Chapter Three
Hollis
Christmas music filters throughout the store, filling my heart with holiday joy as I unpack the new village that arrived earlier today. The store has kept steady despite the weather outside, making this the first lull in customers I’ve had since opening, which ended up being thirty minutes late thanks to Officer Grumpy Pants.
My blood heats all over again as I think about my encounter with the sexy, yet infuriating officer. He was a real piece of work, that one. Acting all high and mighty with his stupid snow brush and laced-up boots.
The avalanche of emotions I felt in that short encounter is something I am still baffled by hours later. I went from feeling guilty for unavoidably sliding into his SUV, to immediately being struck by his rugged good looks. So much so, that I felt all the air get knocked out of my lungs. With disheveled brown hair, a strong jawline, and an olive complexion that enhanced warm hazel eyes, there is no denying the man is more than attractive. And not the kind of attractive I’m used to seeing back in California. No stiff suit with bleached-white teeth and a fake tan.
Oh no, he was far from that. He was tall, his body strong—something that was apparent even under his jacket—and it only added to the authority he exuded. He was the very definition of tall, dark, and handsome. I was completely riveted.
Until he opened his rude mouth and ruined it all.
I fully expected to receive the ticket of my life after the tongue-lashing I gave him, but nope, the good-looking bastard ended it with an act of kindness before leaning inside my car and bringing that handsome, infuriating face only an inch from mine, drugging me with his woodsy, masculine scent.
It caused an unusual shift to take place inside of me. The furious rhythm of my angry heart started to beat for an entirely different reason. It was unnerving, to say the least, and has left me feeling off-kilter for most of the day.
I’m pulled from the thought when the bell above the door jingles, alerting me of someone’s arrival. Looking over, I find a young girl with a pink backpack on stumbling inside. She’s bundled to the nines and covered in snow, looking like she just walked a mile to get here.
Concerned, I make my way over to her. “Well, hello.”
“Hi.” Her returned greeting is muffled behind the scarf covering most of her face. Shaking the snow off herself, she sends the white, fluffy powder all over the floor before removing the knotted material from around her neck. It reveals the sweetest face with rosy cheeks and bright blue eyes. “Sheesh, it’s crazy out there,” she says, pulling her hat off to unveil a staticky mess of golden-brown curls.
“It sure is. Are you all right?” I ask, wondering why she is out in this weather all by herself. I’ll admit most of the locals don’t seem fazed by this storm, but she can’t be more than ten years old.
“Yes, but I need to borrow your phone if you don’t mind. My so-called ‘babysitter’ pulled a no-show, so I need to call my brother to come pick me up.”
I find myself amused by the way she uses her fingers as air quotes when talking about this so-called babysitter.
“Of course. Right this way.”
She follows me over to the front counter, the sound of her winter boots stomping on the floor behind me as she struggles to maneuver in all her layers of clothing.
Grabbing the phone from under the register, I place it on top for her to use. “Do you need help?” I ask. “I can dial it for you if you tell me the number.”
“It’s okay. I got it.” She shuffles up to the counter and lifts to her booted toes in order to see the buttons, then begins dialing the number.
I pretend to busy myself behind her, wanting to stay close in case she needs something, and listen as several faint rings echo from the receiver.
“Come on, Mike. Pick up,” she whispers, a hint of concern lacing her tiny voice.
I start to worry the call will go unanswered until a muffled voice comes over the line a moment later.
“Cross.” By the deep timber of the voice, I realize her brother must be quite a bit older than her.
“It’s me. We got a problem,” she says, sounding all business again.
“Great. What now?”
“Flakey Felicia didn’t pick me up from school like she was supposed to.”
A smile touches my lips at the nickname she gives the babysitter, but it quickly fades as chaos erupts on the other end of the line.
“What!?” the furious voice booms from the receiver, forcing the young girl to pull the phone away from her ear. “What do you mean she didn’t show up? Where the hell are you?”
She returns the phone to her ear, seeming completely unfazed by her brother’s outrage. “I’m at the Christmas store. The doors to the school were locked, so I walked here to use the phone.”
The elementary school is less than a block away. Not far at all, but still a trek in this weather, especially for a child.
“I can’t believe this shit!”
I wince at the muffled curse, knowing his mother probably wouldn’t appreciate him using that kind of language in front of his little sister, regardless of the circumstances.
“Don’t move. I’m on my way.”
“Roger that.” Hanging up the phone, the young girl turns to me. “He’s on his way. Mind if I hang out with you until he gets here?”
“Not at all,” I reply, reassuring her with a smile. “I’d love the company.”
