December 24, Tuesday

THE CRUNCH of tires on gravel brought me to the window just as Sawyer's black truck pulled up. I could make out the shape of an evergreen tree strapped in the bed.

My heart did that familiar flutter as he climbed out, looking unfairly handsome in his winter coat and work boots. When he saw me in the window, his whole face lit up with a smile that could melt snow.

"Special delivery," he called up. "Thought Whisper House could use some Christmas cheer."

I hurried downstairs and opened the front door, inhaling the crisp winter air mixed with the sharp scent of pine. "You didn't have to do this."

"Course I did." He was already untying the ropes holding the tree. "Can't have your first Christmas in Irving be without proper decorations."

The words "and last" were left unspoken, although they hung in the air between us.

I watched him manhandle the tree off the truck, his muscles flexing under his coat. The tree was at least seven feet tall, perfectly shaped, its branches still wrapped tight for transport.

"Need help?" I offered, though we both knew I'd be useless with something that size.

"Nah, I got it." He hoisted the tree onto his shoulder like it weighed nothing, leaving one hand free to grab a tree stand from the truck bed. "Just get the door."

Inside, the house seemed to hold its breath as Sawyer carried the tree through the halls. I wondered how long it had been since the house had seen a Christmas tree.

"Perfect," he declared, setting the tree in the stand. The top branch brushed the ceiling. "Give me a minute to unwrap it..."

I stood back as he cut the twine, letting the branches fall naturally. The sharp pine scent filled the room, and suddenly I was blinking back tears.

"Hey." He was at my side instantly, his hand warm on my cheek. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing." I leaned into his touch. "It's just... I haven't had a real Christmas tree since my dad died. Mother always said they were too messy."

His arms went around me, solid and sure. "Well, this one's going to make a hell of a mess. Pine needles everywhere. Sap on the floor. The works."

I laughed against his chest. "Sounds perfect."

"Speaking of perfect..." He kissed the top of my head. "We should get to Coleman's before he sells out of the good hams."

"Shouldn't we decorate the tree first?"

"Later. I've got lights and ornaments in the truck, but right now we need to focus on feeding your guests."

We headed out to his truck, his hand finding mine naturally. As we drove into town, I couldn't stop smiling.

"What?" he asked, catching my expression.

"Nothing. Everything." I squeezed his hand. "Just feeling... happy."

His answering smile was warmer than any fireplace. "Good. That's all I want for Christmas. What do you want?"

I shrugged. "Snow would be nice."

He laughed. "Snow in Alabama on Christmas? That would be a small miracle."

We laughed together as the truck rumbled toward town.

Yes, that was probably asking too much.