Charming Christmas (MyHeartChannel Book 4)

by Erica Penrod

  “I’m here. I’m just thinking.”

  Hilary’s heart thumped in her chest, and her mind chided her to calm down. She hadn’t meant to say she loved Griff, because that was impossible. She could count on one hand the number of times she’s seen him since they were kids. Something fluttered in her ear, like words tied to the tail of a random thought. Love isn’t bound by time. “Did you say something?”

  “No.” Maryn sighed. “But you know, I can’t think of a time when I’ve ever heard you talk about a man like this before.”

  “Like what?” Hilary’s face heated, and for a moment, she was grateful her sister was in another country and not sitting beside her.

  “Like he means something to you. All you’ve ever talked about was your channel and traveling the world. When you talk about Griff, your voice has the same inflection as when you’re talking about Holidays with Hilary.”

  “It does not.” Hilary furrowed her brow as she put her hand on her chest. The same warmth and excitement invoked by her dreams manifested when she thought about Griff. This wasn’t like her. Something bigger was at work here. The charms. Every one led her to Griff. Someone was behind this whole scheme, sending the charms and bringing her and Griff together, but no one could make her have feelings for him. There had to be a logical explanation; Hilary just had to find it.

  “Yes, it does, and if I were there, I’d give you a hug. Dreams are fantastic, but without someone to share them with, they’ll never reach their full potential.” Maryn paused as she cleared her throat. “I’m just really happy for you.”

  Hilary sat up. “Don’t be happy for me. I’m not in love with Griff, and he most certainly isn’t in love with me.”

  “The man showed up with a homemade pie and tolerated Mom’s interrogation for over two hours. I’d say he feels something for you.”

  “He brought the pie because I ran into a tree branch at his house, and he stayed for dinner because he didn’t have anywhere else to go.”

  “Sorry, sis, but a Hallmark card is the usual get-well wish from a man, not a homemade pie—and didn’t you say Griff liked to be alone? He chose to spend the holiday with you and your family. Now that’s saying something.”

  “I don’t know.” Hilary wanted to believe Maryn was right, that she wasn’t the only person with inexplicable feelings, even though life would be easier if she just forgot about Griff Bailey. “I don’t have time for a man anyway.”

  “Maybe you don’t get a choice.” Maryn chuckled. “Most of the time, I don’t think we get to choose love; it chooses us.”

  “I’m all about democracy.” Hilary leaned forward. “I like my right to choose.”

  Her sister laughed again. “Hey, I’ve got to run. I’ll call again in a couple days. Love ya.”

  The call ended, and Hilary sat there. She hadn’t even mentioned anything about Sam sponsoring the channel. That settled things. Either she was losing her mind because of magical charms and imaginary voices, or her sister was right and she was falling in love with Griff Bailey. Hilary slumped back into the sofa. Ugh. Neither one sounded appealing. Her dream was to travel the world, and loving a man sounded like a lot of extra baggage.

  Chapter Eleven

  The hotel Christmas tree was up, the same tree they dug out of a cardboard box for as long as Hilary could remember. Every bough had to be reshaped and placed in the perfect position, which took over an hour with both Hilary and her mom at work.

  “This just doesn’t seem right, putting up the tree without Maryn here. You know how much she loves this.” Her mom readjusted the branch above Hilary.

  “I know. She’s an expert when it comes to tree trimming.” Hilary stepped back for a different angle. “I’m sure she’s missing us as much as we’re missing her.”

  “I don’t know why she couldn’t have waited until after the holidays.” Her mom turned on the lights. “Especially with your dad’s health.”

  Hilary drew in a breath and expelled her frustration as she exhaled. They’d had this conversation several times after Maryn got the call about Ghana, but she’d thought her mom had put it to rest. “Mom, you know it was an immediate position, and if she didn’t go, they would’ve hired someone else. The timing was terrible, but we’ll have to make the most of it for Dad.”

  “You’re right.” Her mom reached for the gold rope garland. “We’ll have to make do.”

