by Layla Hagen
Okay? That was terrible.
I wanted to reassure Jane in some way, but I’d never had a good poker face.
“He won’t like it, will he? I just had zero time for shopping.”
“You know what? I’ll head down into the shop and pick something up. We’ll just add that to your gift.”
“You’re a lifesaver, Sienna. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
After she left, I checked the rest of my to-do list before promptly deciding I wasn’t going to get anything else done today anyway. We only had two hours left until the party started, and everyone was already in a Christmas mood. Someone had even spiked a punch bowl in the kitchen. I smiled to myself. Winston would hand everyone their ass. What were they thinking?
You could easily spot those who’d made more than one trip to the punch bowl, because they were already singing carols.
No one was getting any work done except for the accounting department. I felt zero guilt for heading downstairs.
The shop was so full, it neared breaking point. The energy in it was just surreal. “Jingle Bells” was blasting through the sound system, and the elves on every floor were milling around, visible in their green suits even in the thick crowd.
I headed straight to the books section of the shop on the first floor and picked a business book for Winston. There. That was a sound Christmas present. Professional and useful. Predictably, the line to the cash register was humongous, but I batted my eyelashes at the cashier, who ushered me forward, to the chagrin of everyone else. I wasn’t a fan of shortcuts... usually. But with one hour to the party, it was time to pull out all the stops. I felt like the boss deserved more presents though. Something more... personal. Even though his grouchy, stabby personality was scaring the wits out of everyone, he was breaking his back for the company. What else would Winston like? I absentmindedly touched my hairpin and decided that I wanted to give him a gift. Something personal, something that would make him think about me.
I blamed the Christmas spirit all around for even entertaining that thought. And still, I went on with buying him a gift anyway. What harm could it do? I had fun imagining Winston’s reaction to several gifts before settling on an elegant white shirt.
I spent so much time bumbling around the store that the party was about to start when I returned upstairs. I slipped the book in Jane’s bag under the tree... but what to do with my own gift? I couldn’t give it to Winston in full view of everyone, because it would raise eyebrows. I’d have to be alone with him.
My mouth went dry at the thought of that.
I hung the bag with the gift in the vestibule along with my coat. I’d find a moment to give it to Winston later.
Smoothing my hand over my hair, I joined the crowd already gathered by the Christmas tree. The room had a high ceiling with low-hanging lamps throughout, casting diffused lighting.
The punch bowls were set by a table to the far end of the room, along with delicious snacks like bacon-wrapped water chestnuts, cheese and crackers, and mini quiches.
I beamed, glancing around. Yes! This was already shaping up to be a success. Even the accounting department, who had to finalize the consolidated accounts within the next two weeks, seemed more relaxed.
“What did I get the boss?” Jane asked.
“A collection of biographies of successful businessmen.”
“Excellent. That sounds like something he’d actually enjoy.”
“I think so too.”
We each took a cup of spiked punch and a cinnamon bun. I munched on it happily, already feeling myself relax. My limbs felt lighter; my smile was so bright. This evening was just how I’d envisioned it. Everyone was getting the break they needed after Black Friday and the boost of energy to keep up with the tight schedule for the next few weeks.
It was a pity that the pressure increased so much just around Christmas time—to drive sales, to organize the Christmas program. But it was all worth it, in my opinion. We made an experience out of Christmas for shoppers. Created an adventure out of buying gifts, made little kids happy by bringing Santa to them.
“Girl, I cannot believe you actually convinced the big boss to join us. How did you do it?” Mara said.
I laughed nervously. “Laid out the pros and cons. Not sure how long he’ll stay, though,” I added quickly, not wanting anyone to get their hopes up.
“Still a step forward. Tell me your tricks.”
I winked, even though I was nervous as hell. “No can do. Have to keep my tricks for myself.”
“Boss just arrived,” Mara murmured, looking over my shoulder.
A jolt of energy coursed through me. I stood ramrod straight, turning around slowly in the direction of the door.
Chapter Fourteen
Sienna
I’d seen him today. How on earth could I have this reaction to him? When he locked eyes with me, I drew in a sharp breath.
The room was unnaturally silent. Half the company was intimidated by him. The other half was afraid.
Since I was the unofficial moderator tonight, I set my cup down and headed to him with large, determined strides. Winston trained that molten gaze of his on me, looking me up slowly. So damn slowly. It set me ablaze. The man had been in the same room with me for all of two minutes and I was already on edge.
How was I going to get through the evening?
“You’re wearing the hairpin,” he murmured when I reached him.
“Of course. I love wearing my gifts.”
“Noted.” His solemn expression gave way to a smile.
“So the party has started, obviously. Everyone’s been waiting for you to get to the gift-exchanging part. Afterward, the catering company will serve more substantial snacks.”
“And then there will be dancing?”
“Yes,” I confirmed.
“Ready to keep your promise? I want to dance with you tonight, Sienna.”
“Oh...” I didn’t know what else to say. I hadn’t expected this. I hadn’t even thought Winston would want to dance (or that he knew how). “I need to get the gift exchange started.”
