Gift Wrapped for Christmas: A Contemporary Romance

by Ingram, Mona

  Silence greeted her words. Evidently Nancy had expected a confrontation, but Lily wasn’t about to give her the pleasure.

  “Oh, well...” Nancy stammered. “No, we couldn’t do that.” Lily could hear her rifling through some papers. “Chase said to include you, and this is his event, so I certainly wouldn’t want to go against his wishes.”

  Lily glanced around the fashion department. She’d pulled out all the stops and was in the midst of producing each outfit in several sizes as there was little time available for fittings. After the fashion show, she planned to offer the extra outfits to Chase for additional fundraising.

  “I have ten items,” she said. “And if you like, I’ll e-mail you a photograph of each one with details. Would that help?”

  The other woman seemed to have run out of bluster. “That sounds good.”

  Lily pressed on. “Just let me know when you want to do the fittings, and I’ll be there. We’re producing a variety of sizes for each item.”

  “You make them here?”

  “Yes. I don’t believe in shipping my work offshore.” She wasn’t about to tell Nancy that her production was too small and too immediate to be sent to offshore manufacturers.

  “Oh. I just thought...” Nancy’s words trailed off, but Lily got the message loud and clear. She was tempted to say that she was as much of a Canadian as the other woman but managed to bite her tongue.

  “All right then.” Lily could picture the co-ordinator consulting her schedule. “I’ll call you some time next week about the fittings. Is that okay?”

  “Sounds good. Thanks for calling.” Lily quietly placed the handset in the receiver. It was clear that Nancy Somerville didn’t like Chase Drummond interfering in her fashion show. Lily thought briefly about discussing it with him, then brushed that notion aside. He had enough to do without getting in the middle of a catfight.

  Lily had a sudden thought. Maybe it wasn’t the last minute addition of the resort wear that was ruffling feathers. Perhaps it was the fact that Chase Drummond had insisted that Lily’s items be included. Hmmm...

  “No sense speculating about that now,” she said aloud, and returned her attention to the brightly coloured fabric.

  * * *

  “Huh.” Nancy Somerville put down her cell phone and stared at it for a moment. “That was interesting,” she said, meeting the eyes of the woman across from her.

  “So what did you think?” Laurel Carmichael tried not to appear too anxious, but Nancy knew better. From the moment she’d heard about Chase’s involvement in the fashion show, her friend had been on full alert. She’d been pursuing him for a year and a half, and in that time, Chase had been remarkably skillful at eluding her.

  Nancy felt sorry for her friend as a kaleidoscope of emotions flashed across the other woman’s face. The trouble was, Laurel had been kidding herself for so long she’d started to believe her own fantasy.

  “She offered to withdraw her clothes from the show.”

  Laurel dismissed the comment with a wave of her hand. “That was just a power play. She knew you couldn’t do that.”

  Nancy acknowledged her friend’s comment with a nod. “I suppose so.” She thought back to the conversation. “She was nice, but I get the feeling she can be tough.”

  “It’s that damned kimchee they eat. That would toughen up anybody.”

  Nancy shook her head. “That’s Korean. This woman is Chinese or something like that. Audrey from Draper’s worked with her a few weeks ago and she told me she’s gorgeous.”

  Laurel pushed the papers aside. “Well, she hasn’t got him yet.” She pulled out a compact and checked her appearance in the mirror. “I’ve got a lot invested in this relationship, and I’m not going to give up without a fight.”

  * * *

  A dozen times a day, Maddie was glad she’d hired Zelda. The young woman brimmed over with original ideas and was cheerfully professional when dealing with the customers. She seemed to know precisely which ones to handle herself, and which ones should be passed to Maddie.

  She waved the spiral binder under Maddie’s nose even before she could get out of her coat. “The orders are coming in fast and furious.” She slipped Maddie’s coat off her shoulders and hung it up, talking the entire time. “Did you know your business was going to be this successful?”

