A Christmas Intervention
By
Esmerelda Bishop
They had the wrong Veronica Mitchell. It was the only explanation as to why a beautifully wrapped gift sat on her desk. Snatching the tiny white envelope off the top of the present, she peered closely at the cursive scrawl written in red ink.
Veronica Mitchell.
It was definitely her name. Lifting her head, she looked around the office. No one appeared to be hiding in wait for her to open it. With a sigh, she broke the seal on the flap and lifted the card inside. A tiny gasp of surprise passed her lips as she read the message.
To a very beautiful woman. Merry Christmas.
Secretly yours,
Mr. X.
Now she was positive they had the wrong woman. Men didn’t send her secret presents with cryptic messages. No, men saw her as that God awful word ‘friend’. She snorted to herself. Somebody’s head was going to roll for this mistake.
Veronica grabbed the burgundy office chair and rolled it out. As she went to sit, a masculine voice sounded from behind her. Jumping in surprise, the chair rolled from her descending rump. A startled squeal passed her lips and she hit the floor with a loud thump.
“Oh my God, Veronica! Are you okay?” Cade Meadows squatted beside her and grabbed her arm.
Her face and neck burned as if it had exploded into a five alarm fire. This was exactly why men saw her as just a friend, including the one standing in front of her. However, she didn’t want to be his friend… friend with benefits, maybe… but not friend.
She came to her feet with his assistance and mumbled, “Thanks, Cade.”
The chair glided to the corner of her cube. Leaning over, she grabbed it and positioned it into the correct spot, this time holding it in place before sitting down. The last thing she needed was another spill in front of the entirely-too-handsome Cade Meadows.
“Whatcha got there?”
She glanced at him and noticed his gaze focused on the gift. Arching a brow at him, she said, “A Christmas present.” Her tone laced with humorous sarcasm.
His mouth split into a wide grin, showing off his straight, white teeth. He had great teeth. Yes, teeth. One might not normally notice teeth, but they would if graced with Cade’s perfect smile. It made the rainiest day, sunny. The coldest night, hot.
And hot was exactly how she felt as she admired this fantastic man. If she didn’t have to worry about his reaction, she’d fan herself right here and now. The man’s mere presence sent her heart fluttering into overdrive. It amazed her that he remained oblivious to her more-than-just-friend’s interest, but he was. Their easy camaraderie had been instantaneous, as had her attraction, an attraction she kept hidden beneath a friendly facade.
For three years, she’d watched from the sideline as Cade dated others. Worried with each new relationship that this woman would be the one and she’d be replaced. So far that hadn’t happened. But one day it would and she’d have to move aside, accepting the woman Cade loved with open arms. No matter how much it’d hurt to do so.
Blinking out of her thoughts, she noticed his lips were moving but she didn’t have the faintest idea about what. Lightly shaking her head, she struggled to catch up with the conversation, focusing in time to hear his last two words.
“-open it.”
“I don’t think it’s for me.” The words were out before she could stop them. Stupid!
“Why not?”
The heat in her cheeks grew to an uncomfortable level and she picked up her pen, tapping the tip on the desk. There was no way in hell she was going to explain to this man why she knew the present wasn’t for her. How freaking embarrassing. Um, Cade why would any man send me a present? Really, I haven’t had a date in years.
She bit down on the top of the pen. “I mean, I don’t think I should open it. You know, this being work and all.”
“Don’t be silly, Veronica. If a friend sent you a gift you should open it.”
She sighed in resignation. It wasn’t her fault the delivery guy went to the wrong place. It wouldn’t be her head that rolled. It was, in fact, addressed to her. And there was no way she wasn’t going to open it now, with Cade breathing down her neck.
She pulled the long, white box toward her. Gently, she slipped the silky, red ribbon over the corner and off the package. She slid the lid off and gasped.
Lying wrapped in green crisp paper was a dozen long-stemmed, red roses entwined with Baby’s Breath.
“That’s definitely not from a friend.”
His tone made her glance up sharply. Gone was any trace of humor on his gorgeous profile, it’d been replaced by a deep frown that drew his eyebrows together in a severe scowl.
“Who are they from?” He didn’t wait for her to answer, but snatched the card off her desk.
“Cade!” She reached for it, but he raised the card out of distance.
Damn her height! Damn his height!
“Mr. X? What kind of idiot puts that on a card?”
