More Than a Tiara: A Christian Romance (Christmas in Montana Romance Book 1)

by Comer,Valerie

  “I don’t know how you did that.” Avalon’s brown eyes narrowed. “But I do know why.”

  The innocence Marisa sought to bring to her face dissolved into confusion. “Pardon me?”

  Avalon leaned closer. “You leave Jase Mackie alone. He’s mine.”

  CHAPTER 5

  A Thanksgiving weekend like no other.

  Jase straightened his black tie as he surveyed the crowd mingling in the Helena Civic Center Ballroom Saturday evening. Men in tuxedos lifted wine glasses to women in sparkling gowns. Waiters clad in black shifted through the melee with platters high above their heads, offering drinks and hors d’oeuvres to the dignitaries of Montana’s capitol city.

  He shifted slightly. They’d also come to see Marisa, the great-great-great-granddaughter of the pageant’s first winner. Did it seem as surreal to Marisa as it did to him? After all, she’d grown up here and no one had made a big deal of her connection from what she’d said. Not even when she’d gone to New York to model for some of the biggest names in fashion. Probably not the same as being a beauty queen in their eyes.

  Mom made her way around the room to him, a glass of bubbly in her hand. “Jase! Why aren’t you in the ready room taking photos of the girls?”

  “Kristen has given me a strict list of what’s on the official agenda, and their pep talk wasn’t on it.” He rubbed his camera, practically another limb. “Don’t worry, I’m set to start shooting when they arrive for the banquet. And, I’ll make sure to get a good cross-section of the who’s who in attendance for the Record’s entertainment pages.”

  She rested a well-manicured hand on his arm. “Good lad. We all have to do our part.”

  “Excellent turnout.” Jase poked his chin out at the crowd. “Moving the event to the Civic Center was a great idea.”

  “Yes. I’m glad your father decided to expand the guest list… and the venue.”

  “It’s an amazing building.” Of course Kristen had discovered the rental space in the early twentieth-century Moorish Revival-style building, now the city’s civic center. New to Helena, he hadn’t bothered to figure out that the minaret he’d seen across the city hailed from such an impressive building available for events like this.

  At first look he’d thought the distinctive designs in the tile floor would be out of character for a pageant ball, but he’d been mistaken. With nearly one hundred round tables dotting the space, each gowned with a sapphire blue satin cloth and lace snowflake overlay, little of the floor remained visible. Even the mezzanine levels housed tables for media.

  “I hope it pays off.” Dad came up behind Mom. “It still feels like a big gamble.”

  “Big party, you mean. What could possibly go wrong? Every bedroom in the resort is full as well.”

  “Don’t tempt fate. I’m still not sure—”

  “Don’t be silly, William. It’s just a series of parties we’ve invited many important guests to. And look. They came! Everyone will have a wonderful time toasting Montana’s and Helena’s anniversaries, and talk about the beauty of the Helena area. And such a delightful resort to stay at, catering to their every whim.”

  Dad tugged at his bow tie and glanced at Jase. “We’ll see, Ruth. We’ll see.” He excused himself and headed for the microphone.

  The chatter mellowed to murmurs.

  “Welcome to the newly-revived annual tradition, the Miss Snowflake Tiara Pageant! I’m your event host, Dr. William Mackie.”

  Society clapped.

  Jase looked at his mother and whispered, “Annual? Since when?”

  “But of course! We’d be silly not to use the event to build momentum for the future. Did Kristen forget to tell you?”

  His sister had neglected to tell him many things. “It doesn’t matter, I guess. I’m just the photographer. It’s not like I’m irreplaceable.”

  “Now, Jase, don’t be ridiculous. You’re not just anything. You’re our son, and we want the best for you as well as for the whole family.” She batted her curled eyelashes at him.

  “Oh, no, you don’t.” He backed up a step. “I can see where this is going. Just because the first pageant’s winner married the innkeeper doesn’t mean history will — or should — repeat itself.”

  Mom laughed. “But it could. Kristen says your girlfriend is a contestant. How come you didn’t tell me? Introduce me?”

