Chapter Three

Ava

Last-minute shopping is the worst, especially on Christmas Eve. Throw in the fact I don't have a vehicle and had to borrow one from my dad—which he had to deliver to me, mind you. But he did it with a smile, and even tried to slip me gas money when I dropped him back off at the house so I could finish my Christmas shopping.

I don't have a lot to do.

My dad is done, as is my sister, Analise. I have a gift for my brother-in-law, Chris, but I wanted to add something to it, so I made a quick stop to see Logan at the hardware store for a hand tool recommendation. That leaves my twin nieces, Riley and Molly. I can shop for them all day long, though gone are the days they found cute little matching outfits adorable.

The girls are thirteen now, and, despite being identical twins, are as different as night and day in personality. Molly is as girly girl as they come, always wearing pinks and purples, is a junior high cheerleader, and loves big, fancy hairbows, while her twin, Riley, prefers sports brands, plays soccer, and is learning the guitar.

And I love them to pieces.

I find a parking spot on a side street and climb from my dad's Ford Explorer. Thankfully, he has two vehicles, the Explorer being the one he doesn't drive as much as the truck, so it was easy for him to agree to let me borrow it for a few days.

Making my way to the storefronts, I pass the barbershop and the beauty salon, both closed on Christmas Eve, and go straight to the heavy wooden door of my favorite little shop in downtown Pine Village. Stepping inside, I bask in the warmth, familiarity, and scents of books—both new and old.

Jasmine's Books started as a small used bookstore and has slowly grown into something unique and magnificent over the years. While her used books are a big draw, in a small town like Pine Village, she realized she needed something more. So, she started researching and discovered she could purchase new books through different channels, including directly from the authors themselves. She has a decent selection of signed books—most of them romance. They make the perfect holiday gift, if you ask me.

But Jasmine didn't stop there. You'll also find vendor tables, all selling their homemade crafts, art, home décor, or clothing. Even jellies and honey. It's the best kind of store, offering a variety of products, and I'm not surprised it's busy.

"Good morning, Miss Ava," Jasmine hollers from the front counter.

"Hello, Jasmine. Merry Christmas," I reply, dragging my feet over her welcome mat to clean off any remnants of last night's snowfall.

"Merry Christmas, dear. Let me know if you need anything," she says, returning her attention to the customer she's checking out.

I make my way through the room, taking in the festive holiday decorations, the homemade goodies, and head toward the children's book section. I bypass the used shelves and go to the new offerings, hoping to find what I'm looking for, since there's no way to order it—either through the bookstore or online—and get it in time.

I find a book fitting of my idea for Molly. It's a step-by-step book on crafting all sorts of things from hairbows to jewelry, and it'll be the perfect addition to finish out her gift. Smiling, I start searching for something for Riley. She's not as crafty as her twin, so I opt for a book about women in sports and hope she finds it inspiring and educational. Considering one of the athletes on the cover is Mia Hamm, former soccer superstar, I'm sure she'll enjoy it.

Happy with my selections, I turn to head toward the section housing romance books. I have big plans on decluttering my closets over Christmas break, but I'm certain there will be a little time over the next week and a half to do a little reading too.

"Miss Rutledge!"

I spin around, a smile already spreading across my face the moment I recognize the voice. "Hi, Miss Annabelle," I say, trying to keep my eyes focused on one of my students.

Unfortunately, my eyes betray me, seeking out her father like a castaway searching for ships on the horizon. He's directly behind her, a warm, friendly grin on his own face that makes my heart rate kick up a few extra beats.

"Good morning, Miss Rutledge," he greets, his voice low and gravelly.

Shock waves course through my veins, striking my clit with a force that causes me to gasp.

His hazel eyes fill with worry. "Are you all right?"

I clear my throat, wishing the floor would open up and swallow me whole. "Oh, yes," I reply with an awkward chuckle. Returning my attention to Annabelle, I ask, "Are you ready for Christmas?"

