The holiday spirit is the last thing on my mind, and he’s focused on his new beginning. But one mistletoe moment might change everything.And then there’s Travis—charming, handsome, and a Texas drawl that could make any woman weak in the knees. But is it too soon to start something new? I’ve been out of the dating game for a while, and maybe this season is meant for family, friends, and finding joy in my new season.
One thing’s for sure—I’m in no hurry for Christmas to arrive.
Still, spending the holidays away from everything and everyone I love is tougher than I expected. And then there’s Callie. I never planned to meet someone like her, let alone work so closely with her.
Now I’m left wondering… is taking this risk worth everything I’ve worked for?
Have you read the award-winning UnLucky Christmas? Don’t miss the chance to catch up with your favorite characters in Can’t Hurry Christmas from USA Today Bestselling Author Melissa Baldwin.
I’m convinced late-night pancakes are the key to happiness. There’s something wonderful about sitting in a booth at the Pancake Shoppe, with the scent of fresh coffee lingering around us. The holiday décor only adds to the mood, twinkling lights strung across the windows and garlands wrapped around the counter. There’s a steady stream of classic holiday tunes playing, and for the first time this season, I’m feeling the festive energy. Who knew breakfast and good company was all I needed to ring in the most wonderful time of the year.
Travis and I have been talking nonstop since we sat down. We’ve shared stories about family, his life back in Texas, and the most random things that have us laughing so hard people in nearby booths keep shooting glances at us.
“So, is football really that big of a deal in Texas?” I ask, sipping my coffee.
“It’s basically a rite of passage,” he says, leaning back against the booth as if he’s about to deliver a TED Talk. “You haven’t really lived until you’ve experienced a Friday night game in a small Texas town. Some of my favorite childhood memories include being on the field under those lights. My dad was always front and center in the same spot cheering me on. He never missed one of my games from the kids league through college.”
“Wow. I feel like I’ve been missing out,” I tell him. “I might have to add ‘visit Texas and go to a football game’ to my travel bucket list.”
“You should.” His grin widens, which makes my stomach do a flip.
“So, are all of your friends still in Texas?” I ask.
“Most of them, yeah.” He pauses, “It’s hard being away sometimes, but…this job was a big step and something I needed to do.”
“Were you expecting the promotion?” I ask.
He laughs nervously. “Not at all. When the board of directors met with me, I was freaking out. And then when they presented the offer, I almost turned it down.”
My mouth drops open. “Really? Why?”
“Classic imposter syndrome,” he admits, rubbing the back of his neck.
“Ah, yes. I know it well,” I say dramatically.
“I kept thinking there had to be someone more qualified and better suited to take on this role,” he continues. “But somehow they still took a chance on me.”
“They made the right decision,” I insist confidently. “At least from what I’ve seen so far. You were spot-on with the suggestions you gave my clients. And you didn’t hesitate or back down when I tried to argue. I’m not used to that.”
He smirks. “Marketing is kind of my thing.”
“Mine too,” I reply proudly.
The reminder that we work together hovers like a dark cloud over our table, but I push it away. Tonight isn’t about work or what will happen on Monday. For the first time in months, I’m enjoying myself, and I don’t want to overthink or let what-if’s ruin the moment.
USA Today bestselling author Melissa Baldwin always dreamed of sharing her stories with the world. She brought this vision to life, becoming an award-winning, bestselling author of over thirty romantic comedies and cozy mysteries. Melissa is also a wife, mother, new empty-nester, and travel advisor.
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