  “I’d hoped it would work, but I didn’t think it would take off like this.” Maddie leafed through the notes. They jotted down every call that came in, and the habit had already proven useful several times. Those inquiries that resulted in orders were formally written up and filed. It was a simple system, and it worked.

  “Wait a minute, what’s this?” Maddie’s heart lurched as she came to an entry. “It says ‘Brent called.’” She looked at her assistant. “Is that all?”

  Zelda grinned. “Well, he seemed disappointed that you weren’t in, but that’s all the message he left.” She frowned. “He was someplace noisy; it sounded like there was a lot of equipment in the background. Maybe that’s why he didn’t leave a longer message.”

  Maddie’s shoulders fell, but she soon recovered. “At least he called,” she said. “That’s something.”

  “Is he special?” Zelda’s tone softened.

  Maddie closed her eyes for a moment. “Very special.” She gave herself a little shake. “Now let’s go over these orders.”

  It was late in the day, and Zelda had gone home when Maddie’s phone rang. She was tempted to let it go, but it could be a new order. “Good afternoon, Maddie LaRocque speaking.”

  “Maddie, I caught you.”

  “Brent!” This time there was no question. She closed her eyes and pictured his face. “I’ve missed you.”

  He chuckled. The low, sexy sound made her pulse speed up. “I’m glad to hear it. I’ve missed you, too.”

  “It’s not the same over at the skating rink without you.” It was a silly thing to say, but she’d spent so little time with him...

  “You’ve been watching over our girl.”

  She smiled at his words. “Yeah, a couple of times. She loves it there.”

  “I know.” He paused. “I wish I could tell you when I’ll be back, but things are happening fast here, and I need to stick around.”

  “Have you made a new discovery or something?” She had no idea what he did.

  “I wish I could tell you, but I can’t.”

  She was glad he couldn’t see her blush. “I’m sorry. I was only making conversation.”

  “I know, love, but I really can’t tell you.” She heard him let the air out of his lungs. “I just miss you, Maddie. Is everything going all right?”

  “Did you just call me ‘love?’” She pressed the phone to her ear.

  “I guess I did.” There was that low chuckle again. “Is that all right?” He didn’t wait for her response. “You are a love, Maddie. I knew that the first moment you fell into my arms.”

  Maddie relived the moment and smiled to herself. “I did, didn’t I? I mean fall into your arms.” She lowered her voice. “Something I’d like to try again, by the way. Except maybe not from a ladder.”

  He groaned. “Maddie, you’re killing me here.” Some machinery clanged in the background. “Just a sec.” He must have pressed the phone against his jacket because for a few moments, there was no sound. Then he was back. “Sorry, love. I have to go. Have you looked for the dog yet?”

  “I thought you wanted to go with me.”

  “I did, but with things the way they are, maybe you should go ahead and choose one. Listen, I really do have to run. I’ll try to call you when I’m on my way home, okay?”

  “Okay, Brent. Thanks for calling.” He didn’t hear the last few words; he’d already disconnected.

  * * *

  “Do you want to go for a drink after work?”

  The question took Maddie by surprise. Lily rarely wanted to go out for a drink. But tomorrow was the fashion show, and her friend had been increasingly nervous the past few days.
>
  “Sure. Where would you like to go?”

  “I’ll stop by, and we can go to one of those small places near you. Okay?”

  “Sure. Give me an extra half an hour though. It’s been crazy here today.” She glanced at the colourful gift baskets on the shelves. Every one of them was now sold; Zelda was already working on putting some replacements together.

  The beginnings of an idea had been taking root in her mind over the past couple of weeks. She’d opened in the middle of November, and here she was, well into December and her business was already taking her in directions she hadn’t anticipated.

  The gift baskets had been wildly successful. Baskets containing food and wine were by far the most popular. Maddie had discovered a small European deli that offered many exclusive items, and the sale of baskets containing products from the deli had resulted in discussions with several customers about catering ideas for small receptions. She’d also had customers who were eager for assistance with party decorations. They were either too busy or lacked the confidence to do it themselves. Zelda consulted enthusiastically with these customers, offering unique ideas that were eagerly snapped up.

