Whispers of Winter: A Limited Edition Collection of Winter Romances

by Nicole Morgan

  Before Buffy could answer, Declan said, “She’s with Nick and Brenna.”

  “Come on, Dec, you know what I mean, as in with anyone, like a date?” Ted, as usual, was oblivious to the vibes swirling around them. He moved toward the group. Ridge looked at Buffy as Declan frowned and his jaw seemed to tighten. He followed Ted.

  Ridge nodded his head in their direction. “What’s up with that?” Declan trailed behind Ted like a disgruntled tomcat.

  “I don’t know. It seemed like there was some tension earlier between Godiva and Declan when he first arrived, almost as if they don’t like each other. But Declan is acting kind of—” Buffy stared at Brenna’s normally easy-going best friend—“proprietary. Did I tell you that Declan offered to marry Brenna when he found out she was pregnant?”

  “No,” Ridge said, “but he obviously isn’t bothered by the fact that Nick wound up with her. He does, however, seem to be bothered by Ted’s interest in Godiva.”

  Buffy frowned. Ridge was right. Declan was hovering over Ted’s shoulder. Not only that, but there was no sign of his easy-going personality now. His wide shoulders were bunched and stiff, his hands clenched at his sides. The only indication that he wasn’t involved in their conversation was the fact that he aimed his eyes in a different direction, at a couple nearby who had given up on getting his attention. His pretense was fooling no one but himself.

  Godiva shook Ted’s hand and proceeded to turn her back to Declan and carry on an animated conversation with Buffy’s brother.

  “Wonder what they’re talking about,” said Ridge.

  “Oh, no there’s no doubt in my mind what they are talking about . The only thing Ted knows to open a conversation with—real estate, but Di did say she was thinking of opening a business somewhere. She’s talking to the right man for that. Ted’s the best at sniffing out deals. You reckon Declan knows how he looks, standing so close to them and staring in the opposite direction? Oh, Ridge, do something.”

  Ridge looked down at his soft-hearted wife. “Save him from himself you mean?”

  She looked up at him, “Please.”

  “Anything for you, my love.” He kissed her and walked toward the awkward trio.

  He heard Ted say, “If you don’t mind that it’s so late, I’ll drive you around and point out a few available properties then take you home.”

  Declan opened his mouth, Ridge assumed to protest, as he stepped next to him. “Busy, Declan? Buffy was wondering if you wanted a look at the prospective nursery. If so, I’ll take you.”

  Declan’s startled look changed to one of chagrin. Ted and Godiva walked toward the back door. “Hmm. . . sure, Ridge. I’m sorry about blowing the surprise.”

  Ridge laughed. “It’s been a heck of a night for surprises but as I said, I’m thrilled with the news no matter how it was delivered.”

  Ridge got the feeling Declan only kept himself from looking over his shoulder at Di's retreating form out of sheer willpower.

  Buffy sat down with Brenna and Nick. She’d missed seeing her cousin while she’d been living abroad. And Brenna had been home from DC less than a year herself. Brenna leaned forward. “That was very sneaky, Buffy, inviting us to a Baby’s First Christmas next year. You almost slipped up, didn’t you?”

  Buffy laughed. “I’ve been trying so hard to keep it a secret but now I’m glad it’s out. It’s been a long two months.”

  Brenna looked at Nick who grinned. “We know exactly how you feel,” Brenna said.

  Nick said, “Brenna had the added pressure of my memory loss to deal with at first, so now I find myself trying not to add any undue stress to the rest of her pregnancy.”

  “I love the idea of all of us having our Christmas together. Wouldn’t that be a great new Calloway/Calloway tradition? I wish someone would settle on one spelling for all of us. Or we could come up with an acronym."

  Buffy said, "It would be unpronounceable if we include everybody who's kin on both sides."

  Brenna grinned and looked at Nick. “I guess since we don’t have to wait on Di, we might head home. I heard thunder—”

  Nick’s head whipped around at her words. Brenna patted his hand. “Merely a weather observation, sweetheart, but it makes sense to avoid those dark wet roads with a cold front coming through, doesn’t it?”

