'Tis The Season: Sweet Romance Novelettes

‘Tis The Season: Sweet Romance Novelettes

D. F. Jones Allie Marie Laura Haley-McNeil Ana Morgan Laura Ann Lane McFarland

Copyright © 2018 by D. F. Jones

Paperback ISBN 978-1-7323054-3-4

Ebook ISBN 978-1-73230-542-7

All rights reserved.

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The novel is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance of persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Cover Art, by Jones Media, images provided by Shutterstock © 2017

Created with Vellum Created with Vellum

Contents

Introduction

D. F. Jones

Nick: A Christmas Fantasy

Allie Marie

It’s a Wonderful Life After All

Laura Haley-McNeil

Christmas Kiss

Ana Morgan

Poinsettias

Laura Ann

Picture Perfect Christmas

Lane McFarland

A Medieval Christmas

Thank you for reading!

Introduction

‘Tis The Season: Sweet Romance Novelettes offers the reader Fantasy, Contemporary, and Historical heartfelt romances.

Baking cookies, trimming the tree and falling in love with sprinkles of Christmas magic in a collection that hits the spot with readers looking for a light and sweet holiday read.

It is a pleasure to work with award winning and talented authors: Allie Marie, Laura Haley-McNeil, Ana Morgan, Laura Ann, and Lane McFarland.

Please be so kind to share our buy link on social media, refer a friend, and consider posting a review.

All the best,

D.F. Jones, author

Nick: A Christmas Fantasy

D. F. Jones

Chapter 1

Mirror Mountain

Winterland

Nick paced the floor outside of his father’s study. He nervously peeked inside continually twisting his hands, waiting and wondering what his father would think of his business venture. He’d been hesitant to share any details until the business posted considerable net profits. Ever since he was a little boy, Nick craved his father’s approval.

Come in, son. Tell me what’s on your mind. His father clicked away on his keyboard.

If you’re busy, I can come back later. Nick hated interrupting his father while he worked, especially during the busiest season of the year.

He stepped into the room and glanced at the oil painting of their family hanging on the wall. His dad’s desk was classically designed antique mahogany with a black hide writing surface. Snow-covered mountains stretched for miles beyond the curved bow sash windows, giving the room a quaint yet elegant appeal.

Nonsense. Sit down and quit pacing. You’re making me nervous. His dad closed his laptop and leaned back in his chair with his hands behind his head.

Nick sat on the maroon leather love seat, then crossed one long leg over the other and clasped his fingers together to stop his trembling. Dad, um, I bought a house in Holiday Falls, Tennessee, and I’ve set up an online gift store called, Wonder Worker. I match up gifts to wish lists.

His dad started laughing and smacked his knee. Sounds like you’re trying to put me out of business.

Nick waved his right hand in dismissal. No, no. It’s not like that. My shop specializes in customizing gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, graduations, and special events. The person sets up a wish list and invites family and friends to join their page. I step in to find those items on the list, and customize their orders, from monogrammed sneakers to family initials etched into crystal goblets. I locate the vendors to do the work and receive a commission for my time.

His dad’s thick white brows furrowed as he stroked his long white beard. But, Nick, you’re to fulfill the Winterland Prophecy. It’s a part of your inheritance.

Nick’s father pushed away from the desk and walked over to the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, bent down, and reached for an antique leather-bound book with gold inlay boasting their family crest. Nick’s nose prickled at the chocolaty coffee scent as his dad opened the book and flipped several pages.

His father, Nicholas Sr., adjusted his round-rim glasses and traced his finger along the faded yellowing pages as he lowered onto the love seat next to Nick. The ancient handwritten script was hard to read. He turned to Nick. "The very first Nicholas inherited magic from what I believe were angels. The angels stated the supernatural powers were outlined in the Book of Truth. While the text here calls them messengers, the description is reminiscent of the angel messengers detailed in the Bible. The Book of Truth is divine and not for our eyes to see; however, it states here if you’ve not settled with your chosen mate by the time I turn sixty, the magic will end. The gifts for the children, the elves’ magical toy making skills, the flying reindeer, and my ability to manipulate time will cease."