  “We could offer this as a service,” Zelda said after the last consultation. “I’d love to do something like that.” She started to gnaw on her fingernail then quickly withdrew her hand. Her previously bitten nails were beginning to grow, thanks to Maddie’s positive influence. “The gift buying will always be popular, but I see it as a series of highs and lows. We have Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, individual birthdays, and perhaps some limited demand on the other holidays, but basically it’s a rollercoaster.”

  Maddie listened to her assistant with growing surprise. The young woman had also been thinking. She’d looked around their little shop. “This has been an ideal location to launch the business, but if we were to get into this full time, we’d need more space.” She looked at Maddie. “Don’t you think?”

  Maddie had been so overwhelmed with the volume of orders, she hadn’t had time to think very far ahead, but Zelda was right. They’d have to have a serious discussion in the next couple of weeks.

  * * *

  Lily pushed through the revolving door, bringing with her a swirling gust of cold air and snowflakes. Breathtakingly glamorous, she strode across the lobby in soft leather boots, wearing a simple black cape trimmed with black fur.

  “Ready?” she asked, frowning slightly as she looked at Maddie. “You look tired.”

  “It’s been crazy busy.” Maddie locked up the shop. “I’m glad the weekend is coming up. Did I tell you I’m going to look for the puppy?”

  Lily wrinkled her nose. “It’s not going to live with us, is it?”

  “Maybe for a day or two. I haven’t thought that far ahead yet.” The two women walked out arm in arm. “Come on, let’s get that drink.”

  Heads turned as they walked into a small bar and claimed two stools.

  “Martini please,” said Lily.

  Maddie masked her surprise. Something was bothering her friend if she was ordering a martini. She ordered a glass of white wine. “So, how’s it going?” she asked, watching Lily carefully as she dug into the bowl of peanuts.

  “Fine, as far as I’m concerned.” Lily removed the olive from her glass, but didn’t drink. She ran a finger up and down the stem of the glass, lost in thought. “There’s something going on with the women in charge of the fashion show, but I’m not sure what it is.” She glanced quickly at Maddie, then went back to playing with the martini glass. “They’ve decided they don’t like me, but I’ll be damned if I can figure out why. They don’t even know me.”

  Maddie frowned. It wasn’t like Lily to care what people thought or said about her. “What have they done that’s made you think this?”

  Lily took a sip of her drink and looked at Maddie over the rim of the glass. “That’s just it. They haven’t done anything specific. It’s just a feeling I have.” She set down her glass. “They’re being overly polite to me.” She toyed with her hair. “Instinct tells me it has something to do with Chase. It’s almost as if they’re trying to keep a secret from me.”

  “Have you talked to Chase? What does he say?”

  “That’s just it.” Lily’s gaze turned inward; it was almost as though she was talking to herself. “I haven’t heard from Chase since he brought Annie to the studio.”

  “That seems odd.”

  Lily nodded. “I thought so too.”

  Lily thought for a moment. “Who are you dealing with?”

  “Her name is Nancy Somerville.”

  “Maybe she’s dating Chase and she’s wondering where you came from.”

  “No...” Lily drew out the word. “She’s married to a friend of his. I think they play handball together or something.” She tossed back her drink and held up a finger for another one. “At least it’ll be over tomorrow, and we can laugh about how foolish I’m being.” She gave Maddie a thin smile.

  “You’re right.” Maddie tossed another peanut into her mouth. “It’s going to be just fine.”

  Chapter Twelve

  Chase had ordered a limo service for the evening. He hoped to take Lily out after the auction and didn’t want to worry about having a glass or two of wine. She buzzed him up to her condo, and he stood outside her door, as nervous as a teenager on a first date. He took a deep breath and pushed the doorbell.

