Your Christmas Love (The Bennett Family 10)

“We can also order room service, if you want.”

I placed both hands on my hips. Belatedly I realized that the motion had dislodged my towel. I caught it just in time.

“Almost dropped it,” I said.

“Couldn’t have that, could we?”

I cleared my throat, holding the towel tightly to my chest with one hand.

“There’s a fireplace in the dining room. I’m not missing out on that.”

“We have fireplaces in the living room too.”

“Yes, but the one on the main floor already has Christmas stockings hanging on it.”

“Got it, ma’am.”

“What happened to I’m the boss?”

He gave me a look that told me I did not want to know the answer to that.

“Let’s go change,” he added.

I nodded, walking in front of him, feeling his gaze on me, the heat of his body and his mere presence like a physical force.

When I was finally in my room, I took a moment for myself, leaning against the door, closing my eyes. There was no such thing as a reprieve when it came to Winston.

I changed into a sweater dress. It seemed appropriate for the hotel. The atmosphere on the ground floor was cozy and just... happy. Every server wore a Christmas-themed shirt.

Winston was waiting for me by the entrance. He was wearing jeans and a black sweater. He looked like a model in a Calvin Klein ad.

To my surprise, we were shown to the table nearest to the fireplace. I couldn’t believe our luck. The dining room was packed. A few seconds later, I had the slight suspicion that Winston had everything to do with said luck.

“How did you get the table?” I asked after we ordered two glasses of wine and roast beef.

“Used my irresistible charm. I knew you’d like it.”

“I do. It’s amazing. You look relaxed.”

“I am. A certain sassy woman took care of it.”

I grinned. “And how did she manage that? By talking you into building a snowman?”

“That, and also by just being herself. Fun, warm.”

He placed his hand on top of mine over the table. I all but melted. Looking around the room, I noticed pictures of the family that owned the hotel hanging everywhere.

I’d been so taken with the Christmas decorations that I hadn’t paid attention to the photos.

“Look, they have family pics all around.”

“That’s right. Hadn’t seen them.”

“I read the welcome letter in the room. The couple running it have been married for forty years.”

“My parents celebrated their forty-second anniversary last year.”

I grinned. “I know. Everyone’s still talking about the party they threw for the team.” Wistfully, I added, “My parents also had a happy marriage. I’ve been spoiled by it, and then by watching all the Bennetts fall in love. I know it sounds crazy, but I kind of thought I’d be married by now.”