Page 86 of Christmas Magic

“I don’t know about that, but I’ll do my best.” The left corner of Lucian’s mouth kicked up. “I’ll have to practice saying ‘Ho ho ho.’”

She giggled, even as her gaze dropped to his lips. How easily she could lean in and kiss him on the mouth. They were alone. No one would see or even know about their kiss—except for the two of them.

When he glanced back at the tablet, she brushed her fingers lightly down his sleeve. His head turned. She’d caught his attention, but he hadn’t lifted his chin high enough for her to kiss him.

A problem easily solved.

She gently cupped his jaw and coaxed him to look up at her.

Just a little more—

A trilling noise came from inside the house. She’d left her cell phone on the counter when she’d poured the wine, and the phone was ringing now.

Damn.

Several members of the historical society were supposed to be calling her back about the party.

A few of the details couldn’t wait.

Cora’s hand dropped from Lucian’s face, and she stood. “I have to answer that call.”

“No problem.”

“I’ll be back as quickly as I can.”

He smiled at her as she went inside. A few seconds ago, he’d thought she was going to kiss him. The possibility had materialized in the air between them. Part of him had longed for the kiss, but another part of him had resisted; the instinct that said the kiss would be a mistake.

He set the tablet aside and raked his fingers through his hair. He’d had enough of the doubt. He cared for Cora, more intensely than he’d ever imagined he’d feel for any woman. There was no good reason why, when she came back out to the deck, he couldn’t draw her into his arms and kiss her in a way she’d never forget.

After draining his wineglass, he checked his phone for messages.

Molly had called twice. She’d also texted.

Need your help at the store. Important.

Fighting misgiving, he typed back: What’s going on?

The little text messaging bubbles appeared as she composed a reply. Problem in back room.

Oh, hell. Did she mean a problem with the magic detecting equipment? The machines, while archaic, hadn’t broken down or been problematic as long as he could remember.

But, he was responsible for the store while his grandfather was away.

Can you be more specific about the problem? he texted.

You need to see.

On my way he typed and hit Send.

Picking up his glass, Lucian rose. Movement inside the house drew his gaze to Cora. She’d finished her call. Carrying her phone, she walked through the living room toward him.

He went through the sliding door and met her halfway.

“More wine?” She pointed to his empty glass. “On second thought, I could just bring the bottle outside.”

“Thanks, but no. I need to get back to the store.”

Cora pouted. “Already?”