He dodged her attempt at seizing the card back and his hand came to rest on her arm, holding her away. Lord, but she could swear he was angry. A deep flush stained his cheeks and a vein pulsed on his forehead. She known him long enough to know the vein alone was a sign of a pending temper.
“Really, Veronica. What kind of idiot writes this?”
Groaning, she gave up and plopped back into her chair. He was right. What kind of idiot did write crap like that? Placing her elbow on her desk, she rested her chin in her palm and watched him scrutinize the card.
If he wanted to play big brother, then so be it. She’d take the time to ogle him in the process. He hadn’t shaved today. She loved some scruffy Cade. He was totally lickable with the slightest shadow of a beard and his disheveled blonde hair jutting out around his head. The blue t-shirt he wore stretched over his broad shoulder and clung to his chest. The slightest outline of his well-defined pecks could be seen through the material. Itching to trail her finger along the ridges, she let her gaze move to the loose-fitting jeans riding low on his slim waist.
Cade suddenly cursed loudly and flicked the card on to her desk, it landed in front of her with a tap. Veronica jerked out of her appraisal and stared at the tiny piece of paper, then back at Cade. Her eyes widened in surprise when stormed from her cube, muttering furiously under his breath.
Okay, he’s taking this big brother routine a little too seriously.
###
The door slammed behind him as he stalked into Beverly Smith’s office. The sound echoed in the tiny space and Bev jerked in her chair. He should’ve cared that he scared her, but at the moment, he didn’t.
“Nice entrance, Cade.” Her arched brows inched up her forehead as she watched him.
“What do you know about the flowers Veronica just received?” He sat on the uncomfortable chair in front of her desk, leaning his elbows on the top of his legs and looked at her.
Beverly Smith was a coworker and mutual friend of his and Veronica’s. If Veronica wasn’t with him, she was with this red-headed fire ball.
Her lips pursed as if trying to bite back a smile. “Jealous, much?”
“I’m not jealous.”
“Whatever.” Rolling her eyes, she bent back over her desk and scribbled on a yellow post-it note.
“I’m not.” He wasn’t. Veronica was a friend, his best friend. So what, if it concerned him just the tiniest bit that some strange man was sending her gifts. That’s what friends do. Look out for one another. And some moron who signed cards as Mr. X needed to be watched.
“Okay, Cade, whatever you say. But to answer your question, no, I don’t know anything about the flowers. But good for Veronica, she deserves a little attention.”
Cade scowled at the answer and a fresh wave of anger hit him. What the hell did she mean Veronica deserved a little attention? She got enough attention from him. She didn’t need some man sniffing around occupying her time. What about their Tuesday movie night? It was their standing date night, just the two of them and whatever movie stroked their fancy. Half the time the movie was forgotten and they spent the afternoon sitting on the couch, with a glass of wine, talking.
Panic squeezed his throat. What if she started dating this guy and forgot all about him?
“What are you scowling about? You’re supposed to be her friend, Cade. You should be happy someone is showing her some interest. As far as I am concerned, she doesn’t get out enough.”
“She gets out enough.” Seeing Bev supported the wrong side, he jumped to his feet and out of the room.
He walked down the long row of cubicles and made his way back to Veronica’s. As he reached it, her soft voice carried over the edge of the grey divider. A shaft of guilt hit him at eavesdropping, but he was physically unable to pull himself away. So he leaned in.
“I don’t know who it could be, Bev.”
Cade rolled his eyes. Leave it to Bev to pick up her phone the minute he left.
“If they are actually for me, then I am flattered, of course.”
There was a pause.
“Please Bev. Let’s be real. You know as well as I do that men don’t flock to my door. So it is very possible this was some sort of weird mistake.”
Cade leaned away from the makeshift wall and frowned. What in the world did she mean men didn’t flock to her door? Veronica Mitchell was gorgeous. He’d date her himself, if they hadn’t fallen into a comfortable friendship. Well, that wasn’t really true. One had to have certain feelings to date a person and he definitely didn’t have those types of emotions for Veronica. A little sister was more how he viewed her and right now he was worried about this strange man showing an interest in her. Nothing more…right?
Confusion clouded his brain, leaving him slightly stunned. Why was he second guessing how he felt for Veronica? Instead of thinking on it, he cleared his throat and started around the corner. Veronica quickly hung up the phone and turned around.
“Cade.”
She smiled at him and tucked a strand of her wavy auburn hair behind her ears. A weird sensation hit him in the gut. What the hell? Now he was having those special feelings? He was losing his mind.
