He explained that in his family, they decorated their trees either the day before Christmas Eve or on the eve itself.
“It’s our tradition.”
That was why there’d been no tree in the lobby when I arrived.
Riven's arms slipped around my waist, and he rested his chin on my shoulder. I nuzzled him, and we stood like that, not saying anything, our breathing the only sound in the cabin.
“We should finish decorating the tree.” His voice brought me back to the present. “Antonia’s expecting us at the lodge party tonight.”
“Do we have to go?” I wasn't eager to trade our cocoon for the curious eyes of the lodge staff.
“It's tradition.” He brushed a strand of hair from my face. “Plus, I want to show off my date.”
“Your date, huh?” I couldn't help smiling. “Is that what I am?”
“Among other things.” His eyes darkened. “Come on. Tree first, then party, and we come back here for our own private celebration.” He tweaked my butt, leaving me in no doubt about how we’d celebrate.
We spent the afternoon decorating, and Riven shared stories of the ornaments. There was a wooden angel carved by his grandfather and the small wolf figurine that had been his first attempt at woodworking. I fingered the tiny wolf.
“I love the history of you, your family, and this place.”
We both reached for the same ornament, and hegrabbed my hand. “You could be part of the history. Here with me.”
Tears pricked my eyes ‘cause my witness protection would end soon and I’d go back to my regular life, though I no longer had a job, as my boss, Marty Fitzgerald, would likely be in prison.
“Maybe.” I placed an ornament on the tree. “It's not that simple.”
It sounded so easy, but did I want it to continue? More than anything, I didn't know how to make that happen.
“It could be, if you wanted it.”
He had to clarify what he was saying, because if this was a proposal, I needed it in black and white. Maybe not in writing but in words.
“I want you to stay with me permanently.” His words came out in a rush. “After your witness protection ends.”
Okay, that was clear. I’d asked for black and white, and I got it. My heart was thudding so loudly I expected Riven to comment on it, but he told me to think about it. It was a huge decision and one I couldn’t make on a whim. I was tempted to fling myself into his arms, yelling yes, but I held back. I could tell him tomorrow, or this evening, or maybe in five minutes.
But he reminded me of tonight’s celebration, so I crossed off five minutes and made it fivehours. Damn!
Little elves had beenhard at work putting up more decorations in the lodge. Strings of white lights created a canopy overhead, reminding me of tonight’s sky as the light reflected off mirrors and the crystal chandeliers.
Staff and guests mingled, drinking mulled wine and chatting, and holiday music played, though not blaring Christmas favorites, thank gods.
As we entered, heads turned and people paused their conversations. After nearly three weeks, everyone still stared at me.
“Ignore them,” Riven whispered. His hand was at the small of my back, and his touch gave me confidence that this was where I was supposed to be. “They're not used to seeing me with someone.”
Were some of them jealous that I was with the heir to this place? I ignored that idea because it was Christmas Eve and we were celebrating. Riven led me through the crowd, introducing me to people I hadn't yet met.Lionel followed us from across the room, and when our eyes met, he raised his glass.
A group of newcomers burst into the huge room.
“My cousins.” Riven's face brightened. “They made it.”
I drew back, ready for another round of staring, but Riven brought me into the circle.
“Everyone, this is Indigo. Indigo, my extended family.”
“You're the one who's got our Riven all tied up in knots,” Bryce noted.
