With our tea shop well established on the map and the number of customers we get, we needed every inch of space. When Glory suggested a flat Christmas tree wall display made of wood, fake sprigs from a garland, and a string of lights, it was the perfect compromise.
Since Glory finished her degree, she’s become our resident window display designer and in house festive art director.
“Ta-daaaa,” Glory sings the words as she flicks the switch to the fairy lights. The triangular shaped display takes on another life, transforming the corner of the tearoom into a festive grotto of sorts. My heart lights up, just like the display.
The warmth and love I feel here surrounded by friends and my newfound family takes me back to my childhood. Dad’s even coming over with his girlfriend for the July festival, and I can’t wait to show them our place.
“At least Wanelda will be pleased.” I wince, knowing she wasn’t the only customer that was disappointed at our lack of Christmas spirit.
“Yep, her and the rest of the town.” Gray pats my bottom and kisses my nose. “Great idea, Glory. This has turned out perfect, along with your peppermint and candy cane window display.”
Glory sips her fruit tea, nodding and smiling at her work. She’s been applying for jobs as a junior production designer for a few weeks now, but everyone wants someone with experience. Catch twenty-two.
The bell above the door dings. Noel strolls in all Hollywood sun-kissed and drops his shades, giving us a flash of his piercing blue eyes.
Glory’s jaw drops along with her china cup. “Shit.” Shards fly off in all directions, but Julian is on hand with a dustpan and brush.
Gray brushes between us, striding over to him. “Hey, man, good to see you. When did you get back to town?”
“Yesterday. The crew is here filming a Christmas movie. I’m staying in my parents’ beach rental.” He points to our twinkling tree display that takes up most of the back wall. “This looks great.”
“Glory created it. You know she just got her degree in theatre arts. She's looking for something full time especially set design.” Gray’s smile widens, bursting with pride at his sister being the first one in his family to finish a degree.
Noel’s eyes land on Glory, moving from her chest to her face, then back to her chest again.
“Dude.” Gray knocks his shoulder. “Can’t you get her some work experience? You must have some sway on the film set, being a cameraman.”
Noel blinks and focuses on Glory’s face. “You should come to the set tomorrow. I’ll introduce you to the art director. The props assistant is sick.”
Glory’s eyes twinkle, reflecting the lights on the wall. “You’d do that for me?”
“Sure I would.” He steps closer to Glory, their eyes locked in some sort of trance.
Gray clears his throat. “Thanks man, for looking out for mylittle sister.” He stresses the last two words while cocking an eyebrow.
Noel runs his fingers through his brown hair, kissed by the sun on the tips. “Of course. You wanna go out tonight, man? We have some catching up to do.”
Gray looks at me, seeking permission. “Thursday’s date night.” He takes hold of my hand and interlaces our fingers.
Noel’s eyes widen. “Are you two official now?”
I can’t stop the smile from spreading across my face. “Yes. It only took Grayson ten years to admit his feelings.”
Gray frowns at me. “I could say the same about you.”
My hands slip around his neck. “You go out with Noel. We can go out tomorrow.”
“You sure?”
I nod, then peck his lips.
“Glory, do you have to put up with these two sucking face all day?” Noel chuckles.
“I’m used to it now, but it’s better than Gray walking around here like he’s chewing down a mosquito. You know he was miserable before Cam came to town.”
The two of them laugh at Gray’s expense and my heart grows, knowing I’ve brought some life back into him, just as he has me.
“Hey, sorry to break up the lovebirds, but Callaghan, from the new bakery has brought over these yummy Gingerbread men.” Julian holds open a box of gingerbread and behind him is a tall, beefy ginger man that looks just as yummy as his bakes.
