Snowflakes and Ice Skates: A Holiday Romance Anthology (Utah Fury Hockey) Read online

  I didn’t bother looking away from the screen to reply to Steven. “You guys interrupted my binge. There’s like seven other TVs in this house, find a different one to watch.”

  He groaned but neither of them moved.

  Toward the end of the movie, Steven got a call. My parents had remembered they had children and were on their way back.

  “Ask them to bring home food.”

  Steven gave me a thumbs up and convinced them that they’re independent, adult children needed their parents in order to feed themselves.

  I didn’t care. I wanted a burger, but I wanted to stay on the couch more. I deserved this. After working part time all through college and working an internship that took away sixty hours of my life per week I felt no guilt in having a lazy day.

  “You three haven’t showered?”

  I twisted until I saw Mom looking down at us with a smile on her face.

  “Nope.”

  Steven shook his head and Vince laughed.

  “Well here’s your food, you lazy good-for-nothings.” Dad sat three bags on the coffee table and walked away laughing. “You look like a bunch of kids.”

  I smiled sweetly at him. “Thanks, Daddy.”

  “Yeah, thanks Daddy.” Steven mocked me, but I didn’t care. I grabbed a bag and shoved a handful of fries in my mouth.

  “That’s a good look, sis.”

  I smiled with my full mouth and he rolled his eyes.

  After eating I finally gave in and went to go get ready for the day. Well, evening.

  I showered and let my curls air dry while putting on a bit of makeup. It didn’t matter how much effort I put in. I was a little sister in Vince’s eyes.

  When I was ready I went back down where he was waiting for me.

  “Are you ready for a wild night?”

  I laughed and pulled on my coat. “Let’s do this.”

  He walked me out to his car and opened the door for me. This time I wasn’t nearly as awkward and got in without having to be reminded.

  “Harvey’s for hot chocolate?”

  I nodded. That was my favorite little drive through. It only serves drinks and desserts. As if anyone needed more than that. I was surprised, yet again, that he knew how much I loved it.

  “Perfect. I saw they have a salted caramel one that I thought you’d like.”

  Huh. Two in a row. How did he know all things salted caramel were my weakness?

  “That sounds amazing.”

  We got our drinks and decided to try a few cookies, because why not. It’s the holidays. The one time of the year when calories don’t count.

  “Do you think the sleigh will go through the Avenues again?”

  I nodded and took a sip. Those streets were always the best. Instead of just decorating your house, the whole block came together to create a whole scene. Each year had a different theme and I couldn’t wait to see what it was this time. The city used to alternate the sleigh routes each year, but the Avenues became the main attraction.

  We drove to the other side of town and got in the long line of cars with the same idea.

  “Let’s get in line.” He jumped out and went to the trunk before I had my seatbelt off. I got out, careful not to spill my hot chocolate and met him at the back of the car.

  “I’ve got a blanket, hand warmers, and refills.” He held up a thermos and looked proud.

  “Wow. You thought of everything.” I was surprised by the thought and preparation he put into this. I wasn’t expecting him to go all out.

  I took the blanket and we got in line for the sleigh ride. There were five or six sleighs rotating so we didn’t have to wait too long.

  “Our turn.” Vince helped me up and waited until I was settled before climbing in behind me. We laied out the blanket and he offered me a set of hand warmers. “Warm enough?”

  I nodded. It felt strange sitting next to him like this. It was something couples did. A date thing. We weren’t on a date, but everyone around us was.

  I took a sip of my drink and focused on the warm seeping down to my stomach. This was just two friends going to see the lights. No big deal.

  The horses started trotting and we were on our way. We turned onto the first street I gasped. “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” played out loud and there were thousands of flashing lights, guitars the size of doors and halfway down was a stage with light up elves playing in a band.

  “This is amazing.”

  Vince shook his head. “I always wonder how they’ll out do the year before, but I’ve never been let down.”

