3. Jasper

Jasper

I can’t remember the last time I’ve been this stressed. I lost so much business when my Christmas tree farm opening was pushed back a week due to a storm. Many families here in Coal’s look forward to picking out their tree prior to Thanksgiving, so it was a stab in the gut this week watching cars, trucks, and SUVs drive around town with trees strapped to the roofs. I’ve reinvested every dime of profit from last year into the farm, with high hopes that it would save it, or at least keep it afloat another year.

Watching my best friend flirting with Amy only adds to my shitty situation. Mitch has never had an issue bedding any woman he wanted, and tomorrow he’ll come to work at the farm with a skip in his step and a smile wider than his ass.

And, yes, I may have gone out of my way inviting Greta to help, if nothing else to show Mitch there are consequences to his actions.

Sipping my hot chocolate and keeping to myself, I spot my friends from high school, Myles and Tristan. Last Christmas, Myles came into town and finally admitted his feelings for Tristan. We all knew growing up that there was something there, no matter how much they denied it. A pang of jealousy hits me as I watch them talk with Tristan’s parents who are heavily involved in the planning of the yearly tree lighting. Maybe it’s the holidays, maybe it’s too many years of watching Mitch always get the girl, but it’s too much for me right now, seeing Myles and Tristan looking at each other as if they’re the only other person in the universe.

“Jasper,” Beth calls with two cups of hot cider in hand with Axl. When she reaches me, I’m passed a cup of the apple goodness. “There you are! Why are you hiding out all the way over here?”

I briefly glance at Amy and Mitch, already cosied up to each other as if they’ve been dating for months. “I’m just stressed about tomorrow and figured I wouldn’t be great company tonight.”

“That’s bullshit, and you know it,” Axl huffs, then explains, “Don’t worry, we spiked it with a bit of cinnamon whisky.”

“Thank fuck,” I laugh. Taking a long sip, I savour the sweet burn as it hits my tongue. “What are you two doing tomorrow? I asked Greta to come help at the farm, but I’m afraid Mitch won’t show if she does.”

Axl replies with a deep sigh, “I have to open at the lodge.”

“I wish I could help but I have to help open The Boos tomorrow morning for some book club thing Tara and Jen are hosting.” Beth hums thoughtfully. “What about Amy? Tell Greta you have it covered and see if Amy can come instead? She seems to be getting along with Mitch… ”

We all look over at them. He’s moments away from kissing her, and I find myself wondering what she tastes like. Fuck, where did that thought come from?

Beth stifles her laugh, biting her lip. “Maybe a little too well.”

“I don’t need them fucking behind a Douglas fir,” I grumble, and take another sip of cider. “Besides, if they hook up tonight, I’ll be in the same position I am now.”

“There are worse things than banging behind a Christmas tree.” Beth shrugs. “We caught my brother and Myles fucking all over town last Christmas!”

Axl shakes his head and chuckles, but he has no room to judge—rumour has it, Axl and Beth were caught on camera at the market fucking in the bread aisle earlier this year.

“Just ask her,” she groans and nudges me with her elbow, making my drink slosh. “We all know how important this weekend is for you, and you’ll need all the help you can get.”

If Mitch doesn’t scare the girl away, he’ll be distracted with his tongue down her throat. But… perhaps in-between face-fucking each other, they may be able to sell a few trees? “You’re right. I’ll think about it.”

Axl and Beth make their way to the popcorn cart and my gaze returns to one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever seen, wrapped in my best friend’s arms. He tucks her hair behind her ear and leans in to whisper something. Like clockwork, she falls for whatever line he’s trying on her. Watching them reminds me of reading a book I’ve already read, able to predict the next move .

Resting his forehead on hers.

Whispering compliments that make her blush.

Disappointment painting her features as he presses a kiss to her temple instead of her lips.

His hand possessively splayed on her lower back, keeping her body flush with his.

Then, he steps back and turns on the gentlemanly charm he’s known for.

Amy will think she found a good guy. While she’s not wrong, Mitch is a good man, he’s also predictable. She’ll be begging him to kiss her the rest of the night. When he finally gives her what she’s been craving, they’ll rush off to his place or hers. It will all feel like her idea.

I can’t watch the trainwreck a moment longer and take out my phone to text him.

I’m heading out. I’ll ask Greta to not help tomorrow if you can make sure someone is there in her place.

Maybe ask Amy?

Mitch doesn’t reach for his phone, completely focused on the ray of sunshine in front of him. He knows how important this weekend is, but my money is on him showing up tomorrow without Amy.