“That would be fantastic.” Holden touched the branches on a beautiful wreath with a houndstooth bow at the top. “Then you won’t have to worry about sales and can just enjoy your evening.”
“I think I would enjoy this evening even if I didn’t sell a single one. It’s pretty perfect, if you ask me.”
Almost perfect, Holden thought. Once Rachel arrived, it would be.
He found his mother near the local candle maker’s tent, her nose in a small jar that—based on the label—smelled of vanilla and cloves. Her eyes drifted shut as she inhaled softly.
“Is that one a winner?”
Jill’s eyes flit open. She returned the candle to the folding table. “You know I love the ones that smell like food.” She gave the candle maker a smile and moved from the tent. “Plus, candles calm me, and after the day I’ve had with your father…”
“His foot acting up again?”
“Oh, no. The foot’s fine. He’s just been all worked up over his job tonight.”
Holden didn’t follow. “What job?” Scout stretched on her leash, and Holden gave a gentle tug to keep her in place.
“They asked him to do the honors of placing the star on the top of the tree. The guys from the station brought the engine and your father’s going up on the ladder.”
“Is that safe to do with his boot?”
Jill shrugged. “Probably not, but he’s assured me all of Snowdrift’s finest first responders will already be onsite, so I shouldn’t worry.”
“He must be over the moon.”
“Oh, son, he’s more excited about this than he was at the opportunity to have our tree on the square. Funny how things always seem to work out.”
Holden grinned at his mother. That smile slipped from his face as his mouth went slack and his jaw unhinged. His gaze trailed across the crowd and landed on the one woman he hoped to pick out of it. She stood in a sea of people, but all Holden could focus on was her. A deep cranberry peacoat hugged her small frame, and a cream-colored scarf and matching gloves accented her outfit, along with a slouchy beret that cocked to one side. The sight of her took his very breath away.
Rachel’s eyes met Holden’s and his heart gave a tight squeeze.
Her beauty doubled when her entire face lit up with a beaming smile of recognition.
“I’ll check back in with you in a bit, Mom.” Holden hugged his mother and then made determined strides toward Rachel in the middle of the square.
“You look incredible,” he whispered near her ear when he pulled her into a hug.
“So do you,” she echoed. “For a mountain man, you sure clean up well.”
Is that what he was? A mountain man? He supposed so and chuckled a little at the new label.
“Is it silly if I say I’ve missed you?” he asked.
“Not at all, because I feel the same.” She took his hand in hers. “I almost didn’t think I would make it in time. Traffic coming up the hill was crazy.”
“I think everyone wants to be here for the lighting. It’s supposed to be a really special one.”
She pulled him forward. “One we should try to get a front-row seat to, if we can.”
“I think that can be arranged.” Holden nudged Scout. “Go on, girl. Lead the way.”
It was amazing how an adorable dog could part a throng of jam-packed people. Sure, everyone wanted to stop and give her a pat or a squeeze, but in time, the trio made their way closer to the base of the tree. Lance and Sarah already had their spots reserved, along with cups of cocoa in their hands and expressions too lovey-dovey for Holden’s liking on their faces. Laney snoozed from her stroller, all bundled up like a Christmas cherub.
“Welcome back, Rachel.” Lance took her into his embrace. “I’m glad to see you back in town for many reasons, but mostly because I won’t have to deal with this lovesick puppy anymore.” He jabbed Holden with his elbow.
“It’s good to be home,” she said. The telling words weren’t lost on Holden.
“If I can have your attention, please.” Mayor Thornton’s voice crackled through the speakers. A hush descended upon the crowd, the deafening roar of excitement dwindling to a murmur of anticipation. “If you all can find your places, we will begin shortly.”
