The Christmas Swap by Melody Carlson

Author:Melody Carlson
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Christmas;Christmas stories | Love stories;FIC042040;FIC027020
ISBN: 9781493426652
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Published: 2020-07-02T00:00:00+00:00

twelve

West wasn’t thrilled to hear that the Ice Princess—a bad driver—would be driving his Prius tonight. But what could he say? If she totaled it, at least it was covered. And the car was six years old anyway. Still, it was aggravating. Instead of going straight home, he decided to stop by the grocery store to replenish the basic necessities he kept in the studio’s kitchenette. Unless his mother really insisted, West was determined to stick around throughout Christmas. He had to get better acquainted with Emma.

After putting the bags in the Jeep, he called his mother. He knew she’d be fretting over his absence and wasn’t even sure what to tell her. Relieved that it went straight to voice mail, he left an apologetic message, insinuating that something regarding his house made it mandatory for him to remain there longer—which was true. Then he promised to get back to her by midday tomorrow. He knew she’d be disappointed. But if she understood the real reason for this delay, she would probably encourage him to stick around. Mom was always nagging him to find the right girl. From what he’d seen so far, Emma had all the right ingredients. Besides being beautiful, she was kind and gentle and sincere . . . and they shared many of the same interests. He felt certain his mom would approve.

When West got home, Gillian, Harris, and Emma were standing outside in front of the Prius. He parked his Jeep off to one side, leaving plenty of room for everyone to come and go then got out.

“Evening, folks,” he called as he retrieved his grocery bags.

“Hey, West,” Emma called back. “I was just telling these guys about Bullwinkle’s Dinner Club—and the good food and music and dancing.”

“And I was telling Emma she needs to go back there with us,” Harris said. “But she’s being very stubborn and refusing.”

“Because I’m tired,” Emma said.

“I’m not only tired, I’m achy and sore,” Harris confessed. “But Gillian’s making me go.”

“Yeah, well, I feel sorry for leaving Grant here alone,” Emma protested.

“He’s not alone,” Harris declared. “His parents are in there watching an old movie.”

“I think it’s very thoughtful that Emma wants to keep my poor brother company.” Gillian used a sweet tone. “I’m sure he’ll appreciate it. Especially since he got hurt trying to help her.”

“I bet he’s asleep by now. He just took a pain pill.” Harris grabbed Emma’s hand. “Come on, Em, we won’t stay late. Just come and show us where this hot spot is located.”

“She already told us.” Gillian’s tone turned impatient. “Let’s just go, Harris. Time’s a-wasting.”

“Not without Emma.” Harris opened the car door. “Come on, Emma, get in. No excuses. This is your vacation too.”

“Well, if Emma comes, maybe we should make West join us too,” Gillian said with arched brows. “That way she’ll have someone to dance with.”

“But West is probably tired too,” Emma protested. “Why don’t we just—”

“I’m not tired,” he said quickly. “Just let me put this away and I’ll be right back.

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