Roan
Wear something warm.
Reese
You sound like a dad.
Roan
No dad jokes. I promise.
She did indeed change into warmer clothes—jeans, a thick sweater, her winter coat and boots. Tonight was one of her favorite of the year. The whole town would be at the tree lighting tonight, celebrating the season and their sweet community.
And this year she’d be there with Roan and all four of the kids. Everything was changing so fast but maybe that was okay. She’d had the same routines for years now. Work. Mauve. Spending time alone even when she wished she wasn’t. Now, her life was full with the kids and Roan. Maybe this was what she’d needed all this time. People who neededher.
The town square was already packed when Reese arrived. White lights were strung between the lampposts, and the enormous spruce tree stood in the center of the park, dark and waiting. Families clustered together, children bouncing with excitement. The smell of hot chocolate and cinnamon drifted from the cocoa stand near the pavilion.
Reese scanned the crowd, looking for Roan. She spotted Jason first, standing near the front with Mauve. Their heads were bent, engrossed in talking to each other. Mauve practically glowed. Reese really hoped she wasn’t about to have her heart broken when Jason went back to his real life.
Then she saw them—Roan standing near the tree with all four kids. Emma was gesticulating wildly with her hands, clearly telling a story, her cheeks flushed. Julia stood beside her,bundled up in a thick coat. Marcus and Cody flanked Roan on either side, both wearing their new winter jackets.
Gratitude flooded Reese as she watched them all together, amazed at how successful their time with the kids had been. This was the embodiment of the Christmas spirit. Grace Hayes had done a good thing.
“Hey, gorgeous,” Roan said when she reached them, pulling her close for a quick kiss.
She blushed. No one could make her feel as beautiful as Roan Hayes could. “Hi. Sorry I’m late. It was a zoo getting here.”
“No problem. We saved you a spot,” Roan said, kissing her again.
She turned to say hello to the kids. Julia surprised her with a hug.
“How are you feeling?” Reese asked.
“A little tired, but not bad,” Julia said.
Emma hugged her next, her slim arms sliding around Reese’s middle. “I’m glad you’re here, Reese. Everything’s more fun with you.”
“Is your mom coming?” Reese asked.
Emma’s sparkle faded. “No. Said she didn’t feel like dealing with the crowds.”
“I’m sorry,” Reese said, giving her another hug.
“It’s okay. Today I’m choosing to be happy,” Emma said. “No matter what stupid games my parents are playing.”
“Good plan,” Reese said.
“Reese, I got an A on my essay for English class,” Marcus said. “My teacher said it was the best one. She said I’m a great writer.”
“Marcus, that’s wonderful. I’m proud of you,” Reese said.
“It’s a lot easier to concentrate now that I have a kitchen table to study at and a full belly,” Marcus said, glancing up at Roan. “I prayed and prayed for a new home. A family.”
“God was listening, apparently,” Reese said.
Cody nodded hello to Reese and then plucked his knit cap from his head. “I got a haircut.”
“Oh my goodness, you look like a movie star.” Reese reached up to ruffle the close short locks.
