Mountain Man and Mistletoe: A Small Town Christmas

by Kristen Echo

  My walls tightened. I could almost taste the euphoria. “I’m so close!”

  “Open your mouth.”

  I did, and he slid two fingers in. I sucked them. Twirled my tongue around them, making them wet. I moaned as my orgasm neared.

  “Good girl,” he praised.

  He pulled his fingers away and moved them to my clit. The added pressure and methodical circles pushed me past the breaking point. His magical fingers and extraordinary cock sent me into orbit.

  “Matteo! Yesss… Yesss.” My core clenched, and I gasped as he rammed harder. “Yes!”

  My teeth rattled as he came. The heat from his release pushed me even closer to the stars. I was so full and so damn happy.

  “Take it, Leah! Take all of me!” He dropped his head between my shoulder blades and shook as he emptied himself into me.

  His weight held me captive. Not that I cared. There was no place else I wanted to be.

  “Okay. I’ll move in,” I panted.

  He laughed as he pulled out. A stream of warm cum dripped down my leg. “Glad I convinced you because I plan to get used to this beautiful sight.”

  I glanced over my shoulder and caught him staring between my legs. The awe and delight in his eyes filled my heart to the brim. He tucked himself back into his pants before cleaning my thighs and helping me dress.

  “We aren’t crazy. This thing between us is real. Right?”

  “It’s real.” He threaded our fingers and together we left the warmth and comfort of his log cabin.

  Matteo’s snowmobile carried us down the mountain with ease. I held on tight and tried not to panic about the uncertainty awaiting us at the base. It turned out my anxiety was unjustified. The Christmas spirit was alive and well in the small town.

  My car was fixed. There was a box of chocolates and an apology note next to the keys on the seat. For a while, I had worried those four doors would be my home, but that fear was gone. I smiled as I drove us to the hospital to meet his family.

  Once we arrived, I called my sister. After the initial holiday greetings, I told Kelly about Matteo and my crazy mountain adventure. I paced the lobby as we talked. She chastised me for not telling her about my problems but was elated to talk to my new boyfriend. I couldn’t wait for her to visit and meet him in person. I was sad to say goodbye, but she had an adventure of her own to continue.

  My shoulders felt lighter as I hung up with Kelly. She was in a good place and surrounded by good people. For the first time in a long time, so was I.

  "Your sister is sweet. Thank you for letting me talk with her." Matteo kissed the top of my head and tossed his arm over my shoulder.

  I giggled. "You didn't give me an option when you took the phone."

  "True."

  A few steps away, blocking the entrance to the cafeteria, stood a small group of people. They were talking loudly. A security guard dangled cuffs from his finger. It seemed like a heated situation. Something we were best to avoid, except we needed to get by them.

  The voices grew louder as we approached. I recognized the young couple from the snowmobile rental shop. The young man had a cast on his leg and crutches under his arms, but it was them. My heart jumped into my throat as he spotted me and pointed.

  "That's her,” he proclaimed. “That's the girl we gave the keys to!"

  Everyone in the group turned to face us. The light reflected off the handcuffs, stealing the air from my lungs. My feet rooted in place, and my mouth hung open. I wasn't ready for an altercation. Especially not seconds before meeting Matteo's family.

  "Yes! She must have stolen it," the young woman yelled as she threw daggers at me with her eyes. "Go arrest her."

  As the group walked towards me, it felt like the rug was being pulled from under my feet. Nothing good ever lasted in my world. I would be arrested, and Matteo would never speak to me again. My leg twitched with the urge to run, but I couldn’t. I had stolen the snowmobile. They had every right to arrest me.

  An elderly woman dressed as Mrs. Claus waved off the others. "Hello, Miss. I hate to interrupt your Christmas, but there seems to be some confusion. These folks rented a machine the other day from my shop and never returned it. I’ve been trying to reach them and here we are.”

  “Here we are,” I repeated. My throat was coarse and dry like I’d been chewing on tinsel.

  “They claimed they gave the keys and helmets to a young woman who fits your description.”

