His Christmas Cookie

I try to back up, but there isn't anywhere to actually go. It’s clear that whatever is happening can’t be good. From behind Nathan, Frost’s mom pushes him to the side and comes into the room. She is as polished and put together as the first time I saw her, and she emanates old money. Nothing about her appearance is out of place, and there isn't a wrinkle on the woman's face either. Her expression never changes, which is the most terrifying part.

“What is wrong with my sons? They have the worst taste in women.” Frost’s mom purses her lips as her eyes scan over me.

“They like them on the plump side,” Chel chimes in, scrunching her nose. Nathan doesn't say anything, he just keeps staring at me. But the look in his eyes has my blood running cold.

Then flashes of what happened come rushing back. I’d gone to the bathroom in the restaurant and I ran into him. He tried to talk to me, but I don’t remember what he was saying before I felt the needle he put into my throat. After that, everything went black.

I’ve been kidnapped. Holy shit. I’ve actually been kidnapped.

“What do you want?” If they wanted me dead, I’m guessing they could have killed me outright. My stomach drops at the thought.

“This falls on your shoulders, Cookie, and this doesn't have to be difficult. You might even make it home for Christmas,” his mother says, and I feel sick.

I didn't think my stomach could drop any more, but it does. Christmas is still a few days away. They’re planning to keep me for a few days?

“You stay here and out of the way. Frost will marry Chel, and once that’s done, I’ll release you.” She makes it sound so simple, but there’s no way she’s going to force Frost to do anything.

“To me,” Nathan chimes in as a creepy smile forms on his face. The same one I’ve been seeing every time I run into him.

How the heck are these three people working together? Frost’s mother must have dug into my past and found him. He looks all too willing to be a part of their plan, and I still can’t believe this is happening. I don’t want to think what would happen to me if she handed me over to Nathan like a toy.

“Go stand with her, Nathan. I want a few pictures,” Frost’s mother orders.

I stiffen the closer he gets to me. How did I ever let myself date this jerk? He pulls me close, and I push against him as I try to get away. I’m not strong enough and panic starts to close in on me.

“Enough.” Nathan gives my ass a squeeze before letting me go.

I catch Chel glaring at Nathan, and I wonder what the hell I’ve gotten mixed up with.

“That should be enough to put some fire under Frost. Make sure you’re ready, Chel. I’m sure you’ll be getting married tomorrow.”

With that she leaves, but Nathan and Chel don't move.

“You didn't have to get so handsy with her,” Chel hisses at Nathan. “Are you in love with her?”

“What the fuck? You’re marrying someone else tomorrow.”

I notice he doesn't deny it as Chel huffs a breath, showing her displeasure. I think these two should be together and leave the rest of us alone. It’s awkward to watch two people fight. More so when you’re a part of their problem.

“What’s so great about her?” She motions to me. “If you ask me, she needs to lay off the cookies.” She tries to make a play on my name but fails. I think Chel fails a lot in life.

“She’s sweet,” is all Nathan says at first.

I think once upon a time I was sweet, but then it hits me that Frost isn't getting my sweet. Nathan soured me on love and relationships, and I’ve let him have way too much control over my decisions. I changed after him and stopped dating after that. We aren't even together anymore, and I’ve given him that control.

Not anymore.

Frost has been paying for Nathan’s sins, but I won’t let it keep happening. Tears sting my eyes because even through all of this, Frost never stopped trying. He kept pushing to get close to me, which only makes me love him more.

“Sweet.” Chel rolls her eyes. “I was supposed to get both of the Ranov men. Now I only get Frost. Although I do think he’s the better of the two.” I hate that I agree with Chel on something.

“You were going to be with both of them?” Nathan asks. I kind of want to ask if she’s ever been with Frost. Jealousy is eating me up inside at the thought of her marrying my Frost.

“That was the plan,” she admits as the corners of her mouth pull down.