  She meant Avalon, of course. “It’s just been a few dates, Mom. I’m honestly not that sure.” He’d been even less certain since meeting Marisa again.

  “But there are nineteen other women in the pageant. All beautiful. All accomplished. Surely one of them will catch your eye. If not this group, maybe next year, but I don’t want to grow old and die before you give me more grandchildren.”

  One had caught his eye, all right. Too bad he’d blown it two years back. “So you’ll keep doing this shindig until one of the women gets my attention?”

  “You don’t seem to be picking any on your own.”

  He shook his head but couldn’t help the grin that poked out. “You’re crazy, Mom, you know that?” He slipped his arm around her and gave her a little squeeze. “How will anyone match up to you?”

  “Oh, Jason. What a nice thing to say.”

  It was even true. He’d met many a wealthy person who felt entitled. Not so his parents.

  A rustle of silk alerted him to Kristen’s arrival even before her whisper. “Shhh, you two. The contestants will be coming in the side doors in just a moment.”

  Time for work. “Thanks.” Jase flipped his camera on and sidled along the wall.

  “Please welcome Miss Avalon Penhaven, a Helena native and first runner-up in the Miss Montana pageant last year.”

  Polite applause as Avalon strutted in wearing a low-cut leopard-print gown, a necklace glittering against her tanned throat. She tossed her streaked blond hair over her shoulder as she paused under the spotlight and struck a pose, her eyes finding Jase’s easily.

  He’d like to think the saucy smile was for the camera, but he knew better.

  Jase frowned. Surely Avalon wasn’t whom Mother referred to when she said Jase should find a bride. He gave his head a quick shake. Focus. Nineteen more women to go.

  His lens followed Avalon to her seat at the banquet’s head table before swinging back to the double doors to capture the next contestant’s entrance.

  “Please welcome Miss Diana Riley of Great Falls, where she practices law.”

  The African-American beauty strode to the spotlight position and pirouetted gracefully for the crowd — and Jase’s camera.

  He settled in to work as contestant after contestant was introduced, trying not to listen for Marisa’s name. This was a live photo shoot, and certainly not the first event he’d recorded. He knew what needed to be captured.

  “And finally, please welcome Miss Marisa Hiller of Helena, a graduate of Yale and currently a local organic farmer.”

  To look at her here, in her element, he’d never have guessed she liked to play in the dirt.

  Her coral gown swirled nearly to her knees as she pivoted. Brown hair, loosely curled, floated back to her shoulders as she tilted her head and smiled for the camera.

  Straight into his eyes.

  That color looked amazing on her, drawing out the sparkle of her brown eyes. He’d thought the purple from registration day had done her justice, but here she’d found her true match.

  Realizing he’d taken more photos of Marisa than any other contestant, he lowered the camera.

  The applause died away.

  “Thank you, lovely ladies, for joining us here this evening. Let us ask God’s blessing over our dinner.”

  By the murmurs of the gathering, not many were used to grace being said, even at Thanksgiving.

  Wait staff began the task of distributing salads as the chatter picked up.

  Jase had snuck a salad and roll before the event, and a plate full of turkey and trimmings would be awaiting him in the warmer. Tonight he wasn’t honored family or
even a guest. Tonight he was an employee.

  ~*~

  Marisa slipped back into the ready room to see several contestants gathered around Avalon. The chatter faded as Avalon’s narrowed gaze met hers.

  Competition was nothing new, but this was crazy. Top models competed for contracts all the time. Competed for the featured spotlights once they were in the catalogue. It wasn’t anything personal.

  Not like this. Avalon seemed happy to be everyone’s friend except hers. Not that Marisa wanted that relationship, but still. She was only here because Bob and Mom had coerced her.

  “You did a lovely job on your speech.”

  Marisa turned to see Kristen. “Thank you.”

  “No, really.” The redhead bounced. “I’d never given food that much thought before. I mean, I know I should avoid fast-food places if I want to keep my shape, but I never really thought there was any harm in taking Charlotte and Liam sometimes so they could have a treat and run off some energy in the attached playground.”

  “I’ve learned it’s important how we use the word treat.”

