This story was written for my dear friend, Kaye, as part of the annual Secret Santa Story exchange. It isn’t part of any universe, so if you aren’t caught up on my current storylines, no worries.

Kaye, writing for you is both a blessing and a curse. I feel blessed to be assigned to write for one of my favorite people. However, I also feel cursed, since writing for someone as talented as you is intimidating. This was a particularly difficult challenge singe I saw you recently. During our visit, I kept praying the topic of SSS wouldn’t come up because I was afraid I’d let the cat out of the bag.

I wanted to write a masterpiece, so poignant that it would make you weep. After some reflection, I recalled several conversations we’ve had about how stressful the holidays are and decided to write something lighthearted. This story is nothing but romantic fluff, so no thinking will be required.

My friend, prop your feet up and take a break from school, work, family, and holiday obligations. If I can make you laugh during what I know is a stressful time, then I consider this story a success. It may not be the poignant masterpiece I’d wanted to write, but it was written with affection and admiration.

I love you, and Merry Christmas!

Christmas Day, 2007

Crabapple Farm

“Close your eyes and hold out your hand.”

Trixie Belden cast a coy look through lowered lashes at her longtime boyfriend. “Jim! You know how I hate surprises!”

Jim Frayne chuckled before assuming an incredulous expression. “Since when?”

“Since you ordered me to close my eyes and hold out my hand instead of allowing me to open my Christmas present in a civilized manner,” she retorted.

“C’mon, Trix,” he pleaded. “I’ve been saving forever to buy you this. It’s something really special.”

A wistful smile touched Trixie’s lips as she imagined a gift that sparkled in the sunlight and held a promise for the future, a promise of a life with the man she loved. Something in his tone told her that this was it. This was the moment she had been dreaming of for so long. Honey and Brian had just gotten married. Mart and Diana had just started dating, but they were already serious about one another. If Jim didn’t hurry, Mart and Di would beat them down the aisle.

“Okay, if you insist,” she relented. In anticipation of the diamond she just knew Jim was going to slip on her ring finger, she extended her left hand.

Quivering with nerves, Jim took a deep breath and held it for a few seconds before releasing it. “Like I said, I’ve been saving up for this for months. I actually had it during Thanksgiving and carried it around with me, but I forced myself to save it for Christmas. I wanted to give it to you then so badly that it nearly burned a hole in my pocket.”

“Oh, Jim,” she cooed, “that’s so sweet. I know I’ll love whatever you got me.”

“I wanted to get you something that would tell you exactly what you mean to me.”

“Jim, you’re torturing me!” she cried, nearly overwhelmed by excitement. “Are you going to make me wait forever?”

“No, not forever. But I am making you wait until your eyes are closed.”

Trixie withdrew her hand so she could cross her arms as she feigned a pout. “You’re so mean to me.”

“Close your eyes, Shamus,” Jim murmured huskily.

“All right.” Her left hand trembled as she extended it once again, and, knowing it was the only way to end her torture, she obediently closed her eyes as he’d requested.

“Merry Christmas, Trixie.”

Trixie had often heard that the loss of one sense would make the others more acute. However, that couldn’t possibly be true, since her senses of hearing and touch were failing her. Not only had she failed to hear Jim’s marriage proposal, she couldn’t feel the sensation of a diamond ring being slipped onto her finger. Something was wrong. Her world reeling, Trixie’s breathing became shallow as she tried to process it all.

“You can open your eyes now.”

Funny, she hadn’t even realized it was still dark. She opened her eyes and gasped as she saw the gift Jim had placed in her hand. Hoping her vision was blurred, she immediately closed them again, and after a second or two, reopened them slowly and refocused. Much to her dismay, her eyes weren’t playing tricks on her. Instead of the engagement ring she’d longed for, a single plane ticket lay in the palm of her hand.

“Oh, Jim,” she finally managed after several seconds of speechlessness, “I don’t know what to say.”

“Did I surprise you?” Jim asked, oblivious to her disappointment. “I really hoped I would.”

“Um, yes, I’m surprised. I can promise you that I wasn’t expecting this.”

“It’s a ticket to Burma!”

Trixie swallowed hard before speaking. “Um, yeah, I can see that.”

“Over spring break you mentioned that some people from your political science class were going to take a mission trip there next summer.”

Unable to mutter a sound, she merely nodded.

“You said you’d like to go, but you couldn’t afford the airfare.”

Trixie blinked back the flood of tears that were threatening to fall. “So I did…”

“I knew then that a plane ticket would be the perfect Christmas present. Poor graduate student that I am, I had to eat a lot of Ramen noodles to afford this, but it was worth it.”

Trixie’s eyes burned, and she knew the dam was about to burst. She sniffed in an attempt to hold back the flood.

“Aw, Shamus, don’t cry,” Jim murmured, tenderly brushing away the lone tear that had escaped. “I overwhelmed you, didn’t I?”

“Yeah, in a way you did,” she choked through a constricted throat.

“I’m just glad you like it.” He pulled her close to him and rubbed her back.

She tried her hardest to fight the urge to rest her head on his shoulder, but she lost. Weak with longing, she laid her cheek on the soft green wool of his shirt and savored the pine-scent that was so distinctly Jim. The tears flowed freely now, although she alone knew their true cause.

“You’ll have so much fun,” he whispered. “I’m so proud of you for wanting to go. Most of the girls I know aren’t cut out for a trip like that. They’d turn up their noses at the thought of going to a third-world country to help others, but not my Shamus. You’re a one-of-a-kind.”

Trixie squeezed her eyes shut, wishing she could die right on the spot. It wasn’t too farfetched an idea, especially since her heart had just been broken into a million tiny shards. Surely she couldn’t live like this for long.

“And the time apart will be good for us,” Jim continued. “It’s only for six weeks. Why, that isn’t long at all!”

Since wishing wasn’t working, Trixie started praying God would just strike her dead right then and there. Death had to be better than this misery.

“Once you get back to Sleepyside, we can decide where we go next in our relationship.”

God must’ve surely answered her prayer because suddenly Trixie found it impossible to breathe. Any doubts she’d had about Jim’s intentions flew away. It became crystal clear that this plane ticket was his way of kissing her goodbye before he moved on to bigger and better things. He was going to dump her, and this was the sendoff.

Trixie wasn’t the sort of girl to curl up and die. She was a warrior, the kind of woman that saw problems from a mile away and met them head on. She knew exactly what Jim’s plan was. Stubborn redhead that he was, she doubted she could talk him out of it. However, in order to save what little dignity she had left, she did the only thing she could. It was time for a preemptive strike.

“Yeah, it’s funny you said that, Jim,” she began. Hating the quiver in her voice, she cleared her throat and assumed a more determined tone. She took a step backwards, away from his embrace. “I know the timing sucks, but I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately, and I think it would be best if I went on that trip.”

Unaware of the landmine that awaited him, Jim eagerly nodded. “That’s great, Trixie! I was afraid you wouldn’t go because of me, but I was prepared to get you to Burma, even if I had to ship you there in a crate! I didn’t want you to miss this opportunity and then regret it later.”

“No worries there. I’m really excited. Only…” Before she completed her thought, she lost courage and left it hanging.

“Only?” he prompted.

“Only I’m not sure I want to come back to Sleepyside.”

It was Jim’s turn to be surprised. “What?”

“I need a change, Jim,” she said, trying to sound as free from emotion as possible. “Who knows? Maybe I’ll join the Peace Corps or something after I get back from Burma. Regardless, I think some time away is just what I need.”

Though he’d been flying high moments before, Jim plummeted back to earth so hard that the air was knocked out him. “Time away from what?”

“Oh, lots of things,” she hedged.

“Do you mean that you need time away from me?”

Unable to lie, Trixie simply shrugged instead. If she hadn’t been so sure that Jim had plans to break up with her, she would’ve thought he was taking the news hard. It looked like he was going to cry.

Must be his fragile male ego, she thought with a dismissive sniff. Serves him right! Now we’re even… his precious ego in exchange for my shattered heart. I can’t believe he bought a ticket to Burma to get rid of me!

Jim shook his head in disbelief. “But… it’s Christmas. Why are you doing this now?”

“I know it’s a bad time, but when you think about it, there’s really no good time to split up.” Trixie was impressed by the flippant tone in her voice; her acting skills rivaled Diana’s. “I mean, I could’ve put it off, but I didn’t think that was fair to you. There’s no reason to drag it out, right?”

“But… but it’s Christmas, Shamus,” he repeated, his green eyes misty.

He looked so forlorn that Trixie almost lost her nerve. Almost. “If you’re worried about the money you spent for the ticket, I can pay you back with some savings I have.”

The savings I’d set aside to help pay for our wedding, she thought bitterly.

Jim’s tears disappeared as quickly as they’d appeared. Squaring his jaw as he did when he was angry, he gave a brusque shake of his head. “That won’t be necessary. I gave you that ticket as a gift. I’m not an Indian giver.”

Except when it comes to your love, she mused. In her most syrupy-sweet voice, she said aloud, “That’s very generous of you, Jim. I do appreciate your thoughtfulness.”

Jim set his face like a flint. “Well, now that you mention it, a break might do us good. If we’re going to call it quits, then the more space between us, the better.”

“If that’s the way you want it,” she remarked coldly.

“That’s the way I want it,” he responded, his voice just as icy. With that, he snatched his coat from off the rack and stomped away, slamming the door behind him.

As soon as he was gone, Trixie’s tears flowed freely. Summer couldn’t come soon enough for her. She couldn’t wait to board that plane and leave behind all the questions, memories, and heartbreak.

But mostly, she couldn’t wait to get away from Jim.

December 15, 2012

JFK Airport

As soon as the call to disembark the plane was given, Trixie jumped out of her seat. She grabbed her leather satchel from the overhead compartment and dashed down the aisle. After a ten-hour flight, she was anxious to be on solid ground again. She was accustomed to the wide open spaces of Senegal, and midway through the flight back to the States, her claustrophobia had kicked in and nearly driven her mad. She had to wonder if she was panicked because of the closed-in space or facing her demons back in Sleepyside. It was a question she’d rather not answer.

Dismissing the unpleasant memories from her mind, she focused on the positive. She had spent almost five years overseas, and in spite of the awkwardness she might face, she was anxious to see her family and friends again. She missed them so!

Ironically, none of the Bob-Whites had chosen the professions they had decided upon as teenagers. After her trip to Burma, Trixie had discovered a love for serving abroad. She decided to join the Peace Corps and had spent the past four years in Senegal, Africa. She loved her home there and felt blessed that she had a job that allowed her to make a difference in the lives of so many.

While working on his bachelor’s degree, Brian discovered he had a love for medical research. That love evolved into passion after Marge Trask was diagnosed with breast cancer. After her passing, Brian’s sole focus shifted to finding a cure for the cruel disease that ended his friend’s fight. He earned his Ph.D. in biological sciences and got a position with one of the top research foundations in New York. He’d garnered a reputation as one of the most highly regarded researchers in the fight against breast cancer.

Although Trixie and Honey had planned to go into business together, it was actually Honey and Diana that accomplished this goal. The two shared a love for fashion and got their degrees in design at NYU. After a few years of saving, they opened their own boutique, Perfectly Perfect. Their shop carried many exclusive labels, as well as several of their own creations. Their reputation was spreading, and socialites from Manhattan traveled to Sleepyside to shop at their boutique. Because of the success they’d had in their hometown, Honey and Diana were considering opening another shop in New York City.

Honey’s personal life had flourished as well. She and Brian married several years ago. Honey encouraged her husband’s passion for research, and the couple spent much of their free time raising money to help find a cure.

While Mart and Diana hadn’t walked down the aisle yet, they were close. Mart popped the question the previous Christmas, and Diana eagerly accepted. The lovebirds were planning a spring wedding. They would’ve married sooner, but Diana wasn’t the only one starting a business. Mart had started one of his own.

Mart, ever the lover of fine dining, had followed his heart (or rather his stomach) and gone to culinary school. His years of eating had helped him develop an expert palate, and he had quite a knack for creating recipes that were both delicious and unusual. After working as a chef in one of the most exclusive restaurants in NYC, he decided to bring fine dining to Sleepyside. The Quirky Quail had been open for over a year, and patrons flocked from hours away to sample Mart’s dishes. Not only was the Quirky Quail known for its food, it was also recognized for its charitable contributions. Mart regularly volunteered at the local soup kitchen, and he and Diana opened a food bank to help the less fortunate citizens of Sleepyside.

Jim’s dream of opening a school never came to fruition. Instead, he earned his degree in psychology and dabbled in writing. He specialized in treating abused and neglected children. In addition to his practice, he kept busy coaching various teams and donating his time to charities. His book, The Red-Headed Stepchild, was highly regarded by the top child psychologists in the country and was on its way to becoming a best seller.

Perhaps Dan’s career choice was the most surprising. Instead of going into law enforcement as he’d always planned, he and Regan had opened their own stable. They bred and trained horses, but their top priority was working with miniature horses. Working with the Guide Horse Foundation, Irish Eyes Stable trained miniature horses as assistance animals for the blind and visually impaired. While unconventional, the miniature horses were perfect for those that were allergic to dogs and offered several other benefits as well. Not only had Dan found great personal fulfillment in his work, he had strengthened the familial bonds he shared with his uncle.