She nods eagerly. "We're going to my grandma and grandpa's this afternoon. My cousins and aunts and uncles will be there."

"That sounds like fun," I tell her, offering an easy, friendly smile.

"Are you going to see your mom and dad?" she asks.

Nodding, I state, "I am, but not until tomorrow. My sister and her family will be there. That's why I stopped in here. I wanted to get my nieces another gift." I hold up the two books I found and let her inspect them. I wasn't joking when I told Gavin his daughter was incredibly smart and inquisitive. She's a book lover through and through, just like me.

"I love to make stuff," Annabelle says as she flips open the book I found for Molly. "Dad, look! You can make all sorts of jewelry and bows."

"Very cool," he says, offering her a grin.

I can't help but notice how amazing he looks this morning. Gavin Pierson has always been a good-looking man, but for some reason, he suddenly appears…hot. He's been in my classroom a few times since the beginning of the school year, but once he left the room, I didn't spend half the night replaying our every contact. Last night—and this morning—his memory kept infiltrating my brain, refusing to let up.

Maybe it's some sort of hero worship syndrome. Being the one to pull over and offer to help. Though, I've never felt any sort of attraction to Marcus, despite being a decent-looking guy. He's always been someone I consider a friend. Nothing more.

Gavin, on the other hand, isn't someone I'd consider a friend. Yes, I've known him most of my life, but only because Pine Village is a small town. He was younger than me, and we didn't hang out in the same circles. Sure, I'd consider him attractive—hot, even—but that's it. Suddenly, after last night, I want to spread him on a cracker and eat him alive.

Hallie might be rubbing off on me.

"I'm here to pick out a book for my cousin, Bethany. I was thinking the Star Friends series. She's eight and talked about her library having them at school. Do you think that's a good choice?" Annabelle asks, pulling my thoughts away from her father.

"I think that's a great choice. Diary of a Wimpy Kid , Magic Tree House, and Babysitter's Club are all great for that age too," I offer.

"Oh, yes!" she proclaims, and suddenly, we're both walking toward the children's book section.

"This is very popular right now," I state, pulling one of the newer books off the shelf.

"I've read this one. I love the fairies who share words of wisdom to the main character throughout," she says, that familiar twinkle in her brown eyes. Every time she gets excited about a book in class, her eyes take on this bright light, an exhilaration like no other.

"It's a wonderful story, full of intrigue. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

"Dad, what do you think about getting Bethany this book and the first two in the Star Friends series?"

I glance over to see Gavin smile fondly at his daughter. "Sounds good."

"She's going to be so excited for these," Annabelle announces, moving down the shelf to find the Star Friends books she's after.

"Thank you for making suggestions," Gavin says as he steps forward, taking the space at my side his daughter just vacated.

Shrugging, I reply with an awkward chuckle, "I love books. I could talk about them with anyone."

He holds my gaze with his rich hazel eyes. "Nothing wrong with having passion."

My skin starts to tingle, and my nipples grow hard. Thank goodness I'm wearing a coat and thick sweater. Otherwise, I'm certain he'd see what type of reaction his words have on me. I open my mouth in hope some sort of intelligent reply can be said, when Annabelle interrupts.

"Miss Rutledge! They have that new one in the series!"

I spin in her direction and find her holding up the brand-new Zohra Nabi book we've all been anxiously awaiting. The kids loved the first book I grabbed by that author and knew there was a second book in the works. "I know." Then I add a wink and the hint of a smirk.

Annabelle gasps. "Did you get it already?" she asks, holding the book to her chest.

"It might already be on my desk for when we return from Christmas break."

She squeals in delight, returning the book to the shelf and moving on to browse more.

Gavin leans in close, and his intoxicating scent wraps around me. "I got her The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series for Christmas. It seems a little advanced for her, though."

"She's going to love it, and I don't think it's too advanced. She's reading at a junior high level. In fact, some of the books I've recommended are ones I went and borrowed from the sixth-grade literature class," I tell him as we stroll along behind Annabelle as she peruses. "And not just because she's read everything I have in the classroom already."