  “Absolutely. I’m all about you being safe for the rest of my life,” Nick said.

  Brenna smiled at Buffy and said, “One of these days soon my husband is going to find a balance. He feels way too responsible for the things that happened in the first month of our relationship.”

  Nick shook his head and Buffy said, “So you don’t have a problem with severe weather anymore?” Brenna had lived all her life on Storm Lake but after a traumatic incident the year she graduated from high school she’d developed a severe phobia of storms.

  “She says I cured her.” Nick tightened his arm around Brenna.

  “He certainly had a lot to do with it. I’m like the average person now when severe weather approaches though being an atmospheric scientist makes me a lot smarter than even I used to be. Knowing the science behind the power of the weather has helped me overcome the trauma of my family’s loss.”

  Buffy said, “Say, what’s going on between Declan and Godiva?”

  “Not as much as she’d like,” Nick said, laughing. He kept his eye on Ridge and Declan as they entered the house. “Brenna is determined to get them together.”

  Brenna's mouth quirked as she playfully punched her husband's chest. “I’m not going to have to do anything. Every time they’re in the same room together there are fireworks.” She gestured toward Buffy. “You noticed. Did you see Declan standing behind Ted and Di like a stalking tiger?” Her laugh bubbled up, full of mischief. “I was hoping someone would snap a picture for posterity of him standing there, thinking he was being so sly. He was clueless. I love Declan and nothing would make me happier than for him and my good friend Godiva to fall in love.”

  “I noticed the tension between them earlier, or from Godiva anyway,” Buffy said.

  “Let’s just say there’s been friction even before they met in person. It’s more on Godiva’s end though, which doesn’t bode well for my best friend Dec. It’s going to be fun to watch it progress.”

  A few sprinkles of rain dotted the table top. Buffy said, “If you say so. Why don’t you come inside with us? We’re going to keep dancing and sing some carols.”

  Brenna raised her eyebrow at Nick. A silent decision was made and she said, “I think we’ll be going, but I’ll give you some insider news before we go.”

  “Would this be a weather tip?” Buffy asked.

  Brenna grinned. “It would. The cold front is much deeper than originally thought. The rain will probably turn to snow tomorrow.”

  Buffy said, “Oh, that would put a lovely cap on a perfect Christmas.” She hugged Brenna and Nick and said, “I’m so glad you could come. Be careful going home.”

  Buffy stood and waved at the band to cut the music. “Everyone, we’re moving the party inside. If you wouldn’t mind, take those plastic covers and drape them over the tables, then grab a chair and head into the living room.” She met Ridge at the back door. “Can you help Zeb move the bar inside? I’ll show the musicians where to set up.”

  Within minutes the tables were covered and the party had been transferred seamlessly to the house. The musicians had simply covered their amps and left some of Ridge’s guys to break down the remaining equipment. Inside, the band turned to acoustic instruments to play carols, creating a more intimate atmosphere with the smaller group which seemed reluctant to end such a memorable day.

  One song led into another as couples danced, including Buffy and Ridge. Suddenly, with a sharp crack, an object hit the bottom of the fireplace and bounced out, landing between Ridge’s feet. He stared at the piece of dirty brick on the floor.

  “What’s that sound?” Buffy asked, waving her arms in a slashing motion to shut the musicians down.
/>   In a deep voice that carried across the room, Gino said, “Quiet.”

  Buffy nodded her thanks and said, “Listen.”

  Chapter Sixteen

  Ridge’s black brows crashed down in concern as he listened to the sound coming from the roof. He bent down and picked up the chunk of mortar at his feet.

  “It’s too early for Santa Claus,” Ridge said, his tone indicating he wasn’t concerned about a break-in or for their safety. This was Larue after all, not New Orleans or any other big city.

  Ashes drifted down from the fireplace. Buffy’s eyes were wide. “What in the world?” She grinned at the others. “Could that really be Santa Claus?”

  A startled shout and a clatter from atop the roof filtered down through the chimney followed by the sounds of sliding and scraping. “Oh, ohh…uht—” The voice was cut off just as a pair of work-booted feet appeared at the bottom of the fireplace, dangling at first, then bouncing up and down, the unexpected "Santa" trying to get himself unstuck.

