For My Own: A Contemporary Christmas Anthology

by Alison Packard, Shari Mikels, Kinley Baker

  In the days following Christmas, she and Nick spent every day, and most nights, together. They’d gone to a movie, met Gillian and Ian for drinks and had dinner with Nick’s parents. Vince and Paula were thrilled about Carrie and Nick’s burgeoning relationship and welcomed her with open arms. So much so that Carrie felt like she was already a part of their family.

  But was she? She and Nick still hadn’t discussed the future. Maybe it was too soon, but with him living in San Francisco, she needed to know how their newfound relationship was going to work. Would she visit him? Would he visit her in Grass Valley? Would they meet in the middle? There were so many questions, and she didn’t have an answer to any of them.

  Tapping her foot to the beat of the jazzy swing music, Carrie took another sip of her martini and let her gaze wander until she spotted Nick across the room. Her heartbeat accelerated at the sight of him. Dressed in a gray suit with a black shirt and patterned gray tie, he looked every inch the successful sports agent he was. Standing with him was his partner, Adam Logan, who was several inches taller than Nick, and judging by the directness of his piercing blue eyes when they were introduced, Carrie had a feeling he was a force to be reckoned with. By the serious expression on their faces, she suspected Nick and Adam were discussing business.

  Just then, Nick looked past Adam and met her gaze. He said something to his partner, then stepped around Adam and headed toward her through a throng of partygoers.

  “I’m sorry I left you alone.” He slid a possessive arm around her waist and bent his head closer to hers so she could hear him over the music. “I wanted to ask Adam’s advice about Trey.”

  “What are you going to do about him?”

  “He’ll be back in San Francisco next week. I plan to have a one-on-one with him. Hopefully, I can get through to him. Fortunately, or maybe unfortunately, I can provide him with several examples of athletes who’ve trashed their careers as a result of their bad behavior.” Nick paused. “Not all athletes are able to pull themselves out of the abyss like Matt Scanlon did.”

  Carrie’s heart constricted when she thought of what the Blaze’s star catcher had gone through. Not many people could bounce back from the type of loss Matt had suffered. “What if Trey doesn’t listen?” she asked.

  Nick’s expression clouded. “I’ll cross that river when I get to it.”

  “Is Trey your only client who’s not here tonight?”

  “No. J.T. Sawyer sent his regrets last week. He’s got a lot going on right now.”

  “He’s not in trouble, is he?”

  Nick shook his head. “I wish all of my clients were like J.T. He’s got a good head on his shoulders.” He slipped his hand from her waist and lightly gripped her elbow. “No more shop talk. Come with me.”

  “Where are we going?”

  Instead of answering, Nick led her toward the elevator. Confused, Carrie set her martini glass on a table and clutched her small evening bag to her chest as they weaved their way through the crowd. After they stepped inside the elevator car, Nick surprised her by pressing the button for the eighteenth floor instead of the lobby.

  “Nick? What’s going on?” she asked as the doors slid closed.

  “I reserved a room for the night.”

  “We’re not going back to your house?”

  “We won’t make it by midnight and when the New Year starts I want to be alone with you.” His eyes darkened as he lifted her hand to his mouth and kissed her palm. “Not in a crowded room. Besides, I don’t want anyone else kissing my woman.”

  His woman. She liked the sound of that.

  Five minutes later, Carrie had tossed her purse on the king-size bed covered with opulent ivory linens and stood at the window gazing at another spectacular view. From her vantage point, she could see the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance. In a city full of iconic buildings and landmarks, the Golden Gate was the most iconic of all, and one of the most famous bridges in the world. Tonight, a fine layer of fog floated at the red lights at the top of each of the two bridge towers, giving the bridge an ethereal orange glow that was almost otherworldly.

  “Did I tell you how beautiful you look tonight?” Nick asked as he moved to stand behind her. He slipped his arms around her waist and pulled against his solid body. The spicy sent of his cologne enveloped her—he smelled delicious, as usual. She was affected, as usual.