“Go ahead.”
I turned on my heels and headed to the Christmas tree. I’d volunteered to do the intro, explain how Secret Santa worked, and generally just lift everyone’s spirits. Winston watched me the entire time.
The gift exchange was a cute, slightly awkward affair, mostly because of Winston’s presence. No one knew how to act around him. Jane was all stressed out when he opened his gift. Winston looked perplexed, holding the socks, but he saved it with a curt thank-you and a real interest in the book I’d bought.
I’d gotten a vial of perfume and a pair of gloves from the operations manager, Eleanor. I immediately sprayed the delicious floral scent on myself and tried on the gloves. They fit me perfectly. I loved them.
After all presents were exchanged, the caterers brought in food and more drinks.
I made the rounds, happy that this party seemed to have exactly the effect I’d hoped for. Everyone was relaxing, enjoying themselves. I’d almost forgotten about my promise to Winston... until the DJ changed the music from slow Christmas songs to rhythmic pop interpretations that were perfect to dance to.
I was at the buffet, refilling my cup with punch. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Winston approach me with quick strides. My entire body strummed to life, pulsing with anticipation. When I felt him right behind me, I gripped my cup tighter.
“Sienna.”
“Winston.”
“I want my dance.”
I hadn’t realized how close he was until I felt his breath on the shell of my ear with every word.
“Just one, yes?”
When he didn’t answer, I cocked my head in his direction. He was flashing one of his devious smiles.
“We didn’t agree on a specific number.”
I laughed, pressing my palm against my stomach, hoping to appease those pesky butterflies roaming around. I should have seen this coming.
“Fi
ne, but I have one rule.”
“I’m all ears.”
“Suddenly allowing me to set rules?”
“Didn’t say I’ll agree.”
“If you step on my toes, you forfeit any chance at another dance.”
I expected him to fight me on it, to at least try and negotiate
But Winston merely smiled. “Deal.”
He’d agreed too fast. That could only mean one thing: he was an excellent dancer.
He took the cup from me, placing it on the table. I felt everyone’s eyes on us as we headed to the dance floor next to the Christmas tree.
When Winston placed his hand at my lower back, I felt as if I wasn’t wearing anything at all, as if he was touching my bare skin.
I sucked in a breath, keeping my gaze level with his chin, almost afraid to look higher. His lips curled into a smile, and he pulled me even closer.
Our bodies moved in sync. He guided me with his hands, the movement of his hips. I was so on edge I could barely think, barely breathe.
“Thank you for organizing this,” Winston said. “You were right. It’s great for everyone’s morale.”
“Glad you think so.”
“You have a knack for guessing what others need,” he went on.
“Well, I grew up with three siblings, and then when we joined the Bennetts, there were so many of us that anticipating needs was a survival skill.”
“But you like doing that, and I love this about you.”
“What?”
“That you take time to do things that make others happy.”
The room around us faded. I was barely even listening to the music, simply trusting Winston’s body to lead me.
“I’ve always loved taking care of others. But it’s gotten me in trouble sometimes.”
“What do you mean?”
“That people either take advantage, or they consider me... intrusive.”
“The world is full of idiots. Surround yourself with those who do appreciate you. Like me.”
His smile was so heartfelt and his eyes so happy that I nearly melted in his arms.
“You’re building a very convincing case for yourself,” I teased. Only then did I realize that everyone was slowing down. The song was ending.
“I believe I didn’t step on your feet once.”
“You didn’t,” I confirmed.
“You know what that means?” He brought his mouth closer to my ear. “That you’re mine for the rest of the evening.”
My heart thundered in my chest. That sounded so damn appealing. I pulled back a little. Do not look him straight in the eyes. That was a surefire way to lose myself and give in to whatever he demanded.
“But you’re the boss. You have to dance with others too.”
He cocked a brow. “No, I don’t.”
“I think others will expect you to dance with them.”
“I don’t give a damn about that. I only want you, Sienna.”
I took in a deep breath, steadily making eye contact—and hoping I wouldn’t just cave in. There was a real risk of that. The man was simply hypnotizing.
“You said you’d like the team to warm up to you? This is what the party is about.”
Winston was silent for a few seconds. “Fine. On one condition.”
Damn. Nothing was ever easy or straightforward with this delicious man, but what could I say? I liked a challenge. I licked my lips as a sense of foreboding gripped me.
“What?”
“You promise me we’ll catch up after the dances. Just you and me. And just a warning, if you say no, I’m not above using dirty tricks to change your mind.” His voice was so impossibly rich and sinful that I couldn’t do anything more than nod.
People started milling around the dance floor as the song ended.
Freddie from the sales team tapped my shoulder.
“Sienna, can I have this dance?” he asked.
“Sure.”
Winston looked as if he was closer to punching Freddie than releasing me, but I gracefully extracted my hand from his iron grip.
I’d thought dancing with Freddie would give me a chance to cool down. I’d been wrong.
Every time my gaze crossed Winston’s across the room, I fidgeted. Even from a distance, his presence was all-consuming.
