“What’s the definition of civilized? I’d argue that this is more civilized than a crowd of people bunched together hunting for the perfect present no one needs. Did I really just say that? I’m arguing myself out of a job.” She sighed. “Maybe I should apply for a job up here in Santa’s workshop. Check whether he has an opening in sales or marketing. What do you think?”

“I think Santa would be lucky to have you on his team.”

They both spoke softly, as if any increase in volume might chase away the incredible display in front of them.

Was she being stupid? Part of her wanted to back away and protect herself, but another part wanted to take full advantage of the moment.

She shifted so that she could look at him. “Funny how this has turned out. When Christy rang me to say I was bringing Holly alone, then I found out you were coming, too—”

“I thought you’d back out. I thought you would have done anything to avoid me, as you had those other times I tried to engineer time with you.”

“You did? When?”

“I invited myself to Christy and Seb’s twice when I knew you were coming, and—”

“—and I rearranged.”

“You know how to make a guy feel special, that’s for sure.”

“I was really freaked out that you knew so much about me. I was nervous.”

“I know. Making yourself vulnerable is a big step in a relationship. It’s like stepping onto glass and wondering if it’s going to hold your weight.”

A big step in a relationship. She felt a moment of panic.

“I wouldn’t know. I’ve never done it before.”

“I know.” His tone was soft. “But I also knew that the only way to get around that was to spend time with you. And you kept stopping it happening.”

“I didn’t know you were engineering those visits especially so that you could see me.”

He sighed. “Alix, I can visit Christy and Seb anytime. Didn’t you wonder why I always tried to do it when you were there?”

“I assumed it was part of your naturally annoying personality. I never knew you were so manipulative. Next you’ll be telling me you set up that meeting for Seb so that you and I could spend time together.”

“No, but when he told me what had happened and that you were going with Holly, I saw an opportunity. Also, I may have shamelessly taken advantage of your love for Christy and Holly because I knew you wouldn’t want to let your friend down.”

She shook her head. “I had no idea you were so scheming. I always took you for a fairly straightforward kind of guy.”

“I am. But we straightforward types can scheme when the need arises.”

He’d wanted to be with her. He’d engineered it. The rush of exhilaration took her by surprise.

“You said that being with me would be maddening.”

“And it has been. In the best way.”