Trixie sighed wistfully as she considered each of her childhood friends. They’d had many adventures together, and most importantly, they’d nurtured one another’s love for volunteering. Each of the seven was involved with at least one charitable organization, and after all these years, they upheld the Bob-Whites’ original mission statement. As a teenager, Trixie had never imagined herself living abroad, working with the Peace Corps, but now, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

When she’d first gone to Africa, she had no idea she’d get so homesick. She’d always had the travel bug as a teenager, so she’d been surprised by the overwhelming longing she’d had for Sleepyside. She missed her parents so much that it hurt. She couldn’t wait to go home and hug Moms and Dad. And, much to her surprise, she was equally anxious to see her brothers. They’d spent their childhoods bickering and squabbling, but only after a prolonged separation had she realized how much she loved them. They were as much a part of her as her own limbs, and she needed them.

Trixie was equally anxious to be reunited with her best friends. She had become close to several of her fellow Corps members through the years, but none of those friendships could compare to the ones she shared with Honey, Diana, and Dan. She missed them as badly as she missed her parents and brothers. She couldn’t wait to have an extended giggle and gab session with Honey and Diana, complete with chocolate, salty snacks, and chick flicks. She also hoped they could squeeze in some skating, skiing, and sledding, all the outdoor activities she hadn’t been able to do in Africa. How she’d missed having snow during the holidays!

The lone concern she had was Jim. She could count on one hand the number of times she’d seen him since their breakup, and each meeting had been awkward. It was one of the main reasons she came home so rarely, even when she had a sabbatical from the Corps. She hadn’t been back for Christmas since their split. She only agreed to come home this year because she’d heard that Jim never spent the holidays in Sleepyside, either. According to Honey and her brothers, Jim disappeared every year a week or two before Christmas and didn’t reappear until New Year’s. Nobody knew where he went or why he left in the first place, and Jim refused to volunteer any information. Regardless of his reasons, Trixie planned her vacation home around the supposition that she wouldn’t have to deck the halls with Jim Frayne.

The airport was crowded, so it took her forever to navigate her way through the terminal. In the baggage claim area, she spotted two women with their backs to her, one with honey-colored tresses as smooth as silk and the other with blue-black waves cascading down her back. Her china blue eyes filling with tears, she raced to meet her dearest friends in the world.

“Honey! Di!”

At the sound of Trixie’s voice, her friends turned. The pair squealed at the sight of their long lost friend and hurried to meet her halfway. In no time at all, the trio was hugging one another, happy tears streaming down each of their cheeks.

“I can’t believe you’re finally home!” Honey cried. “It’s been so long!”

“Too long!” Diana chimed. “We missed you so much!”

“Well, let me get a look at you two.” Trixie narrowed her eyes and studied each of her friends, beginning with Diana. She took in Di’s perfectly coifed hair, hourglass figure, and exquisite facial features. “Yep, you’re still the prettiest girl in Sleepyside, and definitely way too beautiful to be marrying that bigmouthed almost-twin of mine.”

“Nonsense!” Diana protested with a wave of her hand. “And look at you! Are you sure you haven’t spent the past several years at a spa? You look gorgeous, Trixie!”

“Oh, pshaw,” Trixie muttered, still unable to accept a compliment. “Compared to the two of you, I’m just a plain Jane.”

That statement couldn’t have been further from the truth. Nobody would call Trixie glamorous, but everyone would agree that she was beautiful. Her sandy curls were streaked with gold from all the time she spent in the sun. She wore no makeup, but with her brilliant blue eyes, bright smile, and youthful features, she didn’t need to. Her time in Africa had put a glow on her face. She was tan and trim and didn’t look a day over seventeen. She looked more like a California surfer girl than she did a Peace Corps worker.

Anxious to take the attention from herself, Trixie’s gaze shifted to Honey. She admired Honey’s delicate features, wishing for the millionth time that she had been blessed with similar genteel qualities. Honey’s high cheekbones and large hazel-colored eyes could’ve earned her a job as a model. With her height and slender build, she certainly had a model’s figure. Her legs were a mile long and her waist…

“Holy crap, Honey!” Trixie exclaimed. “Nobody told me you were knocked up!”

Completely mortified, Honey’s face turned as red as Santa’s suit as she felt the eyes of several strangers upon them. “Trixie! You didn’t have to say it so loud.”

Unlike Honey, Diana found Trixie’s comment hilarious. She practically doubled over with laughter. “That’s what you get for not telling her sooner, Honey.”

“I wanted it to be a surprise,” Honey explained.

“Mission accomplished.” Trixie’s eyes grew as large as saucers as she stared at Honey’s bulging midsection. At first glance, one would never know, particularly since Honey’s coat hid most of her body. However, upon closer inspection, it was obvious that she was pregnant. Very, very pregnant.

“Well, crap,” she muttered again. “I guess I can cross off skiing, skating, and sledding from my holiday wish list.”

“We can always replace those activities with shopping,” Diana suggested with a wink.

Trixie held up a hand in protest. “Uh, thanks but no thanks. Besides, I doubt we’ll have time for much of anything. Honey looks like she’s going to pop anytime. I’m willing to bet she doesn’t make it past Christmas.”

“I’m not due until January 9th,” Honey assured her. “However, it might be wise to forego any outdoor activities. Something tells me Brian wouldn’t approve. He’s just as cautious as ever.”

Trixie smiled at the mention of her eldest brother’s name. “I’ll bet Brian is over the moon about the baby. Hey, is it a girl or a boy?”

“We’ve chosen not to find out until the delivery,” Honey explained.

Trixie’s smile dipped downward into a frown. “I’ll be gone before the first of the year, so I’ll miss it. I wish I could be here for the birth of my first niece or nephew.”

“Me too,” Honey murmured, squeezing her hand.

“We’ll just have to make sure that we take lots of video,” Diana promised. “But, you will be here for Honey’s baby shower. We waited to have it until you could be here.”

“Thank you,” Trixie said.

“Are you ready to go?” Honey asked. “The pregnant lady needs to get a snack before we head home.”

“I’m ready.” Trixie patted her oversized satchel. “I’ve got everything.”

One of Honey’s golden eyebrows shot up in disbelief. “You crammed everything you’ll need during your visit in that wee little bag?”

When Trixie grinned, she barely looked old enough to vote. “In the Peace Corps, you learn to pack light, especially when flying. Between the contents of this bag and my closet at home, I’ll have plenty.”

“But what if you need a formal gown for a special occasion?” Honey asked, dodging the warning glance from Diana.

“Why would I need a fancy dress?” Trixie snorted. “It’s not like I’m going to prom.”

“I know, right?” Diana giggled nervously.

“And if you would happen to need something formal, your best friends just happen to own the most exclusive dress shop in Sleepyside,” Honey remarked in overly casual tone. “I’m sure we could find you something at Perfectly Perfect.”

Although Trixie hadn’t done any detective work in years, her instincts were still sharp. She drew down her eyebrows as she scrutinized her friends. “All right, what gives? You’re both acting funny. What’re you planning?”

Assuming her most innocent expression, Diana shrugged her slim shoulders. “Nothing. I mean, nothing except for the usual holiday festivities.”

“Huh! The ‘usual holiday festivities’ around here usually include a swanky event at Manor House,” Trixie snorted. “And, in case you’re curious, I’m not going.”

Honey shook her head. “Mother decided not to host a party. The holidays have been a bit… strained for our family lately what with Jim going AWOL every Christmas. We decided to do something a little different this year.”

“Oh, brother. Here it comes,” Trixie muttered under her breath.

“To be completely honest, Trix,” Honey began tenuously as they sat down at a snack bar, “we do have something special planned. A holiday black-tie fundraising event.”

Moaning, Trixie clutched a fistful of sandy curls. “Black-tie? Seriously? I’ll only be home for a few weeks. Do you have to ruin it by making me dress up?”

“Trixie, it’s only for one evening,” Diana pointed out. “And it’s for a good cause.”

“But it’s black-tie!” Trixie wailed. “It’s no wonder I’ve stayed in Africa all these years without coming home. Every time I visit Sleepyside, my supposed friends force me into panty hose, a fancy dress, and heels. With friends like you, I’d rather hang out with cannibals!”

Honey rolled her eyes. “Don’t be so dramatic. It’s only for one evening. It won’t kill you.”

“Have you seen me walk in heels, Honey? Death is a definite possibility,” Trixie maintained. “I’m not going, and you can’t make me.”

“It’s for breast cancer research,” Honey told her. “I organized it in honor of Miss Trask.”

“Oh.” Trixie’s heart hurt a little as she thought about the Wheelers’ former governess. Not only had Miss Trask been a loyal companion to a lonely Honey, she had been a faithful friend to the Bob-Whites through the years. Her unexpected diagnosis and subsequent passing had been difficult on all of them. That certainly put a new perspective on things. “Well, if it’s for Miss Trask, I’ll go. But I’m not dancing.”

“Lucky for you, there won’t be any dancing,” Diana told her. “This is an auction, not a ball.”

“Really? That is interesting,” Trixie said. “What’re you auctioning off?”

“Studs,” Honey replied with a saucy grin.

Her interest piqued, Trixie’s eyebrows formed an arc above her china blue eyes. “Did Dan and Regan donate a few of their prize stallions to be sold?”

“Um…not exactly, but Dan and Regan will most certainly play an integral role in this auction,” Diana corrected, giggling.

Completely puzzled, Trixie merely shrugged.

“Honey’s auctioning off studs, but they’re of the human variety,” Diana explained. “She’s pimping out Sleepyside’s most eligible bachelors. Show her the money, and she’ll hook you up with a hunk for a holiday date.”

Trixie drew back in surprise. “Why, Honey Belden! How opportunistic of you! I had no idea you were so enterprising. Designer, boutique owner, fundraiser, and now madame! I’m so proud!”

Beaming, Honey buffed her fingernails against her red cashmere sweater. “Thank you. I consider it an honor to provide service to all the fine ladies of Sleepyside.”

“Soooo… what virile, young hotties do you have in your stable?” Trixie waggled her brows and then added, “Do you have any I’d be interested in?”

“Maybe,” Honey drawled dramatically. “Ever secretly wanted to tame Sleepyside’s resident bad boy gone good? Or perhaps you’d rather mount the town’s hottest horse trainer?”

“Honey!” Trixie shrieked. “Get serious! Dan and Regan are like family to me.”

Diana hooted with laughter. “I am soooo telling Dan what you said about him!”

“Was it too much?” Honey inquired. “I’ve written little intros about each of them to use for the auction.”

“Well, that part about mounting Regan might be a little too much, Hon,” Diana told her.

Honey nodded. “I’ll make a mental note to tone it down a bit.”

“Got anybody else I can mount?” Trixie prompted with a waggle of her brows.

“There’s Nick Roberts,” Diana volunteered.

“But I thought he was gay?” Trixie asked.

“He is, but not all our bidders know that,” Honey said. “The important thing is that he is hot and has that sensitive artist vibe going. He’ll fetch a pretty penny, and hey, whoever buys him will get a free dinner out of it.”

“That’s all she’ll get,” Diana snickered. “Trust me; I know from firsthand experience.”

Trixie hooted. “That’s right! I forgot you dated Nick before you and Mart got together.”

“Yeah, that was a long time ago,” Diana recalled. “He came out of the closet shortly after our breakup.”

Honey patted Diana’s hand. “Look at it this way. You ruined him for other women, sweetie. That’s quite an accomplishment.”

“Yeah, that’s one way to look at it,” Trixie snorted.

“It doesn’t matter,” Diana dismissed. “If things had worked out with Nick, Mart and I never would’ve gotten together, and that’s who I belong with.”

Trixie pretended to stick her finger down her throat and made a gagging sound. “Okay, back to me. What other studs are you offering, Honey?”

“Well, there’s Nathan Gibson,” Honey offered.

“Ooh, he’s really cute, Trixie,” Diana gushed.

Trixie shook her head. “Never heard of him.”

“He’s new in town,” Diana supplied.

“Not only is a hunk, he’s successful, too,” Honey added. “He opened the new law firm in town last year.”

Intrigued, Trixie quirked a single sandy brow. “What does he look like?”

“He’s very handsome!” Diana cooed.

“Yes, he is,” Honey agreed. “He’s about as tall as Brian, but he’s built more like Mart. He’s so buff that you can tell he spends a lot of time in the gym.”

“Yeah, I saw him there once, and I can affirm that he has abs of steel,” Diana added. “If I weren’t head over heels in love with Mart, I’d bid on him myself.”

“Hmm…Sounds promising,” Trixie murmured. “Go on.”

“He’s got the most beautiful blue eyes I’ve ever seen,” Honey expounded. “And his hair is an interesting shade of auburn―”

Trixie held up a silencing hand. “Hold it right there. You know my policy, Honey. No redheads.”

“Nathan’s hair isn’t truly red,” Honey argued. “It’s brown with red highlights. It just looks red in the sunlight.”

Trixie shook her head. “Sorry, but I’ll pass. I’ve already had my heart broken by one redhead. I don’t care to repeat the process. What else have you got?”

Both Honey and Diana knew it was pointless to question Trixie about Jim, so neither pursued it.

