Page 37 of Enduring Christmas

Xenobia looked to be sending up a silent prayer. Did Ramsey not recognize a bull and a red flag?

"That's not how things work in Endurance," Luke growled. "In this town, men keep their hands and their lips off another man's woman."

Ramsey pointed a finger at Luke. "X, you sure about this guy?"

"Yes," Luke and Xenobia said in unison. Luke paused, studying her.

She mouthed, "I'm sure."

"She was sure about my brother too," Ramsey added, but the way he met Luke's stare, told a tale Xenobia might not be ready to hear. Brothers knew each other, sometimes better than spouses.

In response, Luke said, "I go to work, come home, and try to cook a meal that won’t stunt my daughter’s growth. My parents were true to each other and raised me to do the same. I'm faithful."

Ramsey stiffened, and then lifted his chin ready for the next verbal blow.

"Luke," Xenobia hissed.

With one look Luke understood why Ramsey Tadeo kept a close check on his sister-in-law throughout her union with his brother. All the fight drained away. Ramsey wanted to protect a woman that he cared for. Crossing the room and taking Xenobia into his arms, Luke placed a kiss on her lips. One that she willingly returned.

"I'll take good care of her," he said offering his hand to the other man.

They shook on it.

"Thanks, friend. She's a good woman."

"Wait," Xenobia looked to her family. "You knew Rook lied to me. Cheated on me with scores of women?"

"I knew my brother had maintained friendships with women from his past. I discovered he was involved in an affair shortly before his death."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"For the same reason I'll be packing up and heading back to Florida in the morning," he said. "You were happy and in love."

Luke turned to stare at her, the tension easing from his muscles. "You are?"

"Yes, Luke. I love you."

Before she got distracted, Luke scooped his woman up in his arms.

"Hey," she laughed. "Why are you picking me up?"

He smiled down at his woman. "Because I love you and you're mine."

To Ramsey he said, "You're welcome in Endurance, starting with Christmas at our place. Wear a shirt."

"I love you too, Luke Cole."

"Sigh," Ramsey said, "my work is done here."

Luke ignored the other man, took his woman in his arms and kissed her senseless. "I love you more."

In the distance, the church bells rang three clear bells. His Christmas wish had been granted.