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“But…tomorrow is Thanksgiving,” Isabella reminded him softly.
He briefly glanced her way, then turned his eyes back to the road. “I guess you’ll have to put up with me for part of the holiday then.”
Pushing back the pathetic thrill she got from the prospect of not spending all of Thanksgiving Day alone, she asked, “How did you know…?
“I dropped Tyler off with a friend, who asked me to run a last-minute errand in town.” Jordan shook his head, his eyes glinting down at her. “I thought I saw your car turn toward Reindeer Ridge, so I decided to come out – to make sure you were okay.” His voice held a hint of impatience, but his words warmed Isabella to the core. Gallant.
“Thank you,” she whispered.
He nodded but said nothing more. When they’d reached the main road, Isabella softly stated her address. Then she closed her eyes and breathed again, as Jordan carefully maneuvered the big warm truck through the storm.
Chapter Two (#ulink_93be4bd9-3e4a-5a50-89c7-f0803fcfb3d3)
Isabella awoke before dawn. She rubbed her eyes and sat up, swinging her legs off the bed. She felt for her slippers on the cool wooden floor and tucked her feet into them. After a restless night, sleep now eluded her. The frightening experience she’d had in the storm had unnerved her, causing her to toss and turn half the night.
She had only herself to blame. She could have avoided the whole episode on Reindeer Ridge by simply fibbing to Tyler, then dropping the letters off at the post office on Friday morning. But, she was honest to a fault. So much so, it could’ve cost her life – as her handsome rescuer had correctly pointed out.
She reached for her robe and wrapped herself into its snuggly warmth as she was greeted by the cold morning air on the short walk to the kitchenette. She needed coffee, lots of it. Jordan Butler would be here in a couple of hours and she had to muster every ounce of energy to face him and his nephew. She ran her hands through her honey-colored hair. The natural curls fell around her face and into her eyes as she fumbled with the coffee maker. As the welcoming scent of the rich brew touched her nostrils, she went to the window of her small third-story efficiency.
“So beautiful,” Isabella murmured as she gazed out at the blanket of white snow. It sparkled in the fading moonlight of the early morning. Despite her close call with the elements, she loved Colorado. The scene before her now was why she’d come here, all the way from Miami. The peaceful surroundings promoted healing, far away from a man who’d practically left her at the altar to run off with a twenty-year-old flight attendant. Just weeks before her wedding – which would have been today.
As the first rays of sun peeked out from the horizon, Tyler’s mysterious uncle entered her thoughts. Why? When her emotions were still raw, so soon after her breakup – why was this man commanding her attention? He was hard, cool, and distant – and her self-confidence was already in shreds.
But something about Jordan Butler struck Isabella as extraordinary. He was like the mountains surrounding this place. Strong, tall, darkly beautiful – potentially dangerous. A warning bell went off in her head.
Keep a safe distance from both – man and mountain.
But she shook it off. After all, she had to make one more trip to Reindeer Ridge with him, to retrieve her car.
***
“Uncle Jordan…Miss Stevens…do you think we’ll see Santa?”
Isabella sneaked a glance at Jordan’s profile as she rode next to him in the passenger seat. He’d been mostly silent since showing up on her doorstep fifteen minutes ago with Tyler in tow.
“It’s Thanksgiving, Tyler,” Isabella answered. “Santa may be spending the day with Mrs. Claus and the elves. But I’m sure he’ll get our letters. I delivered them – my stranded car is proof.” She turned to smile into the face of the boy in the seat behind her. “But if your uncle doesn’t mind, and if it’s open today, I’ll take you to visit the Toy Shop.”
“Okay.” Tyler smiled shyly. It stunned Isabella, considering his somber mood yesterday morning. Jordan also glanced at him, then turned back to the road as they reached their destination. He parked the truck in front of Isabella’s car and got out, remaining quiet. Tyler quickly unlatched his seat belt and bolted outside, pulling Isabella’s door open.
“Come on, Miss Stevens.” He tugged her hand impatiently as she stepped onto the frozen ground.
“Whoa – it’s slippery…” She barely got the words out when her feet hit a patch of ice and slid out from under her. Letting go of Tyler’s hand, she prepared for the hard fall. “Oh!”
Jordan’s strong arms caught her. He pulled her close to his solid chest, trapping her hands between them as he held her tight. They stayed that way, face-to-face, for several breathless seconds. Hadn’t she just convinced herself to avoid close contact with him? Yet here she was, locked in Jordan’s safe embrace – again. And his strength, along with his clean male scent, was deliciously intoxicating. She wanted to ignore her female reaction, write it off as desperation – rebound. But Jordan’s sparkling eyes hypnotized her.
