'Tis The Season

“Good evening, sir. We’ve been working our way through the cars involved in the incident outside, collecting all the necessary information.”

“Please come in. Faye’s the owner of the SUV She’s pregnant, and I don’t want her out in the cold for longer than is necessary.”

“Oh, of course.”

“I’ll go get her if you don’t mind waiting here, please.”

“Sure thing.”

I walk down the hallway to the kitchen. The bliss on her face as she dips a piece of sausage into the mashed potatoes and brings them to her lips has me dry-mouthed. I clear my throat. She peers up.

“There’s a city worker here to talk to you about the accident and get your information.”

“Oh, of course. Crap.” She sighs. “My purse is still in the car.”

“I’ll get it.”

“No. No. I’m not an invalid.” Her chin tilts stubbornly, and I opt to back down. I hold my hands up.

“All right.”

She smiles and nods, satisfied. “Thank you for the meal. It was amazing.”

“I’m glad you liked it.” I walk over and offer her my hand, helping her stand as I guide her to the front door.

“Hi,” Faye says brightly.

The man smiles. “Hello, ma’am. I’m Charles, and I’ll be gathering your information for the incident. The company will be contacting your insurance company tonight.”

“That’s wonderful. I just need to step outside and get my purse.”

“Please, take your time,” Charles says.

Removing her coat from the stand, I help her into the warm outerwear and zip her up without thinking.

“You’re really into caring for others, aren’t you?” She arches a brow.

I nod. You don’t feel like just anyone.

“I’ll come with you in case the door is hard to get open.”

“Smart thinking.” After careful

ly traversing the snow-coated drive, she unlocks the passenger door and grabs her black bag off the seat. Closing it behind her, she steps forward and slips.

I grab her arm, pulling her against me. Her body presses into mine, and the sweet floral scent of her hair reaches my nostrils. I grip her hips tightly. “You okay?”

“Y-Yes,” she whispers shakily. A small force pushes against me. “Flora says thanks, too.”

“You’re both very welcome.” I carefully peel away from her. “Let’s get you back inside.” I watch for slick spots as we make our way back to the house slower than we’d come.

They exchange information and make their claim quickly. The snow is continuing to fall, and the worker wants to get home. I see him out, and return to find her looking worn out.

“Why don’t we relocate to the living room? I’ll make hot chocolate, and we can see what’s on the television.”

“You don’t have to entertain me, James. I know I’m an unwanted guest.”

“Unexpected is not the same as unwanted, Faye,” I say huskily.