  The next street was decked out in a way I’d never seen. I almost jumped up and asked for them to stop the sleigh. I wanted to live in this moment forever.

  “It’s Nightmare Before Christmas!” I squealed. That was one of my very favorite movies. I pointed out Jack and Sally and the boogie man.

  Vince laughed at me and took it all in. Luckily, the sleigh went slowly enough so I could memorize every detail.

  “This was my favorite. In all of the years, this one is the best.”

  “I’m glad you liked it.”

  There were other great displays, but really. Nothing could top what we’d already seen.

  Late, when we got back to my house he pulled the car up to the very front and parked. “I had a lot of fun tonight, Harlow.”

  I almost gasped. He’d used my real name. I looked at him and froze. He wasn’t looking at me like a little sister. No. It was more than even the attraction from the night before. His eyes dropped to my lips, which parted on their own.

  Was this it?

  I bit my lower lip.

  “Thanks, Harlow. I’ll see you later.”

  I sighed and nodded. “Night.”

  I got out and hurried to the house. What was that? How had I been so wrong?

  Stupid, stupid girl. Nothing had changed.

  Five

  I wasn’t going to spend another day on the couch. One day of being lazy was fine, but more than that and I’d go stir crazy.

  After I showered and got ready, I sent out a text to my high school friends to see if anyone was around and wanted to get together.

  My two best friends agreed to meet for lunch, and some other friends wanted to get together tonight.

  It was just the distraction I needed. Plus, it was far away from anywhere Vince would be. I needed space from him and what he did to my head. . . and my heart.

  When I got downstairs, Mom was sitting at the kitchen table with two other women.

  I poured myself a glass of orange juice and smiled at them. “Morning.”

  “Good morning, love. We’re just putting the finishing touches on the weekend’s party.”

  Yay. Another one. A bigger one.

  “Don’t forget the peppermint bark this time.”

  She laughed and waved a hand. “We’ll be covered this time. Do you have time tomorrow for the cookies?”

  “Of course.” I was glad I’d have some time with her without the distractions of parties or guests. We made Christmas cookies for the neighbors every year and passed them out door-to-door. Yes, it was overboard. We already threw multiple parties and gave out treats, but this tradition started before all that. The neighbor cookies were something Mom did with Grandma growing up.

  “I’m heading out to lunch with Kaylie and Danielle later. Then we’re getting together with some other people tonight, so I won’t be around today.”

  Mom smiled. “Sounds fun.”

  With that she went back to the party planning.

  Lunch was great with the girls. We’d kept in touch over the years, but it was the first time we’d all been home at the same time since high school. We reminisced over old items and caught up on what was going on in each other’s lives.

  Danielle still lived in Roseville and graduated from Notre Dame. She wasn’t married yet, but had a serious boyfriend that she met at school. He and some of his friends were planning on meeting us tonight.

  Kaylie was home for the
holidays from New York where she was getting her masters. She too was single, and we were both excited to see who would be coming tonight.

  I didn’t bring up Vince. They’d heard more than enough about him over the years, and I had a feeling if I brought him up now, I’d never hear the end of it.

  “It’s been so good to see you guys.” I gave them each a hug as we left the restaurant.

  “We’ll see you tonight.” Danielle reminded me before waving and heading to her car.

  Kaylie smiled. “Now that there’s some fresh meat coming, I better make sure I have something decent to wear.”

  I shook my head and waved as they hurried off. Since I had plenty of time before we met up again tonight, I walked down the street to peek at a few of the shops. I had to rush since it was so cold, but I finally wandered into a men’s clothing store. It looked upscale and I didn’t remember ever seeing it before. It would be the perfect place to pick up a gift for Dad and Steven.

  I looked around for a while before settling on a shaving kit for Dad, and a thin, leather wallet for Steven. I was in line to check out when I realized Vince would probably come around at some point on Christmas.

  Was a gift necessary?