She melted into him, allowed him to hold her much longer than necessary to gain her footing. His gaze flickered to her lips. With a measure of surprised anticipation, Isabella thought he might kiss her. Then, as suddenly as he’d caught her, Jordan steadied her on her feet and gently pushed her away. He turned abruptly and walked around his truck, pulling a rope from the bed.
“I’ll help you,” Isabella offered awkwardly.
“No,” came his sharp reply. He barely glanced at her now. “You take Tyler, have fun. I’ll pull your car out and meet you there.”
Isabella and Tyler trudged up to the Toy Shop. Surprisingly, it was open – but only until noon. They stepped through the entrance, into a large open space with vaulted ceilings and a massive stone fireplace on the far wall. An oversized red chair sat to the right of the fireplace. A huge Scottish pine stood tall in the corner. It was adorned with shiny ornaments and lights – and a multitude of brightly wrapped gifts beneath it.
Isabella’s gaze moved around the room, to the impressive staircase leading to two shops on the second-floor loft. The open landing, decorated in garland, overlooked the enchanting room they stood in. The overall effect was as magical as Christmas itself. The only thing missing was Santa. Isabella’s hope turned to disappointment as her gaze met the kind eyes of a small, gray-haired woman who appeared through the doors of the room below the loft.
“Oh my, we expect smiles here. Are you all right, dear?”
The woman was soft-spoken and approachable, and Isabella felt inexplicably tempted to tell her everything – how she was supposed to be married today, but instead would be alone on Thanksgiving. Except that, by accident, she was spending some of the morning with her new student and his dangerously attractive uncle. And now, there was no Santa Claus.
But she kept it all inside. “I’m fine,” Isabella replied, though her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes.
“My name is Mary,” the woman said, taking Tyler by the hand. “You and Miss Stevens have a seat over here, while I go make some hot cocoa.”
Isabella was briefly flustered. She didn’t remember introducing herself to this woman. “We’re just waiting for someone,” she interjected.
“Yes, the handsome young man outside,” Mary acknowledged. “But he’ll be a little while.”
Intrigued despite her qualms, Isabella followed Mary and Tyler to the couch in front of the fireplace.
“When Santa visits, he likes to sit right here with a cup of hot chocolate.” Mary winked at Tyler and gave Isabella a knowing smile. “I’ll be back in a jiff.” She retreated through the double doors that Isabella assumed led to the kitchen.
Isabella sat quietly while Tyler stared up at the Christmas tree, his gaze glued to a sparkling Santa ornament hanging from a branch just above his head. There were no other visitors milling around, which was understandable, since it was Thanksgiving morning. Mary returned minutes later, placing a mug of cocoa in Tyler’s hands, following his eyes.
“Though Santa’s away today, he knows your wish for Christmas. If you’re extra good, Tyler…he’ll bring what you asked for.” She took the ornament from the tree. “For now, he’d want you to have this.” Tyler looked to Isabella for permission. Isabella nodded, giving the woman a guarded smile.
“You’ve been very kind, Mary. Thank you for the cocoa, but we should go.” Isabella stood, setting their cups down and taking Tyler’s hand. “Tell Mary thank you,” she reminded him.
They turned toward the entrance as the door opened and Jordan entered. Isabella’s eyes met his and she led Tyler to him. Tyler turned to wave shyly and murmur ‘thank you’ to Mary as Jordan took him outside. Isabella stayed behind for a moment, asking, “You know my name – have we met before?”
Mary smiled, rocking back on her heels. “We have a mutual friend, dear.”
Isabella was amused, thinking Mary was referring to ‘Santa’. But she turned her focus to her student now. “I know you mean well, but Tyler is…fragile,” she said. “I’m worried about your assurance he’d get his Christmas wish.” Isabella had told him herself that Santa would try his best, but Mary had practically guaranteed it, hadn’t she?
“Yes, his expectations may be great.” Mary seemed to read Isabella’s thoughts. “So, we’ll just have to make sure we don’t disappoint him.”
The older woman stayed in character as she continued. “What Tyler wants might seem out of reach. But, with lots of love – and a little Christmas magic sprinkled in – I’m convinced that anything is possible.” She reached under the tree. “This is for you,” she said, placing a small snow globe in the palm of Isabella’s hand. A glittering star floated freely amongst the white flakes inside its clear walls. Isabella studied Mary’s face, puzzled. The older woman smiled. “Some wishes are meant to come true.”