He looked over her head, trying to regain his sanity. Breathing in deeply, he glanced back at her. “We still on for tomorrow night?”
Her little nose scrunched in confusion. “Of course, why wouldn’t we be?”
He just shrugged and walked away. Yea, why wouldn’t they be? A dark silhouette of the mysterious Mr. X formed in his mind. Sneering, he slammed his office door.
###
Tuesday morning. Just three more days and it would be Christmas Eve. Not that she had any important plans, but she was looking forward to the long weekend.
She wrapped her scarf closer around her as she walked up to the office building. A slight wind whipped her hair behind her. Dang, it was cold today. A cold front was working its way across the states. Her fingers were crossed for a white Christmas. She’d never say that out loud. Most people traveled that day and would shoot her without hesitation at even suggesting such a thing.
She grasped the metal handle and pulled the door open. Warmth immediately welcomed her. Unwinding her scarf, she hurried to her desk and stopped cold when she caught sight of another beautifully wrapped package.
Coincidence it wasn’t. Apparently, these gifts were for her. A small smiled played at her mouth as a thrill of excitement raced through her. She really did have an admirer.
With shaky hands, she lifted the envelope and opened it.
Another token of my affection.
Secretly yours,
Mr. X
She looked at the present and was certain it was chocolates. She loved chocolate, maybe a little too much. But it was the Christmas season and what was Christmas without sweets? Ripping into the package, she gave a sigh of pleasure as she lifted a sweet morsel to her lips. The gooey caramel oozed onto her tongue as she took a small bite.
“What are you eating?”
Veronica whirled around, her fingers still holding the other half of the candy before her lips. Chewing, she offered the box to Cade.
He ignored the offer. “Where did you get those?”
Weary of his tone, she placed the chocolates on her desk and swallowed.
Before she could answer, Cade demanded, “It’s from him isn’t it? Mr. X ?
Her eyes widened in surprise at the hostility in his voice. What in the world was his problem?
“You shouldn’t eat that. You don’t know this man. What if he poisoned it?” He put his hands on his hips and leaned forward. “Throw them away.”
Annoyance swept through her and she copied his stance.
“I’ll do no such thing. What’s your problem, Cade?”
“I don’t have a problem, besides some creep sending anonymous gifts to my friend.”
Veronica sighed and relaxed her posture. Of course his odd behavior would be because he was worried for a ‘friend.’ For one brief moment, she’d thought he was jealous. It was totally foolish to think Cade Meadows would be jealous of any male interest directed at her and she deserved the disappointment she felt. A reminder to keep her own emotions in check, Cade would always only be a friend, nothing more.
“I’m a big girl. I can take care of myself.”
“I think you need to take this a little more seriously, Veronica.”
“I am taking it seriously, Cade.” She matched his patronizing tone with one of her own. “I finally have someone who is interested in me. I plan to explore that avenue. So get used to it.”
His jaw tightened and his fist clenched as his side. Without another word, he turned to leave.
Fury had her reaching for the box. “Cade.”
When he turned and raised a brow in question, she deliberately lifted a candy, let it hover in front of her lips and then shoved into her mouth. His eyes narrowed and she could see him shaking with the same anger she felt.
Chewing, she met his eyes and thrust her chin out in defiance.
With a snarl, Cade whirled and stalked from the cube.
The rest of the day dragged for Veronica. She waited for Cade to come walking around the divider but he never showed. This was really their first fight, if it could be called one. It was definitely the first time they’d ever raised their voices at each other. It was infuriating that he was angry at her. She hadn’t done anything wrong. What right did he have to act like a complete jerk?
As the day wore on, her anger abated and replaced with worry. Tonight was their movie night. She hadn’t seen him all day and was beginning to think their night would be cancelled.
As she rose to leave, she heard Cade’s voice carry over the cube.
“I’ll see you at seven, Veronica.”
She smiled and walked out of her work area but he was already halfway down the hall. He was still angry, but he wasn’t going to miss their night, so that was good.
She shoved her arms into her jacket and threw her scarf across her shoulder. Grabbing her purse, she started for the exit. As she passed Bev’s office, her name was called.
Stepping inside, she looked at Bev, who was sitting behind her desk with her fingers clasped together.
“Veronica, I need a huge favor.”
Veronica rested her shoulder on the doorframe. “Sure. What do you need?”
