“I want to work with Frost Haven,” Sven says, “but I need a mayor who isn’t going to sabotage everything. Someone I can trust. Ultimately, the lodge and Frost Haven can help each other thrive.”
Sven stands. “Now, our new chef. I want your opinion, Vasi. I’ve reserved a private booth for the two of you. Send me your thoughts afterward.”
Once seated and our orders are placed, I look at Nico.
“What are you up too? What is all this talk about me becoming mayor?”
CHAPTER 12
Niko
“I talked with Chad while we were setting up Santa,” I begin. “He says that the mayor’s undermining half the town’s projects for his own gain. The council members are furious. They’ve been gathering evidence of fraud. They’ve already started proceedings and looked into the requirements for a special election. They’ve been waiting for the right candidate. Someone who cares about the town, about sustainability, about drawing in businesses and jobs.
“You, with your vision, your instincts, your heart for people, and your love for this place would be perfect. McDermott and Withers agree.”
I let that settle before continuing.
“Chad and I also talked about the Ice House skating rink. Getting it running again would give the community another attraction, and his crew could handle the work, keeping them employed and home.”
I lean back. “The city bought the Ice House years ago to protect its historical value. McDermott thinks the council would consider letting me take over management. I’d fund the rest ofthe repairs until they could reimburse me. It’s an investments in the town.”
“That’s going to be a lot of money, Nico. It’s old.”
“Chad and I went over it. It’ll create jobs—and I can afford it. I’m done with the constant travel, Wynter. I’m taking the instructor job at the lodge. I won’t live there, so I’ll be looking for a home in Frost Haven.”
Her eyes widen.
“I like the people here. I want to be part of a community again. That’s how I I grew up before competing took over my life. I want roots. A home. A family someday.”
“Nico, I?—”
I reach for her hand, curling my fingers around hers. “One thing at a time,kardiá mou. I just want you to know where I’m headed.
“The truth is with how much you love this town, you’d make an incredible mayor. Even if you don’t run, just living here and helping implement all your ideas would transform the place. You could build it back to what you loved as a kid. Just… think about it. Whether you realize it or not, you’ve already gotten a lot of supporters in the town. People who believe in you. People who want you to run.”
Her eyes glisten as she looks at me. Has no one ever truly praised this woman? Dom is a good guy even though he’s sometimes self-absorbed. Although he’s said his sister is the best, he’s never said much about his parents. I clasp her hand in mine stroking the back with my thumb. Some families are found. Mine is going to love her.
“So tomorrow, an all-day wrapping fest, right?”
“All day. The ladies from the coffee shop will come help as they can.”
Back in the cabin she excuses herself to shower. I want to join her, but I can tell she’s retreated into her thoughts. I’ve hit her with lot at once.
The thing is… I know these are all the right decisions. When you know, you know. I was nine when I knew I’d be a speed skier and break records. And now
I know that chapter is over. I want to teach. I want to help others achieve their dreams. I want to be there for my woman, in everything she wants, everything she dreams.
I want to be Wynter’s shoulder when life hits hard, her sounding board for new ideas, her anchor, her supporter. She deserves that.
I stoke the fire and lean one arm on the mantel, doubt tugging at me. I’m so sure, but am I pushing her too hard? Too fast?
“Nico, is something wrong?”
I turn. She’s dressed in one of my T-shirts, soft and small and beautiful. “No,kardiá mou. Everything is perfect. I made you an herbal tea. Climb into bed. I be right there.”
When I come out of my shower, she’s propped up on pillows with her laptop and her mug.
“There are so many things the lodge could add to their family schedule if they had camp-counselors-style programs,” she says without looking up. “Morning and afternoon sessions by age groups, give the adults the time to have adult activities. Family could choose only the sessions they want, balancing their own time with their individual families.
