Page 41 of One Kind Goal

“C’mon!” Nia wiggled her legs, making the blanket undulate on their laps.

The ride continued with more silly conversation between the three of them and the driver. Sawyer never thought much about silly conversation, but hearing Nia laugh was music to his ears. Light and carefree, the sound made the world a better place somehow.

When the sleigh ride ended, Sawyer climbed out and hooked his good arm around Nia’s waist to help her down. Only he didn’t put her down. Instead he curled her to his side. She put her head on his shoulder, her arm going around his neck, and he wanted to freeze that moment.

Morgan appeared in front of him, her phone raised as she took their picture. Smiling as she reviewed the screen, she said, “Oh, that’s a great shot.”

“Want me to take a picture of the three of you in front of the sleigh?” the driver asked.

“Yes,” Sawyer said before Morgan could answer, and he put his casted arm around Morgan. With a little nudge, her body pressed to his side. He kissed her temple, and she nestled a little closer after looking up at him.

“Say maple syrup,” the driver said, holding up Morgan’s phone.

Sawyer laughed, as did Nia and Morgan.

The driver lowered the phone and peeked at the screen. “Oh, that’s as pretty as a postcard. Can you email me that for use on my website?”

“No,” Sawyer said, more harshly than he’d intended.

The driver flinched, but Morgan said, “Sorry. We prefer not to have Nia’s picture online.” She took her phone, waving her free hand. “You know how the web is with creeps and stuff.”

“Yeah, sorry,” the driver said. “I didn’t think about that. Life is pretty tame here in Maplehaven. Sometimes it’s easy to forget how horrible the rest of the world can be.”

“I can see that,” Morgan said. “We’ve only been here a few hours so far and it feels as if the outside world doesn’t exist.” She motioned to the sleigh and horses. “Thanks for the lovely ride. I’ll be sure to leave a glowing review online for your service.”

“That would be great. Thanks. I’m glad you enjoyed it,” he said. “Have a pleasant stay in Maplehaven.”

“I’m hungry, Daddy,” Nia said.

“Do you like pizza?” the driver asked.

Nia nodded, her head still resting on Sawyer’s shoulder. It wouldn’t be long before she conked out.

“Then you all want to head to Mountain View Pizza down the street. Best pizza in New England.”

“Great,” Sawyer said. “Thanks.”

They headed for the SUV, Nia yawning as Sawyer put her in the car seat.

“You’re not losing steam on us, are you, Nia-bunny?” He tugged on her booted foot.

“No way.” But another yawn stretched her mouth into a wide O, making Morgan laugh.

“Maybe we should get that pizza to go,” she said.

“A wise plan.” Sawyer slid into the driver’s seat as Morgan walked to the passenger side and got in. “Pizza in pajamas. What do you say, Nia?”

When no answer came from the back seat, Sawyer and Morgan twisted in their seats to see Nia slumped over in the car seat.

“I think we earned our black belts in the art of tiring out a four-year-old,” Morgan said.

“Pretty sure that means adult fun is on tap after dinner.” Sawyer reached over with his left hand to cup Morgan’s cheek. “Thanks for smoothing things over with that driver about the picture business. I don’t think that guy recognized me, but Carina would also flip if Nia’s photo was on a website for promotional purposes.” And then she might not let him take her again. That couldn’t happen. Especially after a perfect day like today.

“Yeah, I figured that wouldn’t be approved,” Morgan said. “That baseball hat seems to be doing the trick though. My brother can blend in with a hat too. Funny how that one accessory can make all guys look the same.” She reached over and lifted the bill of the hat. “Oh, good. I’ve still got the right guy.”

He poked her arm. “I’m smart enough not to wander too far from you, baby.”

With a quick peek to Nia, Morgan leaned toward him. He met her halfway and the kiss they shared instantly fired up Sawyer.