Under the Mistletoe Collection

by Cindy Roland Anderson

  “This smells wonderful,” Madison said. “I wish Jenny was still here so she could’ve taken some with her to work.”

  “I thought her shift starts at eleven?”

  “It does, but someone went home sick, and they offered Jenny time and a half if she came in four hours earlier.”

  “Where does she work?” Caleb opened a box filled with fresh breadsticks. “I’m more than happy to take her some of the food.”

  His genuine offer was so sweet. Madison stared at him, wondering how she’d ever let this man go. “I was an idiot.”

  One of his brows arched up. “Excuse me?”

  All at once the magnitude of what she’d done slammed into her. “I’m so sorry, Caleb. If I could go back and undo things I would.”

  He watched her intensely, the muscle in his jaw tightening. She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat like she’d eaten a whole breadstick without chewing.

  The hard look on his face softened, his hand coming up to cup her cheek. “Me too, love.” He leaned in and gently kissed her.

  When he edged back, she wrapped her arms around him and laid her head against his chest. His heart thumped as wildly as hers.

  “Can we start over?” she asked.

  He tightened his hold. “Yes, please.”

  The please made her smile and lightened the mood. She pulled back and gave him a quick kiss. “All right, but this time we won’t have any secrets between us.”

  “Except for Christmases and birthdays,” he countered.

  “Right.”

  “And don’t forget anniversaries.”

  She desperately wanted to ask if he meant wedding anniversaries but held her tongue. “Deal.”

  “Seal it with a kiss?”

  As if he needed to ask.

  She pressed her mouth to his, kissing him without any reservation. The way he kissed her back led her to believe he felt the same freedom. His lips left her mouth, and she made a tiny sound of protest until she felt him trail heated kisses across her jaw. A shiver of pleasure washed over her when he placed a kiss just below her ear.

  “You have bewitched me, Madison Taylor.”

  She laughed softly as he nuzzled her neck. Pride and Prejudice was her favorite movie, especially the version with Keira Knightley. Caleb, with his delicious British accent, liked to mimic the line Mr. Darcy said to Elizabeth in the misty early dawn. Although he usually followed up with telling her how ardently he loved her, this time he found her mouth again and gave her one last lingering kiss. Madison wasn’t too disappointed and hoped the “I love you” would come soon.

  “The food is getting cold.” She touched one of the breadsticks. “Correction, the food is cold.”

  He grinned, making his dimple appear. “Well worth it.” He picked up both of their plates. “Let’s warm these up in the microwave; then perhaps we should dine at the table. The sofa is too tempting.”

  Charlotte remained asleep while they ate their dinner. During that time Madison told him all about William’s words of wisdom. When she got to the part about immediately telling his spouse if he was attracted to someone, weariness crept back into Caleb’s eyes.

  “What?” she asked, wondering if he was attracted to the dragon girl after all.

  “You know Lady Elaine is coming onto the show, right?”

  “Yes.” The script had Sir Lancelot’s lover starring in the next three episodes.

  “Well,” Caleb said. “The actress playing her was injured in a skiing accident. Ava Sterling is her replacement.”

  Madison felt like someone had just sucked the life out of her as if a Dementor from Harry Potter had entered the room. “When did this all happen?”

  “I’m not sure, but she was there for the promos.” He looked at her with a worried expression. “I planned to tell you this evening, I promise.”

  Madison picked up her glass and took a drink of water. Why did Ava have to show up just when she and Caleb had found each other again? Her hand shook as she placed the glass back onto the table.

  “Talk to me.” Caleb took her hand, threading their fingers together. “Please.”

  William’s sage advice echoed in her mind. Instead of freaking out, she offered Caleb a smile. “This really sucks.”

  Relief filled his eyes. “I know, but she’s only on for three episodes.”

  “Unless they decide to write her in for more.”

  “Madison, even if she’s on the show for the rest of the season it doesn’t change things between us.” He stood up and tugged her to her feet. “I’m going to be completely honest with you. The first time I saw Ava I’ll admit I found her attractive, but it only took a couple of days of working with her for that attraction to fizzle out.”

