew what she’d really meant. A smile lifted the corners of her mouth. Yes, Jordan was responsible for her tripping on that stupid log. But not in the way he thought. She looked around, noting that Emily had placed a towel and her robe on a chair just a few feet away. She absently tried to push herself to a standing position, then cried out in pain as her wrist gave out on her. She heard the door opening and looked up, meeting Jordan’s stare. She watched his concern turn to relief, then fire. His gaze traveled down, lingering on her breasts – bare, except for the bubbles clinging to them. Her skin sparked with electricity, and she made no attempt to cover herself. As Jordan dragged his eyes back to her face, Isabella smiled faintly. “Are you going to help me out, or not?” Chapter Nine (#ulink_1047fe57-dd0b-55c5-b740-614dbb5a3938) He shouldn’t have responded so quickly – but he’d heard Isabella’s shriek, and his instincts took over. Now, he wished he’d hesitated – Or maybe not. He froze, staring at her, naked in the tub. Her lovely breasts were on full display – he couldn’t tear his eyes away. Isabella was beautiful, desirable. Wet. He realized she wasn’t hiding herself. She just watched him, waiting. Embarrassed by his unreserved appraisal, Jordan turned to retrieve the towel on the chair. “I’m sorry,” he said, his back to her. “I didn’t stop to think.” “Jordan,” Isabella whispered. “You’ve apologized enough for one night. Please, just bring me the towel.” As he moved toward her, Isabella managed to put her feet underneath her and use her left arm to push herself to a standing position. This time, Jordan averted his eyes as she wrapped herself in the towel. He held out his hand, and Isabella took it, stepping carefully from the bathtub. “Thank you,” she said, her soft voice drawing his eyes to hers. Mere inches separated their bodies as they stood there, hands clasped. Isabella shivered and Jordan cursed, frustrated. He pulled her to him with a force that elicited a soft gasp from her. His hands slid down her backside and he claimed her lips. She pressed her body against him as he grasped her hair, gently tugging her head back, kissing the moisture from her throat. Isabella moaned, seeking his lips with hers, taking her hands from her towel and winding them around his neck. She whimpered against his mouth, in obvious pain. Immediately, Jordan stopped. He pulled away and Isabella’s cover fell to the floor. Their eyes dropped to the fuzzy fabric bunched at her feet. Then Jordan’s gaze moved up her legs, devouring every inch of her. Taking her injured wrist into consideration, he picked up the towel, gently drying her legs first. He moved the towel up, across her pelvis, her stomach. Then, he stood straight and slowly brushed it over her breasts. He finished the slow seduction, pulling the towel around her again, then lifting her chin with his fingertip. “Tyler’s asleep and Emily’s gone home.” He drew Isabella’s gaze to his. “And I want you in my bed tonight.” *** Isabella allowed Jordan to lead her from the bathroom, across the hall, to his bedroom. She’d never been there, had never given in to her curiosity when she was alone in the house. A simple lamp on the bedside table illuminated the room, and Isabella swept her gaze around, taking in the tasteful masculine furniture, and the huge king-sized bed a few feet from them. There was an impressive stone fireplace in the wall directly in front of the bed, and a large picture window to the right, which boasted a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountain skyline. Isabella was quiet, suddenly hesitant. “Are you all right?” Jordan’s sexy voice, like warm honey, was in her ear as he stood behind her. “Yes,” Isabella replied. She closed her eyes as his hands moved up her waist and cupped her breasts. His lips left a hot trail along the side of her neck, to her shoulder, while he pulled the towel to the floor. She leaned back against him, taking his left hand and moving it over her abdomen, then down. Her breath caught when his fingers slid between her legs, massaging her, driving her into a sweet frenzy of desire. “Jordan,” she whispered, turning and taking his mouth, drinking in his kiss while his hands touched, explored her. Isabella impatiently unbuttoned his shirt and pushed it off his muscular shoulders, tingling as he moved his hands down her back. His lips trailed along her collarbone, then he bent to take her breast in his mouth, creating another round of tremors inside her. Feverish from his touch, Isabella barely noticed as Jordan picked her up and laid her down on the bed. Her eyelids were heavy with desire as she reached for the waistband of his jeans, fumbling with the button, wanting to feel his skin against hers. Jordan accommodated her, tugging the zipper down