  More muffled grunts followed, and as they stood watching open mouthed, the chimney belched up a soot covered lump of humanity, followed by several pounds of black ash and debris. Ridge and Buffy jumped back as the plume of gray dust deposited a quarter inch of undesirable crud on the tiled floor and everything close by.

  The smell of cinders accompanied the figure rising from out of the fireplace, gagging and coughing, his face black and his clothes ash-covered.

  “I think my assessment was premature,” Ridge said. “But I thought Santa had some special magic going on with chimneys that kept his clothing clean.” Ridge dropped his arm around Buffy’s waist and said to the figure huddled at the bottom of the fireplace, “Do you need some help?”

  Spitting dirt and brushing his face and clothes, Freddie Taylor rose and stood in front of the fireplace. “No sir, Mr. Calloway, I’m fine. I was just checking out your fireplace like Mrs. Calloway asked me to,” he said, gazing at Buffy.

  Ridge’s eyebrows rose as Freddie brushed his shirt and jeans, dispensing another round of powdery crud in their vicinity. Several of their guests chuckled and backed out of range. Ridge stayed Freddie’s arm.

  “What?” Freddie asked.

  “Let’s clean up outside, Mr. Taylor,” said Ridge, leading the handyman to the back door through the mudroom and out through the garage.

  Buffy sighed, surveying the damage. A thick layer of fireplace debris covered everything in the living room. Thank heavens they hadn’t brought any of the food inside. The candy would have to be thrown out and her brand-new candles might be used for emergencies after they were rinsed off. Certainly, Santa would not be interested in the gray chocolate chip cookies nor the ash covered glass of milk on the plate near the fireplace. Ridge entered without Freddie brushing dust from his slacks.

  “How did this happen?” Buffy asked as a flash went off nearby. At least someone was documenting this unique moment for their Christmas album. It wouldn’t be flattering but it would definitely be fun to revisit one day.

  Ridge nodded. “Freddie said he heard there was a cold front coming through tonight and he wanted to get the fireplace cleaned out in case we wanted to light a fire.”

  “Well, that was sweet of him. I wish he’d checked with me first. He might have hurt himself,” Buffy said.

  Gino grinned. “His timing was impeccable.”

  Ridge said, “I’m going to pull the leaf blower out of the garage and blow Freddie off.”

  “Then, be sure and tell Freddie to take the night off, Ridge. After all it is Christmas Eve.”

  “That might be a good preventive measure, sweetheart.” On his way out, he yelled, “Fred.”

  Gino said, “I’ll help you,” and followed Ridge outside. She and Kelly pulled the vacuum from the closet and began cleaning up. Someone else appeared with the mop. A few minutes later the back door opened and Gino and Ridge walked back in.

  With everyone chipping in it didn’t take long to restore the living room to its pre-Santa condition.

  Thirty minutes later as rain poured over the skylights and pattered on the roof, a few couples conversed across from each other on the couches and hummed along with carols. Buffy lifted a wine glass from the bar but Ridge shook his head and pulled her into his arms. As they got to the center of the living room floor in front of the fireplace once again, he signaled the band.

  “This one is for Buffy from her husband,” the band leader said as they began playing All I want for Christmas is you and Ridge sang the chorus into her ear.

  Ridge had turned into quite a romantic, Buffy thought, as she felt his hands settle on her lower back. She smiled as Ridge spun her around and pulled her into him. “I didn’t know you were so light on your feet.”

  “There’s more to me than just a pretty face, Buffy, my love,” he said, and continued to hum along. She’d also not known until recently what a lovely baritone voice he had. She sighed into his shoulder. Her once stuffy, serious geek of a CEO had blossomed, settling into his new roles as cover model, production studio tycoon and now, father-to-be.

  The music changed, Ridge drew her even closer. Naturally the musicians would know the old Otis Redding song. She and Ridge sang along to “Merry Christmas, Baby.” What a perfect selection for their Christmas Eve celebration. The next verse began, “Santa came down the chimney” which sent them on into spasms of laughter.