He handed the book to Nick. It’s time for you to read. Your destiny is directly linked to the magic foretold in the Winterland Prophecy handed down to the first-born male in our lineage.

Nick began to read the pages. His eyes went wide, and he shook his head in disbelief. I must find a wife? He glanced at the antique Persian rug with deep red hues.

A wife?

He wanted to marry and have children one day, but being responsible for the Christmas magic was something entirely different. His father had always been the head honcho of their crew.

His dad placed his hand on Nick’s shoulder. I know it’s a lot of pressure to put on you, son. But don’t worry. Your chosen mate will come into your life.

And if she doesn’t? Nick closed the book and placed it on the desk.

Nicholas Sr. pursed his lips before releasing a breath. No more Christmas Eve rides on rooftops. Mirror Mountain will vanish, and your mother, the elves, and I may move in with you in Holiday Falls—as mortals. The children will wake with no Christmas magic. But I don’t believe that’ll happen. It came down to the wire with your mother and me, but everything worked out. The prophecy has worked for hundreds of years. You still have some time to sow your wild oats. Run your new business, and with any luck, your mate will appear with time to spare.

With exasperation, Nick said, Dad, you turn sixty in two years.

His dad started chuckling. Oh, Nick, I have complete faith in you. Did you say you bought a house?

I’m glad you have faith. You found your perfect mate. Nick took a deep breath and exhaled. And, yes, sir, I bought a house. He coughed. Hm, I used money from my trust. But my store is doing great, and I estimate repaying every penny with interest before I return home. You and Mom have a room for visits, in the offseason, that is.

Well, then I wish you much success. Let’s find your mom and break the news. He hugged Nick.

Nick quickly swiped the tears from his eyes. Thank you for always believing in me. I don’t want to let you down.

You have never let me down, son. You are the best part of your mother and me.

Two years later, Holiday Falls, Tennessee

Triple Oaks Subdivision

Friday afternoon, Nick raked autumn leaves into big piles on his front lawn. The days had grown shorter, and with them loomed the knowledge of his father’s sixtieth birthday on New Year’s Eve.

Ben, his fourteen-year-old neighbor from across the street, jogged over. Hey, Mr. Nick, I was wondering if you needed any help? I’m trying to raise money for the winter dance, you know, The Snowball?

Sure. The dance at the clubhouse?

Ben nodded.

Nick said, All right, grab a rake out of the garage and bring a couple of those lawn bags too.

Ben ran to the detached garage and appeared a couple of minutes later. He knelt on his knees to stuff the piled leaves into the big black plastic bags. Hey, uh, you know Haley, the girl that lives down the street? Her parents have the yellow Hummer. Well, she told me you owned the Wonder Worker.

Sales at the Wonder Worker had soared over the last two years, and Nick had received several offers from larger companies to buy him out. But he liked the pace of his small business and didn’t have the desire to cash in…yet. He’d rented office space in Forrest Mall only a block away from his house.

Nick’s staff of five computer gurus from the local college kept his business running like a well-oiled machine, and he could work anywhere with Wi-Fi.

Yeah, that’s my baby. Nick started on a new pile of leaves. So, are you inviting Haley to the dance?

Ben’s face turned several shades of red. Yes, sir. I’m crazy for her.

Nick wondered if he would ever be crazy for anyone.

Ben tied one of the bags, then started on another one. I have a Wonder Worker account, and so does half of the high school.

Nick took a bow and said, Thank you for your business.

Ben threw a bag of leaves over his shoulder. You’re a little like Santa Claus.

Nick shook his head. Not even close.

Are you rich? Ben placed the bag under the maple tree, then started raking the last section of the front yard.

You’re not supposed to ask people how much money they make.

Ben stopped and stared at Nick like he had three heads. With a quizzical brow, he asked, Why not?

Nick leaned on the rake’s knob. I make enough to pay for my house, and before you ask how much my house cost, do a real estate search, on your time.

