One Sweet Christmas (novella) Read Online Free Page A

get in the way of business.’
    Candi snapped her eyes up and searched his face. She sighed in relief. She thought he was going to say he’d found the love of his life and wanted to marry. Leave it to Jackson to be all about business.
    A thought popped inside her head. Two could play that game. He might be a bit too tall, but nothing a quick readjustment to a hem couldn’t fix.
    Jackson walked to Candi’s desk, picked up a pen, and offered it to her. ‘If you wouldn’t mind, I’m in a hurry.’
    She tapped the pen against her chin. Yes, this plan could work.
    ‘Why the hesitation? I thought you’d be just as eager to end our marriage.’
    Not just yet . Candi had a problem and Jackson was her solution. ‘You need a divorce, I need a Santa.’
    He raised an eyebrow. ‘Why do I get the feeling the two are connected?’
    She curled the corners of her lips in a sinister smile.
    ‘No…no way!’ Jackson stepped back, colliding with the wall. ‘Candi, if you think I’m going to play Santa, you’re out of your damn mind!’
    ‘No Santa, no divorce.’ Candi flicked the pen through the air and it clattered onto her desk.
    Jackson could read Candi’s expressions. They’d spent a lot of time together, hours — she’d tutored him through high school. When she pressed her lips together and squared her shoulders, end of discussion. Her way or the doorway. ‘Come on, Candi. That’s not fair. I couldn’t stay even if I wanted to. I have to catch a flight, an important business deal to close.’
    ‘Christmas is only a few days away. I’m sure your transaction can wait.’
    ‘Sure, if I’m willing to lose three point five million.’
    The divorce papers in Candi’s hand fluttered to the floor. She blinked rapidly. ‘You’re lying, just to get me to sign the papers.’
    Jackson retrieved the document and placed it on the counter. He stepped toward Candi and clasped her hands, hoping a little charm might seal the deal. ‘I’m truly sorry about the things I said and for my behaviour. Deep down, you know I’d never intentionally do anything to hurt you. You’re the reason I’m the successful businessman I am today. I owe you everything. But I want this contract and I need your help. I’ll even send you a little token of my appreciation.’ He glanced around the room. ‘This place could use some work.’
    Candi’s hands trembled in his. They were small and soft, and he couldn’t resist caressing her palms with his thumbs. A memory flashed through his mind, but before he could grasp hold of it, Candi yanked her hands from his and pushed his chest, sending him reeling backwards.
    ‘I don’t need your pay-off. What I need is a Santa. I promised the children and they’re not going to be disappointed.’ She pressed her lips tight a second time.
    ‘I’m sure someone in town could volunteer.’
    ‘Our regular Santa is ill and everyone else is busy.’ She picked up the divorce papers and held the top edge in her fingertips, ready to tear. ‘You’ll be out of here the day before Christmas Eve. Four days of Santa and I’ll sign the papers. That’s my final offer. Take it or leave it.’ She tore a small slit in the centre.
    ‘Okay, okay, I’ll do it.’ Jackson shook his head. Spending a few days in town would not only put his business deal at risk, but stir up emotions he’d put to rest long ago.
    ‘I’ll hold on to this.’ Candi waved the document in front of his face. ‘In case you change your mind. And no one knows about us being married, so don’t trek around town dropping the bomb.’
    ‘You didn’t tell anyone ?’
    ‘No.’

Chapter Four
    Thanks to Jackson, Candi had to bake another batch of acorn cookies, which set her schedule back at least an hour. She called Violet to let her know she wouldn’t be able to help with dinner at the inn and went back to work.
    The last thing Candi wanted to do was to bake, but those cookies in the trash bin were meant for the carollers. She gathered the