“Can you keep me company tonight?”
“What ever for?”
“This is embarrassing, but I’m supposed to receive a special phone call tonight. And I need moral support.”
Veronica blinked in surprised. What an odd request. However, Bev never asked for anything unless she really needed it. So this had to be important. “Of course, let me call Cade and cancel.”
She pushed off the frame and turned.
“Veronica!
The frantic tone had her glancing back over her shoulder.
Bev wrung her fingers a look of distress pulling at her features. “I’m really embarrassed about this, so please don’t let anyone know you are with me, okay?”
“No problem,” she lied. But as she walked out of the office she wondered what she’d say to Cade?
###
Cade jogged out of the bedroom and across the living room, to his ringing phone. He grabbed the handpiece and placed it to his ear. “Hello.”
“It’s Veronica.”
Pleasure flooded through him at the sound of her voice. “Hey.”
He cleared his throat as the words came out with a husky timbre.
“Listen. I have to cancel tonight.”
A fist hit his gut and he actually pulled the phone from his ear and looked at it before replacing back in position “What? Why?”
“Something’s come up.”
He’d give two guesses on what had come up. All the anger he’d tried to calm throughout the day roared back to the surface. “Are you going out with him?”
“Huh? No. I just had something come up, Cade.”
“Then tell me what.”
She paused. “I can’t.”
“Can’t or won’t?” Not only was he angry, the fact she refused to tell him her plans, hurt, deeply. Never before had she shut him out and it frightened him to think this man was replacing him in Veronica’s life.
She sighed into the phone. “I’ll see you tomorrow, okay.”
His fingers tightened on the receiver and with desperation he searched for any way to keep her on the phone, knowing that the moment she hung up she would be with another man. The silence lengthened between them. Unable to come up with a plausible reason to keep her talking, the anger surged forward. “Sure, Veronica. Have a fantastic night.” His tone was clipped, dripping with resentment.
The phone clicked in his ear, a dial tone quickly followed.
He slammed the phone down into its cradle.
Damn it. She was going out with him.
Visions of the dark silhouette holding Veronica, touching her, kissing her, filled his mind. With a roar, he pulled back his arm and sent it sailing into the wall, leaving a perfect fist imprint in its wake. Shaking the pain from his hand, he came to a realization. There was no point in denying it anymore. He was consumed with jealousy. Veronica Mitchell was his.
###
Last night had been a waste of time. Instead of being with Cade, like she really wanted, she’d sat on Bev’s couch until midnight for a phone call that lasted five minutes. To Bev’s defense, the poor thing had been clearly upset after the call. She didn’t talk about it, but Veronica received the impression the conversation hadn’t gone how she’d hoped. So she spent hours distracting Bev from weepy outbursts all the while worrying over seeing Cade this morning.
Dread at facing him ate at her, churning her stomach to the point she needed to inhale slow breaths to calm the rolling waves. He’d sounded so angry on the phone. Not just a little peeved, either. He’d been pissed… thoroughly pissed. And she wasn’t sure how to behave around him today.
As she entered her work area, she caught sight of the source of their tension. Sighing, she stifled the urge to throw the present away, without opening it.
You deserve this attention, Veronica Mitchell. Don’t shy away from it just because Cade is mad.
Breathing deeply, she opened the card and read it.
To the woman who has captured my heart.
Secretly yours,
Mr. X
How sweet. This mystery man might win her over after all. She needed a distraction from Cade and this man might be it.
She pulled the perfect square box toward her. Using her nail, she sliced the tape that held the red wrapping in place. With gentle fingers, she lifted the cover. Her mouth fell open in shock as she gazed down at its contents.
Looking up, she stood on her tip toes and peered over the wall to make certain no one was in the vicinity. The area was clear of all workers, so she turned her attention back to the box.
I can’t believe what I’m seeing.
Reaching into the box, she raised the furry, red handcuffs securely fastened around a stuffed heart and stared at it. The creeps scurried down her spine and she shivered. Apparently, she’d gotten the attention of a psychopath.
“What is that?”
Cades voice sounded from behind her. Forgetting she was holding the disturbing item, she whirled around, handcuffs dangling from her hand.
Cade’s eyes widened in shock, his handsome face went bright red and at any moment, Veronica swore steam would spew out his ears. The vein on his forehead pulsed at an all new alarmingly rapid rate. He stalked forward and grabbed the gift from her hand.