“I think Mr. Lytell signed up, if you’re interested,” Honey teased.

Giggling madly, Diana added, “Maybe he’s like a fine wine and has gotten better with age.”

“Mr. Lytell’s more like vinegar; every year, he gets a little more sour,” Trixie huffed. “I hope you don’t lose money on him, Honey. You may have to pay someone to take him.”

“I don’t know, Trix. Word on the street is that a few of the old ladies are pooling their change so they can all chip in for him,” Honey said with a wink.

Trixie shivered. “Whatever floats your boat, I guess. As much as I’d like to make a sizable donation, I’ll have to pass on Mr. Lytell. Surely you have a few more studs to offer.”

“There are two particularly handsome specimens being offered, but I don’t think you’d be interested in them, either,” Diana remarked.

“And why is that?” Trixie prompted.

Diana flashed her a grin. “Because you’re related to them. Mart and Bobby signed up, too.”

“You actually let Mart volunteer?” Trixie gasped. “I mean, the chances of somebody actually bidding on him are zero to none, but you never know. There are a lot of desperate weirdoes in the world.”

“No worries, Trixie. I don’t plan on giving the weirdoes a chance to bid on my man. Each and every woman will be warned the minute she steps in the building not to bid on him.” Diana wagged her index finger in warning. “But don’t you dare tell him that!”

Trixie made a locking motion in front of her mouth. “My lips are sealed.”

“Frankly, I’m more worried about Bobby than Mart,” Honey said. “I almost feel guilty for allowing him to participate.”

Diana shot her a quizzical look. “Why?”

“Because it’s Bobby!” Honey exclaimed. “He’s my husband’s baby brother, and I’ve known him since he was in kindergarten.”

Diana whooped with laughter. “Who cares? He isn’t six anymore. He’s a big, strapping twenty-one-year-old, and in case you haven’t noticed, he’s all man!”

Trixie’s features were distorted in a grimace of pure horror. “There are just some things that you shouldn’t say out loud, Di, and that’s one of them.”

“What?” Diana demanded. “Bobby’s six-foot of pure muscle, got a tan the Jersey Shore cast would envy, and hair that any boy-band member would kill for. He’s a regular Adonis.”

“Okay, he is kinda hot,” Honey giggled. “Not that I’ve noticed or anything.”

“You both are sick,” Trixie muttered. “Isn’t anything sacred? When we were young, you used to swoon over my dad. Now, you’re drooling over my baby brother. That’s just messed up.”

“Huh, if Larry and Terry were here, you’d bid on them,” Diana challenged. “Fortunately for me, Larry’s overseas and Terry is in Arizona.”

“I have half a mind to buy Bobby to keep him away from all you sickos,” Trixie proclaimed. “I’d probably demand my money back by the end of the night, but at least I could get him back for all the crap he pulled on me as a kid.”

“Yeah, you could follow him around with a book and order him to read, read, read,” Diana suggested tartly.

“As a junior editor for Random House, he probably gets enough of that at work,” Honey said. “Seriously, Trix, I don’t think you need to worry about Bobby. He was more than willing to donate himself for such a good cause. He fancies himself quite the ladies’ man.”

Trixie’s gaze grew wistful. “I just wish a few more people had volunteered.”

“Anyone in particular that you’re thinking of?” Diana posed in an offhand tone.

“I’m not thinking about Jim, if that’s what you’re insinuating,” Trixie snapped. “Why, I wouldn’t bid on him if he were the last man on earth!”

“I was actually referring to Ben Riker, but now that you mention it, Jim has the potential to bring in the big bucks,” Diana said.

“Don’t be coy with me, Di Lynch!” Trixie bellowed. “I know you think that I wish Jim was being auctioned off so I could buy him, but I don’t!”

“I wasn’t thinking any such―” Diana began.

“No matter how good a cause this fundraiser is, I wouldn’t buy Jim Frayne if he was the last bachelor on earth!” Trixie thundered. “Why, if someone had a gun to my head and forced me to bid on someone, and my only two choices were Jim and Mr. Lytell, I’d choose Mr. Lytell, and it wouldn’t even be close!”

Honey’s smile was sympathetic. “You don’t have to worry about it. Jim isn’t participating. I tried to talk him into it, but he refused.”

“I’m surprised about that,” Diana remarked. “He hasn’t been too keen on Christmas since… well, since you broke up, but this is being held in Miss Trask’s honor. I thought Jim would’ve put the past behind him and made the sacrifice for her.”

“In his defense, he did write us a check for $5,000,” Honey pointed out, unwilling that her brother be portrayed as a villain. Her lips dipped downward in a frown. “I’m really worried about him. If he won’t stay in Sleepyside for an event like this, then I doubt anything could keep him here.”

Her curiosity outweighing her pride, Trixie asked, “What does he do for Christmas anyway?”

Honey shrugged. “Nobody knows. The Christmas after your breakup, he started disappearing before the holidays. He’s never told anyone where he goes, and when we try to reach him, he doesn’t answer his phone.”

Trixie did her best to maintain a look of apathy. “He probably sneaks off to Stowe and spends a couple weeks skiing and banging hot blondes.”

“I know you and Jim had a nasty split, and your opinion of him isn’t very high, but he’s my brother and I love him,” Honey scolded. “I know Jim, and he isn’t spending Christmas banging blondes or brunettes or even redheads, for that matter.”

“Honey’s right,” Diana agreed. “Jim hasn’t dated anyone since you, Trixie. Not a single person. I think the holidays bring back a lot of unpleasant memories for him, so he goes somewhere to be alone. You know how private he is.”

Honey nodded in agreement. “He is private. He’s shutting himself off more and more, and that worries me. I don’t want him to turn into a hermit like his great uncle.”

“Oh, don’t be ridiculous!” Trixie sputtered. “You make it out like Jim was soooo heartbroken after our breakup, but he wasn’t. He practically kicked me to the curb!”

Honey clasped Trixie’s hand. “Neither you nor Jim offered any explanation why you broke up, so I don’t know what happened. All I know is what I see from Jim on a regular basis. You tell us that he didn’t care about you, but that’s not what I’ve seen from him the past several years. Every day, I see a man that’s broken, a man that’s haunted by the past.”

Trixie swallowed the lump that had risen in her throat. “You see Jim through the eyes of a loving sister, Honey. I saw the real Jim, and I don’t regret breaking up with him.”

Although Honey sincerely doubted the truth of that statement, she didn’t question it. “Well, you don’t have to worry about seeing him this Christmas. I don’t know where he is, but I know he won’t be in Sleepyside.”

“Good,” Trixie said. “I have no desire to ever see him again.”

Trixie wasn’t lying to her friends; she was lying to herself.

December 20, 2012

Sleepyside Country Club

The past several days had been blissful for Trixie. So far, she had thoroughly enjoyed her time in Sleepyside. Happy to have their daughter on the same continent as them, Helen and Peter had spoiled her mercilessly. They treated her so well that Trixie almost wished she could move back to Crabapple Farm. Almost.

Trixie also spent a lot of time catching up with her friends. She popped in for a few meals at the Quirky Quail. After each visit, she was forced to admit that Mart was quite the chef. Needing something to wear to the fundraiser (and after much pleading from Honey and Diana), she stopped at Perfectly Perfect where she found a cocktail dress that was… well… perfectly perfect. They had a blast at the baby shower for Honey, and Trixie felt blessed that she’d been able to be there. One afternoon, she drove into the city and went to Random House to bug Bobby. He didn’t particularly appreciate her constant whines for him to read, read, read, but she found the experience highly amusing. However, her favorite stop was to Irish Eyes Stables. It was a joy to watch Dan and Regan in action, and she was completely fascinated by the process of training miniature horses.

Yes, her trip home had been lovely so far, but there was one thing missing. Or, rather, one person. While Trixie wouldn’t admit―to others, much less herself― there was a void in her heart where one redhead used to be. She felt that emptiness across the world in Senegal, but if possible, the ache grew worse here in Sleepyside. No matter how hard she tried to forget Jim, she couldn’t. Everything reminded her of him. No matter how far away he was physically, he was always front and center in her heart.

Dismissing all thoughts of her former boyfriend aside, Trixie focused on her surroundings. The Sleepyside Country Club had been decorated beautifully for the bachelor auction. The food tables offered an array of tantalizing appetizers and drinks. Guests could sit at one of the smaller tables to enjoy some nibbles or a bit of conversation. Sprigs of mistletoe hung from the ceilings, hoping it would inspire the single ladies to invest in a Christmas kiss. Pine branches mingled with white lights, pinecones, and holly berries graced the hearth of the slate fireplace. One of the largest spruces Trixie had ever seen stood proud and tall in the center of the room, adorned with hundreds of sparkling lights and fancy ornaments. Several small, potted evergreens, also strung with twinkling lights, lined the walls, creating a romantic glow in the room. The smell of pine lingered in the room. That particular scent always reminded Trixie of Jim. Every time she inhaled, it was almost as if his name were being whispered in her ear.

Looking around, Trixie couldn’t find a thing out of place. Honey certainly had outdone herself, and the auction was destined to be a success. Trixie smiled as she watched her sister-in-law and brother interact. They were most likely discussing a detail about the fundraiser, but the love the couple shared was obvious. Barbra Streisand’s song, “The Best Gift,” played softly in the background. As Brian lovingly patted Honey’s protruding belly, tears gathered in Trixie’s eyes as she considered the precious gift growing in Honey’s womb. She couldn’t help but wonder if she would ever be blessed with such a gift someday. Once again, Jim crept into her mind, but she dismissed the thought just as quickly as it had appeared.

“Some party, huh?” Mart garbled through a full mouth.

In spite of her heavy thoughts, Trixie’s lips edged upwards in a grin. “Hasn’t anyone ever told you that it’s rude to talk with your mouth full?”

“Yeah, but since I eat so much, it’s hardly ever empty,” Mart explained, his china blue eyes twinkling as brightly as the Christmas lights. “If I can’t dazzle you with my supernatural linguistic feats, how can I impart my vast supply of abstrusity to you?”

Trixie snorted loudly. “For someone that claims to be so smart, I can’t believe you’re so dumb that you think somebody would actually pay money to go on a date with you. To quote the immortal Bugs Bunny, what a maroon!”

Nonplussed, Mart stuffed another canapé into his mouth. “Have you tried these? I’ve gotta say, they’re the bomb, even if I did make them myself.”

“Dear, sweet, oblivious Mart,” Trixie said, patting him on the shoulder, “don’t ever let Di go because I doubt anyone else would have you. I still don’t know what she sees in you.”

“It certainly isn’t his charm, money, or looks,” Dan quipped as he joined them. He quickly snatched a bacon-wrapped scallop from Mart’s plate and popped it into his mouth. “I’ve been telling Di for years that she could do a whole lot better.”

“Oh, yeah, like you’re such a heartthrob!” Mart scoffed. “I’ll bet you five bucks that I bring in more money than you, Mangan.”

Dan grinned. “You’re on.” He winked at Trixie and added, “This’ll be the easiest five bucks I ever made.”

“If I were you, I wouldn’t sound so cocky,” Mart warned. “The ladies love a man that can cook. What do you have to offer? Tiny horses? Yeah, that’s sexy!”

“Hey, if any of these bachelors know sexy, it’s Dan ‘the man’ Mangan,” Dan argued.

Trixie glanced over at Nick Roberts, who was surrounded by a crowd of adoring females that were currently unaware that they had no chance whatsoever with the sensitive artist. “I’m not so sure about that, Dan. If the sexiest man in Sleepyside was being voted on tonight, it looks like Nick might take it in a landslide.”

“But look on the bright side, Dan,” Mart began, clapping his friend on the back, “from what I’ve heard, you’d probably have Nick’s vote.”

“Judging by the number of times Nick has admired Dan’s backside, I’d say Mart’s probably right,” Trixie giggled.

Dan shot them both dirty looks. “All that proves is that I attract men and women alike. Can you say that, Mart?”

“Nope, I sure can’t, and I’m not too worried about it,” Mart said, uncaringly wiping crumbs from his tuxedo. “However, I can say that I am currently engaged to the hottest girl in Sleepyside. Can you say that?”

“Let me get back to you tonight after the auction,” Dan retorted with a devilish grin.

“Speaking of Di, where is she?” Trixie asked.

“Powdering her nose or something like that,” Mart answered.

“Last time I saw her, she was standing by the door talking to some hot chick,” Dan offered.

Trixie had to choke back a laugh. No doubt Diana was greeting each potential bidder with a threat to steer clear of her fiancé during the auction. “Hey, can anyone get in on your bet about which of you will go to the highest bidder?”

Dan’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “You want a piece of the action?”

“Yeah, why not,” Trixie said, shrugging. “I’m putting fifty on Dan.”

Ever the ham, Mart drew back in surprise as he clutched his heart. “You’re betting fifty bucks that Dan fetches a higher price than me, your very own almost-twin?”

“Yep,” Trixie giggled.

Mart narrowed his gaze at her. “You do realize that Nick isn’t bidding, don’t you?”

“Yeah, but I’m willing to take my chances,” she replied.

“Whoever said blood was thicker than water hasn’t met my sister,” Mart muttered.