He chuckles. "She loves your class."

Smiling, I can't help but boast, "She's a wonderful student."

"Miss Rutledge, I have the best idea," Annabelle announces as she returns to where Gavin and I stand. "You can come with us to my grandma and grandpa's house tonight."

I feel like my eyes bug out of my head as her words register. "Oh, thank you so much for offering, Annabelle. I'm actually going to church with my grandma later, but I appreciate the offer."

"You can come after. You're my favorite teacher, and that's practically the same as being my family. She can come too," she reasons, making me smile.

"Aww, well, thank you for inviting us. We'll have to see," I reply, even though it's more so to appease her at this point.

"Why don't you start heading up to the front counter so Jasmine can ring us up?" Gavin suggests.

"Okay," she states before turning her attention to me. "I'm so glad we ran into you, Miss Rutledge, and I hope your Christmas is great." Then, she steps forward and throws her arms around my waist, books and all, and squeezes.

I delicately return the gesture, lightly patting her back. I do my best not to touch my students, but sometimes, at this age, they just want or need hugs. "Enjoy the rest of your Christmas break, Annabelle. We'll see you in class after the first of the year."

She nods, steps back, and heads for the front counter, books in hand.

"She's right, you know."

My attention turns to Gavin. "About what?" I ask in confusion.

"Today. You're more than welcome to come with us to my parents' house, despite the fact it's Christmas Eve. In fact, you're also welcome because of it."

My throat is thick as I try to swallow. "Thank you for the invite, but I'm sure my grandma will have me wrapping all of her gifts after church tonight," I reply with a chuckle.

He nods. "Well, the offer stands. If you decide later you want to drop by for dessert and coffee, please do."

I give him a small smile. "Thank you, Mr. Pierson."

Stepping forward, he invades my personal space. His woodsy scent tickles my senses and causes my breath to hitch in my throat. "Just Gavin, remember?" The corner of his mouth curls up in the most delightful little smirk.

"Gavin." I don't know how I get that single word out. My throat is so dry at his nearness I can't think straight.

He flashes me a smile that makes my thighs clench and heads off toward his daughter. "Merry Christmas, Ava. Maybe we'll see you later."

I nod, unable to form words, and watch him go. I can't help but wonder if he can feel my eyes on his ass, because they are certainly glued there. Even though part of it is obstructed by his coat, I still get a decent view.

Forcing myself to look away, I scan the children's books once more, mostly to give Gavin and Annabelle time to check out and exit the store. Even though it's logical I'd follow them to check out, when I'm near him, suddenly, I feel all out of sorts. My heart races, my palms sweat, and my lady bits stand up and take notice. Even more so than when I met Peter in college, and we began our two-year relationship. Talk about the shy girl who got all tongue-tied around hot guys.

I've never been good around them. Male friends, sure. I don't have any problem talking to TD, Logan, Gabe, Marcus, or any other former classmate. Not because they're not good-looking in their own respect, but when I find myself attracted to someone, my brain just sort of forgets how to be cool.

Not that I was ever really cool to begin with.

Oh, well. I don't have to worry about it now. I need to run home, finish wrapping my presents, and get ready to pick up Grandma. The Christmas Eve service is our little tradition, and now that she doesn't drive thanks to her terrible vision, I get the honor of taking her. That's where my focus needs to be tonight, not on the sexy single dad of one of my students. Especially when I have a very strict "no dating" rule for fathers of kids in my class.

But if— if —I was going to break my own rule, it might very well be for a man like Gavin Pierson.

"Thank you for coming. Merry Christmas."

I shake our pastor's hand as we slowly exit the church. "Merry Christmas," I reply, feeling my phone vibrate in my pocket.

"Excellent service, Pastor Charles," my grandma says behind me, shaking his outstretched hand.

"Thank you, Miss Betty. Merry Christmas to you," he replies before moving on to the next member of the congregation.