“Did you sleep with him?” The words came out a bare whisper, but the fury shaking his voice was unmistakable.
The almost unconstrained rage startled her so bad she gasped and stepped back.
“Did… you…” He closed his eyes and clenched his teeth as if the next words were painful for him to say, “sleep… with… him?”
Confusion clouded her brain. “Sleep with whom?”
“Him.” And he thrust the handcuffs under her nose.
Anger simmered under her skin and she resisted the urge to lie. What right did he have to be this damn mad? Friend or not, this went too far.
“It’s none of your damn business who I do or do not sleep with.”
“The hell it isn’t and if we weren’t at work I’d show you how very wrong you are."
He stared at her long and hard and stalked out of the area. He was gone before she realized he’d taken the handcuffs with him.
###
He threw the pen on his desk, his fingers shaking so badly from anger they refused to cooperate and allow him to do his job. She’d slept with him. The jealousy he tried to keep restrained threatened to unleash at the thought. Why did she do it? Didn’t she know she belonged to him?
Of course not, idiot, you’ve spent years telling her she was just a friend.
He inhaled deeply, held it for a moment and then breathed out slowly through tight lips. He really wasn’t angry at Veronica. Well, maybe a tad bit. He was mostly angry at himself for not realizing what he had until it was too late. Wasn’t that the way the story always goes? She’d found someone and now he wanted her.
He stood and walked out of his office, making his way back to Veronica. They needed to talk.
“Veronica-“ He stopped speaking when he realized her cube was empty. Looking around, he didn’t see her anywhere.
“She went to lunch.”
Cade whirled around and faced Bev. “She never goes to lunch.”
Bev strolled away, her words carrying over her shoulder. “She does if a dark mysterious man shows up to take her.”
He stared after her. Veronica went on a date in the middle of the day? Panic squeezed his throat and he felt like he was suffocating. It wasn’t just a one night stand. She intended to date this guy. He marched to the window in his office and looked out. He spotted her car and anger seethed through him. Had she lost her mind? Driving off with some strange man she’d just met.
He stood in front of the window, tapping his toe as he kept surveillance over the parking lot. Finally, an unfamiliar car pulled in and parked. The passenger door opened and a shapely leg came into view, quickly followed by the rest of Veronica’s voluptuous body.
Then the driver side door opened and Cade scowled.
The asshole was going to get out.
Within seconds, his nemesis stood in full view for his scrutiny. The asshole was good looking and good looking was a conservative observation. Damn it! Veronica walked around the back of the car and the jerk met her there. His fist clenched and his heart pounded with jealousy as she reached up and hugged him. Mr. X wrapped his arms around her waist and rocked them back and forth. The hug lasted much longer than Cade was comfortable with and he moved to walk outside and intercept, but stopped when Veronica pulled from the hug. Mr. X bent and kissed her on the cheek and then got back into his car. Veronica disappeared from his view as she walked inside. Moments later, he heard the door open and he stepped out into the hall, grabbing her arm as she walked by.
“What was that about?”
###
Veronica jerked away from Cade’s grasp. Still furious from this morning, she was not in the mood to deal with his crap.
“None of your damn business, Cade.”
“It damn well is my business.” He walked forward.
Veronica stepped back. The space between the cubes and offices was so small that with the two of them facing off, one step had her pressed against the fabric wall. He took another step forward, crowding her against the divider.
She placed her hands on his chest, warding him off. The feel of the hard muscles under the soft cotton of his t-shirt sent electrical shocks down her arms. She resisted the urge to bend her fingers and lightly scratch the surface of his chest. Cade froze against her, the muscles of his chest jumping under her touch. They stood unmoving, staring at each other. Veronica gulped.
Dear God, he’s going to kiss me.
Two people walked into the hall, talking loudly. Cade was the first to react and pull back. Penning her with his eyes, he said, “This is far from over.” Then he disappeared into his office.
Veronica’s legs shook so badly, she stood there a moment to gather her wits about her. Shock at what just happened coursed through her, leaving her breathless. Her assumption days ago had been correct. He was jealous.
Covering her mouth with her fingers, she hid the wide smile that spread across her lips and went back to work.
###
The next morning, Cade made himself comfortable in Veronica’s desk chair and waited for her to arrive. It had taken everything in him not to go to her place last night. He’d known if he showed up and Mr. X was there he would completely lose his shit and attack the bastard. Instead, he decided to keep their little battle of wills on even playing ground. Work.