  She stiffened and wanted to pull away but tried to remember William’s counsel. “What about today?”

  “My feelings for her haven’t changed. Ava is a colleague, nothing more.” He brushed a few strands of her hair behind her ear with his fingertips. “She asked me to meet her for drinks, but I told her I was involved with someone else.”

  “Oh.” Madison moistened her lips. “And who is the lucky girl?”

  One corner of his mouthed lifted up. “I hope it’s you.”

  A momentary panic engulfed her. “I’m not ready to tell everyone. Are you okay with that?”

  His smile faltered for a second, but then he relaxed. “Of course, but if you attend the Christmas party with me I don’t think I’m a good enough actor to hide my feelings.”

  Madison let out a small breath. She didn’t think she could hide her feelings either.

  A concerned look crossed Caleb’s face. “You will go with me, won’t you?”

  She did want to go with Caleb. Despite her anxiety, it surprised her how the idea of attending the Christmas party didn’t bring on a rush of her previous bitterness. Going might be healing, even.

  “Yes. I would love to go with you.”

  Chapter Ten

  The next couple of days at work were tense with Ava working on the set. Madison did her best to hide her insecurities, but it was difficult watching Caleb and Ava’s kissing scenes. And there were a lot of them.

  So far she’d avoided talking to the woman, but Ava watched Madison closely, a knowing smile always hovering on her lips.

  Other than at work, Madison didn’t get to see Caleb. He’d had to stay late the last few nights shooting the next two episodes so filming could be on hold during the Christmas break. Since Madison took care of Charlotte, her assistant was the one to stay late.

  Caleb texted her as often as he could, and they usually talked while he drove home. She assured him she was okay, but each time she saw him with Ava made it difficult to not fall back into old habits of distrust.

  One thing was certain... Caleb and Ava did have good onscreen chemistry. Madison wasn’t completely surprised when on Friday Gerard announced they were writing Lady Elaine into more episodes.

  “I’ll expect to see you two at William’s party tonight,” Gerard said to Ava and Caleb. “People Magazine, ET, and TMZ are all going to be there, and promoting an off-screen romance should send our ratings soaring.”

  Madison couldn’t watch as Ava clutched onto Caleb and kissed his cheek. She turned away and hurried to get her things. Anxiety gripped her so tightly she could hardly draw a breath. What if in all the craziness the onscreen chemistry between Caleb and Ava had actually morphed into something more?

  “Hey,” Beth said. “I have time to come by and do your makeup for the party if you want.”

  “I’m not going to the party.” Madison grabbed her jacket and purse. “You have fun, though.”

  “Seriously?” Beth crossed her arms in front of her. “You’re really going to let that vixen go with Caleb?”

  Madison felt her lower lip quiver. She couldn’t cry. Not yet, anyway. “I can’t stand by and watch them play the part of lovers.”

  “It’s called acting.”

  “Is it?” She sniffed. “I’m no
t so sure anymore.”

  Not wanting to argue any longer, she waved at Beth. “Goodnight.”

  She hurried out of the studio, keeping her head down so she didn’t make eye contact with anyone. She found her Honda and dug through her purse for her keys. Caleb’s car had been so convenient, but she’d made him have Franco pick it up as soon as Jake had fixed her car.

  Just as she backed out of her parking space, she saw Caleb running across the parking lot. She sped up, pretending not to notice him waving his hands at her. Guilt pricked her conscience as she passed through the security gate and onto the street.

  Seconds later her phone started playing the ringtone for Caleb. She ignored it, telling herself she’d call him as soon as she was a safe distance from the studio. He continued to call, and after ten minutes had passed she finally answered it.

  “Hey,” she said, trying to sound cheerful. “What’s up?”

  “What’s up?” he snapped. “You just completely ignored me, and you want to know what’s up?”

  “I’m driving, Caleb, and I don’t have a fancy Bluetooth system to answer my phone.”

  “We both know you saw me trying to wave you down.”

  She wished she could deny it. “I’m sorry, but I just had to leave. I was upset.”

