Christmas Wish Upon a Star by Susan Bagby

Author:Susan Bagby [Bagby, Susan]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Sands Press
Published: 2022-07-25T00:00:00+00:00

***

Alison snuggled up in front of the fire with a steaming cup of tea after Liza went home. The afternoon had left her somewhat emotionally drained. The stories she heard had convinced her this program was more important than ever. Lost in her thoughts, she didn’t hear the door slowly open until she glanced up.

Jake stood tall in the entrance, handsome as ever, cloaked in a red flannel shirt and blue jeans. His regular attire. “Didn’t want to disturb you, but I was curious how it went at Fairside.”

“Please. Sit. I want to tell you all about it. How about a cup of tea? I have a whole pot here. Sara keeps me stocked with caffeine.” She laughed.

“I would love some.”

Jake joined her in the plush, oversized armchairs as she proceeded to tell him about the day’s events. Jake could see a new kind of intensity stirring in Alison’s heart, and he understood it. An identical sentiment had hit him when he got involved with Fairside. And now, they shared the same passion.

Staring into the flames, Jake made a decision. “Would you like to join Annie and me for dinner tonight? At our place?”

Butterflies rippled across Alison’s stomach. This felt personal not business. “I would love to join you for dinner. What should I bring?”

“Just yourself. Annie and I have it covered.”

Loud, rapid footsteps indicated Annie was about to enter the room from the corridor. She ran over to them, and Jake wrapped her up in his arms. “I’ve invited Miss Rockwell to dinner tonight and she has graciously accepted.”

“Oh, goodie! You can sit next to me.”

“I would love to.” She gazed up at Jake. “What time?”

“Six-thirty?”

“I’ll be there. It will give me time for a shower. I’m looking rather ragged these days. And it will only get worse, you’ll see.” Alison grinned as she knew what was in store for her.

Jake looked at her and was direct with his compliment. “You always look beautiful, Miss Rockwell. I wouldn’t worry about it.”

Surprised by the flattery, Alison said, “Thank you, Jake. Very kind of you.”

“It’s the truth.” No more delays expressing himself.

Annie walked over to a side table where The Brightest Star was laid out. Alison had been putting the final touches on it earlier. “Can you read this to me tonight? Please?”

“It’s still in the rough stage, but I will bring it.”

Annie leaped to hug Alison. “I can’t wait.”

“You can critique, but don’t be too hard on me.” Alison grinned.

“Never.”

As Jake watched the two of them together, he embraced the oncoming motion of an openness in his heart. Clara would have wanted him to find happiness again, and this woman seemed like a natural fit into his family. Annie adored her, and she was one of the kindest women he had known. And beautiful. Even if she lived in another city. Suddenly, the muscles in his stomach constricted. How could it work? Maybe he hadn’t calculated this through enough. Menacing thoughts of doubt were resurfacing but Jake nudged them away.

Alison’s cellphone went off.

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