  “How about we get a fresh tree for you and Dad this year?” Hilary’s insides warmed at the idea. “I know it’s not exactly the same as going out and cutting one down ourselves, but I think Dad would love it anyway.” She took the garland from her mom and draped it around her half of the tree. “I’d be happy to pick one up.”

  “That would be lovely.” The door began to spin, and her mom looked over.

  Hilary handed her mom the garland. “You keep going. I’ll help the guest.” She walked to the front desk and ignored the twitching in her gut. Ever since Griff and Sam had come through the hotel door, she’d been nervous every time the door rotated. Hilary couldn’t handle one more man in her life. The feelings Griff stirred inside her and Sam’s life-changing proposition were more than she could take.

  She brought up the reservation screen and didn’t see anyone listed. Must be a new check-in.

  A woman stepped out of the door bundled in a long camel-colored coat. A burgundy scarf hung around her neck, matching the knitted gloves on her hands. She approached Hilary, rolling her suitcase behind her. “Hello.” The woman tugged the gloves from her fingers. “It’s cold out there today.” She placed the gloves in her purse. “But it’s just perfect for the holidays, if you ask me.”

  Hilary nodded. “Can I help you?”

  “Oh, yes. I’d like a room, please.” She unwound the scarf from her neck. Deep lines fanned from the corners of her crisp blue eyes, and when she smiled, wrinkles rippled from the edge of her lips all along her face. Copper-colored curls covered her head like a football helmet, and her ample cheeks were as red as the poinsettia plant on the edge of the counter.

  “Wonderful.” Hilary pulled up the new check-in screen. “How long will you be staying with us?”

  “At least a couple days. I’m here visiting family.”

  Hilary pressed the keys. “I’ll put you down for two nights, but if you decide to stay longer, just let us know. It won’t be a problem.”

  “Thank you.” The woman took a wallet from her purse and handed Hilary a credit card along with a photo ID. “Aren’t you the girl with the MyHeartChannel? Holidays with Hilary?”

  “Yes, I am.” Hilary’s face heated.

  “Oh, I love your channel.” The woman unbuttoned her coat. “I never miss an episode. I’m excited to see what you’ve got planned for Christmas.”

  Hilary smiled as she entered the woman’s information. “This is my favorite time of year. There are so many fun traditions to choose from.” She gave back the cards. “The first episode for December, I’m going to talk about some of the French traditions and make an Advent calendar.”

  “I’ll be sure to watch.” The woman smiled. “You’re a talented lady.”

  “Thank you—” She glanced at the ID. “—Mrs. Carter. I appreciate that.” Her insides warmed at the compliment. Hilary was surprised when anyone mentioned they watched her channel. She put her heart into every episode, but the idea that people took time out of their lives to watch her each week was still hard to believe.

  “Please, call me Cindy.”

  Hilary gave her a map of the hotel and parking area. “Cindy, your room is on the first floor, down this hallway.” She circled the area in red. “You can park in this west parking lot and use the entrance there.” Hilary pointed to the exit sign. “Just use your room card to get in.”

  “I didn’t drive, so if you’ll point me in the right direction from here, that would be wonderful.” Cindy tucked her wallet in her pocket.

  “Oh, of course.” Hilary gestured to the hallway to their right. “Right this way. If y
ou need any help arranging transportation, I’d be happy to help.”

  “No worries.” Cindy gripped the handle of her suitcase. “My family will get me where I need to be.”

  “Okay, but if you need anything, please let us know. There’s a small complimentary breakfast every morning from six to nine in the conference room, just around the corner.”

  “Wonderful.” Cindy smiled as she turned and walked towards her room. Her heels clicked against the tile, and her rich floral scent lingered in the air long after she was gone. Hilary finished up the check-in by adding a note about Cindy possibly staying longer.

  “Did someone check in?” Her mom leaned against the counter.

  “Yes, a sweet woman. She’s in town visiting family.”

  “Hmm, I must’ve missed her. Of course, I was practically buried behind the tree.” Mom brushed back the loose bangs from her face. “I need to check on Dad, but can you help me with the ornaments?”

  Hilary agreed. “Yes, I just finished up, and I’ll be right over.”