  "My description,” I squeaked and then cleared my throat. “I can explain.”

  Matteo placed his body in front of mine as though he could shield me from the blow about to come. It was sweet, protective and appreciated, but unnecessary. I got myself into this mess. I’d have to face the consequences. Even if it cost me everything.

  “She wore a pink jacket, but I’m sure it’s her. Same curly blonde hair. It’s the same girl,” the young woman exclaimed.

  The security guard placed his hands on his hips. “I think we need to hear your version of events.”

  “I didn’t mean to steal anything. I had planned to rent a snowmobile, but your shop was closed. These two are innocent. I take full responsibility.” I held out my wrists, waiting for the hard metal bracelets.

  “Tell us what you have done with my sled?” The woman dressed as Mrs. Claus adjusted the glasses on her nose and looked at Matteo from top to bottom before looking back at me.

  “It’s in pieces at the top of the mountain.” I cringed. “It was an accident.”

  “She hit her head and has things mixed up,” Matteo interjected as he grabbed my hand. “I am responsible.”

  The security guard straightened his posture but still stood a foot shorter than Matteo. “Who are you? What do you have to do with this theft?”

  “Sono Matteo Ricci. My house is at the top of the mountain. We would have come sooner, but the snow prevented it. There was no malicious intent. We will pay for any damage.”

  I loved him more for sticking by my side, but I didn’t want to implicate him in grand-theft charges. He already had a bad reputation in town. Stealing wouldn’t help dispel the rumors. I exhaled as the cafeteria doors opened and a younger, clean-shaven version of Matteo sauntered towards us. He ran his fingers through his messy mop of dark hair and waved at his brother before shoving his hands in his pockets. Matteo returned the gesture as I felt my body blush from head to toe. The nightmare just kept getting worse.

  “I stole the snowmobile. I acted alone. He saved me from the storm, but he had nothing to do with this. I am so sorry for causing any problems,” I added, addressing the couple.

  “Whatever; we’re leaving. My man needs to rest his leg. Merry Christmas everyone,” the young woman huffed, and the couple left.

  “Everything just spiraled out of control. If you need to arrest me, I understand.”

  Matteo squeezed my hand. “I just found you. I will not let you be arrested.”

  Mrs. Claus laughed. “That won’t be necessary. It’s Christmas. I want my machine back, and I expect you’ll pay for the fees and damages. Are we clear?”

  “Absolutely,” I agreed.

  I provided my contact information and Matteo gave her his credit card. I’d pay him back, but we’d discuss that later. At home. Once he put his card away, I threw my arms around his neck and kissed him.

  “Are you ready to meet my family?” He placed his forehead against mine.

  “No,” I answered honestly. My palms were sweating, and my heart was ready to burst from my chest. “However, I know this means a lot to you. I want to make you happy.”

  He smiled. “You already do.” His lips pressed against mine.

  “Now, I get why you’re late! A naughty girl is keeping you busy.” Matteo’s brother stood next to us and tapped his foot.

  I’d forgotten he was there. This was the worst first impression.

  “Vincenzo, I’d like you to meet Leah. My girlfriend.” He tucked me under his arm.

  Hearing him announce my title as his
shouldn’t have made my heart skip a beat, but it did. I beamed brighter than the stars adorned on the tops of Christmas trees. I wrapped my arm around my boyfriend and extended my hand towards his brother.

  “It’s nice to meet you. You didn’t hear all that, did you?”

  “Your secrets are safe with me.” His eyes roamed my body, and he smirked. “Un piarcere,” he lifted my hand to his lips, but Matteo pushed him backwards.

  “Your lips will never touch her skin,” Matteo barked.

  The brothers both laughed, cutting the tension. We entered the cafeteria. I squared my shoulders, preparing for a battle that never came. Matteo’s family were enchanting, and I loved them all within minutes of meeting them. I’d forgotten what having a family was like and it warmed my heart to know Matteo was so well loved.