“Great.” Beaming up at me, she extends her hand. “The name is Poppy.”
Impressed by her manners, I take her small hand in mine. “Hi, Poppy. I’m Hollis.”
“Pleased to meet you, Hollis. I like your name.”
“Thank you. I like yours too.”
It’s unique and not one you hear often.
“Are you hungry?” I ask. “I have some Christmas cookies and hot chocolate in a thermos if you’re interested?”
Her face lights up at the offer. “Yes, please!”
Grabbing a nearby stool, I bring it up to the counter for her to sit on. She wrestles to remove her backpack, hindered by the thick jacket she has on. Frustration creeps into her expression as she jumps around, spinning from side to side in a desperate attempt to free herself, but it proves futile.
“Here, let me help you with that.” Stepping forward, I grab the straps of her school bag and push them down her puffy arms.
“Thanks,” she huffs out. “All this winter gear can be a real struggle some days.”
I chuckle, amused by that response. “I can imagine.”
Though, I’m glad she’s dressed appropriately considering the small trek she had to make.
Once she’s untangled from her jacket and backpack, I neatly place them both in the corner and help her up onto the stool. Afterward, I grab the thermos of hot cocoa I packed this morning from the shelf under the register, along with the box of sugar cookies I had delivered from the local bakery down the street.
I place the box down in front of Poppy and remove the lid, presenting her with an array of colorful shapes to choose from. “Take your pick.”
She rubs her hands together gleefully before carefully selecting the Christmas tree which happens to be the biggest and brightest one in the box.
While she starts in on that, I pour us both a cup of cocoa, splitting what’s left in my thermos.
“So, I guess you’re the new owner of this place, huh,” she comments around a mouthful of cookie.
“Not exactly. My cousin owns it. I’m just here to run the place until he is able to sell it.”
Her small face scrunches in confusion. “He plans to sell it?”
I nod.
“Didn’t he just buy it?”
“He did,” I confirm, smiling at her confusion. “That’s what his company does. They buy businesses at auctions, then turn around and sell them for more money.”
The explanation doesn’t seem to bring her much clarity. “Not to sound rude, but that seems kinda pointless.”
I laugh, loving her honesty. “None taken, and I agree, but he enjoys it and makes good money doing it.”
More than good. Like most of my family, Shane is well off, but he has worked hard for what he has. So even though I don’t see the appeal, I’m proud of all he has accomplished.
“Well, I sure hope whoever buys this place doesn’t change anything,” she says, sounding devastated by the thought. “It would break my heart and I know it would break Mrs. Kay’s too if she were still alive.”
A twinge of guilt strikes my chest. “Is that who owned it previously?” I ask gently.
She nods, her expression sad. “She had a heart attack in her sleep and died.”
“I’m sorry,” I offer softly.
“Thanks. Me too. She was always nice to me when I came in to look around,” she says. “It’s probably my favorite store in town. Heck, maybe even in this whole world.”
Her enthusiasm sparks my own. “I guess that means you like Christmas, huh?”
“Oh, yes,” she gushes. “It’s my favorite holiday of the year.”
“Mine too,” I confess with a smile. “It’s one of the reasons I came here. I also couldn’t wait to see all the snow. It’s something that doesn’t happen often where I live.”
Her eyes flare with surprise. “Really?”
I nod.
“Where do you live?” she asks.
“California.”
Excitement lights up her entire face. “That’s where Disneyland is.”
“It is,” I laugh, not the least bit surprised by the association. “Have you ever been?”
She snorts. “Yeah, right. I wish, but that will never happen.”
My head tilts at the response. “Why do you say that?”
“Because that would mean Mountie Mike would have to take time off work, and he doesn’t do that unless it’s an emergency.”
“Mountie Mike?” I muse, intrigued by this newest nickname.
“That’s what I call my brother sometimes, especially when I want to tease him.” She snickers behind her hand, bringing another smile to my face.
“Is it just you and your brother?” I ask carefully.
“Yep. Just the two of us.”
I find myself further curious but refrain from asking, knowing it’s not my business.
Instead, we talk about an array of other things she seems very content to talk about. In a very short amount of time, I find out what grade she’s in, who her best friend is, about a boy named Jacob who chases down all the girls at recess trying to kiss them, and the fight Sarah and Betty are having because Betty told one of Sarah’s secrets. I also found out her favorite teacher is Mrs. Collette, and that her favorite subject is leadership. She also tells me she was chosen this month to pick an act of kindness and she chose to start a donation box for families in need for the holiday season.