  “I know,” he said, his voice softer. “That’s why I wanted to talk to you.”

  “There’s nothing to say, Caleb. You and Ava have to pretend to be a couple for the show.”

  “I’m not doing it. I’m telling Gerard the same thing.” He let out a heavy sigh. “You and I are going together. Will you be ready for the party in an hour?”

  Her knuckles turned white as her fingers curled around the steering wheel. “I’m not going.”

  “Don’t say that, Madison. Please come.”

  “I can’t do this, Caleb. I thought I could, but I just can’t.”

  “What does that mean?”

  Her eyes burned with emotion. “It means I don’t want to always wonder if you’re acting or if it’s real.”

  “That’s not fair. I thought you were going to trust me.”

  “I know.” She sniffed. “But it’s harder than I thought.”

  “Look, I just have to make a showing at the party. It’s part of my contract to promote the show, but I’ll leave as soon as I can and come over so we can talk.”

  “Not tonight, Caleb. I just need some time to process everything.” She slowed down for the car in front of her. “I need to go so I don’t get in a wreck.”

  She ended the call and tossed her phone onto the passenger seat. As soon as she turned onto her street, the tears started to fall.

  “What’s wrong?” Jenny asked the minute Madison walked in the door.

  “Everything.” Madison wanted to hide in her room but knew her sister wouldn’t leave her alone until she told her what had happened. She collapsed on the couch.

  Jenny listened, but instead of siding with Madison, she defended Caleb.

  “He. Is. Not. Dad.” She narrowed her eyes. “Think about it... you know Caleb is a good guy.”

  Madison couldn’t dispute that. It hadn’t taken long for her to remember the man she’d fallen in love with two years earlier.

  Jenny reached out and grabbed Madison’s hand. “It’s time for us to let go of our fears because Dad was an idiot. I seem to date every loser on the planet, and you don’t date anyone.” She squeezed Madison’s hand. “But we both have a shot at being with someone worthwhile. Jake is amazing. He’s kind, generous, not to mention totally sexy. Did you know I found out we aren’t the only ones he’s helped who don’t have the money to pay upfront?”

  “That doesn’t surprise me.”

  “Give Caleb a chance, Madison.”

  “What if he doesn’t want to give me another chance?”

  “There’s only one way to find out.” Jenny got to her feet and yanked Madison up with her. “You are going to the party to tell him how much you love him, because I know you love him. I don’t think you’ve ever stopped loving him.”

  “I think you’re right.”

  “I know I’m right.” Jenny grinned. “I’m also right about the dress you need to wear.” She flung open her bedroom door and pointed to the red evening gown Jenny had found at a consignment shop last year when she’d gone to a Christmas party with one of the doctors she’d met at work.

  The dress was a little more daring than the simple black sheath Madison had planned to wear. But she needed to be daring tonight.

  “Let’s hurry up before Charlotte wakes up.”

  Thirty minutes later Jenny finished putting the last curl in Madison’s hair. Gazing in the mirror, Madison fingered the scooped neckline of the red shimmering dress. “Are you sure this isn’t too revealing?” Her sister wasn’t as curvy up top as Madison was.

  Jenny rolled her eyes. “You’re not showing off any more than Elizabeth Bennet did when she went to the ball.”

  Madison smiled at the reference. She and Jenny had watched both versions of Pride and Prejudice multiple times, and they loved the gorgeous dresses from that era.

  Jenny practically shoved her out of the door. “Go get your man!”

  The drive to William’s house went by too quickly. Madison had a hard time relaxing. Her imagination was wild with fear. What if she came into the party and found Caleb and Ava together?

  William’s mansion came into view. Lit up with tiny white and red lights it looked like a Christmas wonderland. Madison pulled into the circular driveway, and waited as the valet opened her door. It made the horrible grinding noise, but the valet said nothing. After confirming her name on the guest list, he slid in the driver’s seat to park her car.

  Drawing in a fortifying breath, Madison made her way inside the house. Over the din of loud voices and laughter, she heard a familiar Christmas melody playing over the intercom system.

