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“Great.” Relief turned her green eyes to moss.
Man, he wanted to kiss her.
Warmth greeted them as they walked into the main entrance. The sounds of “Jingle Bells” added to the cacophony of noise. There were reindeer products everywhere. It was almost like they had stepped into Santa’s workshop. Snow globes, hats, T-shirts, and figurines lined the shelves throughout the store.
“Wow,” Bebe whispered.
“No kidding.”
He led them toward the checkout area. A robust man behind the cash register greeted them heartily. “Hello, there. How can I help you this fine day?”
“I’m Jahleel Walker, and this is Bebe Gordon.”
“Ah, yes. I’ve been waiting for you.”
He felt Bebe’s stare as he shook the man’s hand.
“I’m William Hammond. Welcome to the family farm.” He turned to Bebe and shook her hand as well.
“Nice to meet you,” she replied.
“Likewise. The reindeer are out in the barn, all ready to go.” He rubbed the bald spot on his head. “My dad will be your guide and answer any questions you may have.”
“Thank you.” Jahleel ignored the tug from Bebe. “Do we just head on back?”
“Sure can.”
As soon as they got outside, Bebe halted. “What are you up to?” She looked up at him.
“You’ll find out soon enough.” He gave her a small grin. “I promise you’ll enjoy yourself.”
She bit her lip and then slowly nodded. “Okay.”
They resumed their pace. Jay’s fingers wiggled as they got closer to the barn. Would she like his plan? Would she find it romantic?Please let her find it romantic.He’d taken care in planning today’s activities because he wanted to show Bebe he was committed and not being casual with her heart. Surely caring how she felt about today was a step in that direction.
Bebe stopped suddenly when they entered the barn. The darkness surprised him, but his eyes finally adjusted. He bit back a grin.
A bright red sleigh was hooked up to eight reindeer. A fur blanket rested on the front of the sled. “Hello,” he called out.
“Ho, ho, ho.” An older gentleman came out of the shadows. He wore a red fur jacket held on by a black belt. His long white beard covered the center of it. “It’s about time you got here, Bebe Gordon.”
She gasped. “How do you know who I am?” She spared Jay a look, her eyes dancing with glee.
Yes!He knew she’d like this place.
“I know everyone.” The man in red’s cheeks bunched in merriment. “I hear you need a ride.” He gestured toward the reindeer. “At your service, ma’am.”
Bebe let go of Jay’s arm and stepped forward. A look of pure delight stretched across her face. She glanced back at him and mouthed,Santa!Her eyes were wide with laughter. “Are these your helpers?” she asked the man.
“That they are. Couldn’t make it anywhere without them. They get a little restless the closer we get to Christmas, so your man, Jahleel, here came to my rescue. The boys get to stretch their legs today while you get a tour.”
“And what’s your name?” Bebe asked.
“Why, I’m Santa, of course.” He let out a laugh, clutching his belly. “Come on, come on, and get in the sleigh.”
Jahleel held Bebe’s hand as she climbed in. Then he carefully got in, sitting next to her. His knee ached, but this was totally worth it.
“The ride gets a little windy, so be sure to keep warm under the blanket,” Santa called.