I didn’t get a chance to dance with Winston again. I hadn’t anticipated that as the official organizer, I had to dance with everyone. I spied Winston making the rounds. He also danced a few times. Progress.
The DJ switched back to ambient music once catering brought a second round of canapes. I immediately located Winston; he was leaving.
I excused myself, surreptitiously exiting the room, and caught up to him at the coat closet.
“Hey. Leaving already?”
“Yes. It’s late, and I have an early call tomorrow before we leave for Burlington.”
“Okay. Before I forget... I got you something.” I turned to my coat. I’d hung the bag under it. I was hyperaware of every movement I made, the very dim light around us, the close space.
“You got me a present?”
Even in the dim lighting, I could see Winston looked utterly surprised. My heart squeezed. Was he not used to it?
“Yes. A shirt.” I touched my hairpin absentmindedly.
“I wasn’t expecting anything in return. You didn’t have to get me anything.”
He was definitely not used to it.
“I couldn’t resist,” I said in a teasing tone. “Besides, I’m surprised you’re leaving. How about catching up after the party?”
A smile inched on his face. In a fraction of a second, he closed the distance between us, nearly pushing me into the wall behind. “I just realized there’s no need to hurry. I’ll have you all to myself in Burlington.”
I was surrounded by the smell of his cologne, the heat of his body. It was all blowing my defenses to smithereens. When he tilted his head forward, I closed my eyes.
Winston kissed me ferociously. His mouth claimed mine possessively. His hands were gripping my waist. I tugged at his hair, pressing my pelvis into him. I wanted him closer, but nothing felt close enough.
Ever since he’d kissed me at my house, instinct told me that his passion would take over completely if I allowed it. The mere thought overwhelmed me, but right now, that was exactly what I wanted to do.
When we paused to breathe, I was tugging at his shirt.
“Stop that, or I’ll kiss you again, and this time, I’ll kiss you until you beg me to take you home.”
I looked up at him, and he smiled wholeheartedly. Awww... I was melting again. Lust and fuzzy feelings. Now that was a lethal combo.
“I’ll pick you up from home tomorrow to go to the airport,” he said.
“You don’t have to go out of your way. I can just Uber.”
“I’m picking you up.”
I smiled but didn’t say anything else. I decided to let Winston just... be Winston.
I knew without a doubt that things had just shifted between us. We were teetering on the brink of something, and this trip would push us right over the edge.
Chapter Fifteen
Sienna
Next morning, I was running around in every direction, packing, reviewing the presentation, wondering if I was forgetting something. I was on pins and needles, fussing about my appearance more than necessary.
At nine o’clock on the dot, Winston messaged to tell me he’d arrived. I had no time to gather my wits, because he knocked at the door the next second. He was all smiles when I opened up.
“Hey.”
“Sienna. Ready to go?”
I nodded eagerly, pointing to my bag.
Winston looked at me incredulously. “You do know we’re only there for a short time, right?”
“Yes, but it’s much colder. Had to pack sweaters, a coat, a suit.”
“So did I, but my luggage is half the size of yours. How did you manage to fill that?”
“Hey. Don’t get between me a
nd my packing habits.”
Winston held up his hands in defense, laughing. “Forget I asked anything.”
“That’s more like it.”
He rolled the luggage out of my house. While he loaded it into the car, I remained one step behind, unabashedly drinking him in. He was wearing a turtleneck sweater that molded over his muscles. What a sight he was. My favorite view of Winston was that of him in a T-shirt like the one he’d worn when helping me with the walls, but hey... I’d take whatever I could get.
“I’m so excited we’re going to a place with snow,” I exclaimed once we were in the car.
Winston laughed. I loved that I could make him laugh so easily.
“Why do you like snow so much?”
“I don’t know. It’s so pretty. Makes me think of the skiing vacations we went on when I was a kid.”
“Where did you go?”
“Montana, mostly. I haven’t been to Vermont, though.”
“You mentioned that. I’ve made an itinerary. We have time to see a few things tomorrow after the meeting. Our flight is in the evening.”
“But this is a business trip.”
He leaned in closer, whispering, “We can sneak something for our own pleasure in between.”
“But I’ve got some spreadsheets to work on.”
He watched me with an amused expression. “You’re already working this weekend by attending the meeting.”
“Yes, but it’s just a few hours.”
“Sienna, you’re traveling with the boss. And I’m declaring this a work-free weekend.”
“You should have told me.”
“Why?”
“I would have packed even more clothes.” I squirmed in my seat, realizing that no matter how much I thought that I had everything under control, Winston was actually the one in charge.
And I was supposed to spend the next day joined at the hip with this man? I had a feeling that was more than I could handle. But I smiled wider nonetheless.
***
Winston
We landed on time. The second we were out of the airport, Sienna put on a red cap that covered her ears and half her forehead. She looked around with a big, bright smile.
“Look, snow,” she exclaimed. I bit back my laughter as the driver and I loaded our luggage in the trunk of the cab. Sienna kept her nose pressed to the window during the entire drive.
