A Very Merry Mistake

by Lyra Parish

If it weren’t for bad luck, I’d have none.

I want to be successful and respected for what I’ve accomplished. Not for who I am.

I’ve learned that in life, you get what you give. So I’d rather put more good in the world than not.

I’d say I’m more like a lumberjack, but only durin’ the winter months, when it’s wood-choppin’ and Christmas tree-shoppin’ season.”

“Nice knowin’ ya. I’ll make sure when you go missing that I tell your parents a pretty brown-headed girl was walking into town and had no place to stay, so my dumbass best friend picked her up and brought her home with him!”

I narrow my eyes at his ridiculous attempt to flirt with the woman he just accused of being a mail-order bride, a prostitute, and a serial killer.

He’s the type of man you wish you could find—the kind that once you have him, you never let him go.

Am I that desperate for someone to be nice to me that I already find this man attractive?

“Tempting. What if I said I like to snuggle and I can’t control where my hands go?” “Tell me, is that a promise, darlin’?”

“Oh God, no. I’ve got a thing for tall, muscular men my age.” “Lumberjacks on that list?” Claire shoots me a wink, and my heart rate picks up. “And what if they are?” “I think you shouldn’t start something you won’t be able to finish.”

“You aren’t the problem. You just weren’t the priority. That changes now.”

“I’m glad you’re havin’ a good time.” “Are you?” I ask, hoping this isn’t boring. “The best, but that’s always the case when you’re around. You’re happiness, Claire.” I laugh. “There are many people who’d disagree with you. I think you’re sunshine and just bring out the best in me.”

‘You look with your eyes, not your hands.’”

I’m not a billionaire. Just a Christmas tree farmer with a sassy cat.”