  “Okay. I’ll hurry.”

  “Don’t rush; I’m sure I can manage on my own for a while.” Hilary clamped her mouth shut, before she chuckled and smiled. Her mom was like a dictator when it came to hanging ornaments.

  “Just start on the red bulbs.” Mom walked to her and Dad’s door. “I will be right back,” she called over her shoulder.

  “Okay, I’ll work on the bulbs.” Hilary grinned.

  “Just the red ones.” Her mom’s voice echoed down the hall.

  Hilary wouldn’t hang a bulb; she’d just start attaching the hooks. This wasn’t her first Christmas. “I’ve got it.” She took the hooks from the box and began the mundane task of untangling the clustered ball of wire. Her phone rang, and she paused as she pulled the device from her pocket. “Hello, Sam.” Hilary rested the phone on her shoulder and returned to the hooks. Her chest tightened as her heart took off. She didn’t know what to tell Sam. He was offering her everything she’d hoped for, and even if she could provide an employee to help with the hotel, she didn’t know how her parents would react.

  “Hi, Hilary.” Sam’s voice was barely audible above the noise in the background. “I’ve just got a couple minutes. I’m just leaving to catch a plane, but I wanted to check in with you and see if you’ve given any more consideration to my offer.”

  “Yes, I’ve been thinking about everything. I’d love for this to happen; I’m just not sure about the timing.”

  “Look, I’ve got a day or two next week I can come to Hollyville. We can sit down and go over everything again.” He paused, and someone mumbled in the background. “I’ve got some ideas I’d like to share with you.”

  Hilary set the hooks down. “Okay.” Her stomach knotted up. She worried Sam had gotten the wrong impression. Hilary wasn’t looking for a manager. If Sam sponsored her channel, did he expect to have a say in how she did things? “Text me when you know what day you’ll be arriving.”

  “I will.”

  “Bye, Sam.” Hilary ended the call. She stared at the lights glowing from the branches. Hilary watched other channels and saw where sponsor products were advertised, but she was unaware whether the sponsors had any more influence than that. She’d have to do some research and send out a few emails to a couple of her favorite channels. One of her favorites, One Great Love Story, would be a good place to start. The host was a cardiologist, so she was obviously smart. Maybe she could give Hilary some advice on sponsors.

  “Hilary?” Her mom interrupted her thoughts.

  “Yeah?” She glanced up.

  “You looked like you were a million miles away.” Her mom picked up the box of red bulbs.

  Hilary handed her a hook. “Just thinking.” She wished she could talk to her mom about Sam’s offer, but she didn’t want to put undue stress on her if it wasn’t necessary. Until she made up her mind, she wouldn’t mention anything to her parents. Maryn was the one she needed to talk to. She promised herself that the next time she spoke with Maryn, Hilary would tell her everything. “How is Dad doing?”

  “Good.” Mom hung a bulb and tilted her head. She pushed the ornament back an eighth of an inch. “He’s watching a football game. Today seems to be a good day.”

  Relief washed over Hilary. Good days for her dad were gaining momentum on the bad. She prayed the ratio was a sign the cancer was headed for remission. “I’m so glad.”

  “Your sister told me you really like Griff.”

  Whoa—

  “Hilary, I’m worried about you.” Mom threaded the hook through the ornament. “You didn’t tell me about going to Griff’s house or that you invited him to Thanksgiving.” She placed the bulb and put her hands on her hips. “It’s not every day a woman has a man like that vying for her attention, and I’m worried you’re going to squander your chances.”

  Hilary filled her lungs with air and slowly exhaled. She was going to be calling her sister much sooner rather than later.

  Chapter Twelve

  Lazy snowflakes drifted down from the sky as the newly arrived winter chill nipped through Griff’s coat. His boycott on going to town ended much sooner than he anticipated. A certain voice in his head that would not be placated drove him to “Riley’s Tree Lot.” The fresh scent of pine filled his head, and the tension eased from his shoulders. Two or three families wandered through the maze of Christmas trees, giving him plenty of space, while Burl Ives sang about a snowman through mounted speakers on either side of the lot. Maybe this wouldn’t be as bad as he expected. He spotted a tall evergreen to the right and turned, bumping into someone. “Sorry.”