  “I believe you did. But if you’d like to tell me again, I wouldn’t mind.”

  “That dress is sexier than hell.”

  Carrie smiled. Sexy yet tasteful was exactly what she’d been going for when she’d selected the beaded cream colored dress with overlapping lace tiers that clung to her body like a glove. “I’m glad you like it.”

  “As much as I like it, I can’t wait to get you out of it.”

  “I’m not sure you can tear me away from this view.”

  “It’s a beautiful city, isn’t it?” he said solemnly, then after several silent seconds, he released her and stepped back. Carrie turned from the window and found him near the end of the bed, removing his suit jacket.

  “Is everything okay?” she asked, sensing a change in his mood.

  He laid his jacket on the bed, loosened his tie and then unbuttoned the top button of his shirt. As handsome as he looked in a suit, she preferred him like this—a tad bit disheveled and a whole lot of sexy.

  “Could you see yourself living here?” he asked, then held up his hand. “Wait. That’s putting you on the spot. I guess what I want to know is that if things get serious between us, would you consider moving here someday?” He put his hands on his hips. “I know it’s a lot to ask. You have a job you love, and friends you’re close to. But Carrie, what I feel for you is so much more than casual. I told you last week that I’m falling in love with you. Nothing’s changed since then. And maybe I’m being selfish, but I want more than a long-distance relationship.”

  Carrie sucked in a breath and tried in vain to calm the sudden pounding of her heart. She’d longed for this conversation, but that didn’t stop her knees from trembling. Her future could be decided tonight. That was no small thing.

  “You’re not being selfish,” she said and moved to stand in front of him. “The thought of doing the long-distance thing for too long doesn’t appeal to me either.”

  “Do you want to know what I see for us?” He reached for her hands and tucked them snugly between his.

  “Yes.”

  “I see commitment. The kind of commitment that leads to marriage and a family. I know it might sound crazy after such a short time, but when it’s right, you know it. And I know it. I guess the question is do you know it too?”

  Did she know it? Oh boy. Did she ever. And now it was time to tell him.

  “What I know is that I’ve been half in love with you since I was seventeen years old. And I know that if it wasn’t for you that, right now, I’d be sitting home alone, hating Christmas and everything it stands for.” She paused to steady her breath. “And I also know that you’re an amazing man, with a kind heart and an extremely hot body,” she said and grinned as his eyes widened in surprise. “Sorry. I just had to throw that in there.”

  Nick chuckled. “Don’t apologize. I think your body’s pretty damn hot too.”

  “I know we can’t predict the future, but right now, I’m more certain of my feelings than I’ve ever been.” She blinked as emotional tears threatened. “I’m in love with you, Nick.”

  Something that looked like a mixture of heat and tenderness flickered in his eyes. “That’s bold, Jones. Going all in. I like that.” He reached up with one hand and gently brushed her cheek with his finger. “Can I tell you a secret?”

  “You can tell me anything,” she said softly.

  “I didn’t want to scare you off, so I sort of underplayed my hand.” His gaze smoldered into hers. “I’m so in love with you I can’t see straight,” he said in a husky voice as he lowered his head and feathered his lips over hers. The light kiss took a turn toward steamy
as she slid her hands up to his neck and pressed her body against his. He groaned and slipped his arms around her waist as their tongues met in a sensuous dance that made her dizzy with desire. When he lifted his head, they both were breathing hard.

  “So how about it?” Nick asked. “Is there a move to San Francisco in your future?”

  Carrie smiled and linked her fingers behind his neck. “You had me at commitment.”

  * * * * *

  Craving more from Alison Packard?

  Then pick up these two exhilarating contemporary

  romances, available now!

  The Winning Season

  Kelly Maxwell has finally landed her dream job as publicist for the San Francisco Blaze. But the team’s newest member, handsome bad boy catcher Matt Scanlon, is refusing every interview. She’s got to get him to open up before the season ends, or she may not be back next year. And after everything she overcame to achieve her dream, Kelly’s not about to let that happen.