“Scientifically, yes, blood is thicker than water,” Brian announced as he joined the group. “Blood is made up of plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is definitely denser than water and has less ability to flow, so in that way, blood is definitely thicker than water. On the other hand, if you add solute to a solvent, the solute changes and becomes―”

“And people call me a know-it-all,” Mart interjected before Brian could elaborate.

Dan nodded his head in agreement. “Yeah, no offense, Brian, but it’s probably a good thing nobody’s buying you tonight.” With a sniff of importance, he added, “You wouldn’t bring in nearly as much cash as Mart and me.”

“Oh, really?” Brian chortled. “Need I remind you that of the three of us, I’m the only one that’s married?”

“That’s beside the point,” Dan argued. “I have chosen to remain a bachelor for the time being. If I tie myself down to one woman, it would cause mass hysteria to break out in the female population. Therefore, for the good of womankind, I will remain a bachelor.”

“In other words, nobody will have him,” Mart quipped. “Well, nobody except for Nick Roberts, but until recently, that was illegal. Lucky for you, times are changing, buddy!”

“Ha, ha, ha!” Dan bellowed, rolling his eyes at Mart’s attempt at humor.

Unlike Dan, Trixie laughed for real. Her merriment came to an abrupt end as she spied a familiar form out of the corner of her eye. His back was to her, but she had studied that backside for years. Narrowing her eyes, she examined the broad-shouldered figure to which Honey was speaking. If the athletically-svelte physique hadn’t given it away, the distinctive red hair would have.

Jim?

Surely her mind was playing tricks on her! This had to be the lawyer Honey and Diana had told her about― Nathan somebody? It couldn’t be Jim; it just couldn’t!

But it was. The longer she studied the mysterious tuxedoed man, the more certain she became. This man moved with the same athletic grace with which Jim moved, used the same gestures, even stood in the same position. If there had been any doubt, it disappeared when he turned to the side. His profile revealed a chiseled jaw line and hinted of the cleft in Jim’s chin. Trixie’s pulse raced as she caught a peek of the crooked grin that never failed to turn her knees to jelly. She was so enraptured by the sight of him that she didn’t realize she’d made a noise out loud.

“Trixie?” Mart asked, staring at his sister with curiosity. “Are you okay? You sound like you’re either in a lot of pain or enjoying yourself way too much in public.”

She vaguely heard someone say her name, but she couldn’t answer. She was caught up in the memory of the pine-scented embraces and peppermint-flavored kisses she had experienced long ago. Oblivious to the small crowd around her, Trixie’s response was a breathy sigh of longing.

Dan followed her gaze to Jim. A mischievous smile played at the corners of his lips as he made the connection. He nudged Mart on the elbow and tipped his head in Jim’s direction.

Two twin dimples appeared on either side of Mart’s mouth as his lips stretched in a broad grin. “Don’t look now, Beatrix, but methinks someone has broken his vow of yuletide solitude to fraternize with the commoners.”

Trixie gasped as Jim turned and followed Honey over to where they were standing. She wondered briefly if he saw her. Her question was answered as his shamrock-colored eyes honed in on her sky-blue ones. Like green lasers, they cut into her flesh and sent a flash of heat coursing through her.

“I didn’t think Jim was coming,” Dan remarked.

Brian shrugged, his lips curled in a secretive smile. “Maybe someone gave him a sneak peek at the guest list and he changed his mind.”

Mart glanced over at Trixie. “Gee, I wonder who inspired his change of heart,” he muttered.

“Brian, I’m sure your intentions were good, but it’s a shame you’re going to die before your kid gets here,” Dan whispered. “Trixie’s gonna kill you!”

“No, she’s going to thank me,” Brian corrected. A quick peek at his sister reaffirmed his belief. She looked completely mesmerized by the sight of her former flame.

Trixie, oblivious to the conversation around her, felt as if life was moving in slow motion. A prickling of apprehension raised goose bumps on her bare forearms as she watched Jim’s approach. His rugged features hadn’t changed much, save for the fine lines around his brilliant green eyes. The supposed imperfections actually added to his allure and gave him an air of wisdom.

Jim carried himself with the grace of a ballroom dancer, yet his erect, military posture evoked strength. His perfectly tailored tuxedo fit him like a second skin and accentuated the muscles bulging underneath. In spite of his formal attire, Trixie could still see the dreamy woodsman she’d fallen in love with years ago. He perfectly balanced an air of class and success with his love for the outdoors. She imagined him going from a psychiatric symposium to the forest with ease.

What struck her most was the intensity she saw in his eyes. They never once wavered from her. Although he was openly ogled by countless surrounding females, Jim’s gaze never left Trixie. He focused on her completely, oblivious to every other woman in the room. Trixie found that flattering and exhilarating all at the same time. When Jim looked at her, she felt beautiful and desirable…as well as a little nauseated. The last time her stomach had churned like this, she’d contracted a nasty jungle virus, but at least a doctor had been able to treat that. She had a feeling there wasn’t any cure for what ailed her now. Swallowing tightly, she braced herself for the meeting she had both yearned for and dreaded at the same time.

“Merry Christmas, Trixie.” His voice was just as warm and husky as she’d remembered.

“Merry Christmas to you, too, Jim,” she managed to choke out.

Sensing they needed privacy, their friends slipped away unnoticed.

Jim’s eyes swept over her like a warm caress, leaving Trixie feeling tingly all over. Although she’d never admit it, she was thankful she’d allow Honey and Diana to treat her to a designer dress at Perfectly Perfect. His gaze leisurely traveled the length of her petite form, and he appeared to like what he saw.

Honey and Diana had selected a short, flowing cocktail dress for her. Diana had designed it with Trixie as her inspiration―short, sexy, and simple, but with a hint of sparkle. Trixie, usually preferring a tank top, shorts, and hiking boots, begrudgingly agreed it was perfect for her. Not only was it beautiful, it was actually comfortable, something Trixie didn’t know was possible. If this was any indication of Diana’s skills as a designer, then she was bound to set the fashion world on fire.

The strapless A-line gown was white chiffon and fell a few inches above her knees. The ruched bodice was simple yet elegant and made the most of her modest bust. An empire waistline accentuated her hourglass figure, and the short length showed off her shapely legs to their full advantage. The dress’s only adornment was a sparkly rhinestone-encrusted belt in the shape of silver leaves. Against her friends’ wishes, Trixie had flatfootedly refused to wear heels (pun intended), and instead had chosen a pair of silver ballerina flats. Her only jewelry was a diamond solitaire necklace set in white gold that Jim had given her when they were dating.

“You look good,” he told her.

“So do you,” she responded in a voice barely above a whisper. Understatement of the year, she thought to herself.

“You haven’t changed a bit.”

“Neither have you.”

As if on autopilot, Jim reached out a freckled hand to the hollow of her neck and outlined the diamond solitaire with his index finger. “I got you this, didn’t I?”

It took all Trixie’s willpower not to shiver. Jim’s finger felt like a hot fireplace poker against her cool skin. The sensitive skin around the necklace burned at the sensation of Jim’s touch. It was the kind of torture she could get used to.

“You did,” she finally managed. Struggling for intelligent conversation, she said the first thing that came to mind. “I didn’t think you would be here.”

“Frankly, I didn’t think I’d be here, either,” he admitted.

“So why are you here?”

Jim allowed a few seconds to pass as he considered his answer. “I’m here because of you. Brian told me you were coming, and I wanted to see you again. It’s been too long, Trixie.”

“It has,” she agreed, her voice breathy.

“I also came for Miss Trask,” he added.

A pang of sadness pierced Trixie’s heart as she thought of the lovely lady that had had such an impact on her. “I still can’t believe she’s gone.”

“Me either.”

The look of utter loss on Jim’s face wrenched Trixie’s heart. She almost reached out to touch him, but stopped herself. “I’m so sorry, Jim. I know you were even closer to her than I was.”

At a loss for words, Jim merely nodded.

“I wish I could’ve come home for the funeral. I’m sure it was lovely.”

“It was,” he affirmed. “A lovely service for a lovely woman.”

“It’s nice of Honey to plan this fundraiser in her honor,” Trixie commented. She looked up at him through a thick fringe of sandy lashes. “Are you participating?”

Jim flashed her a lopsided grin. “In the auction?”

She nodded her affirmation.

“Yes,” he answered. With a twinkle in his eyes, he added, “Do you plan on placing a bid?”

“I…I didn’t come here to bid on anybody,” she stammered.

“Well, if you change your mind, I’m bachelor number 17,” he said with a wink. “I’ll be sure you get your money’s worth.”

Unable to speak, Trixie swallowed hard, wishing she could block out the lascivious thoughts that were dancing through her head. Her mind was filled with things she’d like to do with Jim, but none of them made for proper conversation.

“I’ll… keep that in mind,” she squeaked out.

Jim sensed he had made her uncomfortable. Ever the gentleman, he sought to put her at ease. “I’m still surprised that Di let Mart sign up. They’re getting married next summer, so calling him a ‘bachelor’ is false advertising.”

“I doubt Di’s worried,” Trixie giggled. “She had a plan in place guaranteed to keep the ladies from bidding on Mart.”

“Is that so?”

Trixie nodded. “Yeah, she stopped all potential bidders at the door and warned them to keep their mitts off her man. Not that anybody would want Mart. Di’s the only girl crazy enough to put up with that almost-twin of mine.”

Jim chuckled. “I should’ve known that Di had a contingency plan.”

“Yeah, Di’s pretty spunky, especially when it comes to her man.” Trixie wagged her finger at him. “Just don’t tell Mart. He and Dan took bets on which one of them would bring the bigger price, and after I found out what Di did, I put my money on Dan. After tonight, I’ll be fifty dollars richer.”

“I can’t wait to see Mart’s face when nobody bids on him,” Jim laughed. His demeanor quickly sobered as a thought came to him. His spine stiffened as he mulled the possibility. “Do you plan to bid on Dan?”

“No, of course not.”

Jim visibly relaxed.

“Like I said before, I’m not bidding on anyone.” With a chuckle, she added, “Not only do I not have the money, the Peace Corps wouldn’t like it if I purchased a man, even if it is for charity. They have a staunch position against human trafficking, you know.”

One of Jim’s ginger brows shot up. “So, you’re still with the Peace Corps, huh? I thought your stint with them was over.”

“It is, but I’m reenlisting for another two years. I want to go back to Senegal.”

“Oh.”

The warm camaraderie the two once shared iced over at the mention of Trixie’s plans. Trixie could see Jim’s jaw stiffen, a sure sign he wasn’t happy.

“Do you have a problem with the Peace Corps?” she asked him, her voice taking on a frosty tone.

“No, not at all. After all these years, I thought you might be ready to come home.”

It was on the tip of her tongue to say that she might come home if she had something to come home to. Or rather, someone. Instead, she said, “They need me in Africa.”

Burdened with the weight of buried feelings, Jim’s shoulders sagged under the load. “Have you ever considered that maybe you’re needed here?”

A spark of hope was lit in Trixie. Just as she opened her mouth to ask if Jim needed her, he spoke again.

“Or maybe you’re afraid, and it’s easier to keep running.”

The spark of hope turned into a spark of fury. “I’m not afraid,” she corrected sharply.

“Oh really?” Jim challenged. “Then why have you isolated yourself on an entirely different continent, away from your family and friends?”

“I love what I do!” she blustered. “I’m making a difference in Senegal!”

“Then why are you wasting time in Sleepyside? Go back to Africa!”

“I plan to as soon as Christmas is over!”

“Well, I hope you don’t expect me to pay your way,” Jim stormed. “I already made that mistake once!”

Trixie’s arms flapped like a pair of startled turtledoves. “I can’t believe you’re bringing that up! I’ve already offered to pay you back for that stupid plane ticket to Burma! What else do you want me to do?”

What Jim wanted was for her to choose him, but that isn’t what he said. “When has it ever mattered what I want? You’re going to do what you want to do, just like you’ve always done. After all these years, I’m used to it.”

His words stung her like a slap on the face. She expelled a lengthy breath before speaking. “Maybe you’d get what you want if you’d open up. You accuse me of running away, but you’re the king of shutting people out! How can anyone get close to you if you keep them at a distance?”

Like the bell signaling the end of a round of boxing, an alert came from the stage.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Honey began from the podium, “the meet and greet portion of tonight’s auction has come to a conclusion. In ten minutes we’ll begin the bidding. Bachelors, please report backstage. Ladies, get out those checkbooks, flex your writing hand, and prepare to write a hefty check to help fight breast cancer!”

Without so much as a goodbye, Jim stomped off towards the stage. Trixie watched him leave. A million thoughts filled her head. Things she should’ve said; things she shouldn’t have said… Most of all, she was filled with regret. Thankfully, her friends returned before she could dwell on it too long.

“Where’d Jim go?” Mart asked.

“Backstage.”

“Did you two lovebirds patch things up?” Brian inquired hopefully.

Trixie snorted. “No, but at least we managed not to scratch each other’s eyes out. That man infuriates me like nobody else!”

“You know what they say…” Dan drawled. “The more passion during the arguments, the more passion you’ll experience when you make up.”

“Don’t even go there, Mangan!” Trixie threatened.

Mart patted his sister’s arm. “It’s okay, Sis. I’ll get him back for you.”