  “Griff?” Hilary’s animated night-sky eyes danced beneath the bulbs strung across the lot. “What are you doing here?” Her hands were in her coat pockets, and she nudged him with her elbow. “First I see you out Christmas shopping, and now you’re getting a Christmas tree. And I thought you said you didn’t like Christmas.”

  He scowled, even though his attention was divided by the pink in her cheeks and the rose red of her lips. “I never said I didn’t like Christmas, and I’m not getting a tree.”

  Hilary hitched up one corner of her mouth, and a notch appeared between her brows as she stared at him. The woman looked adorable even while lost in thought. “So why are you here—” She crossed her arms. “—if you’re not buying a tree?”

  “I didn’t say I wasn’t buying a tree—”

  “Yes, you did.”

  Griff huffed. “I said I’m not getting a tree.” He glanced down at the toe of his boot. “It’s for someone else.”

  “What?”

  Griff looked up.

  “What did you say? You were mumbling.”

  “I said, the tree is for someone else.”

  Hilary grinned as her weight shifted to one hip. “Oh, so you’re buying a tree for someone else. Who?”

  The woman was nosy and irritating, and he’d be better off to remember that when he was lying in bed at night, instead of thinking about her infectious laugh or imagining the feel of her hair in his hands. “Yes, I am, and I’d better get to it.”

  Griff had to make a getaway. After he’d seen Hilary and Sam together, he’d wanted nothing more than to forget her. He walked away, but her footsteps echoed in his ears.

  “Griff, wait.” She touched his arm, and heat radiated throughout his body.

  He paused, drawing in a breath.

  Hilary stood beside him. “Did I do something wrong?” She gazed up at him. “I thought after Thanksgiving, you and I were …” She bit her lip.

  He looked down at her. “We were what?”

  She smiled softly. “You know, friends?”

  Friends. The word was like a knife tearing through his flesh. Griff didn’t know a lot about friendship from experience, but he was positive that the way he wanted to take Hilary in his arms and never let her go wasn’t exactly the definition.

  “Of course you’re friends. Friendship is one of the main ingredients for love.” Lucinda’s voic
e played through his mind.

  He shook his head.

  “We’re not friends?” Hilary’s smile faded and her eyes dimmed.

  “No.” Griff pushed Lucinda’s comments aside as Hilary stepped back. He turned to her. “I mean, sure, we’re friends.”

  Hilary gave him a toothy grin. “Good, because I like your pumpkin pies.” She reached out and touched the branch of a tree with her gloved hands. “Plus, my dad really liked you, and if you and I weren’t friends, then he might not see you again.” She leaned over and sniffed the limb. “Oh, that smells like heaven.”

  “I wouldn’t say that.” Griff smiled as Hilary took another whiff.

  “You don’t like the smell of Christmas trees?” Hilary stood up and furrowed her brows in the way he’d grown accustomed to.

  “No, I do like the smell.” He put his hands in his pockets. “I meant about your dad. He and I have emailed back and forth. He’s really into architecture, and I’ve sent him a few things to look at.”

  Hilary’s chin jutted back. “Really? He hasn’t said anything.”

  Griff shrugged. “I’m not sure why. You’ll have to ask him.”

  “Hmm, alright.” Hilary stood beside him and linked her arm through his. “So back to this Christmas tree thing. Who are you getting the tree for?”

  He couldn’t think about her touching him, or he’d never get out a complete sentence. “A refugee family who lives down the hill from me. I know they don’t have much, and they’ve got three little kids, so I thought I’d bring them a tree.”

  “Listen to you, all full of Christmas spirit.” She dragged him forward through the wonderland of trees.

  Griff stumbled; ignoring her touch while talking and walking proved to be difficult.

  “You’d better take it easy on the eggnog,” she laughed.

  He pulled himself together. “I like the idea of Christmas, but I don’t like all the commercial hubbub people have turned the holiday into.”