  Matt Scanlon just wants to be left alone to rebuild his life and his career. After a year of masking the pain of a recent loss with hard partying and fast women, he finally hit rock bottom and was traded to a team he’s loathed his entire life—a team with little to no chance at the post-season.

  Butting heads is getting Kelly and Matt nowhere but annoyed, and with the team’s schedule on the road, they can’t avoid close quarters—or their surprising attraction to one another. As the season winds down, Matt finds his growing feelings for Kelly have brought his numbed emotions back to life. But when betrayal shatters their fragile trust, winning it all seems more impossible than ever.

  Love in the Afternoon

  Kayla Maxwell is eager to shed her slasher-flick bimbo image—and she plans to do just that in her new role on daytime’s most popular soap. With a chance to showcase her dramatic range, Kayla will be able to wash away the lingering betrayal and public humiliation left by her

  controlling, philandering ex-boyfriend.

  When Kayla receives threatening letters, her past as a scream queen seems to be coming back to haunt her.

  Succumbing to an attraction neither one of them can deny, Sean and Kayla must face down her stalker and their own personal demons before trusting what they both feel—a love that lasts long after the cameras stop rolling.

  Connect with us for info on our new releases,

  access to exclusive offers and much more!

  Visit CarinaPress.com

  We like you—why not like us on Facebook: Facebook.com/CarinaPress

  Follow us on Twitter: Twitter.com/CarinaPress

  About the Author

  Alison fell in love with reading at a very early age. Her favorite grandmother worked for Scholastic Books and every Friday she would bring home a box filled with books. In her early teens, Alison discovered Harlequin Presents romance novels at the library and read them voraciously. What she liked most about them? The exotic locales and happy endings, of course!

  When Alison isn’t working at the day job that pays the bills, keeps a roof over her head, and supports her book and chocolate habits, she spends her free time writing heartwarming contemporary romance with a dash of spice. But when she takes a break, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and friends.

  Christmas Curveball

  By Shari Mikels

  When newly single Rachel Tanner finds out that pro pitcher Kevin Ganlin has come home to recover from an injury, her heart skips a beat. She’s loved him from afar since her preteen years, never bold enough to let him know.

  Kevin is less than thrilled when Rachel shows up at his doorstep. She’s his best friend’s little sister and officially off-limits. Besides, he’s staring early retirement in the face, a one-man pity-party with no interest in anything more serious than quick flings on the road. Until an icy mishap lands Rachel cozied up on his sofa, irresistible in his practice sweats.

  A little game of Truth or Truth reveals much more than Rachel had ever dared to hope and leads to a midnight make-out session that leaves them both panting. But can she trust that he’s truly changed his ways? This Christmas, Kevin will do whatever it takes to make Rachel understand she’s the only one for him.

  37,000 words

  Dedication

  To Mike. Thank you for loving me and believing in me. You are my perfect hero.

  To Angela James. I’m honored to call you my editor. Thank you for giving me a chance and then asking all the right questions. Your guidance is a precious gift.

  Acknowledgments

  Sarah MacLean taught a romance novel writing course through Mediabistro in the fall of 2012. Not only did she teach me what to look for in terms of craft, but the students created a critique group called the Smacaroons. They are an incredible source of laughs and support. Thank you Jenni, Julie, Kristy, Cara Dawn, Staci, Lauren and Charis.

  There are several authors who’ve taken the time to mentor me and whose books I’ve studied extensively. Thank you, Shannon Stacey, Stephanie Tyler, Moira Rogers (Bree & Donna), Vivian Arend and Lauren Dane. And a special thanks to Shan and Steph for the phone calls.

  Sierra Dean shared her knowledge and love of baseball with me. Thank you for the many emails.

  Fatin Soufan was my first romance friend and has supported me from the beginning.

  And finally, my seven-year-old son. When he was born, we made the decision to not have the TV on when he was awake. This forced me to pick up books for the first time in a long time, and I quickly found my way to the romance genre and its guaranteed happily ever after. Thank you, little one.