Cool, I got you. You must be rich. But sometimes, money causes problems. My parents argue about money all the time.

I’m pretty sure that your parents wouldn’t want you to gossip about their private matters.

Ben tilted his head again.

Oh, to be young and full of life’s questions. A strong wind lifted leaves in the air, and Nick ran over to help Ben before the last pile blew into the neighboring yard. Several teens rode bikes past the house and yelled to Ben.

A loud clanking echoed, accompanied by a woman’s shrill scream.

Nick’s pulse raced, and the hair stood on the back of his neck.

He and Ben dropped the bag, raced next door, and discovered his beautiful new neighbor stranded on the roof. Her ladder lay on the ground.

She shrugged. I’m such a klutz. A little help, please. Her hands tented in prayer mode.

Nick had meant to introduce himself when she’d moved in a few weeks ago, but the time had never seemed right. He looked to the heavens, nodding, then gave a silent thank you. Um, your husband should string the lights on the roof.

She rolled her eyes. Yeah, well, I don’t have a husband. She grinned at him with rosy, dimpled cheeks. Her long chestnut hair was pulled into a ponytail high on her head.

Nick’s stomach dipped. Boyfriend?

Aren’t you a comedian. She placed her forearms on bent knees.

She had a sense of humor; two points for the home team.

Nick placed the ladder against the house and looked at Ben. Hold onto the base while I climb up.

Arose such a clatter. Ben laughed loudly as his shoulders shook.

Nick climbed up the rungs. He reached the top of the ladder and held out his hand. His eyes locked with hers, and life as he knew it changed, shifting into a marvelous feeling that he couldn’t quite describe. I’m Nick Claus.

She giggled. Like in Santa Claus?

He said, And now, who’s the comedienne?

With a release of breath, she replied, Hi, I’m Kaelyn Stockwell. Thanks, but you didn’t have to come up. All I needed was the ladder. I’ve been taking care of myself for a very long time.

Looks like it. He bit the inside of his cheek.

Why did he say that?

Kaelyn frowned, and Nick grinned.

Better to be safe than sorry. Nick watched her crawl backward and couldn’t help looking at her perfectly shaped tush. He backed down once she had a grip on the ladder and seconds later both were on the ground.

Nick shoved his hands in his jean pockets and took a step away from her. I don’t mind helping string lights. I love Christmas decorations.

Kaelyn cocked her head to the side while brushing roof debris off her knees. I noticed. Your house looks incredible at night. So, I thought I’d try and get into the spirit.

Ben’s eyes widened. Hey, you’re The Cookie Lady.

Actually, The Cookie Lady was my mom. I took over her business when she passed away last April.

I’m sorry for your loss, Nick said with compassion.

Me too. I miss her. Kaelyn stepped over to the front porch. I made a fresh batch of cookies at lunch. Want one?

Ben rubbed his palms together. I love your cookies.

So does everyone else in town, Nick mused.

All right. She looked at Nick. What about you?

Nah, that stuff makes you f… Breaking out in a sweat, Nick felt the blood rushing into his cheeks. Oh, I didn’t mean to imply that you were… Nick stammered, You look great.

Oh, for Pete’s sake.

Why did he keep putting his foot in his mouth?

He was thirty, not thirteen.

Kaelyn lifted her chin and turned to Ben. He doesn’t know what he’s missing. I come up with new recipes all the time. Want to be my test subject?

Ben nodded, then kicked the ground with his foot. Aw, man, I’m working for Nick. See, I’m trying to raise money for The Snow Ball.

Don’t sweat it, Ben. I have the whole backyard still waiting for you. He watched Ben and Kaelyn enter the house.

Nick had made a complete fool of himself.

Why was he so nervous around Kaelyn?

And no wonder he smelled cookies at all hours. Kaelyn was a baker.

Nick liked her instantly and went about spreading a little of his own Christmas magic for his next-door neighbor.