I find it admirable how thoughtful she is, especially at such a young age.
“We have quite the stockpile already and there’s still a few more weeks of school left,” she reveals excitedly.
“That’s great. I would love to help out and donate something too.”
She straightens at the offer. “Really?”
“Absolutely. What kind of things are you looking for?”
“We take all sorts of stuff. Canned goods, toys, winter clothing…we’re grateful for anything you’re willing to give.”
Her enthusiasm is heartwarming. “I’ll tell you what, this weekend I’ll go buy a selection of all the things you just mentioned and bring them by the school on Monday morning before work. How does that sound?”
“That sounds amazing. Thanks so much, Hollis.” She throws her tiny arms around my waist.
Warmth invades my heart as I return her hug. “You’re welcome. I’m glad I can help.”
She breaks the connection, smiling up at me. “Boy, am I glad I chose to use your phone instead of someone else’s.”
I chuckle, amused by her candidness. “Me too.”
I’ve enjoyed her company. It has been the highlight of my day.
Before either of us can say more the bell above the door chimes. “Poppy?” A deep voice calls out, a note of panic evident within. “Where are you?”
I frown, the voice sounding vaguely familiar.
“I’m over here, ya big lug.” Poppy jumps off the stool and races around the front counter, excited to see her big brother.
I remain where I am and make sure to wear my most welcoming smile, wanting to reassure him that she’s been in good hands.
“Thank, christ.”
I hear the curse of relief before the male rushes into view, sweeping a young Poppy up into his arms. My smile drops like an avalanche when I see it’s none other than Officer Grumpy Pants.
No freaking way.
Shock paralyzes me where I stand, every muscle in my body weighted as he checks Poppy over in concern.
“Are you all right?” he asks. “Are you hurt?”
“I’m fine. Stop being such a worrywart,” she says, dismissing his concern. “I’ve been having a great visit with my new friend, Hollis.”
His shoulders visibly stiffen at the mention of my name. Obviously, he remembers it from my license this morning, which is not a good sign.
He slowly rotates, his eyes meeting mine in a powerful connection that suspends time. For a moment, everything else fades away, leaving only the weight of his stare and the hitch of my breath.
God, he’s even hotter than I remember.
Disbelief fills the color of his irises before disapproval takes its place. “You’ve got to be shitting me. What the hell are you doing here?”
His rude reaction slaps me in the face, sending me crashing straight back to reality. My anger from this morning resurfaces, bringing a rush of heat to my cheeks.
“She works here, obviously. Duh.” Poppy rolls her eyes, making him look like the jackass he is, before following it up with a smile. “Mike, meet my new friend, Hollis.” She gestures to me. “Hollis, this is my brother, M—”
“We’ve met.” Our replies collide in unison, our dislike for one another apparent—more his than mine since he is the one who seems to have the problem.
“Really? That’s great!” Poppy either doesn’t pick up on the tension or she ignores it. Considering how smart she is I’m going with the latter.
His stony glare never wavers until Poppy lays a hand on his cheek, forcing him to look her way. Instantly, that mean stare melts away, softening every stony feature of his ridiculously handsome face.
I should probably be offended that his disdain is reserved just for me, but I’m glad to know he isn’t a complete dipshit to his sister.
“Did you find out what happened to No Show Nancy?” she asks.
“Yeah, I talked to her.” By the anger tightening that perfect jawline, I can only imagine how that conversation went.
“Well, what did she say?” she presses.
“Apparently, there was a last-minute tryout for the cheer team, and she thought you would wait for her.”
My mouth drops at the sheer audacity of this babysitter.
Poppy shakes her head, sighing her disappointment. “I guess that’s what we get for hiring a teenager.”
Her brother grunts his agreement. “I guess so.” He places her down on her feet. “Go grab your stuff. We need to get home and find you a new babysitter before Monday.”
She groans but begrudgingly complies. “I wouldn’t need a babysitter if you’d just let me take the bus home,” she says, grabbing her jacket.
“We’ve been over this,” he replies sternly. “You’re nine years old. You’re not old enough to stay home alone.”
“But I’m not your typical nine-year-old,” she argues. “I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself for a few hours until you finish work.”
While I agree she is a lot more mature than most nine-year-olds I’ve ever met, I have to stand with Officer Grump on this one. She is much too young to be home alone.
“Besides,” she adds, zipping up her jacket. “I pretty much take care of myself anyway with the babysitters you hire and—”
“Drop it, Poppy! It’s not happening.” His tone is firm, warranting no further argument.
