"I think that's our cue to head home."
"Let me know when you'd like to get the tree up. I can pick up some ingredients to make cookies too. We can make it a whole thing," Eve said.
I frowned. "Aren't you busy with stuff here?"
"I think I've earned a break after the parade and the tree lighting. And I'll need your help this week to set up the light trail."
"Frank said it was all hands on deck for that because you're donating a portion of the proceeds to the fire department." I asked.
"I don't need the holiday light trail to generate money. I want to get people in to enjoy everything our little town has to offer, and I thought people might feel good about donating to the fire department."
"It's a nice thing to do," I said, my voice gruff.
"I also need your help setting everything up. So it's not like I won't be putting you to work," Eve pointed out as we headed toward the parking lot.
"Can I help with the light trail?" Sofia asked Eve.
"I'm sure we can find something for you to do," Eve said.
I appreciated that she always included my daughter. It was a big reason that Sofia enjoyed her company. I opened the rear passenger door for Sofia.
"Good night, Miss Eve."
"Night, Sofia," Eve said softly as I shut the door.
I moved over to where Eve waited by the truck. "Thank you for always including her. I know she loves spending time with you. You make her feel important."
"I'm glad."
"Will I see you tonight?" I asked, wanting to have a different outcome tonight. Our midnight dalliances had been quick and satisfying. But I wanted something more.
Her lips twitched. "I can't seem to stay away from you."
I raised a brow. "I hope that's a good thing."
"Me too," she said.
"Why don't you come over a little earlier, after Sofia’s asleep?" I offered.
"That would be nice."
I’m sure she was tired from the late hours.
She waited on the sidewalk while I got into the cab and turned on the engine. I couldn't wait until Sofia went to bed. It was quickly becoming the favorite part of my day because I got to be alone with Eve.
At home, Sofia got ready for bed without any complaints. That was a testament to how tired she was. This year, I'd made time for more holiday events, and it was mainly because of Eve. She'd made everything more enticing. I wanted to experience the season.
I didn't feel like a failure anymore. In fact, I thought I might be getting the hang of this single parenting thing. It certainly took a village, and Eve had become part of that. I didn't want to lose her, and I had a feeling if I kept treating her like a booty call, I would.
She was a strong, sophisticated woman. She wouldn't put up with being treated poorly. I needed to do better.
This time, I had a fire going in the fireplace, and I made hot chocolate. When she arrived, I even had a holiday movie playing on the TV.
"What's this?" she asked when I led her into the room.
Usually I kissed her in the foyer. Then we made our way to the bedroom where our clothes flew off, and I couldn't wait to get inside her. Tonight was different. "I thought we could drink some hot chocolate and watch a movie. I know it's late, but you said you wanted a break."
She smiled softly. "This is great actually."