Kaelyn walked into her massive state-of-the-art kitchen: two double ovens, and a restaurant-quality cooktop with a pull-down organizer full of pots and pans over the island. She turned to Ben. Have a seat at the bar. I have a new recipe for you to try out.

Wow, super sweet kitchen. Ben took a seat on the bar stool.

Kaelyn brought over a Santa cookie jar, grabbed a plate, then poured him a glass of milk. When little girls asked for dolls, I asked for an Easy Bake Oven. She giggled and added, Here you go, chocolate mint with peanut butter morsels.

Ben took a big bite. Mmmm. He sipped the milk, then said, That is one awesome cookie.

So, how long have you known Nick? Kaelyn wondered about the tall, handsome redhead with broad shoulders and narrow waist. Is he married?

Grownups. Ben snickered. You like him, don’t ya?

Kaelyn wiped down the kitchen counter. Her cheeks flushed. I don’t know him well enough to like him. But he has potential. She arched a brow.

Nick moved in two years ago. He’s kind of a loner, but very nice. My mom is a nurse at the hospital, and she said he visits the sick kids every week like clockwork.

There must be good in a man who cares for children. I take cookies to the hospital and the Community Care Center once a month. She leaned against the counter.

Ben finished off the second cookie. Your cookies are the best. I live across the street, so anytime you want to try out a new batch, just holler. Oh, and for your inquiring mind, Nick is single.

Kaelyn grinned. Drink your milk, kid.

Hey, Miss Kaelyn, I was thinking. My family and I are on the eats committee for The Snow Ball. Do you mind if I suggest The Cookie Lady for treats?

I’ll tell you what. You help me string the rest of the Christmas lights, and I’ll donate the cookies.

Ben’s eyes widened. Really?

Uh huh.

All right. So, I guess I should get back at raking Nick’s leaves. Then I’ll help you with your lights, deal?

Kaelyn nodded and walked with Ben out the front door.

Nick stood on the lawn. He had a handsome, ruddy face with a strong jawline, intense blue eyes, and he had an air of honesty and gentleness about his demeanor.

Her roof was entirely decorated with twinkling Christmas lights. How…how in the world did you finish so quickly?

Trade secret. Nick crossed his muscular forearms over his chest.

Kaelyn swallowed hard and glanced up at the roof. Incredible.

Ben stared in awe. If you’re not Santa, you must be related.

Kaelyn released a sigh. Christmas magic, indeed. Nick, you must come for dinner tonight, and I won’t take no for an answer.

There was something uniquely beautiful about Nick, and she wondered how his full lips would feel moving over hers. And how his hands would feel running over her curves.

She bit her lip to snap back to reality.

Nick draped an arm around the stupefied Ben. Ahh, now you’re getting to my ulterior motive.

Kaelyn lowered her lashes. Her cheeks heated from Nick’s intense look. Then she giggled, and said, Dinner is at seven thirty.

Nick threw his head back in laughter. You got yourself a date. Young Ben, the leaves are all yours. He handed Ben the rake.

Kaelyn yelled out as Nick and Ben walked back to his yard. Ben, I’ll still donate the cookies to The Snow Ball.

Chapter 2

Nick had dated a little back in his college days, but once he moved to Tennessee, he never had the time. Kaelyn drew him in with her warm brown eyes. Her quirkiness combined with quick wit was a bonus. He couldn’t wait to spend the evening with her.

He rifled through his closet and grabbed a pair of brown corduroys, then pulled on a black turtleneck before slipping his feet into his Rambler boots. He placed a little hair product in the palm of his hands, then threaded his fingers through his mass of unruly red hair. He looked in the bathroom mirror and removed the piece of toilet paper he’d stuck on his chin after nicking himself shaving.

Nick grabbed his leather jacket and made for the door. He didn’t want to be late. He crossed the yard to Kaelyn’s.

Christmas decorations and lights adorned nearly all the houses in their subdivision. He took out his phone and snapped an image and sent it to his parents with the caption: Christmas is alive and well in Tennessee. Love y’all.