and bending to taste her lips once again, slowly this time. He moved his hand over her firm stomach, down her thigh, then back to the softness between her legs. She gasped as his fingers stroked her, and Isabella thought she’d lose her mind from needing him. “Please, Jordan. Now…” “Hold on,” he said softly, standing to remove his jeans. Before he resumed their dance, he hesitated. “It’s been a long time for me, Isabella. But…are you protected?” Isabella nodded, her breasts heaving, her body waiting. He hesitated, looking at her for a moment. Isabella admired him, as well. He was gorgeous, she thought. All man. He positioned himself on top of her. His long, muscled leg pushed her knees apart, and his mouth took her breast again before moving back to her lips, coaxing them open, tasting the sweetness inside. Isabella pushed against him and Jordan entered her. He moved with urgent, deliberate strokes, and Isabella felt a slow burn tingle in her core, then build steadily until she bucked herself upward. Jordan hesitated, surprised, then moved forcefully within her, matching her thrusts with his own until they cried out together in a white-hot culmination of world-rocking pleasure. After a moment, Jordan rolled over, lying on his back next to her. He remained silent, and Isabella made a move to get up. He gently touched her shoulder, easing her back down on the bed. As he moved closer, Isabella wondered if he was going to make love to her again. But he pulled the comforter up and over her. Then kissed her injured wrist before turning off the lamp. He lay next to her under the covers, his arm wrapped possessively around her waist. Moments later, Isabella listened to his steady breathing in the darkness. She rolled onto her side and he snuggled in closer. She felt a strange mixture of satisfaction, fulfillment, and confusion. The only thing she was certain of now was that Jordan Butler was the most extraordinary man she’d ever known. And if she wasn’t careful, she would fall very hard for him. And break into a million pieces when she hit the ground. *** Jordan stood at the window, staring out at the moonlit mountain range. His mind was too preoccupied to sleep. Isabella was peaceful, as if what happened between them hadn’t affected her at all, other than to induce her enviable slumber. For him, the nightmare returned while he slept – a vision of Kim and Derek, traveling along the slick mountain road, careening over the cliff. It was so real, so unsettling, Jordan had jolted awake. He’d lain there, listening to Isabella’s steady breathing, wanting to wake her with a kiss, lose himself in her again. And wipe the horrible image from his mind. Instead, he’d quietly slipped out of bed, alone with his thoughts. And he didn’t like where they were leading him. In a twisted sort of way, he credited the chilling dream for jarring him back to reality. Only hours before, he’d allowed Isabella’s beauty to consume him. Though he’d tried to keep his attraction to her in check, it had always been there – from the moment she’d peeked around the door at Tyler’s school and pinned him with her disapproving glare. He couldn’t help himself the few times he’d lost control and kissed her. She was living next door, coming and going – making him want her, whether she knew it or not. When he saw her tonight, so lovely, covered in bubbles – hell, she’d invited him without a word. She was impossible to resist. And he was just a man. But he’d been here before – with Kim. And he kicked himself now for allowing himself to go down this road again. It was nearly Christmas, and soon Isabella would be out of his house, and out of his life. It was for the best that way. He couldn’t let this go on between them, despite his growing feelings for her – Or maybe because of them. He could only hope the holiday would come quickly. And, until then, he couldn’t repeat what happened tonight – For his own sake. *** Isabella was grateful it was Monday and she’d have the whole day to recover from her complete loss of self-control the night before. She awakened at dawn to find that Jordan had already gone. Probably for the best, she thought, as a hot blush burned her cheeks. Jordan was everything a woman could ever want in a lover. He was masterful and breathtaking. His raw sensuality wiped away her inhibitions and gave her a fever that went beyond anything she’d ever felt before. She was a thirty-year-old woman, but felt like a schoolgirl who’d just discovered sex. It had never been like that with Phillip. Still, it didn’t mean she was falling for Jordan, did it? She was certainly more alive with him than she had ever been with her ex – but she’d be a fool to think Jordan wanted more than anything physical. No words of love had been spoken last night – there were only the sounds of intense