  He wouldn’t have one for me. Would he?

  I pursed my lips and debated. I’d always rather be over prepared than embarrassed later. If he had something for me, I’d be covered and if he didn’t I’d just return it later.

  Fine. I stepped out of line and took another look with him in mind. He wasn’t easy to shop for. He seemed like the type to buy the things he needed or wanted. What could I possibly get him that he didn’t already have?

  A luxury item. Something he wouldn’t buy for himself. I held up a camera then set it back down. Too expensive. A wallet like Steven’s? No, too impersonal. I knew Steven would like it, but I didn’t want to get Vince the same thing out of ease.

  “Is there anything I can help you find?”

  I turned to see a dapper looking man, probably a little older than myself, standing next to me.

  I shrugged. “I’m looking for a gift for a friend.”

  He nodded. “Need ideas?”

  “I really do.”

  He smiled and tilted his head. “Follow me.”

  He led me through the store pointing out items. He didn’t seem offended when I said no. He just moved on to the next thing. When he got to a display of cashmere beanies, I stopped. “This.”

  His smile grew. “An excellent choice.” He handed me a grey one and it was one of the softest things I’d ever touched. The best part was it was still masculine.

  “I’ll take it.”

  “I’ll ring you up.” He led me to the register and rang everything up. I was pretty impressed with myself. I knew each of them would love what I’d bought.

  Kaylie and I entered the pool hall together. I wasn’t sure who picked this place, but it was louder than I expected. Not exactly the best location for catching up. Once we got further inside and found the group, I understood. We’d taken over the back room. We had two pool tables and plenty of space to chat. We were able to shut the doors, so it was quieter than in the main section.

  “You’re here!” Danielle jumped up from the table and waved us over. “Ladies, this is Matt.” She pointed to the handsome blond sitting across from her.

  “Hi.” He smiled back at me before looking down the table.

  “Hey. These are my friends. Guys, this is Kaylie and Harlow.” He made the introduction to the table and they cheered. Easy crowd.

  A few of them were cute and I could tell Kaylie was excited to get to talk to them. I allowed her to take the lead and fell back. I recognized several other people from high school and smiled and waved at a few. It was so weird being back. I never had the intention of returning so I didn’t bother keeping in touch with anyone. I hoped they didn’t hold that against me.

  “Harlow?” I turned and came face to face with an incredibly handsome stranger. “I’m Leo.” He held out his hand and I shook it.

  “Nice to meet you. Are you one of Matt’s friends?”

  He nodded. “We were both business majors at Notre Dame.”

  “Very nice.” I was suddenly grateful I’d put some effort into my hair and makeup tonight. I’d even worn heels and a black dress that hugged my curves perfectly. It wasn’t practical for the weather, but sometimes sacrifices needed to be made.

  “What about you? Are you out of school?”

  “Yes. I graduated from Northwestern, but I’m living back here for a little while.”

  His smile grew, and I was immediately glad I added the last part. “Chicago’s loss.”

  I laughed and tossed my hair over my shoulder. I might be laying it on thick, but he was cute.

  “Can I get you something to drink?”

  I was about to answer when I felt a weight on my shoulder. I looked over and gasped when I saw Vince standing next to me. “She’s fine.”

  I looked back at Leo and frowned when he nodded and walked away. I shoved Vince away from me. “What was that for?”

  He looked at me like I was the crazy one. “What do you mean? He was hitting on you.”

  I nodded. “Exactly.”

  His eyes narrowed. “You can do better.”

  “Excuse me?” I took a step forward until we were nearly chest to chest. “You have no right to say that. You don’t know him at all, and you don’t get a say in who I flirt with.”

  He smirked. “Apparently I do.”

  “Ugh.” I shoved him again, but he barely moved. What was he doing here anyway? This was a night out for my friends. I looked around and realized Steven and some of his friends had joined. Great. It was a free for all.