The disappointment crushing her face has me offering an alternative solution. “She’s welcome to come hang out here with me until you guys can find someone more permanent.”
Poppy gasps at the offer, every feature of her face lighting up. “Really? You wouldn’t mind?”
“Not at all,” I assure with a smile.
“That would be great. I can help you work the store—free of charge, of course,” she adds, lifting her hand. “I can sweep floors, greet customers, and—”
“No!”
The sharp rejection sends my attention across the room, where I’m met with his perpetual scowl.
“Why not?” I ask, challenging that quick refusal.
“Yeah, why not?” Poppy echoes, her hands firmly planting on her hips as she mirrors my determination.
He ignores his sister, keeping that glare fixated solely on me. “We don’t need your charity.”
“It’s not charity,” I retort. “I enjoy her company and I could use her help around the store.”
“There you go,” Poppy interjects. “It’s the perfect solution for all of us.”
He shakes his head, refusing to budge. “Forget it. I’m not leaving you with someone I don’t even know.”
I scoff at the excuse. “Please. This has nothing to do with that and everything to do with this morning.”
His eyes narrow at the call out, a warning that I ignore.
“What happened this morning?” Poppy asks, her confused gaze shifting between us.
When he makes no move to respond, I jump in and clarify. “There was a minor fender bender involving my car and your brother’s squad vehicle,” I explain vaguely. “It was nothing serious.”
He grunts, clearly disagreeing with that statement.
“No way!” Poppy gapes, wide-eyed. “You rear-ended him?”
I nod, struggling to decipher her reaction.
Until a smile cracks her lips. “That’s amazing!” She bursts into laughter, finding the situation utterly hysterical.
It wasn’t funny at the time, but I guess I can see the humor in it now.
Officer Grump, however, finds none of it funny, his expression as hard as granite. “You’re wrong,” he counters. “Your lack of winter driving skills has nothing to do with my decision.”
He’s lying and we both know it, but I refuse to argue with him about it.
“Please, Mike?” Poppy cuts back in, her voice a soft plea. “Can’t I come here just until we find someone else?”
His stoned expression softens for the briefest moment, giving me a surge of hope but he dashes it seconds later with a shake of his head. “Sorry, but no.”
“But—”
“The answer is no.” He shuts her down, firmly. “Now say goodbye and let’s go.”
She backs down but she’s not happy about it. Turning to me, she wraps her small arms around my waist. “Thanks for everything, Hollis.”
I return her embrace, hating the disappointment in her voice. “You’re welcome. Feel free to come visit me anytime, okay?”
“Don’t worry, I will be.” She shoots her brother a defiant glare before storming past him to the door.
His gaze locks with mine, a hint of guilt shadowing his features. He opens his mouth as if he’s about to say something, maybe even change his mind, but then closes it, choosing instead to follow his sister into the storm without so much as a farewell.
“Bye to you too,” I mutter, feeling the sting of that rejection.
Annoyed, I move behind the counter and stash away the box of cookies. Just as I slide them under the register, the bell above the door chimes again, and in walks Ellie, the owner of the flower shop across the street.
“Hey, Ellie,” I greet, pleasantly surprised. So far, she’s the only person I’ve met who is close to my age, and she has been nothing but kind to me, even going as far as welcoming me with a stunning floral arrangement.
“Hey,” she returns my greeting with a smile, brushing her snowy hair away from her face. “Some crazy weather out there, isn’t it?”
I nod, my heart heavy as I think about the little girl who said almost those exact same words to me only an hour ago.
“I bet you’re missing California right about now, huh?” she chuckles.
A smile tugs at my lips. “Actually, I think all this snow is beautiful, but I could do without driving in it.”
That’s an understatement.
“Trust me, you’re not alone,” she says. “Even us locals hate driving in it.”
I’m surprised to hear that, considering how Officer Grump treated me, acting like what happened was solely because I’m an ignorant out-of-town driver.
Asshole.
“So, listen,” she begins, her voice tinged with nervous excitement. “I’m meeting up with a few friends for drinks tomorrow night at the Tap and Tavern, and I wondered if you might want to join us?”
My heart warms at the invitation. “I’d love that. Thanks, Ellie.”
“Of course.” She beams, seeming genuinely excited by my acceptance. “How about I pick you up on my way? Say, around seven?”
I nod. “Works for me.”
“Great. I’ll see you tomorrow night then,” she says, turning to leave.
“See you then.”
As she walks out the door, disappearing into the swirling flurries of snow, I can’t help but feel hopeful that I’ve made at least one friend in this town. And after meeting sweet Poppy today, maybe even two.