He stared at yet another present sitting on her workspace. The small rectangular gift was wrapped in metallic blue paper with a silver ribbon. His fingers itched to grab the offending item and toss it in the trash, joining the handcuffs he’d thrown out yesterday.
A smile came to his lips as he heard muffled footsteps rapidly approaching, he swiveled the chair and faced the opening to her cube. A moment later, Veronica rounded the corner, saw him and stumbled to a stop. She stared at him and then her eyes shifted past his shoulder to the present. Her lips twitched at the corners and Cade clenched his jaw.
“Yes, Veronica. You have another present from your beloved Mr. X.” Contempt coated his words and he inwardly groaned. The last thing he wanted was to pick another fight.
She cocked her head to the side and regarded him with an intense look. He fidgeted under her stare. What was she thinking?
She shrugged and leaned down. His breath caught in his throat as she came closer. His fingers squeezed the armrest in a death grip as her beautiful face came within inches of his. The sweet smell of her perfume encircled him and he inhaled the scent deeply. Was she going to kiss him?
Her eyes met his, a mischievous glint reflected back at him. She lifted her hand and Cade gulped as he waited for her to touch his cheek. He exhaled sharply in surprise when her hand slid past his head and grabbed the present and she immediately straightened.
Disappointment left him shaking.
“I wonder what it could be today. Cade, what do you think?” She looked at him with a questioning glance.
No, the hell she wasn’t talking to him like one of her little girlfriends.
He bit the inside of his cheek to keep the retort to himself. No fighting today.
She lifted her shoulder in a lazy shrug when he didn’t respond. “Only one way to find out, I guess.” She ripped into the paper and balanced the white box on her palm as she lifted the lid.
Her cheeks immediately flushed to an unnatural red as she peered inside. Cade sat up straighter at the reaction. She quickly covered the box and tried to leave the cube. Jumping to his feet, he lunged forward and grabbed her arm. The box slipped from her fingers and landed on the ground, spilling the contents.
“What the f#ck is that?”
He squatted down and picked up the piece of fabric. Spreading it between his hands, he stared at the flimsy red, lace panties, trimmed in white with black buttons down the front. He scowled. How f$cking festive, Santa Claus panties.
A deep growl raddled around in his chest as he stood. He pierced Veronica with what he hoped was a disapproving stare before storming out, throwing the offensive garment in the trash as he stalked away.
###
Veronica bit back a smile as she sat with a happy bounce. His reaction had been perfect and exactly what she had hoped for. Her brows furrowed as she thought of the present. For a man she’d never met, he was sending some pretty raunchy gifts. They were really starting to weird her out. Yesterday handcuffs, today panties. Thank goodness tomorrow was Christmas Eve and she wouldn’t be able to receive another gift. She couldn’t imagine what her next present would be. She shivered at the thought.
“Hey Veronica.”
She whirled around to face Bev.
“I just passed Cade and boy he looked pissed. What’s got his goat?”
“I received another present today. I think he might have been a little angry at what it was?”
“Well, don’t leave me hanging! What was it?” Bev perched on the desk and crossed her arms.
“Santa panties.”
A loud guffaw came from Bev and she slapped her leg in her mirth. “Are you serious?”
“Don’t you find it a tad bit creepy?”
Bev sobered instantly. “Well, yea, I guess I do. He sent you cuffs yesterday, right?”
“Yep.”
“Veronica. Are you sure he doesn’t know where you live?”
She froze at the question. The thought had never entered her mind. “Nah, he couldn’t, could he?”
“He knows where you work. He could’ve easily followed you home one day.”
“Jesus, Bev. Are you trying to scare the crap out of me?” The first thread of fear weaved into her conscious. Dear God, what if she was right? What if he did follow her home? What if he spent every night sitting outside her apartment watching her? Involuntarily, she shuddered as her thoughts circled around Bev’s words.
“I’m sorry, Veronica! I shouldn’t have said anything. I’m sure he’s no idea where you live.” Bev leaned down and grasped her shoulder, squeezing it in what Veronica assumed was reassurance. It didn’t help.
Bev’s words stayed with her all day, festering and building until Veronica was in a complete tizzy by the time she got home. As she sat in her quite apartment, the slightest of noises causing her to jump, she cursed Bev under her breath. Finally, fed up with her skittishness, she dug her bat from the closet and went to bed.
