Sometimes the right gift can be life-changing ...<br><br>On the solstice, Rory’s grandfather gives him a pocket watch he claims will have Rory’s life sorted and his problems solved by Christmas. Rory starts out skeptical, but when he reconnects with an ex he never thought he’d see again, he has to admit there might be some holiday magic at work after all.<br><br>Deacon’s life is in shambles, and he’s returned to Syracuse for a fresh start. Running into Rory again feels like much more than a coincidence, and neither of them can deny the passion between them is still smoldering. With the watch behaving oddly at just the right moments, Rory and Deacon might receive the gift of a lifetime ... if they’re willing to accept it.

A Timely Gift

“What are your plans for Christmas?” I had no idea where the question came from, but when the light dimmed in his eyes, I instantly regretted it. It was probably a stark reminder he was alone for the holiday. Considering he was standing on the walk in front of my house the day before Christmas Eve—unless he was travelling later that day or the next


He shrugged and did his best to look unaffected. “You know, probably takeout on the couch with some movies.”


Crap.“Come spend the holiday with me.”


“Yeah. It’ll be great.” I hadn’t intended to invite him, sure, but I knew it was the right thing. “No one should be alone at Christmas. I have a movie fest on Christmas Eve. It’s my tradition, so you can do that with me instead of by yourself. And then Christmas Day we all gather at my family’s house.”


He didn’t say anything for a long moment. “I wouldn’t want to impose.”


I quickly shook my head and placed a hand on his arm. “I promise, you won’t be.”


Chapter 7