He went up the front steps and rang the doorbell. Nerves made his stomach flutter, and his heart pounded. He’d never wanted to impress a woman with his magic before, not until this afternoon.

Kaelyn opened the door in a long emerald-green dress. Her shiny chestnut hair cascaded over her shoulders. Her skin looked radiant and so smooth that he longed to caress her cheek.

Welcome, neighbor. I hope you're hungry. I haven’t had a dinner guest in, well, in eight months. Come on in. She ushered him inside, and he instantly felt at ease.

The interior design of the house seemed to match Kaelyn’s personality. Earthy tones, comfortable seating, Tiffany lamps, and crystal sconces with cinnamon-scented candles. Flames crackled in the fireplace, and a Fraser fir nestled in the corner of the living area, awaited Christmas decorations.

Kaelyn talked a mile a minute. I want to do so much to the house, but I spend most of my time baking. Is it okay if we eat in the kitchen? The dining room seems so formal.

Nick shrugged. Works for me. The kitchen is my favorite place in a house. Mmm. Whatever you’ve cooked smells wonderful.

Kaelyn knew her kitchen and flitted around stirring pots and checking the double ovens. I hope you don’t have any food allergies. I cooked prime rib with potatoes and carrots and a side dish of green beans with almonds. The yeast rolls are almost done.

The oven buzzed. Voilà, dinner is served.

Let me help.

Not necessary. It’s a treat to entertain. My hours are long on most days. But I recently hired an assistant manager, and she’s hired several part-timers until the holidays are over. I took off for the weekend to try new recipes and decorate. And thanks to you, Mr. Christmas, the exterior of my house looks fabulous.

Nick could listen to Kaelyn talk for hours. No thanks needed, but I’m glad to get a home-cooked meal. I eat take-out mostly, salads, or frozen entrees.

She placed her hand over her heart. Eek. Never eat frozen, darlin’. There’re many quick meals easily prepared and cooked in minutes. I’ll give you some simple recipes.

Thank you.

After setting the table, Kaelyn joined Nick with a bottle of merlot. The first bite of prime rib melted in his mouth. Oh, Kaelyn, I haven’t eaten this good since I left home.

She placed her forearms on the table and leaned in. And where is home? Family?

Nick placed the linen napkin on his knee. I’d rather not talk about my family. Do you mind?

With compassion, she reached over and squeezed his hand. You don’t have to talk about your family. It’s okay.

He placed his other hand over hers. Nothing sinister, I assure you. My family is complicated. I love them, but I needed to make my own way in the world.

Kaelyn released her hand and leaned back in the dark walnut chair. That’s good. My mother and I were best friends. Daddy passed away when I was small. I don’t remember much about him, only that my mother loved him to distraction. So, you know I own The Cookie Lady. May I inquire about your job?

Nick enjoyed talking about the Wonder Worker. He was especially proud that ten percent of all sales went to the children’s hospital. My online store continues to grow, and I’m starting to see an increase in sales globally, not just in the U.S. It’s a simple idea that seems to have caught on. Ben told me today his friends have created pages for Christmas.

She tilted her head to the side. You’re cutting into Santa’s business.

He leaned back in the chair. No. I wouldn’t dream of cutting into Santa’s domain. Children must be at least fourteen to add a page with their parents’ permission. I forward requests from younger children to the North Pole.

Kaelyn gazed into his eyes, sending a jolt of electricity through his body.

She clasped her hands together. I have a wonderful idea. I offered to donate cookies to The Snow Ball. You should dress up as Santa. And I could dress up as Mrs. Claus. Doesn’t that sound like fun?

Oh, you have no idea. A thousand thoughts swam in his head. It does sound fun. I could hire a sleigh with horses. Think that’s too corny?

Not on your life. In each of us lives the little child we used to be.

He glanced at the clock. I’ve kept you up late. Allow me to help with the clean-up.

Kaelyn stood, and he helped her clean the kitchen.