  My wild and dark imagination hadn’t done me any favors. These people welcomed me into their lives with open arms. They were wonderful and easy to be around, just like my boyfriend. The conversation flowed comfortably, and Matteo stayed by my side through it all. Mr. Ricci had a broad build, olive skin tone and a thick head of silver and brown hair. Matteo was the spitting image of his father. They even sounded alike. All four Ricci men had a dashing, almost regal quality that enticed and charmed me instantly.

  The thin, raven-haired woman everyone called Mamma reminded me of my mother. Her smile was genuine, and she talked a mile a minute. She couldn’t wait to read my next book, and I promised her an advanced copy.

  Stefano, Noelle and their daughter, Millicent, were the highlight of my night. Millie was adorable and too precious for words. Seeing Matteo hold his niece gave me shivers. He looked amazing with a kid in his arms.

  After a few hours, Matteo had to drag me away. I would have stayed longer, but he claimed he had plans for the rest of our night. I had no idea what was in store, but I was excited to find out.

  “You won them over, just like I said you would.” He planted a chaste kiss on my lips before opening my car door.

  “They’re perfect. I love them so much. And I love you.”

  I threw my arms around his neck and kissed him hard. The vapor from our breaths filled the dark sky surrounding us, but I hardly registered the cold. His love, the love from his family and the magic of the season warmed my soul.

  “I love you too. Let’s go home.”

  “This is the best Christmas ever.” I had smiled so much my cheeks hurt.

  “There are more adventures ahead. I see a lifetime of fun for us. Once we reach the top of the mountain, we’ll open more presents.” He licked his full kissable lips and waggled his brows.

  “As long as it includes my mountain man and mistletoe, I am all set.”

  Epilogue

  Almost a year later.

  Looking out the kitchen window, I noticed the clouds roll in followed by large flakes tumbling from the sky. Our first winter storm this season. As I adjusted my sleeping son against my chest, I smiled.

  “It’s snowing. It’s beautiful just like you.” I kissed the top of his head, breathing in his perfect baby scent.

  Oliver was born with a thick dark mane, just like his dad. He had Matteo’s olive skin tone but blue eyes like my father and I. A little part of my dad would forever live on through us.

  “Not as beautiful as his mamma.” My husband wrapped his arms around my waist and planted his bearded chin on my shoulder.

  My life was forever changed after the blizzard last Christmas. I had no idea one man’s capacity to love would rock me so hard. After losing my parents, I had been lost. Drifting through the motions but not fully connecting, until I met Matteo. He helped me dig deep into my soul and find happiness. A family was all I ever wanted.

  I snuggled into his strong arms. “You’re home early. I wasn’t expecting you until after dark.”

  Assuming I still had an hour to shower and get ready before he arrived, I hadn’t changed out of my workout clothes. Not that it mattered what I wore. Matteo made it clear long ago that he loved me despite the fact I was a hot mess most of the time.

  “I don’t always stay late,” he replied. “Since Oliver was born, I don’t—”

  “You’re an amazing doctor and you care for your patients. When they show up late, you never turn them away. It’s admirable. Those babies and kids need you as much as we do. I don’t mind.”

  From the moment we met, my heart thundered wildly. Almost a year later, I was still smitten and 100% enamored with Matteo. He sweet-talked me into giving him my heart and moving into his cabin on the mountain. So much had happened in a short timeframe. I finished two novels, married the love of my life, and he delivered our first baby. I loved my life, and every single day I had reasons to smile.

  “How was your day?”

  “Oliver ate non-stop,” I answered. “It’s a good thing my milk supply can keep up with his insatiable hunger. I think he’s in a milk coma right now. Otherwise, typical for the most part.”

  Except for discovering we were pregnant again. It was a wonderful surprise, but it happened way faster than we’d planned. We were still adjusting to Oliver. I wondered how my husband would take the news. If the morning sickness was anything like the first time, I wouldn’t be capable of travel. We had plans to fly to Italy to see his brother for Christmas. Vincenzo was finishing his residency and wouldn’t be able to visit this year. The entire family planned to surprise him. I had a strong hunch; I wouldn’t be able to go.

