Ivy's Christmas Escape by Carroll Patricia PacJac

Author:Carroll, Patricia PacJac
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: PacJac Publishing
Published: 2023-12-06T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 9

Ivy wanted to pull her hand from his, but feeling no resistance, she let it stay in his warm, calloused hand that covered hers. Not in a bad way, but a protective one. Strong and capable. She was reminded of how seldom she’d ever felt safe around others.

She loved the horse, and Coby endeared her to Jack. If he could train such a fine animal, and there be such respect between the two, Ivy figured Jack might just be a good man. She’d let the black patch dissuade her from liking him. Then again, it was a matter he’d had little control over. Just as she being an orphan had nothing to do with her. It happened.

Ivy smiled at Jack as he led her into the cabin. Leah was smiling, holding the door as if she already knew of the surprise awaiting Ivy. Once inside, Ivy gasped. She couldn’t help but be surprised and amazed in such a good way at the beauty she witnessed.

The beams were carved with scenes and polished. The furniture matched. An aroma of cinnamon welcomed her home. It was as she’d thought countless times of what she would want in a home. Sunny and smelling of cinnamon, the place looked like home. A place she’d never had before.

There was a kettle on the fire in the large fireplace. A box big enough to handle two large pots that could swing out when finished.

Ivy turned to Jack. “It’s beautiful.”

“You’ve only seen the main room.” He lightly squeezed her hand. “Come and see the kitchen.”

Leah waved. “I’m going to the café. Lionel needs my help.”

Jack nodded. “Leah helped me design the kitchen. I know you’ll like it.”

Ivy followed him and fell in love with the place. “It’s perfect. A bright window to let the sun in.” She stood in front of it. “And gazed at the view of the majestic mountain. It’s wonderful.” She lovingly rubbed her hand over the well-polished wood. On either side of the stove was a stone slab. Granite maybe, as it had sparkles.

She looked at him. “You did an amazing job building the cabin. I feel like I’m in a palace.”

“Built for you, Ivy.”

She shook her head and looked down. “No. I’m not worthy of such devotion and fine artistry. I’m named for the place I was found. My parents didn’t even take the time to give me a proper name. I’m tired of going by a name that is not me. I know I should have a proper name. One given to me by someone who cares.”

Jack tilted his head and stared into her eyes. “I’ll name you. Give you a name fit for a queen.”

She looked at him. “Would you? But do you care?”

He nodded. “More than you can imagine. I know I must not look like the man you dreamed of—”

“Oh, I rarely dreamed. But every now and then, I’d think how nice it would be to have a home and someone to come home to. I never dared dream past that.

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