“I was only kidding. Do you think you and Quincy will pick out a tree together?”

“I hope so. I’ve never picked one out before. I wonder what he does for Christmas. Knowing him, he probably spends it with Tru and Gemma and the kids, which sounds perfect to me. Oh gosh…I just thought of something. Given the way his mother was, I wonder if he ever celebrated Christmas.” Her chest constricted. “I hope he did. It would be sad if he didn’t.”

“Boy, you two really are made for each other. You both missed out on so much when you were growing up.”

“I know. But I’m going to make this Christmas extra special for him.”

“I thought he was the best man in a wedding on Christmas.”

“He is. Josie and Jed are getting married, but I’ll think of something fantastic just for Quincy. Did I tell you the kids’ leather jackets arrived the other day? They are so stinking cute! We’re saving them for Christmas presents. I can’t wait to see their faces when they open them.”

“You know Lincoln won’t give a hoot about a jacket. He’ll have more fun with the box you wrap it in.”

“I know. Why do you think Gemma and I were whispering at the bonfire? I was asking for more gift suggestions.”

“Of course you were. You’re always one step ahead of me.”

Roni looked out the window and saw Quincy climbing out of his truck. A smile crawled across her face. “Quincy just got here. Thanks for brainstorming with me today. I appreciate it.”

“Anytime. You were my girl before you became Loverboy’s.”

“You’re the best, Ang. I have to run. Have fun shopping with your sex god.”

“Have fun on your kiddie date with your magic peen.”

Roni laughed as she ended the call.

She was so excited to see Quincy, she threw open the door and hurried onto the landing. He took the stairs two at a time, eating up the space between them.

“There’s my beautiful girl.” He reached for her at the same time as she launched herself into his arms. He carried her inside without breaking their kiss, her feet dangling above the ground. When he set her down, he kept her close with his arm around her waist and said, “Mm. Your kisses do me in every damn time. I missed you.”

“I missed you, too. How was work?”

He shrugged. “Busy. Did you hear they’re calling for snow next week?”

“No, but I love snow, so I don’t mind.”

“You’re so cute. Did you have a good day?”

“Yes. I came up with some fun ideas for my five- and six-year-old class and brainstormed a few things for the Winter Showcase with Angela. She’s going to get her tree with Joey next weekend. She asked if we were getting a tree together.”

“Did she? You know what that means.”

“That she’s my friend?”

He chuckled. “Considering Christmas is more than a month away, it means we’re a given in her eyes, too.” He brushed his lips over hers and said, “I fucking love that, and I know what we’re doing next weekend.”