  There was a peaceful contentment after that and Ridge continued to circle in one place with Buffy tucked into his shoulder. She hadn’t spoken in so long, he wondered if she was asleep on her feet. He signaled over her shoulder for the band to call it a night. The remaining employees waved as they wandered out and the music ended.

  Buffy looked up at him, blinking. He smiled and stroked the strawberry strands away from her face. “I think it’s time to call it a night. You’re dead on your feet. We’ve had a full day and have another big one tomorrow.”

  She caught sight of Gino giving Kelly a hug. “Gino seems to have enjoyed himself. How well do you know Kelly?”

  Ridge’s eyebrow rose as one corner of his lips kicked up. “Are you jealous of Kelly or concerned for Gino?”

  Buffy said, “Just curious. Gino seems like a really nice guy.”

  “And you think Kelly is out to break his heart?” Ridge grinned.

  She arched a brow and looked at him directly. “As you know, Tucker, relationships can be born in the blink of an eye, but you’re right. It’s none of my business.”

  “Methinks you protest too much. You’re already feeling protective of your prospective new model and he isn’t even on the payroll yet. I know you just want to see the people around you happy. It’s one of the things we love about you.” He kissed her. “Come on.”

  Chapter Seventeen

  Gino shook Ridge’s hand and then took Buffy’s hands between his. “Great party, Buffy. You guys have some fantastic friends. I wish Ted hadn’t left. I found myself thinking Larue might be a great place to retire.”

  “We’re glad you could come, Gino. We never did get a chance to talk about your plans after retirement. Let us know when you decide what you’re going to do,” Ridge said.

  “I will. Do you happen to have one of your brother’s cards?” he asked Buffy.

  She retrieved Ted’s card from her purse and placed it in his broad palm. “We’d love to have you for a neighbor, Gino.” He felt Ridge rubbing her back reminding her not to push, give Gino a little space, then he surprised her.

  “I believe our high school football team is looking for a new coach if that’s something you’d be interested in.”

  Gino frowned, looking thoughtful. “I’ll be in touch soon. ‘Night.” As soon as he cleared the doorway it seemed as if the foyer had expanded.

  Buffy said, “Do not let that man get away, Ridge. I want him for that campaign. I can already see the spread in my mind.” Her eyes sparkled and Ridge laughed.

  Kelly attempted to drag her big cardboard check out the door. “Let me help you wi
th that,” Ridge said. “Better yet, how about if I deliver it to you Monday. I’ll stick it here in the front closet until the weather moves through.”

  She relinquished the large cardboard gift and sighed. “Thank goodness. I don’t have to give you a percentage though, do I?” He smiled and shook his head.

  “If you don’t just want that thing for a souvenir, I’ll write you a check to cover it.” When he saw her hesitate, he said, “I’ll bring it Monday along with one in a more manageable size. How’s that sound?”

  Kelly grinned and looked at Buffy. “A very intuitive man you have there. This money is going to be a big help. Call me and I’ll give you a tour of the retreat after we make the repairs.”

  The fiddle player followed giving Buffy a hug and said, “Call us again. It was a blast.”

  “You performed above and beyond the call, Hank. Do you need a To Go plate to take with you?” Ridge asked. “You didn’t get a chance to eat.”

  Hank rubbed his protruding stomach and shook his head. “Last thing I need is more pig. I can’t see my belt now. ‘Night, y’all.” He called to his friends. “Let’s go. Rain’s let up.”

  The few remaining employees left with hugs and good wishes and Ridge and Buffy took a deep breath. Ridge eased down onto the settee against the wall and pulled Buffy into his lap, “What a night.”

  Her breath whispered across his neck as she said, “We made some awesome memories tonight and I don’t think I got a single picture, except those with your phone.”

  “I had someone taking care of that. Did you wonder why you didn’t see Kelly until just before our writer friends arrived?”

  Buffy asked, “She’s a photographer?”

  “She was a journalist and photographer for a news service. I ran across her in DC the week you and I met. She was testifying before a committee as well. She suffered from PTSD herself from covering the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and she wanted to do something different that didn’t involve standing on the sidelines watching soldiers die or come home changed forever. We discussed some of the needs vets have after they return, and when the property became available I called her.”