After dinner, Steele surprised us by producing a guitar and playing Christmas music. He knew all the words and was damn good. We sang along, drank too much eggnog, and ate more. Everyone pitched in, and we cleaned up. By ten p.m., the crowd dispersed with full stomachs and good memories. Junie also disappeared.

Caro wanted to go back to her condo with the kids, and I followed her, uninvited, but she didn’t slam the door in my face. I considered that a good sign.

I sat down next to Caro and put my arm around her shoulders. She tensed for a moment, then leaned into me, her head on my shoulder. Having her here was the most natural thing ever. She fit next to me, and contentment washed over me.

The flame in the gas fireplace danced merrily on the opposite side of the room. The kids curled up on the thick rug with Mona, and all three of them fell asleep.

“This scene would look good on next year’s Christmas card.”

Caro nodded, not looking at me but staring into the flames. I wondered what she was thinking.

“Forgive me?” I whispered, leaning close to her ear.

“It’s hard to stay mad at you.”

“I know because I’m damn cute.”

“You’re a damn pain in the ass.”

“That, too. The kids had a good Christmas. I wasn’t sure how it’d go.”

“Neither was I. They stayed busy today. Tomorrow they might crash, recalling all the past Christmases with Mark. They will feel his loss.”

“It’s all part of life, honey. I’ve been there. Losing a father is tough, but we’ll be here to help them.” I cupped her chin in my palm and turned her to face me. “I want many more memories like this one.”

“Easton…”

“I know. I’m moving too fast.”

“Like, race-car speed.”

“You know me. When I decide what I want, I go after it. Caro, give us a chance.”

“I want to.” The hint of sadness in her voice rammed a dagger deep in my heart. She didn’t believe in us. She was protecting herself and her heart from possible heartbreak. For this to work, we had to both be all in. We couldn’t afford to hold back.

“I want to tell the kids I’m their father in the next few weeks.”

“It’s too early. Give them more time.”

I sighed, weary of having the same argument with her over and over. “The more time we take, the bigger the chance someone else lets it slip. Just about everyone knows but them.”

“Please, give me more time.”

I was impatient for them to know so we’d be able to forge a deeper bond and they’d realize I was here to stay, but I’d respect Caro’s opinions on this subject. I kissed her softly, lingering for a blissful moment.

“Let me stay the night.”

She gazed up at me, her eyes searching mine. I didn’t know what she was looking for, but I hoped she’d found it. She shook her head. “Not tonight.” Abruptly, she stood and pointed toward the door. “I’m really tired. You probably should go. I have to get the kids to bed.”