I squinted for a look. Before I could identify it, a very alive creature launched itself at my face like it had a vendetta.
“A bat!” I screamed—a masculine, yet undeniably high-pitched scream.
Then it dive-bombed me, and I flailed. I lost my balance and fell forward into the tree—bringing the ladder with me.
The entire thing crashed to the floor with a sound loud enough to start an avalanche. The tree snapped. Ornaments exploded into a million glittering pieces. Lights fizzed and died.
“Fan-fucking-tastic!” I yelled.
Lilah burst out of the kitchen, eyes wide as she took in the destruction.
“What is this? A Christmas horror movie?” She planted her hands on her hips. “What did you do?”
“The tree attacked me.”
“Are you okay?” She rushed to my side, actually appearing genuinely concerned.
“No broken bones, I think. Face still intact. But feel free to give my body a once-over.” I winked.
“Great. Your ego survived.”
“You’re very comforting.” I tried to stand, carefully avoiding glass.
Her gaze flicked to the fallen tree. “Rita is going to kill you when she sees this.”
She disappeared, then returned thirty seconds later with a broom, a bucket, and a trash can.
“Here.” She shoved the broom at me. “Have fun cleaning up your mess. Try not to get attacked again—or there might not be a lodge left when everyone comes back.”
I took the broom, and my hand brushed hers. Electricity snapped between us.
Her breath hitched like she felt it too, but probably wouldn’t admit it. Then she pulled away.
“Wait,” I blurted before I could stop myself. “Lilah.”
“What?” She glanced back, arms crossed, annoyance dripping off of her like frost.
“I’m sorry.”
“I think Rita deserves that apology.”
“No—I mean, yes, she does—but I want to apologize to you for the past.”
“Not going there.” She shook her head.
The power cut out. Darkness swallowed the lobby. The only sounds were the wind howling outside, and Lilah’s gasp.
“Please tell me you have a generator, Holden.”
“Of course.” I pulled out my phone. “Three circuits. Lobby and kitchen, guest suites, service floor. They should kick on automatically.” We waited. My thumbs swiped through the apps to find the one for generators. “Any minute now.”
The power restored. What a relief?
I opened my mouth to saysee?—but she was already walking away. Hair swinging. Hips swaying. Leaving me alone with shattered ornaments and pine needles in places they had no business being.
I stood there, broom in hand. Still warm where she’d touched me.
Snow Quest Lodge didn’t have to feel this empty on Christmas. If I could just figure out how to melt the glacier around Lilah Childs’ heart.
