“What is your budget?”
She stares down at her tea until I softly say, “Wynter?”
“My parents donated twenty grand. I used that for the food baskets for the families who signed up. Those are ordered andshould be delivered the day of the party. I’m worried though. Pride can keep people from asking for help. I’d like to have extras.
“Dom was supposed to cover the shirts with his picture and help with the decorations and set up. Some towns people have also volunteered for setup. Depending on how much available time they have.”
She swallows. “I’ve been buying gifts for the kids who entered their names and shipping them to the factory for storage. The owner has them in his warehouse. I’m a few short, but I have a little left in my savings.”
She hesitates, then nods to herself. “If I order the rest of the gifts online, I think they’ll get here on time. I could do that tonight.”
I ladle stew into two bowls and pull a stool around so I’m facing her. “Eat. Then we’ll make a plan. I don’t have to be anywhere for two weeks. I’ll help.”
I hold her gaze. “One condition. No one knows it’s me. My name doesn’t appear anywhere.”
CHAPTER 3
Wynter
“Why?”
“I’m here. I’m bored. I like kids.”
“Seriously? That’s it?”
“It’s the holiday. I have nowhere else to be.”
“If we stuff you with pillows, will you be Santa?”
“You’re pushing your luck. Let’s get the set up done first.”
I smile. “My hero. Has the snow stopped? Do you know how to use the truck’s plow?”
“No and yes. They’re still advising people to stay off the roads. It will probably be morning before we can really get to town.
“Do you have floor plans and a list going of what needs to be done?”
“Yes, paper copies and on my computer.”
“After we eat, we can go over what you still need to buy and make a game plan for the organizing. I’ll get up early and plow us out.”
Okay, he’s little bossy, but he’s also willing to work. I can handle that. He’s here, he’s capable, and—my libido reminds me—very well built and will to be of service.My libido flashes backto his package. Oh yeah go for the service. It’s been a long dry season.
“You’re a little flushed. Are you sure you’re okay? You were pretty wet and cold when you got here.” His concern in genuine.
“I’m fine. Just…could I have a warmup on my tea while I get my computer.”
He refreshes our cups. “Eat first, then we work.”
We eat in silence. My mind races through reorganizing everything and it’s only when I scrape the last bite out of my bowl that I realize how good it was. “You made this? It’s delicious.”
“Thank you. I’ll tell my mother you liked it. It’s her recipe.”
“Your mom taught you how to cook?”
“She taught all of us how to cook.”
“How many are there of you?”