Don’t leave. Want to bake some Christmas cookies? Let’s see, hmm. Santa Sprinkles, I think. Sugar cookies with peppermint slivers.

If you don’t think I’d get in the way. When I was a boy my mother and I baked cookies every year in shapes of angels, Christmas trees, and wreaths.

Kaelyn went into her pantry next to the kitchen and handed Nick a red apron trimmed in mistletoe. It was my mom’s.

He put it on and twirled around. How do I look?

Kaelyn bent over laughing. You look good enough to eat. Her hand flew to the hollow part of her throat. Did I say that aloud?

Nick drew her up into his arms, then swooped in and kissed the side of her neck. Mmm. I knew you’d smell good.

She giggled and blushed. Aw, it’s just soap.

Nick and Kaelyn spent the next couple of hours baking Santa’s Sprinkles. It was the first time in two years he’d felt at home.

As the evening ended, Nick stood at the door with his left hand on the knob. I haven’t selected a Christmas tree. I normally ride out to The Christmas Tree Farm and chop one down. Interested in riding with me tomorrow?

Kaelyn reached up on tiptoe and kissed his cheek. I’d love to.

Pick you up at noon?

Perfect, Kaelyn replied.

Nick opened the door and paused as tiny snowflakes swirled in the air. He turned to face her. Kaelyn’s brown eyes searched his eyes, and time seemed to falter. His uneven breaths were shallow, and his fingers tingled.

Nick wanted to take Kaelyn into his arms again and kiss her to feel the softness of her lips against his. The thought alone made him dizzy, but he held steady. A tidal wave of warmth filled him up. Until tomorrow. He traced the back of his forefinger down her cheek, evoking an ever-increasing level of passion that made him tremble.

Kaelyn reached up and brushed a lock of his hair away from his forehead. I look forward to getting to know you, Nick Claus.

He was out her door and down the steps when he heard the click of the door shutting and locking behind him.

How could one day change him forever?

Was it a good idea to get romantically involved with his neighbor?

What if he did and things went wrong?

Nick couldn’t think negative thoughts when he felt like flying to the rooftop. He glanced around and didn’t see anyone, then pressed his forefinger to the side of his nose and instantly landed on the roof. Thoughts of days gone by raced through his mind.

He missed Slipper, his magical white stallion, and how they used to fly through neighborhoods, villages, and towns. He stared out into the night and wondered about all the future possibilities with the feisty little brown-eyed beauty living next door.

Later, Nick went inside, locked the door, and turned off the downstairs lights. Everything inside the house remained unchanged, but he had changed.

Freki, his magical pet wolfhound, shifted through the kitchen door and ran into the living area, running his head under Nick’s hand. Hey, boy, guess what?

Freki tilted his head to the side and whined.

"Kaelyn might be the one."

Freki barked in agreement.

 Nick kicked off his shoes at the bottom of the steps. Then he and Freki raced upstairs to his bedroom. He clicked on the bedside lamp and walked over to the small writing desk next to the window.

Freki made several circles before settling beside Nick’s feet.

Nick opened the red velvet box and pulled out an exquisite hand-blown crystal ball that rested on a solid gold angel stand.

Within a few minutes, Nick’s mom’s face appeared. Darling, boy. I’ve been thinking about you. Dad’s getting cocoa, but he’ll be back soon. Tell me, what happened today?

Nick’s grin went wide. I met a woman. She lives next door.

His father pulled up a chair next to his mom and handed her a steaming cup of chocolate with marshmallows. A woman? Is she pretty?

Is she sweet? his mom asked.

Yes, yes, yes. Kaelyn’s lovely, stunning, and so sweet that I could scoop her up with a big red spoon. She’s everything I thought I never needed and more. And, Mom, she’s a baker. She owns a bakery, The Cookie Lady. I had dinner with her tonight, and I think I’m crazy about her. One night, and I’m riding on the wind of a thousand gossamer wings. Dad, was it like that when you met Mom? His parent’s smile reflected his mood.

Father said, "I knew the moment I met your mother that she was the one. Of course, she had