“And how do you intend to do that?” Trixie queried, her sandy brows shooting up in disbelief.

“By humiliating him during the auction, natch!” Mart slapped his forehead. “I’m going to bring in so much money that I’m going to decimate everyone!”

Trixie rolled her eyes. “And what purpose will that serve?”

“Jim will realize that he ain’t all that and a bag of chips, and he’ll come crawling back to you, Trix.” Mart wore a smug expression. “Sounds like a good plan, huh?”

Brian clapped his younger brother on the back. “It’s good to dream, Mart.”

“Yeah, and at least he has Di as a consolation prize,” Dan chortled.

“Oh, contraire, the fair Diana is no mere ‘consolation prize’,” Mart corrected. “I’m not offering myself up like a porterhouse on a platter in an attempt to find someone better. I’m merely sacrificing myself for the good of humanity. If you’re going to find a cure for cancer, big brother, you need funds to do it, and I have determined in my heart to get you those funds. If I have to put on a little gun show to bring in the bucks, so be it. If I have to wiggle my moneymaker, consider it done. There is nothing I won’t do to get you that money.”

“Mart Belden, Sleepyside gigolo extraordinaire,” Trixie snickered. “Miss Trask would be so proud that you’re pimping yourself in her honor.”

Mart quickly set the record straight. “Hey, don’t get the wrong idea. “The ladies can look, but they can’t touch. These masculinely delicious charms are the sole property of the beautiful Diana Lynch soon-to-be Belden.”

“So you’re willing to shake your gluteus maximus, just not share it?” Brian clarified.

“Exactly,” Mart affirmed smugly. “Just call me Magic Mart.”

“Hey, if you’re gonna drop your drawers and dance around like you have ants in your pants, then I might bid on you,” Dan hooted. “I’d pay a hefty price for a comedy show like that.”

“Ha, ha,” Mart said wryly, clearly not appreciating Dan’s attempt at humor. “The plan is to show off the goods, rake in the dough, and then wine and dine the lucky bidder with a meal she’ll never forget. Everyone’s a winner.”

“Everyone except Di,” Trixie remarked. “Someday she’s going to have to put up with Mart’s inflated ego on a daily basis.”

Mart smirked at her. “You just wait, Beatrix. The ladies will be fighting to see who gets to take this beefcake home. You’ll see.”

“Yes, I’m sure I will,” she giggled.

“It’s almost time for me to do my little turn on the catwalk.” Mart smoothed his tuxedo. “Do I look okay? Or am I too sexy for this auction?”

“You look great,” Trixie said. She actually meant it, too. Mart was a handsome man. If Diana hadn’t threatened bidders, he might have possibly garnered the attention of several bidders. However, she wasn’t about to tell her almost-twin that.

“Okay, time to bring in the big bucks.” Mart looked at Dan. “Are you coming?”

“I wouldn’t miss this train wreck for the world,” Dan proclaimed. Once Mart had walked away, he turned back to Trixie, his onyx-colored eyes pleading. “Whatever you do, don’t let Nick win me.”

Trixie laughed. “How am I supposed to stop him? Kidnap him and leave him tied up in the broom closet?”

“Yeah, that’s kind of harsh, especially since the poor guy already came out of the closet once,” Brian quipped.

Dan rolled his eyes. There wasn’t much time, and he was in no mood for joking. “All I ask is that you outbid him. Nick’s a nice guy, but obviously, he’s not my type. I mean, I can see why he’s interested in me. I’m a gorgeous hunk. Any man would be tickled pink to have me on his arm.”

Trixie choked back a giggle.

“Unfortunately for Nick, I’m a hetero hunk,” Dan continued. “If I batted for the other team, I’d be flattered, but let’s face it; dinner with him would be awkward. His door is welcome to swing any way it wants, but mine swings firmly in the opposite direction, if you know what I mean. He’s a sensitive guy, and I don’t want to break his heart.”

Trixie struggled to keep a straight face. “How very kind of you.”

Dan nodded. “I know, right? So, if it looks like he’s going to win, outbid him, no matter how much you have to pay!”

“You do realize that I’m just a poor volunteer Peace Corps worker, don’t you?” Trixie asked. “I don’t exactly make a lot of money.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Dan told her. “Whatever the cost, I’ll pay you back. I have a little extra squirreled away that I was going to donate to the cause anyway. Just help a brother out.”

“All right,” Trixie agreed.

“Thanks, Freckles.” Dan applied a quick kiss to her forehead before dashing away. “You’re a peach!”

Once he was gone, Brian cast a skeptical eye on her. “Are you really going to bail him out?”

“Yeah, but it’ll cost him dearly,” Trixie said, winking. “If I’m forced to break Nick’s heart, I plan to spend a great deal of Dan’s money to make it happen.”

“Atta girl,” Brian said, giving her a quick hug. “As much work as Honey’s put into this fundraiser, I hope it’s a rousing success.”

Trixie’s gaze drifted to the stage. As usual, Honey was the epitome of elegance. She looked gorgeous in an emerald green silk cocktail dress. The empire waist didn’t disguise her rounded belly, but it showed off her feminine beauty to perfection. Trixie had already heard about how the deep V neckline made full advantage of Honey’s newly developed cleavage. Pregnancy had been kind to her bosom, and Honey wanted to show it off while she had it. It was cliché to say, but Honey glowed.

However, it was obvious that she was tired. Her normally flawless complexion was paler than usual. Although her makeup did much to conceal any imperfections, Trixie could see dark circles under Honey’s eyes. Her legs, usually long and lean, were slightly puffy with water weight gain. Most interesting of all, Trixie noticed that Honey’s belly wasn’t nearly as high as it had been the day before, and she wondered if the baby had dropped.

“How’s Honey doing?” she asked.

“Great. She’s exhausted, of course, but that’s normal.”

“Has she had any pains lately?”

“Except for Braxton-Hicks, no.” Brian smiled at his sister. “I know what you’re thinking, but Honey isn’t ready to go into labor. She visited her doctor just yesterday, and she’s right on schedule for delivering the second week of January.”

Trixie shrugged. “You never know. That kid’s part Wheeler, and nobody tells them what to do. They’re a bunch of stubborn redheads, you know. I’m betting the baby drops before the New Year’s ball.”

“I’m well aware of my wife’s family traits,” Brian teased. “Look, Trix, I know you want to be here when the baby comes, but you’ll probably be back in Africa when that happens.”

“We’ll see,” was all Trixie said. Brian may have gone to medical school, but he had never practiced medicine. From everything she’d seen while volunteering at the hospital in Senegal, Honey wouldn’t last until her due date.

Before they could discuss it further, Diana joined them.

“Well, my work is done,” she said, wearing a smile of satisfaction. “Every potential bidder has been warned. I channeled my best Dirty Harry, and I doubt Mart will garner even a look of interest.”

“Excellent work,” Trixie congratulated.

Brian chuckled. “Di, I commend your efforts, but you didn’t have anything to worry about. Even if Mart had been bought by some gorgeous woman, he wouldn’t have given her second look. He’s totally nuts about you.”

“Oh, yes, I don’t doubt Mart’s faithfulness one iota,” Diana acknowledged. “However, you and I both know how incorrigible he is. If he earned the top bid, we’d never hear the end of it.”

“You’re right,” Brian conceded.

“Shhh!” Trixie ordered. “The auction’s getting ready to start.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention?” Honey tapped the microphone at the podium, making sure it was working. “Welcome to the first annual Hunks for Hope Charity Auction! As some of you may know, I lost a dear friend to breast cancer last year. This event has been organized in her honor, and every penny raised will go towards helping us find a cure.” She paused for applause.

“The rules have already been discussed,” Honey continued. “As a reminder, you will have the opportunity to bid on several eligible bachelors from Sleepyside. You may bid on― and win― as many bachelors as you wish. If you are the highest bidder, you will be granted a holiday date with the man you’ve won. Please keep in mind that your date is only obligated to provide you with dinner and family-friendly entertainment. I’m sorry, ladies, but satisfaction isn’t necessarily guaranteed, if you know what I mean.”

Several of the ladies giggled, but a few groans of disappointment were heard.

“Each of our bachelors has been screened personally by me,” Honey went on. “So, even though your satisfaction hasn’t been guaranteed, your safety has. Each man up for auction is ambitious, accomplished, and personable. Most importantly, each one is a total hunk! No matter which one you take home, you won’t be disappointed. And, if you’re worried that one won’t be enough, go ahead and bid on multiple men and start your own harem.”

Her last statement was received particularly well, and several ladies whistled loudly.

“Finally,” Honey concluded, “please remember that this is for a good cause. Breast cancer affects us all, and it will take each and every one of us to find a cure. We may not be able to do the necessary research, but we can donate money to fund it.

“So, without further ado, let the bidding begin! Ladies, it’s time to bring on Sleepyside’s hunkiest bachelors!”

The room erupted with excited shrieks, squeals, and whistles. Brian, completely out of his element, looked a little frightened. Noticing her brother’s discomfort, Trixie giggled.

“What’s the matter, Bri? Have you never been around such a bloodthirsty crowd before?”

Brian shook his head. “No, not unless you count that time we did that testing on the monkeys. We were working on a shot to increase a woman’s libido, and we tried it out on the female monkeys. They were scary crazy! So, yeah, I guess I have been exposed to this before.”

Once the commotion died down, Honey resumed speaking. “If your mouth is watering for Christmas treats, then bachelor number one is the guy for you.” She paused as Mart swaggered on the stage. “Mart Belden is the owner and head chef of Sleepyside’s most popular restaurant, the Quirky Quail.”

Channeling Mick Jagger, Mart strode around the stage like he owned it. He paused every so often to flex his muscles or strike a pose. Trixie wondered if he was under the mistaken impression that he was filming a Calvin Klein commercial.

Trying her best not to laugh, Honey read the stats that Mart had provided for her. “At 5’10 Mart may not be the tallest man in the room, but he might be the most muscular. Every single one of his 185 pounds has been whipped into fighting condition, and his physique is only surpassed by his impressive vocabulary. When his penchant for unconventional conversation, Mart will stimulate your mind and your appetite! And, in case you’ve forgotten, in spite of his love for food, he has abs of steel. He’s a lean, mean cooking machine, and you’re guaranteed to enjoy a mouthwatering holiday meal with Mart cooking. His talents in the kitchen undoubtedly will get your temperature rising!”

Mart had timed his working of the stage perfectly. He stopped in the middle just as Honey concluded her scripted spiel. He assumed a manly pose, flashed a dimpled grin, and waited for the women to start fighting over him. He just hoped there was no bloodshed.

“Ladies, who would like to kick off tonight’s bidding?” Honey asked.

The room grew eerily silent as the horny huntresses from before were transformed into prim and proper church ladies. Not a single hand went up.

Since there were no takers, Honey took matters into her own hands. “Bidding will begin at $100.” Sensing the lack of interest in the room, she tried to sweeten the pot. “Yes, sirree, for the bargain price of $100, not only will you win a fun-filled evening with this handsome specimen, you’ll be treated to a delicious dinner. Mart is sure to give you a voracious appetite, and one taste will leave you craving more. Why, I’ll bet Mart would even bake you some of your favorite Christmas cookies.”

The room was so quiet that Honey was tempted to ask Brian to check for pulses. Undeterred, she tried a new tactic. “Gentleman that he is, I’m sure Mart would be happy to help with all those unwanted holiday chores. Have some gifts that need wrapping? Or perhaps you need some assistance trimming your tree? Need a volunteer to dress up as Santa to entertain your guests? Mart can do it all for a mere $100!”

Absolutely shocked by the lack of interest, Mart made a few more trips across the stage, pausing every so often to flex his biceps and show off his firm backside. There had to be a mistake!

“Ladies, did I mention that he cooks and cleans up afterward?” Honey inquired hopefully. Doubting her auctioneering skills, she decided to lower the asking price. “Do I hear $75?”

Nothing.

“Okay… How about $50? That’s the deal of a century, ladies. $50!” Honey’s voice took on a tinge of desperation. “Somebody will have to take him for $25. You can’t even get a decent meal at a fast-food restaurant for that. Surely he’s worth $25!”

“Five hundred dollars!” Diana yelled, having pity on her fiancé.

Honey brightened as she pointed the gavel in Diana’s direction. “We have $500 from the black-haired woman in the silver dress. Do I hear $550? Anyone? $500 going once… going twice… Sold! Mart Belden has been sold for $500 to Diana Lynch!”

Diana blew a kiss in Mart’s direction as he exited the stage, his head lowered in dejection. She smirked over at Trixie. “I know it’s against the rules, but something tells me that my satisfaction will be guaranteed,” she said with a waggle of her ebony brows.

“Ew!” Trixie shrieked. “The thought of you banging my brother is bad enough. The thought of you paying for it… Unacceptable!”

The two chatted back and forth as several other bachelors went up for bidding. A shy brunette fought tooth and nail until she snagged Nick Roberts for $375. Trixie hoped the winner would be satisfied with the dinner and conservation.

Both having their hearts set on Regan, Jenny Ratner and Fay Franklin went back and forth for several minutes. Finally, Fay won with a bid of $630. Determined to win a redhead, Jenny beat out several others and acquired Nathan Gibson for $700.