  Kristen’s eyebrows pulled together. “Yes, I see that. I’m sure I’ll learn so much from you during the pageant. I just wanted you to know I’m so happy you joined the group.”

  The back of Marisa’s head suddenly felt itchy. Probably because Avalon’s eyes were burning holes in it.

  “Would you come over to the resort one day for lunch, you and your mom? I’d love to pick your brain on the topic of food.”

  “What a lovely invitation, but perhaps it would be best if we kept our relationship on a professional level during the competition. I wouldn’t want anyone to think I was trying to sway you so I’d look more favorable.”

  “Oh, you’re so right.” Kristen lowered her voice and glanced past Marisa. “And I know who would see too much into it, too. Just because she’s been dating my brother.”

  They were actually going out? Marisa’s heart tightened in her chest. If that was the kind of girl that had caught Jase’s attention lately, Marisa stood no chance with him. Not that she wanted him, but it was hard to deny the chemistry that flashed between them every time their eyes met. Hard for her to deny. Apparently Jase had no such problem.

  With a start Marisa realized Kristen was still talking.

  “Our mother has decided it’s time for Jase to settle down and get married. Look out anyone who’s lucky enough to get Mom’s undivided attention. The Penhavens are an old Helena family, too.”

  Why was Kristen telling her all this? “So your mother’s in favor, then?” Not that it was any of her business.

  Kristen’s laugh bubbled free. “Of Avalon? Jase has been keeping it from her. I’m not sure why, but I suspect it’s so Mom doesn’t start planning the wedding just yet.”

  Marisa forced a smile. “I know what mothers can be like when they get their hooks into something. Well, you saw how mine practically forced me into the pageant. Mom and Bob Delaney.”

  “Bob Delaney?”

  “The man from the CSA. He attended with my mother this evening, but I’m sure you had too much on your mind to notice them.” Bob actually cleaned up pretty well, all things considered. Who knew the guy could pull off a suit, even if it had been new last century? “Speaking of them, Mom’s waiting for me in the foyer. I should get going.”

  Kristen rested her hand on Marisa’s arm. “I, for one, am glad she helped me talk you into competing. Half the people in this room came only to get a good look at you.”

  “Oh, I don’t know about that. I grew up here. I doubt anyone is that fascinated.”

  “But you’re a successful model.”

  Marisa shrugged. “No one in Helena cares much about that. As far as most people know or care, I went back east to go to college, get a job, and do a bit of traveling. Now I’m home.”

  Kristen’s eyes widened. “But you’re Calista and Albert’s great-great-great-granddaughter.”

  “Trust me when I say, no one is interested. It’s just a fun old family story only a few historians in town care about.”

  “Until recently.”

  Until Kristen’s advertising campaign had plastered the information across the media. “They’ll forget again as quickly.”

  “You underestimate yourself.”

  “Me?” Marisa pulled back. “I don’t think so. I’m a realist, is all. I grew up here. You didn’t. I don’t get my confidence from what people think of me, but of what God thinks. To Him I am always His cherished princess, regardless of whether I win or lose in the eyes of society.” A hard-won foundation.

  Kristen’s eyes misted. “What a beautiful way to look at it.”

  “It’s worth far more than a tiara.” And it would pay for Marisa to remember her own words. She slipped her arms into her coat sleeves.

  “Marisa? Almost ready?” Mom stuck her head into the ready room.

  “Getting a ride home with Mama?” Avalon asked, gliding past.

  Mom shifted out of her way.

  “I sure am.” With no need to explain it away, either.

  Avalon fluttered fingers and eyelashes at Marisa as she swept out. “Jase, darling, there you are. I’m ready to go now.”

  “I don’t know what he sees in her.” Kristen walked away, shaking her head.

  Yeah, Marisa could do without following the happy couple out to the civic center’s parking lot, but Mom was back in sight, beckoning. With a sigh, Marisa trailed her mother into the foyer, where Jase was helping Avalon into a fur coat. Fake or not? No doubt Avalon could make a case for either.

  Bob swaggered over and grasped Marisa’s hands. “Good job, kiddo. You made us proud.”

  Avalon laughed.

