Christmas with the Sheriff (The Fiore Family 3)

“Yes. We don’t get many visitors to our small town. Usually those just passing by or families needing extra space for their guests on the holidays.”

“The first option would be me. The weather has definitely changed my plans.” And the fact that I didn’t bother to use my brain and got lost didn’t help. Hell, I don’t know how far south or east from Rochester I am.

“I’m sorry to hear that, but we have more than enough room at the inn. Do you have any bags?” she asks, looking down at my empty mitten covered-hands.

I smile and point to my vehicle. “Oh, yes. I wanted to check in to be sure before I dragged out my suitcase.”

She nods with understanding. “Derek, please help this lady with her bags,” she says, looking just behind me.

“Yes, dear.” I twist my entire body to the sound. The burly man, who I didn’t hear, seems to just appear out of nowhere and comes up right beside her. Damn, he moves light as a feather for a man that looks anything but light on his feet.

“I can get them myself,” I insist, hating that I’m interrupting his hard work.

“No. It’s no big deal, ma’am.” He walks over to my vehicle, ignoring my protests and waits.

I nod and pop the trunk, acquiescing because I’m sure he’s not going to let me carry my own luggage and frankly I don’t want to, but I didn’t want to look lazy. He scoops out my Louis Vuitton suitcase and travel bag, but he doesn’t make a face or grumble. As a small town, I’m sure they don’t like outsiders, especially ones with money. Maybe I’ve seen one too many movies. Then again, I love me some Christmas movies.

I’m well off, but I’m not rich like my cousins and brother. In fact, my luggage was a Christmas present from my cousin Franco. As his assistant, I make a quarter of a million dollars a year. It’s more than I should make as his executive assistant, but when he became injured three years ago, I took on a lot more of his day-to-day, which earned me a large raise. Most of my money’s saved up for the day I’m no longer needed. I’ve saved almost two million dollars which will be for my retirement one day.

“Come on in.” The woman takes my arm, hooking it with hers and leading me inside with a smile on her pretty face. She adds, “Welcome to Snowfall Inn.” We enter the warm lobby, and I’m surprised by the feel of home. It’s wood all around, like a ski lodge, and it’s inviting.

“It’s beautiful.”

“Thank you. My husband has done so many renovations for me since he moved to Snowfall.” So he wasn’t a local? Interesting. The more I steal glances at the man, I can see he has something dark around him—a hidden secret. I’m betting he’s a former assassin or something like that.

“Oh, well, that’s wonderful to have such a sweet man.” A twinge of jealousy and loneliness fills me. It’s been hitting me hard these days, and I hate it. “So, about the room?”

“Yes. I just need some information, and we can help you up there.” I give her my driver’s license and credit card. For being an extremely small town, everything here is full of modern technology and the internet isn’t terrible because we finish up pretty quickly.

“My name is Jenny. I’m the owner along with that handsome man. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re only a call away. We’re off soon, heading home to enjoy the holiday with our family. The local diner is just across the street, and down the road is the grocery store.

“Thank you.” They walk me up to my room and unlock my door for me. Derek sets my bags just inside the door but doesn’t go in.

Jenny steps inside and shows me around just briefly, smiling and shrugging her shoulders like she’s nervous. Does she think I won’t like this place? It’s super cute and cozy. She takes a deep breath and then says, “So…I know you don’t know us, but since you’re alone for the holidays, you’re more than welcome to join us for dinner tonight.”

“Thank you, but I’m good. I wouldn’t want to intrude.”

“Still, if you are interested, my brother can pick you up after his shift tonight.”

“Thank you, but I’ll be okay.” I’m not sure if she’s normally this friendly or if she’s just in the holiday spirit. Either way, the gesture is kind.

“You’re welcome. It’s a pleasure to have you here, Ms. Fiore.”

“Call me Mia.” Most places I go, I prefer Ms. Fiore because it’s usually for business purposes, but this town makes me feel like home for some strange reason.

“I’m Jenny.” She pauses and rolls her eyes with a quirky smile. “Oh, wait—totally said that already. It’s been a very long day.” I bet it has. It’s still quite early, but she probably gets here at the crack of dawn to keep her inn running smoothly.