Much to Trixie’s surprise, Bobby fetched a respectable $400. Mary Kate Lynch, one of Diana’s sisters, had been chasing Bobby for years, and this was her chance to catch him. From the look on Bobby’s face, he seemed happy with the turn of events.

Tad Webster, now the high school baseball coach, brought in the tidy sum of $450; after she won, Norma Nelson made the comment that she was anxious to get to third base with Tad. Tad looked a little frightened, and Honey made a mental note to remind him that he wasn’t allowed to send a pinch hitter on his date with Norma.

“Ladies, I hope you’ve been good this year because you’re sure to want this gift from Santa,” Honey began as Dan walked onto the stage. Unlike his best friend, Dan merely stood in one place, his crossed armed accentuating his biceps. Eschewing a tuxedo coat in favor of a black leather sport jacket, he totally rocked the bad boy vibe.

“Dan Mangan spent years chopping wood, and he’s anxious to snuggle with you in front of a cozy fire,” Honey promoted. “On the outside he looks like a bad boy, but underneath that black leather jacket beats a heart of gold. Fresh off Santa’s naughty list, Dan can’t wait to deck the halls with you.”

Dan turned around to shoot Honey a quizzical glance. “Where do you come up with this stuff?”

Ignoring him, Honey continued her sales tactic. “If you’re an adventurous kind of girl, then Dan is the bachelor for you. Do you enjoy the feel of something strong between your legs as you hit the open roads? Maybe Dan will take you for a ride on his Harley to look at all the lights around town. Perhaps you’d rather put on your ice skates and do a few figure eights. Let Dan take the lead and guide you in a wintry waltz. There’s no need to worry about the chill in the air. Things tend to heat up whenever Dan’s around, so I’m sure he’ll find a way to keep you warm.”

Brian poked Trixie on the shoulder and whispered, “If she wasn’t nine-months pregnant with my baby, I’d be worried.”

“I’d be worried, too,” Trixie snorted. “Honey’s almost convinced me to bid on Dan.”

“Ladies, who would like to start the bidding?” Honey asked.

A frail hand held up a ten-dollar bill. “Ten bucks!” Greta Vanderpoel hollered from the back.

“Fifty!” Ethel Elliot countered.

Waving her hand to draw attention, Rachel Martin entered the fray. “$100!”

Not to be outdone, Ethel raised her bid. “$150!”

If she hadn’t been heavily pregnant, Honey would’ve jumped up and down at all the interest being shown. “We’ve got a regular bidding war, ladies! Do I hear $200?”

“I see your $200, and I raise it to $250!” Greta yelled.

“$275!” Rachel challenged.

“Rachel Martin is offering $275,” Honey said. “Do we have another bid? $275 going once… go―”

“$300!” Greta interrupted.

A second later, Ethel raised the bid. “$350!”

“The bid stands at $350,” Honey announced. “$350 going once… going twice…”

Before Honey could end the bidding, Greta stopped her. “Honey, would it be against the rules for me to have a little chat with Ethel and Rachel?”

“Um, I’ve never heard of bidders having a conference in the middle of an auction,” Honey answered. “However, if it’s all right with Ethel and Rachel, I suppose it would be all right.”

“Let’s powwow, girls,” Greta ordered, motioning her posse over to her. The three blue-haired women huddled for a few minutes. When the conversation was over, Greta addressed Honey. “Is there a rule against chipping in?”

Honey raised her eyebrows into a questioning arc. “Pardon me?”

“Is it okay if the three of us chip in to buy Dan?” Ethel asked. “We’re all on a fixed income, so would it be okay if we split him three ways?”

Dan gulped at the prospect of being torn apart by three blue-haired ladies. He cast a pleading look in Honey’s direction, hoping she’d rescue him. A sultry blonde in the back had caught his eye, and he held out hope that she’d have the chance to outbid the randy senior citizens.

“Well… I…I guess that would be fine,” Honey faltered. “What’s your bid?”

“$500!” Rachel hollered.

“$500 going once… going twice… sold!” Honey grinned down at the old women. “Don’t break anything, ladies.”

“Oh, we don’t plan to,” Greta said. “That’s why we bought Dan. I nearly broke my hip doing my spring cleaning, so I’m going to put that young man to work. He’s tall, and my windows need washing.”

“And my bathroom needs painting,” Ethel chimed.

“I have a light bulb burned out in my foyer.” Blushing a becoming shade of pink, Rachel added, “I could probably change it myself, but the truth is, I just want to stare at his butt while he changes it.”

Shell-shocked and slightly fearful, Dan staggered off the stage. Somehow, he had imagined the auction going differently.

Trixie and Diana dissolved in a fit of giggles.

“I can’t believe those sweet old ladies bought Dan!” Trixie gasped.

Diana laughed so hard that tears began to roll. “Oh, I can believe they bought him; I can’t believe they bought him to do chores! I’ll bet you anything that at least one of those old gals tries to get frisky with him!”

“Poor Dan!” Trixie hooted.

“Well, look on the bright side. At least he and Mart brought in the same amount, so neither one of them can crow about being the top earner.”

“Good point,” Trixie muttered.

The auction continued. Several more bachelors offered their company for a price. Ruthie Kettner, recently separated from her longtime beau, Lester Mundy, shelled out $250 to buy Lester’s best friend, Shrimpy Davis. Shrimpy didn’t seem to mind, and Ruthie appeared quite proud of herself, especially when Lester only brought in $75.

Veronica Wilson, longtime kindergarten teacher, scooped up Spider Webster. She’d had her eye on Spider for a while and had been speeding to get his attention. As she told Honey later, that $600 was cheaper than continuing to be pulled over.

Even crotchety old Henry Lytell earned a respectable $100. Nobody had ever met the winning bidder, and Honey made a mental note to check on the surly shopkeeper as soon as the date was over to make sure he hadn’t been kidnapped by an axe murderer.

A hush fell over the crowd as the final bachelor of the night was announced. Word had quickly spread that Jim Frayne had signed up, and several ladies had been waiting to place their bids on Sleepyside’s most sought-after man.

“Ladies, if you still haven’t found that perfect Christmas gift for yourself, this is your last chance,” Honey warned. “It’s time to bring out our final bachelor for the night, and, as popular as he is, Jim Frayne needs no introduction.”

Jim walked onto the stage and held up a hand in greeting. In spite of his air of self-confidence, he wore a hint of a blush and seemed a bit surprised by all the whistles he was receiving from the lusty crowd.

“I hope you’ve been a good girl this year, because this Boy Scout is dying to come down your chimney,” Honey volunteered. “Santa may come only once a year, but Jim keeps on giving. This philanthropist donates to several good causes, and I’m sure he’d be thrilled to give one lucky bidder what she’s always wanted for Christmas.”

The crowd went crazy, especially when Jim flashed them a lopsided grin.

“Don’t let his tux fool you,” Honey continued. “Jim is equally comfortable in tight-fitting jeans and a flannel shirt. Whether you want a romantic meal in a pricey restaurant or a more intimate dinner by the fireplace, Jim will meet your needs. If he finds you particularly special, perhaps he’ll show you his sizable trust fund or let you play his favorite harmonica!”

Jim’s ruddy complexion went so pale that the faint freckles on his face stood out like neon signs.

“Which lucky lady out there would like to begin the bidding?”

“$200!” Jane Morgan shouted.

Patty Morris was quick to offer a counterbid. “$250!”

“$300!” Cecilia Lawler yelled.

Trixie and Diana exchanged a look.

“Miss Lawler?” Diana gasped. “She was Jim’s teacher. That’s kinda creepy.”

“Guess he’s legal now,” Trixie giggled.

$350!” Amy Morrisey offered.

The words were barely out of Amy’s mouth before Jane raised the bid. “$400!”

“We have a bid of $400 from Jane Morgan,” Honey proclaimed. “Do I hear―”

“$500!” Amy said even before Honey could finish.

Diana gasped at how quickly the price grew. “Wow, Jim’s going to bring in the big bucks.”

“Yeah, it looks like it,” Trixie commented. The thought of Jim going out with someone else made her jealous, but she wasn’t too concerned about any of the current bidders. She knew they weren’t Jim’s type and didn’t offer much competition.

“$600,” a woman from the back offered.

Not recognizing the voice, Trixie turned to see who had upped the ante and was immediately overcome by the green monster. The bidder was a gorgeous blonde with a sexy figure to go along with her picture-perfect features.”

“Who’s she?” Trixie hissed.

“I don’t know,” Diana answered. “Do you know her, Brian?”

Brian shook her head. “Never seen her before in my life.” Stoking the coals, he added for Trixie’s benefit, “She’s beautiful, though.”

“Humph, she’s probably some hussy that Jim’s been seeing,” Trixie groused.

“Jim hasn’t dated anyone since you,” Diana assured her.

Knowing exactly what he was doing, Brian added, “It looks like that’s about to change.”

Trixie’s fuming was interrupted by a counterbid from Jane Morgan. “$700!”

“$800!” Patty shot back.

The gorgeous blonde wasn’t about to be outbid. “$1,000.”

The crowd gasped. So far, none of the bachelors had brought in four figures.

“We have a bid of $1,000 from the lovely lady in the back,” Honey announced. “Do we have $1,100?”

“Trixie, why don’t you place a bid?” Diana urged.

“Me?” Trixie gasped. “Even if I wanted to bid on Jim―which I don’t!― I don’t have eleven-hundred bucks.”

“I could loan part of it to you,” Diana offered.

“Honey and I would be willing to give you the rest as a Christmas present,” Brian added.

Trixie shook her head. “I don’t want your money, and I don’t want to go on a date with Jim!”

$1,100!” Cecelia hollered.

With a ferocious expression on her face, Jane thundered, “$1,200!”

Her voice calm and her features serene, the blonde replied, “$1,500.”

“Fifteen-hundred bucks?!” Trixie hissed. “What a desperate little slut!”

“There’s still time to outbid her,” Diana told her.

Trixie smirked back at the blonde. She didn’t care what Brian said; Jim probably knew this mystery woman. For that matter, he was probably screwing her in Stowe! The more Trixie thought, the angrier she grew. Much more thinking and she’d have steam coming out her ears.

“Going once…” Honey said slowly.

“Trixie, if you’re going to bid, you’d better hurry,” Brian cautioned.

“I can’t borrow that much money from you,” Trixie insisted.

“Going twice…”

“Why not?” Diana demanded. “We have it.”

“I just can’t!” Trixie maintained.

“Hey, wouldn’t it be wild if Jim ended up marrying this mystery bidder?” Brian remarked in a seemingly casual voice.

“Two thousand dollars!” Trixie thundered, just as Honey was preparing to slam her gavel against the podium.

The room went silent. Trixie stood still, mouth agape, completely shocked by her own actions. She could feel Jim’s eyes boring holes in her, but she was too afraid to look at him. If he was angry with her for bidding against the blonde bombshell, then so be it.

“We have a bid of $2,000,” Honey declared. “Do I hear $2,100?”

The room remained silent.

“Going once… going twice…” Honey looked pointedly at the sultry blonde, who just shook her head. “Gone! Sold to Trixie Belden for $2,000!”

What on earth have I done? Trixie asked herself.

December 24, 2012

Crabapple Farm

Trixie’s foot tapped out a steady beat. She was as nervous as she’d ever been. After years of longing for this moment, it was finally going to happen. She was going on a date with Jim Frayne. And it had only cost her two grand.

“What was I thinking?” she muttered to herself. “I can’t believe I did something so stupid.”

She’d tried to get out of it, but Jim wouldn’t have it. He insisted on taking her out. She put it off as long as she could, but here she was, on Christmas Eve, preparing for a date with the love of her life. She would’ve been excited if that same man hadn’t broken her heart five years ago.

Her pulse racing faster than Usain Bolt, Trixie took several deep breaths in and out. She hopped up and ran in the bathroom to check her appearance. She felt underdressed in a silver wool sweater and jeans, but Jim had instructed her to wear something casual and warm.

The unexpected knock sounded more like a boulder falling on the house. She hadn’t even heard Jim’s truck outside. Her hand trembling, she turned the knob and opened the door.

“Hello,” she greeted nervously.

“Hey.” Jim’s smile was even more lopsided than usual. “I’m a little early. I hope that’s okay.”

Trixie nodded. “I was ready. You surprised me, though. I didn’t hear your vehicle pull up.”

“That because I didn’t bring the truck.” Jim opened the door wider and hitched his thumb back at his ride. “I decided we needed a more Christmassy mode of transportation.”

Trixie’s eyes widened at the sleigh that was parked in front of Crabapple Farm. Jim had decorated it with garland and bows to make it even more festive. Unless she was mistaken, she heard the faint jingling of bells coming from the sled.

“A one-horse open sleigh!” she squealed, clapping her hands like a little girl. “Oh, Jim! How festive!”

Jim smiled at her obvious delight. “I’m glad you like it. I was afraid you’d think it was cheesy.”

“It isn’t cheesy at all,” she assured him. “It’s sweet.”

Jim shuffled his feet nervously. “I’m glad you think so. Are you ready to go?”

“Do I look okay?” Trixie peeked down at her casual ensemble.

“You look perfect, Trix. But, you always look perfect to me.”

