The most wonderful time of the year is about to get even better.<br><br>On a cold, rainy December morning, Finn’s beloved Grampa, his best friend and rock, makes a friend outside their home who he invites in for coffee. The last thing Finn expects is Nelson, a man with a painful past, who is beautiful and generous and turns Finn’s knees into jelly.<br><br>What starts out as a chance to get out of the rain, soon becomes more as Nelson helps Finn get ready for the Christmas market. They bond over coffee and fabric and Mariah Carey. Can handmade Christmas ornaments and an understanding heart give Nelson the love he’s been denied?

Under the Felt Mistletoe

I allow myself to cling to him for a while longer. He doesn’t ask any questions, just holds me. His breathing is regular and steady. His presence is calming and feels safe. His acceptance helps me regain some confidence.


Finally, I straighten and step away. “Thank you,” I say again with a small smile.


“Are you sure you’re all right?” He knits his eyebrows together and looks at me, his gaze wandering from my face, down my neck, and over my body as though he’s trying to make sure for himself.


“I promise. I was just…I don’t know…I didn’t feel like coming here in the first place and then that guy…” I shudder. “And I didn’t have my car…and Billy…” I shrug, hoping he can make sense of my incoherent words that I hope don’t sound as rattled to him as they do to my own ears.


“You don’t have to explain.” His eyes are warm and concerned, and dammit, I’m gonna break down in a sobbing heap if he keeps looking at me like that and I don’t even know why.


Chapter 11