The Holiday Claus : a grumpy sunshine, small town holiday novella by Ann Einerson

Author:Ann Einerson [Einerson, Ann]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Ann Einerson
Published: 2024-12-06T00:00:00+00:00

The sun is low in the sky as our group gathers outside, bundled in our warmest coats and scarves. The air is filled with laughter as everyone chats amongst themselves. I have my binder open to the guest list, making sure everyone who signed up for the sleigh ride is here. Since Andrew and Hannah’s wedding party is small, I was able to extend an invitation to the guests who wanted to participate.

The Snowy Mountain Stables are a short walk from the inn, making it an ideal activity for any time of year. Although for me, nothing compares to the magic of a sleigh ride over Mistletoe Ridge in the winter.

I’m halfway through reviewing the list when movement at the front entrance of the inn catches my attention.

I glance up just in time to watch Brooks step outside.

After we finished decorating the events room, he went back to my cottage to get ready while I finished prep for the activity tonight.

He must have taken a shower because he’s clean-shaven, and his hair neatly styled aside from a strand falling loose near his temple. He’s wearing a gray wool coat layered over a cable-knit sweater, dark jeans, and boots. He exudes an air of confidence that captivates everyone around him, including a group of women waiting for the sleigh ride, who are transfixed by him as if he’s the ultimate catch.

A knot of jealousy tightens in my stomach when one of them waves at Brooks, flashing him a smile when he looks in her direction. He walks past them, unaffected by their stares, his focus already shifted elsewhere.

Sharing a bed for one night doesn’t make him mine, so why does the mere idea of him being with someone else make my blood run hot? His lack of interest in her advances is the one bright spot, making me think there’s a chance for more between us.

The clip-clop of hooves echoing in the distance breaks through my thoughts, and seconds later, several horse-drawn sleighs come around the corner. Each sleigh is painted black, decorated with garland and a red bow, and features three wide benches lined with plush seats and plaid blankets to keep everyone warm.

Hannah claps her hands together as they pull up to the inn. “Oh, Lila, you’ve truly outdone yourself,” she exclaims. “This is amazing.”

“Yeah, sis, this is incredible.” Andrew wraps an arm around me in a side hug. “Thanks for doing this.”

“It’s my pleasure.”

I mean it. This is why I love being a wedding planner—creating unforgettable moments for my clients. This time, it’s extra special being able to do something for the people I love. In years past, Andrew and Hannah scheduled a sleigh ride when they were town, so I wanted to make sure this was part of their wedding experience.

Michael, the driver of the first sleigh, gives me a wave. “We’re ready when you are, Lila.”

I wave back with a smile. “Perfect, thanks.” I turn around to face the group. “Alright, time to climb aboard, everybody,” I say, gesturing toward the sleighs.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.