In an attempt to hide her blush, Trixie ducked back inside to put on her coat. A few seconds later, she pulled the door shut and locked it behind her. “I’m ready.”

“Be careful. It’s kind of icy,” Jim cautioned, taking her elbow. He solicitously led her to the sleigh and then helped her climb inside. Once she was seated, he tucked a blanket around her. “Are you warm enough?”

Trixie nodded. “I’m good.” In all honesty, that was an understatement. With Jim’s hands on her, she was practically smoldering.

In no time at all, he claimed the spot beside her. With a quick flick of his wrist, the signal was given to the horse to begin trotting up the road. Immediately, the sound of jingle bells harmonized with the swishing of the sled’s runners through the snow to create a beautiful holiday medley.

“Surely that isn’t Jupiter!” Trixie exclaimed, pointing at the black horse drawing their sleigh.

“No, but it’s a relative of his. He and Mercury are from the same sire.”

“I can see the family resemblance,” she remarked.

The snow began falling lightly as they made their way through the woods, making the scene even more picturesque. The silvery light of the full moon shone on the snow already on the ground and lit the path before them. Even though it was seven o’clock, it looked like the middle of the day.

“Where are we going?” Trixie asked.

“It’s a surprise,” was Jim’s cryptic response.

“As I’ve told you many times before, I hate surprises.”

“You don’t hate surprises,” he corrected. “You love surprises as long as you know what they are in advance.”

Trixie giggled. “You know me well.” She carefully studied their surroundings, trying to get her bearings. “The clubhouse is in the opposite direction, and we’ve already passed Manor House.”

“Correct.”

Trixie’s nose wrinkled as she considered the familiar scenery. “Are we going to Mr. Maypenny’s?”

“You’ll see,” Jim hedged, smiling fondly at her curiosity. “Hey, do you want to sing some Christmas songs?”

“Seriously?”

“Of course, I’m serious! After all, it is Christmas Eve.”

As giddy as a schoolgirl, Trixie felt up for anything. She nodded her consent. “Sure, what do you want to sing?”

Inspired by the sleigh bells, Jim suggested, “How about ‘Jingle Bells’?”

“Sounds good to me.”

A bit hesitantly, Jim started the song. “Dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh…”

Trixie quickly joined in, “O’er the hills we go, laughing all the way! Ha, ha!”

They were slightly off-key, but neither one cared. Caught up in the magic of the moment, they belted out the lyrics, most likely scaring any critters that were wandering around in the woods.

The sleigh made good time as they dashed through the snow to their destination. The closer they got, the more familiar everything looked to Trixie.

“Are you sure we aren’t going to Mr. Maypenny’s?” she asked.

“I’m sure,” Jim assured her.

A few minutes later, they pulled up to an old log house that stood on the edge of a small clearing.

“It’s the old schoolhouse where we went during the blizzard!” Trixie shrieked. She shot Jim a quizzical look. “Hey, you aren’t planning to feed me birdseed, are you?”

“No, I had something else in mind. But, if you’re good, I might let you ring the old bell again,” he said with a wink.

In one swift movement, Jim easily leaped down from the sled. Trixie watched out of the corner of her eye, admiring his agility. She had known him for years, yet she was still fascinated by him. She couldn’t take her eyes off him as he tended to Mercury. After unhooking the horse from the sleigh, Jim led it over to the covered shed by the schoolhouse. He gave the horse some grain for dinner, and then walked back over to Trixie.

“Let me help you down,” he offered. He placed his strong freckled hands on her hips and easily lifted her down, allowing her to slide against him. The close contact caused both of them to breathe a little harder. Once on the ground, Trixie stood still other than tipping her head up to look Jim in the eye. The couple didn’t speak. Trixie vaguely heard the pounding of a heart, and she wondered if it was hers or Jim’s.

“We’d better go inside,” he finally said after several seconds. He took her hand and led her in the little log house.

Trixie gasped as she took in the compact space. It had been completely renovated from ceiling to floor. There was a living room with a pullout couch and a compact kitchen, and there was a door that Trixie assumed led to a tiny bathroom. The wood stove had been replaced by a stone fireplace. A fire had been lit earlier and several logs crackled merrily, creating a welcoming warmth. A small fir tree, meticulously strung with multicolored lights, stood in the area between the living room and kitchen. The small two-person table in the kitchen had been set for dinner. A single candle served as the centerpiece, and there were two covered platters at each setting.

“Who did this?” she asked, motioning around her.

“What exactly are you referring to?”

“Everything,” she murmured. “The renovation, the decorations, the meal…”

“To answer your question, I did,” Jim told her. “I bought the place a few years back and remodeled it myself. It’s my sanctuary.”

“Is this where you go every year during the holidays?”

Jim nodded. “I like to come here and think about happier times. It’s a nice place to come to get away from it all.”

“I’m sure it is.”

“Just don’t let the cat out of the bag and tell Honey,” he requested with a wry grin.

“My lips are sealed,” Trixie promised. Knowing what a neat freak Jim was, she hung her coat by the door and then walked over to admire the tree. “I’m surprised you put up decorations. Someone told me you weren’t big on Christmas anymore.”

“I’m not, but I remembered that how much you loved twinkle lights. I put up the tree for you.”

Trixie smiled, touched by his thoughtfulness. “That’s very sweet.”

“How about I turn on a little music?”

She immediately recognized one of the songs from John Denver’s Christmas for Cowboys holiday album. “‘Merry Christmas, Little Zachary’,” she murmured appreciatively. It was exactly the kind of holiday music she’d expect Jim to enjoy.

“If you don’t like it, I can play something else.”

“No, I like John Denver. His voice is very soothing, and I like his folksy songs,” she assured him. “One of my friends in the Peace Corps is from West Virginia, and she cranks up ‘Country Roads’ every Saturday.”

Jim’s grew noticeably uncomfortable at the mention of the Corps. “We’d better eat before our food gets cold,” he said, changing the subject. He led the way to the table. Ever the gentleman, he pulled out her chair, and once she was seated, pushed it in for her. With a flourish, he lifted the lid from the platter before her to reveal a miniature Cornish hen with a wild rice stuffing.

“Aren’t you full of surprises?” Trixie studied him with interest. “Did you make this yourself?”

Jim grinned at her. “I wish I could tell you I did, but like George Washington, I cannot tell a lie. If I was doing the cooking, you’d be better off with birdseed porridge. Mart provided dinner.”

Trixie looked down at her entrée, examining it carefully. “Mart made it, huh? Are you sure it’s safe?”

“Of course it’s safe,” he chuckled.

“You never know.” Trixie tentatively took a bite. To her surprise, it was the most delicious thing she’d eaten in a long time, and that’s saying a lot since she’d eaten several home cooked meals recently. “Speaking of Mart, he was hosting a family get-together tonight. To my surprise, everyone insisted I go on this date with you instead of joining them.”

“The same thing happened to me. For the first time in ages, Mother didn’t hassle me about coming to Manor House. Weird.”

Trixie grinned. “I smell a conspiracy.”

“I think you’re right,” Jim agreed, pouring some sparkling cider in her glass.

They enjoyed small chat as they finished their dinner. After a dessert of tiramisu, they carried cups of coffee over to the leather couch in front of the fireplace and settled down.

“It’s so peaceful here,” Trixie murmured.

Jim furrowed his brow. “I probably should’ve planned something more exciting, huh? I mean, for two grand, you should get your money’s worth.”

“This is perfect, Jim.” With a giggle, she added, “Perfectly perfect, in fact. The sleigh ride here was magical, dinner was delicious, and the company was wonderful. And the best part is, I didn’t even have to get dressed up. It’s been the best date ever.”

“Was it worth $2,000?”

“I’ll let you know at the end of the night,” she said, coyly fluttering her lashes at him.

Taking his cue, Jim leaned over and kissed her softly on the mouth. It only lasted a few seconds, but it left them both breathless.

“I’ve been waiting five years for that,” Jim murmured.

“Me too.”

Jim tangled his fingers through the sandy curls at the nape of Trixie’s neck. “Why did I ever let you go?”

“I have no idea,” she whispered.

He wrapped an arm around her and pulled her close. She nestled into the warmth of his embrace, feeling more content than she had in years as they watched the fire crackle.

“You were right about me,” he told her.

“Of course I was,” Trixie replied. Smothering a giggle, she asked, “Exactly what was I right about?”

“I do have a bad habit of shutting people out,” he whispered.

In an effort to save his pride, Trixie didn’t agree with him. Instead, she snuggled closer in a show of support.

“I think it’s because I’m afraid of losing someone,” he continued. “Ironically, it caused me to lose the person I love the most.”

Trixie drew back slightly so she could look at him. “You love me?”

“Of course I love you! I loved you five years ago, and I love you now. Shamus, I never stopped loving you.”

“I love you, too, Jim.” She nuzzled close to him, hoping he wouldn’t see the tears glistening in her eyes.

“So what are we going to do about it?”

“What are we going to do about what?” Trixie asked.

“About loving each other. Being on two different continents might make things a little difficult.”

“People have had long-distance romances before.”

“Long-distance romances are usually doomed to fail,” Jim pointed out.

“Not always. Besides, I only plan to be in the Peace Corps for two more years.”

“You probably said that two years ago.”

That was true, but Trixie had no intention of telling Jim that. “We’ve waited five years. What’s two more?”

“Have you considered that maybe I’ve waited long enough? Maybe I don’t want to wait any longer? I want to get married and start a family.”

Trixie pulled away from the sanctuary of Jim’s arms and sat on the opposite end of the couch. “Then I guess we’ve reached an impasse.”

“I guess we have.”

“Why do we always do this?” she asked, tears trickling down her cheeks.

He shrugged. “I don’t know. I suppose we both know what we want, but neither of us is willing to compromise.”

“I suppose you’re right.”

“You have your life in Senegal, and I have mine in Sleepyside.”

“That just about sums it up.”

His green eyes misting over, Jim reached over and clasped her hand. “I’ll always love you, Shamus. Nothing will ever change that.”

“And I’ll always love you.” She shifted in her seat to lay her free hand against his cheek. “And who knows? Maybe we can try again in 2014.”

“Maybe.”

Something in his tone frightened Trixie. Jim wasn’t one to give up, but it sounded like he was close to giving up on her.

“What a lousy date I turned out to be,” he remarked with a rueful grin. “I’m sure you imagined your evening a little differently.”

“I did,” she admitted. “But hey, I owed you for that plane ticket to Burma.”

Jim made a face. “I can’t count the times I’ve regretted buying that stupid ticket. If only I had given you something else…” He shook away whatever thought he was niggling. “What’s done is done. It’s time to pick ourselves up by the bootstraps and move on.”

Trixie felt sick to her stomach. How did Jim plan to move on? Would he be waiting for her when she came back? Or would he be gone?

“Jim, I―”

She was interrupted by the chirping of her cell phone telling her she had a new text message. She wasn’t one to ignore texts, but in this case, she was willing to make an exception.

She started over. “Jim, I don’t think―”

The distinctive whistle of a bobwhite came from Jim’s pocket. “It’s my turn,” he said with a sheepish grin. “In my defense, I almost never get texts.”

“Honey!” Trixie exclaimed. She grabbed her purse and dug through it until she found her phone. She had one message from Brian. Her fingers trembling, she opened it. “She’s in labor! I knew she wouldn’t last until January!”

Knowing it was pointless to continue their date, Jim stood. “If we hurry, maybe we can make it in time for the birth.”

Trixie nodded excitedly and then jumped up to put on her coat. “A Christmas baby! How exciting!”

“I’ll hook Mercury up to the sleigh,” he said. “You might as well stay in here where it’s warm.”

“No, I’ll be fine. I’m too excited to sit still.”

Jim smiled. He knew that was true. “Okay. It shouldn’t take long,” he promised as he led her outside.

True to his word, Jim had them dashing through the snow towards home in record time. The trip back was much quieter than the trip there. There was no festive singing or lighthearted banter. Even though the skies were now clear, a dark cloud hung over the couple. The future was dark and the only certainty was that they were doomed to live apart.

Jim guided the sleigh into the driveway of Crabapple Farm. He jumped down and hurried over to assist Trixie.

“Why did you bring me here?” she asked. “I thought we were going to hospital.”

“The only sleigh allowed on the main roads tonight is Santa’s,” Jim joked. He tried to grin, but the smile didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I don’t really feel up for company, so if it’s okay with you, I’ll just drop you off and you can drive yourself. Is there a vehicle here you can use?”

Surprised, it took Trixie a few extra seconds to respond. “Um…Yeah, Moms’ station wagon is here. She wouldn’t mind if I borrowed it.”

“That works for me, as long as you don’t mind.”

She did mind, but what did it matter? “Um, yeah, that’s okay with me.”

Jim walked her to the front door. After giving her a chaste kiss on the cheek, he said, “See you in two years.”

Unable to speak, Trixie nodded and reached for the doorknob. She couldn’t believe he was going to leave her like this. She’d give anything if he’d stop her, take her in his arms, and―

“Wait.”

Her eyes sparkling with renewed hope, Trixie turned to see what Jim wanted. “Yes?”

He grabbed her hand. “Trixie, about what I said earlier…”

She nodded, anxious for him to continue.