Minutes later, Isabella met Jordan and Tyler outside. The bemused look on her face prompted Jordan to ask, “You okay?”
“I’m not sure,” she replied, adding quickly, “It’s just a bit unsettling being up here…after yesterday.”
Jordan nodded and glanced back over his shoulder as he carried his nephew across the icy parking lot. He sat Tyler in the truck, then made his way back to Isabella, now seated in her car.
“I’ll follow you, to make sure you get home okay.”
Jordan shut the door on her slight protest, then got into his own truck. He tailed her as promised, and Isabella tried to take her mind off the strange thrill of it by centering her thoughts on Mary’s words. The fact that the older woman seemed to know what Tyler wanted for Christmas could only mean she’d read his letter. Which, of course, meant Mary had read her wish, as well. And explained how she knew her name.
Isabella pushed past her embarrassment by wondering instead what Tyler had asked for. She’d assumed it was the latest toy or gadget released this holiday season – but Mary had implied differently. And as Isabella parked in front of the hotel, she made a mental note to simply ask Tyler about it, if and when the opportunity presented itself.
Tyler needed to use the restroom, so he and Jordan followed Isabella up the stairs to her small efficiency apartment. She opened the door and a cloud of smoke greeted them. “Oh no!” she exclaimed. Jordan pushed past her, rushing inside to the kitchenette. Before Isabella could stop him, Tyler darted through the doorway, close on his uncle’s heels.
“Wow!” Tyler’s boyish delight over the burnt turkey disaster his uncle pulled from the small oven drew an unexpected roar of laughter – deep and sexy – from Jordan’s chest.
Isabella tried her best to be upset, but couldn’t stifle a smile at Tyler’s glee.
“You sure can’t cook,” the young boy cracked. He pointed to the charcoal mess in the pan on the counter, falling into a fit of giggles.
“I’m glad you both find my bad luck amusing,” Isabella said, pretending to be hurt.
“While you’ll go home to a lovely Thanksgiving dinner, I’ll be stuck here with a can of soup.”
She regretted the words instantly. They were meant as a joke, but Jordan seemed to pick up on the underlying truth, and Isabella avoided his scrutiny as she helped Tyler to the bathroom.
Minutes later, she busied herself disposing of the blackened turkey, all the while feeling Jordan’s burning stare. She nearly jumped when he finally spoke in a serious tone behind her.
“You know, my nephew won’t accept you staying here with a can of soup. You’ll have to join us now, for Thanksgiving dinner.”
Though Isabella wanted to refuse – wanted to curl up with a bottle of wine and drink to the fact that this day wasn’t meant for her – she knew Jordan was right. Tyler would not enjoy his Thanksgiving knowing his teacher didn’t have a proper meal. Reluctantly, she nodded in agreement. “I’ll bring something,” she offered.
“Not necessary,” Jordan replied. “Just bring yourself.”
Isabella’s heart stuttered at the unexpected gentleness in his words. She allowed herself to study him from beneath her lashes. Good Lord, he was handsome. And I am pathetic. Of course she knew she was simply reacting to the first gorgeous man with a kind word, after being so coldly jilted. And she also knew she should decline Jordan’s invitation, stay home. Her vulnerability was only intensified with the holiday season. The last thing she needed was to put herself out there, on the rebound – especially now. But the happiness on Tyler’s face when Jordan told him he’d invited her stopped her refusal.
“All right, Tyler. I guess you’ll have company for the day.” She smiled at him affectionately. “I’ll just get my coat.”
***
Later that afternoon, Isabella was struggling to get over the awkward nerves of being an impromptu guest in Jordan Butler’s home.
“I designed and built it myself,” Jordan offered as they went on a mini tour of the beautiful residence, located in the foothills of the Rockies.
“I’m impressed.” Isabella smiled. She saw the hesitant pride that glowed in Jordan’s eyes before Tyler took her away to his room to show her all the toys a six-year-old boy could possibly want. Jordan lagged behind, disappearing in the direction of the delicious aroma of roasted turkey and freshly baked apple pie. Tyler ended his tour and he and Isabella returned to the living room, where the young boy quietly showed Isabella a hotel he’d constructed with blocks. Just like the real ones his daddy and Uncle Jordan worked on, he said.