  “Don’t be mad at me. You know you can do better.”

  “He was handsome, smart, charming, and most importantly, interested in me. What else is there?”

  He threw his head back. “You know all of that from a few words? Come on, Harry.”

  I wanted to slap him. I really, really did. He had no right barging in here and treating me like a child. “Just leave me alone.” I moved around him and headed to Danielle, but he grabbed my arm.

  “I’m sorry. I just didn’t like the way he was looking at you.”

  “Well don’t worry. Thanks to you no guy here will speak to me tonight.”

  I pulled my arm back and walked away. The night was ruined, but I wasn’t going to leave yet. I wouldn’t let him win.

  Six

  Surprise, surprise. My day with Mom had been taken over. I got to the kitchen in sweats and a t-shirt, ready for a day of intense baking and was greeted by far more than I asked for.

  “What are you doing here?”

  Mom glared at me. “Harlow, what’s gotten into you? You’ve been so mean to Vince since you’ve been home, and he’s been nothing but nice to you.”

  I narrowed my eyes and looked back to Vince. He smiled sweetly as if he hadn’t been a complete jerk the night before.

  “I just didn’t realize that he was a permanent resident. I thought I’d have some alone time with you today, Mom.” I laid it on extra thick, hoping she’d feel bad and kick him out.

  “The more the merrier, honey. We have a lot of work to do and an extra set of hands will be helpful.”

  Great, he’s infiltrated my home and my family.

  “Yeah, Harlow. I’m just here to help.” I stopped when he said my name. I waited to see if he’d correct himself, but he just winked and went back to measuring ingredients.

  “Fine.” I pulled the cookbook away from him and flipped the pages. “What are you making, Mom?”

  “I’m working on the gingerbread. Vince is working on sugar cookies, so you can choose between thumbprints, peppermint pinwheels, or eggnog cookies.”

  Should I leave the harder ones for Vince or make them myself?

  I eyed his dough. He was going just fine with the sugar cookies. He could probably make all of these without issue just because he seemed to have a pa
rticular knack for aggravating me.

  I pulled out the eggnog meltaway recipe and found counter space to claim as my own. Christmas carols were playing, and Mom and Vince were talking about the next party while I set up the food processor and gathered the ingredients. I didn’t even feel the tiniest bit guilty when I started blending things together and they couldn’t hear each other anymore. Oops.

  I knew I was being a grump, but Vince really had a way of getting under my skin. It was one thing when I was younger and foolish enough to bask in any attention he gave me, but not anymore. Now I was older and wiser and sick of him treating me like a kid.

  I added the bourbon and rum, expecting him to make a comment about my age, but he didn’t. I rolled out the dough then carried the trays to the fridge to set.

  “Here.” Vince jumped in the way to open the doors. I wanted to tell him I could have gotten them on my own, but I smiled instead.

  “Thanks.”

  “I finished the sugar cookies and your Mom took the thumbprints, so do you want to make the pinwheels together?”

  I shrugged. We went back to where he’d been working and started making another batch of cookies. “I’m sorry about last night, Harlow.”

  There it was again. He really did know my name.

  “I know I have no right to butt in, but I really didn’t like the vibes that guy was giving off. I was just trying to watch out for you.”

  I sighed and added the ingredients to the stand mixer and started it. “It’s fine. I just don’t get it.”

  “Get what?”

  I finally met his eyes. “Why you care? You’ve never cared about what I did or who I talked to before.”

  He grimaced. “I did care, I just didn’t show it.”

  I wanted to ask him what that meant. Did he really care or notice me?

  I knew the answer. He didn’t. I was just his kid sister. When the dough was finished, I dumped it on the counter and divided it in half. “Here, you do the chocolate layer.”

  He nodded and took a step away.

  I expected him to keep talking, trying to convince me he wasn’t the big jerk I’d known, but he didn’t. We worked in silence as Mom sang along to the carols.