“About that ticket to Burma I got you five years ago…”

“Go on,” she urged.

“I know I said that I shouldn’t have gotten it for you, but I didn’t mean it. I’m glad I did.”

Once again, Trixie’s hopes were dashed. “You are?”

Jim nodded. “Don’t get me wrong. I’m not glad you left, but I am glad that I gave you the chance to follow your dream. You always wanted to travel to new places, and you were born to help people. As much as I wanted to keep you all for myself, I knew I needed to share you with the world. You’re special, Shamus. You deserved the opportunity to spread your wings and fly.”

Trixie sniffed back tears. “I always thought you just wanted rid of me.”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” he chuckled. “It’s funny how things work out. When I bought that plane ticket, I also bought you a diamond ring. I was going to propose after you got back from Burma.”

Trixie’s breath caught in her throat. The tears she’d worked so hard to hold at bay broke through and began falling in earnest.

“I guess it’s a good thing that you broke up with me when you did,” Jim murmured, wiping away the moisture from her cheeks. “If you would’ve married me, you never would’ve been able to join the Peace Corps. You wouldn’t have gotten to live your dream.”

Trixie bit her lower lip. It was all she could do not to start sobbing.

“I’m thankful I didn’t hold you back. I love you too much for that.” He leaned down and applied a feather-soft kiss to her forehead. “You’re doing great things in Africa, Trixie. I believe in you.”

She knew if she opened her mouth, she’d start crying and wouldn’t be able to stop.

“Goodbye, Shamus.”

Her world torn apart, Trixie watched as Jim got back in his sled and dashed away, taking her heart with him.

Christmas Day, 2012

Crabapple Farm

Christmas morning began with the birth of Gabriel Dwight Belden. Born shortly after midnight, the tiny bundle of joy was the best gift his proud parents could’ve received. Little Gabe, named after the angel that brought the joyful tidings of Christ’s impending birth to Mary, was perfect in every way. Like his namesake, the small baby brought great joy to those he greeted.

Trixie cried as she nestled her tiny nephew in her arms. She cried because Honey and Gabe were healthy; she cried because she was happy he was here; she cried because she would miss Gabe’s first two years of life. Most of all, she cried because she wished Jim was there to share this experience with her.

Even though she was exhausted when she fell into bed in the wee hours of the morning, sleep eluded her. She couldn’t stop thinking about Jim’s bombshell. He had been planning to propose to her after she returned from Burma! When she’d opened that ticket, she’d thought for sure that he was going to break up with her. Just as she’d done when she was younger, she’d hastily jumped to a conclusion, an erroneous conclusion.

And she ran.

Furthermore, it wasn’t like she ran down the street or even to the next state. She ran away to Burma and then to Senegal. She ran as far as her passport could take her, and it had cost her dearly.

As the sun came up on Christmas morning, Trixie came to a startling realization. There was nothing to run from. Everything she wanted, everything she needed was right here. All she had to do was reach out and grab it. There was nothing to fear.

Adrenaline coursing through her veins, she jumped out of bed and hatched a plan. She turned on her computer and quickly navigated the web until she found the information she needed. Fingers flying over the keyboard, she clicked on a button and turned on her printer. She put on her tennis shoes as she waited for the printer to spit out the document. As soon as she had what she needed, she raced down the stairs. She wasn’t finished running yet. She was going to run right into Jim’s arms instead of away from him.

Barely taking the time to put on her coat, she flew out the door. She didn’t have a sled, but her father did have a snowmobile. Hoping he wouldn’t mind her borrowing it, she started it up. Jim hadn’t said where he was going, but she had a pretty good idea where she could find him. Wishing she had Bobby’s compass, she went dashing through the snow to the old schoolhouse.

Fortunately, her sense of direction had improved somewhat in recent years, and she pulled up to Jim’s sanctuary without getting lost. She parked it by the sleigh and then ran up to the door.

“Jim! It’s me!” she yelled as she rapped on the door. When he didn’t immediately answer, she knocked louder. “Jim! Are you there?”

Several minutes passed. Dejected and cold, Trixie turned to leave. Jim must’ve gone somewhere else.

To her relief, the door creaked open. “Trixie?” It was obviously he’d had a long night. Although he’d just been woken from sleep, Jim still looked haggard. His voice was unsteady. “What’re you doing here? Are Honey and the baby okay?”

“They’re fine,” she assured him, her teeth chattering from the cold. “I needed to talk to you.”

“At 7:30 on Christmas morning?”

Trixie nodded. “It’s really important.”

Jim, clad only in low-riding pajama pants, moved aside to grant her access. As soon as she stepped inside, he closed the door.

Wasting no time, Trixie plunged ahead, her mouth working faster than her brain. “Jim, you were right; I’ve been running. I was afraid, and I thought if I kept running from you, my heart would be safe. But you know me, Jim. I’ve never been satisfied with safe. So I’m running straight to you, ready to risk everything.”

Still not completely awake, Jim rubbed the sleep from his eyes. “What do you mean? Are you going back to Senegal?”

“Well, yes, but―”

Jim shook his head. “Then I don’t see how it will work.”

“I have a Christmas present for you.” Trixie reached in the pocket of her coat and pulled out an envelope. Her hand trembled as she gave it to him. “I figured I owed you.”

His ginger brows met in a deep groove above the bridge of his nose. “What’s this?”

“I told you… it’s a Christmas present.”

“But I didn’t get you anything.”

Trixie rolled her eyes. “Just open it.”

Curiosity mounting, Jim ripped open the envelope and pulled out an e-Ticket. He gasped as he noticed the destination. “This is a ticket to Senegal.”

“I know,” Trixie giggled. “I bought it. After all the money I’ve spent the past few days, my credit card may never recover. I’m going to be in debt for a very long time.”

Dumbfounded, Jim stared down at the ticket. “What do I do with it?”

“Well, you take this ticket to JFK, and after the security guard feels you up, you’ll board a big plane that will hopefully land in Africa.”

“Trixie, as much as I’d love to go to Africa with you, I can’t. I have my practice here and patients that need me. I can’t go to Senegal.”

“Neither can I,” she whispered.

“You can’t?” Jim gasped.

She shook her head. “As much as I’ve loved working with the Peace Corps, I love you more. All the adventure I need is in Sleepyside.”

“Then why did you get me this ticket?”

Trixie smiled at him, her eyes full of love. “Without you, I never would’ve had a chance to see the world. I don’t have any regrets about leaving the Corps, but I would like you to come with me as I say goodbye to everyone. You had a part in the work I did, and I want you to see all the good I did before I leave it behind.”

“I’d be honored,” he murmured.

“And after we get home… well, maybe we can have that homecoming you were planning five years ago,” Trixie hinted with a saucy grin. “You know? The one where you were planning to propose.”

Jim chuckled as he took her into his arms. “I bought you a ticket to Burma! Now you want a diamond? Do you think I’m made of money?”

“Hey, I don’t even want to hear it. Not only did I buy you a ticket to Senegal, I paid two-thousand dollars for you in a charity auction. Two-thousand dollars, Jim! You’re my property. I bought you, fair and square.”

“You do have a point there,” he admitted.

Trixie flashed him a saucy grin. “And we didn’t even get to finish our date. You didn’t even whip out your harmonica.”

“Hmm… You have a point there,” he murmured. “You did spend a lot of money on me.”

“Yes, $2,000 is like a million to someone like me.”

“For the record, it isn’t my fault that our date ended so abruptly, but you’ll have to take that up with our impatient nephew,” Jim pointed out. “However, I do apologize that your experience wasn’t satisfactory.”

“Well,” Trixie drawled, “before the auction Honey warned us that our satisfaction wouldn’t necessarily be guaranteed.”

Jim slid his hands lower, pressing Trixie firmly against him. “Lucky for you, Miss Belden, your bachelor is an honorable man. It is my personal goal to see that you are never dissatisfied again. You have my humble guarantee that from now on, it will be my pleasure to satisfy your every need.”

“My every need?”

“Oh, yes,” he murmured huskily.

“Will you show me your trust fund and let me play your harmonica?”

“Yes, and if you’re a good girl, I might even give you a ride on my handlebars.”

Trixie snaked her arms around his neck, savoring the feel of the bare skin of his muscular shoulders. “Jim Frayne, you’re the best Christmas gift I ever bought!”

“You aren’t going to return me, are you?”

“Never!” It was a promise she intended to keep. With a giggle, she teased, “Besides, I don’t think you came with a receipt, so I’m stuck with you forever whether I like it or not.”

“I doubt I meet their return policy. You’ve manhandled me pretty good, and nobody will accept slightly used merchandise,” he said as he nuzzled her neck.

“I’d never return you, Jim,” she purred. “You’re the deal of a century.”

“Hey, I’m the gift that keeps on giving the whole year round.”

Trixie shivered with delight as their lips met. That was easily the best two grand she ever spent. This kiss was worth every single penny, and it was just a hint of things to come. Why, his trust fund alone was priceless. Trixie was going to reap the benefits of that investment for years!

Kaye, I hope you enjoyed your story! When I received my assignment sheet, I had to giggle at your request for a Christmas baby. One of my recent Secret Santa stories was about a baby, but I obviously couldn’t repeat that storyline. However, I managed to fit a Christmas baby into my plot, and I hope you liked his name and original due date.

A very heartfelt thank you to my two wonderful editors, WendyM and StephH. Both of these ladies had a lot on their plates, and neither had a lot of spare time. However, both agreed to edit in spite of the length.

I decided to send Trixie to Burma as a tip of my hat to one of my students who plans to go there as a missionary after college. He’ll be going on a trip there next December.

When it came time to give Trixie a more permanent job overseas, I did a lot of research and decided to send her to Senegal. In case you’re curious, assignments in the Peace Corps are given in 24-month increments.

I had a lot of fun giving the Bob-Whites unusual occupations in this story. I always thought that it would be neat if Honey and Di went into business together, and since both of them had an interest in fashion, it seemed like a likely choice.

Thank you to PatK and Dana for the information they gave me on the career of medical researcher. I wasn’t sure it was possible for Brian, but after their input, I knew it would work out perfectly! Thank you both for the PM’s. You were a wealth of info!

Mart as a chef? I could totally see him doing that! I can even see him having his own cooking show someday. And the Quirky Quail? I couldn’t resist!

I struggled the most finding an unusual career for Jim. Since I focus so much on Jim’s issues, I decided to give him a job where he could focus on the issues of others. I could see him choosing this profession, especially if he can help children that have been abused.

For some reason, making Bobby an editor for Random House just struck me as funny. It seemed like a good payback for all those times he made Trixie read Peter Rabbit,

My favorite alternative profession was Dan’s. I heard about the Guide Horse Foundation on an episode of “Royal Pains,” and I was immediately intrigued. The more I read about it, the more sense it made. If you have a spare moment, check out their website and see the benefits of miniature horses as guides for the blind and visually impaired.

Several townspeople from the series were mentioned throughout this story. I apologize to any Nick Roberts fans out there. I couldn’t resist making him gay, but it was all in fun. Nathan Gibson is my own creation, though. I probably could’ve made him gay, but I only thought of it as I typed these notes…

I have absolutely no idea if Brian’s spiel on blood being thicker than water is true or not. It was a question someone asked on Yahoo, and the answer sounded pretty good to me.

In case you missed the link to Trixie’s cocktail dress in the story and would like to see it, here you go!

Mart’s “masculinely delicious charms” was a reference to “Lucky Charms,” which are magically delicious. I was multitasking one day, and one of those tasks was watching TV. I heard a Lucky Charms commercial and thought for sure that that little leprechaun said “masculinely” delicious. I determined then and there to put it into a fanfic someday.

“Magic Mart” is a reference to the movie “Magic Mike,” which I have not seen, but I do know the gist of it.

The song Mart paraphrases is “I’m Too Sexy,” which was a huge hit when I was a teenager.

As far as I know, there are no “Hunks for Hope” auctions. However, if I hear of any, I’ll let you single ladies know.

I named Diana’s younger sister Mary Kate in honor of Kaye’s daughter. It can be assumed that the other twin is Briana, since “Gabriel” was used elsewhere. (Don’t tell G4 that I didn’t include him. )

I’m not sure who bought Mr. Lytell, but word has it that it was an axe murderer.

I have always wanted to go on a ride on a one-horse open sleigh. I’m fairly certain that it wouldn’t be nearly as romantic as I’ve imagined. Regardless, I’m taking my ride vicariously through Trixie.

I almost pulled a KK and made Jupiter a stallion. Oops. Thankfully, my astute editor, Wendy, noticed! Thank you, dear!

“Merry Christmas, Little Zachary” is also one of Kaye’s favorite Christmas songs. When I included it, I couldn’t resist throwing in a reference to MY favorite John Denver song, “Country Roads.”

As I said before, Gabriel Belden was named after Gabriella, who was named after Gabriel. That was an easy choice for Baby Belden. However, I had a lot more problem coming up with his middle name. I briefly considered “George,” but that was just too many G’s. Inspiration struck when I heard someone talking about Dwight Eisenhower. I’d been looking for an old-fashioned one-syllable name, and I figured Dwight would be a good, strong name.

By the way, Jim’s trust fund, harmonica, and handlebars were not harmed during the filming of this fanfic.