Sleigh Bells in the Snow (O'Neil Brothers 1)

“Think of the trees, Green.”

She’d thought of nothing but the trees since she arrived here. “I’m looking at trees, Brett.”

“I forgot you were in the dark ages over there. Hard copy. No worries.”

“Thanks. And happy Christmas, Brett.”

“Why are you wishing me happy Christmas? It’s ages until Christmas.”

“Two days.”

“That’s what I mean. Ages. Now get back to work and stop wasting my time. And don’t bring the dog with you when you come back to New York.” He hung up and left her staring at Maple.

* * *

THEY ATE FAMILY dinner in the kitchen. Brenna joined them, but not Élise because she was busy in the restaurant. Instead, she provided a creamy leek-and-potato soup, and Elizabeth cooked lamb shanks.

Jackson barely tasted either.

Kayla had chosen a seat at the far end of the table, as far away from him as possible. She was wearing a soft sweater with black pants tucked into the snow boots she’d bought earlier in the week. Her hair was loose over her shoulders and she was laughing at something Sean had said.

He wondered how long she could carry on pretending this thing between them wasn’t happening.

“Are you listening to me?” Brenna poked him in the arm.

“What did you say?” He knew he was lousy company.

“I was telling you a story, but somehow I don’t think I have your full attention. In fact I don’t think I have any of your attention. I’m not flattered.” She picked up her glass. “When you took me out to dinner you didn’t look at me like that.”

Jackson dragged his gaze from Kayla to Brenna. “Like what?”

“Like the meal was a formality before you got to the interesting part of the evening.”

He sighed. “Sorry, Bren—”

“Don’t be. You and I never had any chemistry.” She sipped her wine. “I like her, Jackson. She can’t ski to save her life, but she’s genuine.”

“I like her, too.”

“So do you have a plan?”

“Yes.” What he didn’t know was whether it was a good plan.

He was going on a hunch. Trusting his instincts.

“I’d give you advice, but I’m no expert.”

Jackson eyed Tyler across the table. “How are you finding working with him?”

“About as infuriating as growing up with him.”

“That’s what I figured. Is it awkward? Should I be worried?”

“No and no. I won’t be driven from my home and the place I love by a man with the insight of a boulder. He treats me like a little brother.”

“Maybe you should ski naked. Or wear that black dress you wore when we went out to dinner.”

“You wouldn’t fire me if I taught my class naked?”