The next morning, she woke, rolling her eyes at her foolishness the night before. The man had no idea where she lived and she couldn’t believe she allowed Bev to freak her out so bad.
No more thoughts about creeps that send raunchy presents.
She jumped out of the bed and stretched. It was Christmas Eve. A sigh of pleasure escaped her. She might be facing this day alone but she loved this holiday and planned to take full advantage of the day.
After a quick shower, she changed into a pair of jeans and t-shirt, then walked over to the CD player and pressed play. Soft Christmas music drifted into the air. Humming under her breath, she strolled into the kitchen and grabbed the makings for her special homemade chocolate chips cookies. After she had the mix ready, she placed it in the refrigerator and went to her closet to grab the tree decorations. As she placed the box on the couch, her doorbell chimed.
She hurried to the door and peeked through the peep hole. No one was there. She opened the door as far as the chain would allow and peered out. Lying in front of the door was another present. She slammed the door closed and raced for her phone.
###
“Hello.”
Hysterical, unintelligible female babbling answered him. Fear laced through him, and he gripped the phone tighter.
“Veronica! Calm down. Tell me what happened.”
More babble.
“Are you home?”
“Yes.” The voice was shaky.
“Ten minutes, Veronica. Just hold on.”
He hung up the phone and raced out of the house. Jumping into the car, he flew down the road, his heart clenched in fear. He’d never heard her so upset. What could have happened?
He pulled in front of her complex and ran inside, up to the second floor and stopped cold at the present sitting in front of the door. Stepping around it, he tapped on the door.
“Cade?”
“Yes, baby. Open the door.”
The door swung open and Veronica launched into his arms. He closed them around her and hugged her close. “What happened?”
She pulled back and grabbed his hand, drawing him inside. She closed the door, locking it behind her. “He knows where I live.”
“Who knows where you live?”
“Mr. X.”
Okay, now he was really confused. “I thought he’d been here.”
“No, I let you believe that. I’ve never met him.”
The relief that hit him almost brought him to his knees. She’d never slept with him. Then the meaning of her words slapped him. “The present outside. It’s from him?”
“I don’t know actually. Yesterday, Bev asked if I was sure he didn’t know where I lived, so when I opened the door and there it was, I sorta freaked.”
“It’s okay.” He tugged her forward and hugged her again. The jealousy he carried the last few days lifted from his chest and gave him back his ability to breathe. A question came to him and he lightly pushed her away and looked down at her. “Who did you go to lunch with?”
She drew her bottom lip between her teeth and grimaced. “My brother.”
“Your brother?”
“Yeah, his wife’s family lives in another state and they were going there for Christmas, so we had lunch to celebrate Christmas early.”
“Your brother.” He was stunned. He’d been so overcome with jealousy it’d never crossed his mind the man was anyone other than Mr. X.
“I’m sorry I let you believe otherwise, Cade. I was still pissed from that morning and didn’t want to defend myself.”
“I guess I deserved it.” He paused. “Let’s see what’s in the box.”
He opened the door and bent down to retrieve the package. Once he closed the door behind him, they walked over to the couch and sat down. His leg pressed tightly against Veronica’s. They’d sat like this many times before, but this time it was different. The feel of her leg against his burned a hole through his pant leg and seared his skin. He swallowed and turned his attention to the task at hand. “Do you want to open it?”
“No, I’ve had my fill of presents this week. The last two totally creeped me out.”
“You hid that well.”
She laughed. The sound wrapped around his brain and left him dazed. Whoa, boy. If he didn’t watch it, he’d attack Veronica himself.
Shaking his head, he opened the card and froze. Dread feeling him as he read the words.
“I’m watching you, sweet Veronica.”
Mr. X
“Cade, what is it? You’re white as a sheet.” She reached over and plucked the card from his fingers, then gasped as she stared at the card. “Cade, I’m scared. Should we call the cops?”
“And tell them what? Some unknown gentleman has left you gifts all weeks? Hell, Veronica, we have no idea what he even looks like.”
“Your right.” She shivered.
Seeing her obvious fright, he put his arms around her shoulder and pulled her close to his side. “Hey, don’t worry, okay. I’ll be here.”
She pushed away and looked at him. “What about your family, Cade. I can’t ask you to babysit me on Christmas Eve.”
He scowled at her choice of words. “It’s far from babysitting, Veronica. You’re very important to me.” Tell her now, fool. And how he wanted to, but he couldn’t push the words out of his mouth.