  Contents

  Chapter One

  Chapter Two

  Chapter Three

  Chapter Four

  Chapter Five

  Chapter Six

  Chapter Seven

  Chapter Eight

  Chapter Nine

  Chapter Ten

  Chapter Eleven

  Chapter Twelve

  Chapter Thirteen

  Chapter Fourteen

  Chapter Fifteen

  Chapter Sixteen

  About the Author

  Chapter One

  Rachel Tanner pulled up in front of her parents’ house, the lights from their Christmas tree in the living room window giving off an ethereal glow through the pouring rain.

  Her school kids had been wired all week long, the excitement of Christmas vacation too much for them to handle sitting still in class, listening to her lessons. She was as mentally drained from trying to keep their attentions focused as they had been trying to talk about nothing but the presents they might be getting.

  She got out of her car and made the mad dash to the protection of the porch. It wrapped around to both sides of the house from the front. As she opened the door, she was greeted with the smells of her mom’s cooking. Even though they got together as a family most Friday nights, Rachel hoped she never took her mom’s meals for granted. During her marriage, Rachel had missed the sense of home the food gave her, and after her separation and subsequent divorce, those meals had brought her comfort. They still did. Fresh bread was the overwhelming aroma tonight, with a hint of cookies that must’ve been baked earlier in the day.

  She hung her wet coat and hat on the hooks by the door, and slid her wet shoes off, pushing them under the shoe bench located on the same wall as the hooks.

  A noise from the living room had her turning around, and she saw her brother working on something. Perfect. Just the man she wanted to see.

  “Why didn’t you send me a text or something to let me know Kevin was back in town?” It hurt that her brother hadn’t told her this little tidbit. So what if he didn’t know her every spare thought was devoted to Kevin? He still should’ve told her.

  “What? Shhh. Keep your voice down.” He was practically hissing the words at her. “And what are you talking about?” His body went rigid, defensive. Weird.

  “Why should I keep my voice down?”

  “What makes you think Kevin’s back in town?”
His voice was barely above a whisper now.

  “Are we playing Questions Only?”

  “Could you answer my question first?”

  Rachel let out a huff of frustration. “Fine. On the way here, I stopped to get my windshield wipers replaced. While I was waiting, I saw a brand-new pickup truck pull out of the gas station next to Gary’s Garage. No one else has a BASEBALL license plate. By the time it registered it was Kevin’s license plate on a new vehicle, he was already long gone.”

  Tim swore under his breath.

  “What?”

  He shook his head. “Kevin doesn’t want anyone to know he’s back in town yet—not even his family. And if Mom finds out he’s home, his mom will find out soon after.”

  “Not even his family? That makes no sense.” If there was one thing she knew about Kevin Ganlin, it was that he loved his parents more than anyone else in the world. “His mom’s going to want to see him. Why wouldn’t he want his parents knowing? And for that matter, if he doesn’t want anyone knowing, why would he tell you?” And not me?

  Tim sighed. “I’m going to be helping him out with his recovery, so I needed to know. It’s not for very long. He just needs to work through some things and wasn’t ready to bother them yet.”

  “What on earth could you possibly do to help him with an arm injury? Unless that’s a euphemism for being his usual wingman.”

  “We haven’t gone out together in ages, and it’s been even longer than that since I’ve been his wingman.”

  “Right. Because he wasn’t fishing for girls last winter.”

  Tim opened his mouth to respond, then shut it again, looking like he was really pondering something. After a few moments, “Actually, we did stuff together while he was home, but we didn’t go out like that. I don’t think we’ve been out cruising for girls since you moved back to Winston.”

  Now Rachel was confused. Kevin Ganlin was the very definition of womanizer. Being a major league baseball pitcher meant he had groupies at every game ready to sleep with him. She’d seen them at the entrance to the team tunnel, holding signs or wearing shirts offering to do whatever the players wanted.