I extend my elbow, which Grandma takes, as we carefully descend the steps leading to the foyer. My phone vibrates again, and I start to get a little anxious that something could be wrong. Yet, I still refrain from pulling the device out. Grabbing Grandma's coat from the rack, I help her slip it on, retrieving my own while she secures the large buttons down the front.

"Before we go, I'm going to have a word with Zelda," Grandma announces, walking over to where one of her church lady friends stands.

Making sure I'm out of the way, I take the opportunity to check my phone while I wait. I find a bunch of text messages in our friend group and scroll up to find the first one.

Ellie: You guys, Brody just got home and told me his grades. Dean's list for his first semester of college. I'm so stinking proud of him!!

Blair: Yay, Brody!! He's such a smart young man. You have every right to be proud.

Hallie: Yes!! Congratulations, Brody!

Blair: What did TD say?

Ellie: He took me in his arms and held me while I cried. There were times when he was little that I didn't know how I was going to pay for new shoes and clothes and food. I'm just so overcome with gratitude for what everyone did for me and him.

Blair: YOU did this, Ellie. We all just held your hand and helped when we could.

Hallie: Agreed. He is a shining example of his mama.

Ellie: Thank you. Truly. I can't believe I had such an amazing child, despite all the crap life threw at me.

Hallie: That's exactly why he's so wonderful, caring, and smart.

Blair: Agreed. Please tell him congrats from all of us.

Hallie: Yes! We'll buy him a slice of pie next time he's at the diner.

That's the last message sent, and I'm able to jump right in.

Me: Sorry, I was at church with Grandma. Yes! Congrats to Brody. He's a smart young man, just like his mama.

I try to ignore the way my heart trips over itself at the word mama. There's an ache in my chest at the thought of having a baby. I've always wanted one. Well, not just one, but a couple. Unfortunately, that requires someone with sperm to make that happen, and I haven't exactly been swimming in the dating pool lately.

And I know that's how Ellie feels too. They've been trying to have a baby since they got married over the summer, but it hasn't happened yet. I understand her fear completely. The older we get, the more difficult it becomes, with more risks of complications. That's why I hold my classmates so close to my heart. They're the kids I've always wanted but may never have.

Hallie: Everyone have a wonderful Christmas Eve. Hope Santa brings you exactly what you want this year.

"Ava, dear, what do you think?"

I glance up at my grandma, not realizing she had been talking to me. "What?"

"About dessert with Zelda. There'll be pie," Grandma says, a big grin on her face, since she knows I'm a huge fan of peach and cherry pie.

My phone buzzes again in my hand, so I quickly reply, "Oh, that would be fine."

"Great. I'll tell Zelda we'll meet her there," she says, turning and making her way back over to her friend.

I fire off one last congratulations and Merry Christmas message to the group before pocketing the device and meeting my grandma at the door. We walk together to my dad's Explorer, and once I have her securely tucked inside, I move around to the driver's side and start up the SUV.

"It's such a beautiful night, isn't it?" Grandma asks, smiling out the window at the night sky.

"It is. Do you think we'll get more snow?"

"I don't think it's forecast, but that's one of the things about Wisconsin weather. It can be unpredictable," she states with a chuckle. "Just turn up here and head south on Hooper Street."

I follow her directions, driving to where we're meeting Zelda for dessert. Of course, my mind replays Gavin's invitation for dessert and coffee, and I can't help but wonder if they're doing just that—sitting around the table and laughing over cakes and cookies.

"Right here, dear. The one on the left."

I pull into the driveway she indicates, and realization hits me.

I know this place.

It's not Zelda's home, but that of her son's.

Gavin's dad.

"What are we doing here?" I ask, gaping at the brightly lit house.

"We're going to have pie with Zelda and her family."

"But…"

"Let's go, slowpoke. I don't want all the good pie to be gone," Grandma says before climbing out of the vehicle.

I'm left feeling overwhelmed by what's happening, but quickly get out of the driver's seat and meet Grandma around at the side of the SUV to escort her inside.

To Gavin's childhood home.

The plot thickens…