  “Family is most important to me. I love my job, but I love you and my son more. My boy is not the only one hungry for you.” His hand roamed lower, dipping into the top of my yoga pants.

  “We love you too.”

  He tilted my chin towards him and claimed my mouth. Ginger and spice danced across my tongue as we kissed. The soft hairs on his face rubbed against my cheeks. The sweet kiss turned heated. I whimpered as he palmed my sex and teased my folds with his fingers.

  “You’re wet,” he growled as his erection pressed into my lower back.

  “Instant reaction when you’re near me,” I admitted.

  “Feeling is mutual.” He brushed my hair off my neck and licked towards my ear. “How long has he been sleeping? We could put him down and have a quick—”

  “You don’t do anything quick,” I joked. “He’s been out for a few minutes. These baby carriers are amazing. As soon as he’s cuddled by my heart, he falls asleep.”

  Matteo chuckled. “I was going to suggest a quick shower followed by a long and slow—”

  “Hold that thought. I want to talk about the holidays first.”

  “They are over a month away.” He grazed my earlobe with his teeth, pushed my panties aside and inserted two long fingers into my channel.

  I inhaled sharply as he strummed my clit with his thumb. The pressure built quickly. My hips moved to his rhythm. I reached back and ran my fingers through his silky hair. He knew exactly how to work my body.

  “You’re distracting me,” I said, breathlessly. “We need to talk.”

  “Multitask. Talk and cum for me.”

  My body trembled as he worked over my sensitive bits. Lost in the moment, I forgot everything I had to say. He sucked on my skin, marking me. Owning me. When he tickled that spot deep inside and flicked my detonator, an explosive orgasm sent shock waves through my system. I bit my lip to stifle my scream.

  As the ripples of pleasure subsided, he removed his hand and licked my juices from his fingers. “Hmmm.”

  “Matteo,” I panted. “Damn, you’re a naughty man.”

  He waggled his eyebrows and smirked as he turned me towards him. “Let me take Oliver while you shower.” He lowered the material from the carrier and lifted our son into his arms. “Don’t bother getting dressed after and meet me in bed.”

  Seeing him hold Oliver never failed to make my heart sing. Matteo doted on us both. I was the luckiest woman on the planet to have stumbled into this life.

  “I like your plan, but first I have news.”

  “Ah, y
es. You want to discuss the holidays. Have you given any thought as to what you want for Christmas this year?”

  I cupped his cheeks and gazed into his eyes. He’d already given me the presents I wanted most. I was part of a wonderful and loving family. My sister visited often. I had him, Oliver and a precious bundle growing inside my womb.

  “You’ve already given me everything. I love you so much. What do you want?”

  “Last year, I asked Santa for love and received more than I dared dream for. This year, I won’t be as greedy. If I could convince Vincenzo to move here, I’d consider it a win.”

  “He’s already interested in moving to be closer to all of us. It will just take time.” I placed my hands over my belly.

  His eyes followed my movement. “Are you giving me an early present?”

  “I think it’s more like you gave me one.” I grabbed his hand and placed it over my stomach. “Oliver will be a big brother sooner than we expected.”

  His full lips stretched into a breathtaking grin. “Merry Christmas to all of us.”

  Author Note

  Thank you for reading Mountain Man and Mistletoe: A Small Town Christmas. I had a blast writing this steamy holiday novella, and I hope you had fun reading it.

  I would be honored and grateful if you chose to leave an honest review. I read all my reviews and enjoy getting feedback about my writing. If you want more steamy holiday stories, then please leave a review and let me know you love the book and can’t wait for more.

  There are more Ricci men. If you’re curious about Stefano, please read Faking It This Christmas.

  If you’re interested in Vincenzo, stay tuned and visit my website for updates.

  Follow me on Amazon, Facebook and Bookbub so you don’t miss out on future books.

  I love connecting with readers. I can be found here:

  Website: https://www.echoromance.com

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