pleasure. Contemplating a future with Jordan was pointless…and dangerous. And loving Jordan wasn’t part of their deal – no matter how alive and beautiful she felt in his arms. So now, she was faced with the prospect of practically coexisting with him, trying to pretend like nothing had happened between them. But it had. And she’d agreed to look after Tyler, help him find some closure to his parents’ deaths. Then go her own way. She thought about her young student, still asleep in the room across from her. The fact that he’d been deprived of the two most basic things a boy should have was simply heartbreaking. He’d wanted a dog last year, and it had been denied to him. Now he wanted his parents – a wish he should’ve never had to make. But, in spite of everything, the magic of the season had brought Tyler back from depression. She wanted to protect that, while trying to help him understand a future without his parents in it. He would need his uncle more than ever when that moment of truth came. She had little more than two weeks left to persuade Jordan to open his heart to his nephew – And, hopefully, escape with her own intact. *** Emily met them outside Jordan’s house when Isabella and Tyler returned from school. The older woman was unusually quiet as she followed them inside, then led Tyler to the kitchen for a snack. Isabella sensed there was something wrong. She’d barely hung her coat in the closet and stepped out of her heels when Emily cornered her in the living room, pulling her out of Tyler’s earshot. “I’ve wanted to talk to you since yesterday afternoon,” Emily whispered, conspiratorially. “But you were injured, and it was late when you returned from the hospital…” “Emily, please,” Isabella cut in, embarrassed by the possibility that the older woman might have guessed about last night. “What’s on your mind?” Emily pulled Isabella to the couch. She glanced at Tyler before replying. “The Forresters, of course. Why were they here?” “They brought gifts – for Tyler,” Isabella offered, although she had an idea what Emily was getting at. “Abigail Forrester makes me uneasy,” Emily stated. Isabella was slightly surprised by Emily’s confirmation of her own instincts. Emily stared at Isabella, her eyes encouraging her to continue. “She asked to see the photos in Kim’s jewelry chest,” Isabella said. “Oh, my! You didn’t give them to her…?” Isabella shook her head. “I agreed to let her look for one in particular – of her and Kim with Tyler. But I told her I’d have to check with Jordan about any others. Funny thing is, she didn’t take any.” Emily stood and paced the floor. “She was Kim’s friend. She wants Tyler,” she insisted. “Jordan mentioned something about that,” Isabella said quietly, her eyes downcast. “Jordan doesn’t know what’s good for himself…never has.” Emily wrung her hands, visibly upset. “I swear, I’d like to shake some sense into him…” “Emily! I thought you and Jordan were close.” Emily stopped pacing and caught Isabella’s stare. “I love Jordan, dear. I loved Derek, too. But when Derek became too much for his father to handle, he sent him away to boarding school. Jordan was always the serious, quiet one. He stayed home with his father and he and I grew close over the years – while Derek slipped further away. I didn’t know about Tyler any more than Jordan did, but that boy stole my heart from the moment I met him.” She sat down again. “I just can’t believe Jordan doesn’t feel the same way. I don’t understand why he’d even think it…sending his brother’s son away.” She sighed heavily. Isabella could relate to Emily’s words. “I’m sure the Forresters must love Tyler, too.” “You don’t agree with Jordan, do you?” “No – of course not! But there’s a real possibility that Jordan might go through with it.” “I don’t have anything against Zach Forrester,” Emily insisted. “He grew up with Derek, and has always been nice and polite, though somewhat withdrawn. But Abigail Forrester’s interest in Tyler borders on obsessive.” She searched Isabella’s eyes. “She’s been calling since the accident. And she came over yesterday. I’m shocked she didn’t wait for Tyler to return.” “I thought it was odd she agreed to leave as soon as she looked through Kim’s photos,” Isabella confided. “I have my doubts about her, too.” Конец ознакомительного фрагмента. Текст предоставлен ООО «ЛитРес». Прочитайте эту книгу целиком, купив полную легальную версию (https://www.litres.ru/gina-rochelle/christmas-wish-come-true-all-i-want-for-christmas-dreaming-o/?lfrom=688855901) на ЛитРес. Безопасно оплатить книгу можно банковской картой Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, со счета мобильного телефона, с платежного терминала, в салоне МТС или Связной, через PayPal, WebMoney, Яндекс.Деньги, QIWI Кошелек, бонусными картами или другим удобным Вам способом.