  The large house was filled with so many people Madison doubted she’d find anyone she knew right away. She was completely surprised when the host of the party greeted her with a hug.

  “Madison, you look absolutely lovely.”

  “Thank you.” She glanced around. “I wasn’t sure I would find anyone I know.”

  William’s eyes sparkled under the Christmas lights. “I know of one young man who will be very happy to see you.”

  “Please tell me you’re talking about Caleb and not Kevin.”

  He laughed, and pointed toward the patio. “The last time I saw Caleb he was looking miserable sitting by the pool.”

  “Thank you.” Suddenly her mouth felt dry. “I think I’ll visit the powder room first.”

  William pointed her in the right direction. Before she could enter, a woman dressed in a shiny, silvery gown came out and nearly knocked her over.

  “Well, look who decided to finally show up,” Ava said.

  “Hello.” Madison forced her lips into a smile.

  “If you’re looking for Caleb, don’t bother. He’s waiting for me by the pool.”

  For a moment, Madison considered turning around and going home. She dropped her eyes and caught a glimpse of her daring red dress. Tonight she was going to be brave.

  She raised her chin and met Ava’s gaze. “Thank you.”

  Ava grabbed onto her arm when Madison tried passing by her. “Where do you think you’re going?”

  Madison pulled her arm free. “To find Caleb.”

  “He doesn’t want you.” Ava leaned in close. “Surely you’ve seen the way he looks at me after we kiss?”

  Doubt crept in again, but then Madison remembered what Beth had said. “Caleb’s an incredible actor.”

  “Yes he is. Don’t think for a moment his feelings for you are real.” Ava’s lips curled into a satisfied smile. “Go home, darling, and save yourself the embarrassment.”

  She stared at Ava, and contemplated her words. How did Ava know about Caleb’s feelings? She wouldn’t, unless he’d said something to her.

  “What feelings would those b
e?” Madison asked.

  “I don’t know that he has any feelings for you.” Ava’s smile looked strained. “It’s just obvious you’re smitten with him again.” She gave a fake laugh. “It’s sad, really, because we both know what happened between Caleb and me in London.”

  “Actually, nothing happened in London. I misjudged Caleb then and didn’t trust him, but I trust him now.” Madison straightened her shoulders. “So if you’ll excuse me I’m going to find him.”

  Ava stepped in front of her. “He isn’t in love with you.”

  “You have no idea what my feelings are, Ava.” Caleb’s voice was cool. “I’ve asked you to leave me alone several times this evening. I’ll not ask you again politely.”

  At the sound of his voice, both Madison and Ava turned to find Caleb leaning against the wall, the smirk Madison loved so much flickering on his lips.

  Ava made an awful gurgling noise and stormed off, leaving the two of them alone.

  “Hi,” Madison said a little timidly. “I was looking for you.”

  “So I heard.” Caleb slowly walked toward her. “Did I also hear you trust me?”

  “I do.”

  “Truly?” His eyes held hers with a passion that nearly stole her breath.

  “Truly.”

  A sexy smile curved his lips as he settled his hands on her lower back, pulling her to him. “Thank you.”

  “So.” She slid her arms around his neck. “How do you feel about me?”

  “I love you, Madison Taylor,” he said lowering his head. “Most ardently.”

  “I love you too,” she whispered against his mouth.

  And then Caleb kissed her... most ardently.

  Click on the covers to visit Cindy’s Amazon Author page:

  Cindy Roland Anderson is the bestselling author of clean, contemporary romance filled with humor, romantic tension, and some pretty great kissing scenes. Cindy has a degree in nursing and worked in the NICU until she recently retired to write full time. She loves to bake, not cook (there is a difference!) and enjoys spending time with her family. Cindy is lucky to be married to her best friend John. They live in Northern Utah and are parents to five incredible children. Over the past few years their family has expanded by adding a son-in-law, a daughter-in-law, and four adorable grandchildren. Cindy loves to read, almost as much as she loves writing. And she loves chocolate— probably a little too much.