  She took a step back, inviting him in. The look on her face made the trouble he’d taken with his appearance worthwhile. “You look fantastic,” she said.

  “Why, thank you, ma’am.” He gave a slight bow. “You look mighty fine yourself.” He wasn’t sure how she did it; she sparkled in a simple black beaded dress that hung from her shoulders, skimming her body in the most erotic manner. Her hair hung luxuriantly down her back, and he clenched his hands to prevent himself from touching her.

  “Shall we go?” he said, reaching for her coat.

  She indicated that she wanted it draped over her shoulders, and he complied. His fingers brushed her bare skin, and a jolt of awareness rocked him back. It had been all he could do not to call her, but he knew she’d been busy with the fashion show and hadn’t wanted to pressure her. He regretted that now...time missed with this alluring woman could never be recovered.

  He stood next to her in the elevator, unsure what to talk about. He finally decided on the fashion show; that could hardly go wrong.

  “So,” he said. “Has Nancy been taking care of you all right?”

  He watched her in the mirrored walls of the elevator, and she met his gaze. “I got the impression that she wasn’t thrilled to have the order of her fashion show disturbed, but she’s been welcoming and polite.”

  The elevator door opened, and they walked into the lobby. “Just polite?” He wanted to gather her up in his arms and tell her to ignore any slights, but he knew that she was fiercely independent and could fight her own battles. The notion made him want her even more.

  She laid a hand on his arm. “Everyone was fine.” Something flashed in her eyes. “They’re just being women.” She stopped as they approached the waiting limousine. “For us?”

  He nodded.

  “I like it. Let’s go.”

  Gliding silently through the city streets, Chase felt right with Lily at his side. She glanced up at him a couple of times but didn’t speak. He liked that. Too many women chattered on endlessly, but this one was different, and he looked forward to having her at his side tonight.

  “I probably won’t get to spend much time with you,” she said, almost as though she’d read his thoughts. “The fashion show is going to start part way through dinner, and I’ll have to be backstage.”

  “Oh, I thought we’d be together.”

  His disappointment was obvious, and she slipped her hand into his. “I’m sorry, Chase. I thought you knew.”

  He lifted her hand to his lips. “But I will get to see you some time tonight, won’t I?”

  “Of course.
” She touched the side of his face with her fingers. Her touch was feather-light and yet it turned his insides to fire. “We’ll find each other.”

  * * *

  Lily’s respect for Chase grew as they entered the function room. He was greeted enthusiastically, and everyone complimented him on the success of his charity. It soon became evident that he was the main contributor, and that it was thanks to him that the charity was so successful. Many of the businessmen pledged to help in ways that went beyond the scope of the evening’s fund-raising effort. Chase accepted their support with thanks.

  As they moved along, greeting Chase’s friends and colleagues, she was aware of a few raised eyebrows and whispered asides. She supposed it was natural; after all, Chase had known these people most of his adult life and was now introducing someone completely new–her–into the mix. There were bound to be murmurs. Most of the people were gracious and welcoming, especially when Chase introduced her as a donor and detailed her contribution to the fashion show.

  She liked the way he guided her through the crowd, one hand lightly at her waist. She smiled up at him as he offered her a glass of champagne, surprised to discover that she was enjoying herself. It was difficult to do otherwise with someone like Chase; his dark good looks drew the eye of almost every woman in the room. His tailored suit fitted him perfectly, and he moved with an easy grace through the crowds, his smile never wavering as he looked down at her.

  She was about to take a second sip of champagne when one of the backstage volunteers slipped through the crowd and tugged at her elbow.

  “Sorry to bother you, Lily, but we have a problem backstage.” The young woman looked at Chase, and for a moment her eyes widened in appreciation, then she turned back to Lily. “It’s Melanie. I think she’s sick.”

  Lily frowned. Melanie was one of the models who had been chosen for the resort wear. “I’ll be right there,” she murmured quietly, and waited for a break in the conversation until she could draw Chase away.