  Pretty sure it was aimed at Bob, but Marisa wasn’t about to check. She didn’t want to see Jase’s reaction to know whether he agreed with Avalon or not. She leaned down and placed a kiss on his cheek. “Thanks, Bob. Ready to head out?”

  “Yep. Snow’s been coming down steady while we were inside. Real pretty out now. I’ll bring the car around.”

  Snow. Just the thought raised Marisa’s spirits. “No need. We can all walk out.”

  “Not in them shoes, you can’t. Unless you have boots along?”

  Marisa glanced at her strappy heels and sighed. “Good call. Mom and I will wait right here.” Beside Avalon, apparently.

  Jase’s Jetta was the first to glide to a stop. He hopped out and came around to open the car door for Avalon. Smirking, Avalon wiggled her fingers at Marisa as she slid into the leather interior.

  Marisa waved back, trying to look more genuine than she felt.

  CHAPTER 6

  “I don’t see why your parents want real trees. They need watering and the needles fall off.” Avalon stared at the crowded tree lot set up in the parking area of Summit Collision. A crew had brought hundreds of conifers down from the Flathead Valley for sale.

  Jase let Charlotte and Liam out of the crew cab’s back seat. “Stay close now, you two.”

  “We will, Sir Uncle Jase.” Charlotte’s brown eyes glinted up at him, her hair peeking out from under a white stocking cap.

  “Grandpa wants tall trees.” Liam looked around, eyes wide, then tucked his mittened hand into one of Jase’s while Charlotte claimed the other.

  Avalon narrowed her gaze at the kids then slid both of hers, clad in suede gloves, into the pockets of her coat.

  Well, he hadn’t exactly invited her. She’d called him and asked what he was doing, and he’d told her. He couldn’t very well tell his niece and nephew they were no longer welcome to come along, could he?

  “There’s a tree.” Liam pointed.

  Charlotte skipped in place. “Lots of trees, silly. We have to see every single one of them before picking.”

  “But I want hot chocolate. You promised, Unca Jase.”

  Jase swung the little boy’s hand. “I did promise, but Charlotte is right. First we have to find the trees your grandparents asked for.”

  “What are we looking
for, then?” asked Avalon. “It can’t take too long to see the selection.”

  “A twelve-foot blue spruce for the reception room bay, a Scotch pine for the banquet hall, and another for the penthouse.” Jase started down the first row.

  When Charlotte pulled free and skipped ahead, Avalon slipped her hand into the crook of Jase’s arm. He grinned down at her, and she gave him a tentative smile in return.

  The crisp winter air glistened around them as they strolled the lot. He could do this. He didn’t have to keep thinking about Marisa. Avalon would warm up to the kids, and they’d have a great afternoon together.

  Jase squeezed Avalon’s hand. “What about you? Want a tree for your condo?”

  She swept his words aside. “No, I have an artificial, of course. White pre-lit with blue and silver glass balls. You?”

  He inhaled deeply, savoring the scent of fresh-cut trees. He’d never taken the time to know one conifer from another. But now? It was time to turn over a new leaf. “I donated my artificial to a charity fundraiser before I left New York, along with a bunch of other stuff. It’s time for me to move up.” He stepped closer to the nearest tree and fingered a cluster of long needles, upswept from a sturdy trunk. “Maybe something like this.”

  “A pine?”

  He read the tag, confirming Avalon’s words. “Yes. Doesn’t it smell awesome? Like hiking in the mountains.”

  “I like this tree you picked, Unca Jase.” Liam’s earnest brown eyes looked up at him.

  “Me, too, buddy. Shall we get it for my apartment?”

  His nephew nodded. “Can I help you descrate it?”

  “Decorate, little boy.” Avalon shook her head.

  Jase nudged her. “Aw, it’s cute.”

  “No, it’s not. Don’t encourage him. He needs to learn to speak correctly.”

  Liam tugged at his sleeve. “Can I, Unca Jase?”

  “Sure, buddy. We’ll get your mama to give us a hand.” Genius idea, that. Kristen would make the tree gorgeous, and he’d simply have to supply snacks and pop.