Isabella’s interest was piqued. She had intended to go over her student files last night, particularly Tyler’s, but her briefcase was left in her stranded car. Before she could ask Tyler about his father, Jordan reappeared and ushered them to the oval mahogany table in the spacious dining area. A large turkey with all the trimmings was displayed on a platter in the center of the feast. Isabella’s stomach rumbled as Jordan held her chair out, playing the perfect host.
“Thank you,” she murmured. Her heart did a flip as she sat down, despite her efforts to remain cool. Jordan seated Tyler in the chair to Isabella’s right, then took the seat directly in front of her. He met her gaze from across the table.
“I hope you’re hungry,” he said, his voice warm and honey smooth.
Heat crawled up Isabella’s neck. She quickly lowered her eyes and murmured, “Beyond starved.”
She tried to push back her embarrassment, and moved her attention to Tyler, who seemed itching to dig in. A short, round woman with salt and pepper hair came bounding through the kitchen door, in a rush.
“I’ve left dessert on the counter to cool, Jordan. You should have everything you need…oh!” She stopped mid-sentence, spotting Isabella. “I’m so sorry,” the woman continued, eyeing her. “I didn’t realize you were having a guest for dinner, dear. Were you going to introduce us?”
“I apologize, Emily. But Tyler has monopolized Miss Stevens’s attention.” Jordan stood, including both women in his polite smile. “Emily Baron, this is…” He looked uncomfortable for a moment. “Sorry – I didn’t get your first name.”
His humility was charming. “Isabella.” She stood and extended her hand to Emily. “It’s wonderful to meet you.”
Emily’s face softened and Isabella thought she looked strangely pleased. She shook Isabella’s hand, saying, “Yes…I recall Tyler mentioning you last night. You’re his teacher – the one Jordan found up on Reindeer Ridge yesterday.”
Before Isabella could respond, Emily continued. “Well, you’re a beauty – but that’s to be expected, with Jordan’s taste. Still, it’s a nice change for him to bring someone home for dinner.” She caught Jordan’s disapproving glance and brushed it aside, asking, “Do you cook, dear?”
Tyler spoke up suddenly. “She can’t cook.” The memory of Isabella’s culinary disaster no doubt drawing the uncharacteristic chuckle from him.
Isabella smiled again, feeling the need to correct Emily’s assumption. “Yes, Jordan rescued me from a snowstorm yesterday. And from the pile of ash that was once my Thanksgiving turkey today. But…I’m here as Tyler’s guest.”
Jordan remained silent through all of this, taking his seat again, facing the smug gleam in the older woman’s eyes. “Emily is a good friend,” he said for Isabella’s benefit. “Let me guess, you won’t be staying for dinner?”
“Of course not, dear,” Emily replied. “You know where I’ll be. But it seems I’m leaving you in good hands.” She winked at Isabella then made her way over to Tyler, bending to kiss him on the cheek. “Make sure your pretty guest has a good time, darling.”
Tyler nodded, fidgeting in his seat, staring at the golden turkey in front of him. Emily moved around the table, giving Jordan’s shoulder a slight squeeze as she walked past him to the front door. When she had gone, Jordan began to carve the bird, hesitating as he read Isabella’s look. “Would you like to say grace, Miss Stevens?”
Always the teacher, Isabella made an effort to include her student. “Tyler, would you like to say what you’re thankful for?” Tyler remained silent, suddenly distant again. Isabella gently pressed on. “Aren’t you thankful for your family, for instance?”
“That’s enough.” Jordan’s low command stifled Isabella’s coaxing. She looked sharply at him, confused. Tyler was still for a moment, then mumbled something inaudible.
Isabella ignored Jordan now, asking softly, “What did you say, Tyler?”
“I’m thankful for Santa,” he said.
Isabella noted the look of relief that shot across Jordan’s handsome features. He even asked, “What was your wish to Santa, Tyler?”
Jordan’s attempt to make up for his terse attitude warmed Isabella. She eagerly waited for Tyler to answer the question that had been on her mind, as well.
“I asked Santa to bring my mommy and daddy home,” Tyler answered. “I’ve been good, so Santa’s magic will work. Miss Stevens said so.” He took a bite of his dinner roll, oblivious to the startled look on Isabella’s face and the ice-cold stare Jordan shot her way.
Realization dawned and a cold dread gripped her. She finally understood why Tyler was staying with Jordan.
And why Jordan had every right to be upset with her now.
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