“Are you sure?” Her beautiful little face was twisted in such concern, he yearned to lean down and kiss it away.
What an odd situation he was in. He’d finally fallen in love, with his best friend no less and now had no idea how to take it to the next step. “Positive.”
The brightest smile he had ever seen spread across her lip. Hopping to her feet, she grabbed his hand and pulled him up. “Forget the present. We don’t need the added worry. Let’s make cookies, instead.”
He let her drag him into the kitchen, where in just a few minutes time, the smell of baking cookies filled the air. He listened to her sing along with the music. She couldn’t carry a tune to save her life, but he thought it was the sweetest sound he’d ever heard.
They decorated the tree, laughing as they placed ornaments on the green limbs. Cade was overwhelmed by the rightness of the day and silently thanked Mr. X for being a complete creep. Without Mr. X’s freak factor, he would’ve missed out on the best Christmas Eve of his life.
Veronica leaned against the doorframe and looked over the room. “Perfect.”
The tiny apartment had been transformed into a winter wonderland. When he finished plugging in the last of the lights, he stood and gazed above her. In the arch of the frame hovered a small bundle of Mistletoe. This was his opportunity. His heart skipping a beat, he walked over to her. She turned, pressing her back into the wood and looked at him with curious eyes.
“Look up.”
Her head lifted skyward, a small smile played at her lips. Turning her attention back to him, she said, “I put them up there every year. I never thought they would be put to use.”
“I’m glad to be the one to put them to use.”
Leaning down, he gently placed his lips to hers and groaned as the soft flesh sent shivers of excitement racing down his spine. He wrapped his arms around her waist and crushed her forward. Small fingers worked their way around his neck and massaged his nape. A small moan came from Veronica as she parted her mouth. He dipped his tongue slowly inside, stroking the recess. Her arms tightened around his neck as she pressed closer into his kiss.
Thank you, mistletoe.
Lifting her in is arms, he carried her into the darkened living room and laid her on the couch. Christmas lights bounced off her pale skin and twinkled in her eyes.
“Breathtaking.”
He lay beside her, placing a gentle kiss on her lips as he brushed her hair back. “I love you.”
A wry smile came to her lips. “It’s about damn time you came to your sense, Cade Meadows.”
He chuckled at that. “I have and I never intend to let you go.”
“Well, good. Cause you’re stuck with me.”
They lay in silence.
“Cade?”
“Hmmmm?”
“I love you, too.”
Kissing her, his heart filled with love to the point it was painful.
###
The next morning, Veronica stretched and rubbed the arms wrapped possessively around her waist. His arms tightened when she tried to turn.
“Where do you think you’re going?”
Laughter passed her lips. “I want to turn around and look at you.”
“Well in that case.” His arm loosened and Veronica rolled over.
She gazed into his loving eyes. Still in somewhat of a shock from the turn of events. Never did she believe she would have Cade Meadow’s love.
“Merry Christmas.” She whispered.
He leaned in and kissed her. “I think this is the best Christmas ever.”
“Me, too.”
The doorbell chimed and they both stiffened.
Cade was the first to speak. “Mr. X?”
He jumped out of the bed and threw on his jeans. Veronica following as she tied the clasp of her robe.
Cade yanked the door open. Another present sat in front of the door. He snatched it up and slammed the door. “Veronica, we have to put a stop to this asshole.”
She completely agreed. Cade ripped into the card, read the note and then laughed.
“What’s so funny?”
He didn’t say a word, just handed her the piece of paper.
If my plan worked, this present will find you together, blissfully sated.
Merry Christmas, you two.
Mr. X (aka. Bev)
Veronica stared at the writing on the card. “I’m going to kill her Monday morning.”
Cade sauntered over and hugged her. “Kill might be a little harsh. Her plan did work. Without it, I might never have come to my senses.”
She looked up at him. “What finally did change your mind?”
“I realized I couldn’t be this insanely jealous over a mere friend.”
She smiled at that. “What do you think is in the present?”
“Let’s see.”
They tore into the wrapping and smiled at the expensive bottle of white wine. Two crystal goblets accompanied the bottle. Popping the cork, Cade poured them each a glass and then lifted his in the air.
“To us, and too many, many more Christmas’s. I love you, Veronica Mitchell.”
She lifted her glass. “To us and I love you, Cade Meadows. Merry Christmas.”
“Merry Christmas.”
The chiming of their glasses floated into the air.
The End
