A Very Crimson Christmas (Crimson, Colorado 4) by Michelle Major Page A

Ruth at the table.
    “Of course I do,” the older woman said with a smile. “Stan and I used to shop the after-Christmas sales—we got the best deals on our decorations that way.”
    He took her hands in his, kissing the swollen knuckles and Natalie’s heart gave an extra fast thump.
    His love for Ruth was clear on his face, but he’d stayed away from Crimson for so many years because of what had happened in the past. She knew his relationship with his parents had never been close and it made her sad to think that he’d been missing out on any unconditional warmth in his life. It was stupid, she knew. Liam probably had more friends and possibly lovers than she could count. But something about him in this small farmhouse made her believe that this meant more.
    “Is it okay if Tanner comes, too?” he asked, his gaze swinging between Ruth and Natalie. “He’s a sucker for the holidays.”
    “Of course,” Ruth answered. “Any of your friends are welcome here. If you want to invite some guys from the football team, there’s plenty of room.”
    “Tanner works for me, Ruth,” Liam said gently. “My football days are over, but thank you for offering that. How about we bring dinner?”
    “And brownies from the bakery?” Austin prompted.
    “You haven’t even had breakfast,” Natalie said with a smile. “And already you’re planning dessert?”
    “You love Katie’s brownies more than anyone,” her son retorted.
    “Brownies sound delicious.” Ruth sat up, rubbing her stomach. “I’m hungry.”
    Natalie laughed. “I’d better get breakfast going quick before I have a mutiny on my hands.”
    Liam began to help Austin put together the Lego set, reading the instructions and listening intently as her son explained the differences in Lego ninja warriors. Her heart responded to that even more. As much as she tried to be everything for her son—to throw balls, get excited about bugs, listen to endless details about fast cars and big machines—there was no way for her to replace the lack of a father in his life. She understood that loss better than most.
    She dropped scoops of batter onto the hot skillet, then added a sprinkling of chips to each one. As they cooked, she poured juice and took out plates and forks, trying to keep herself busy so she wasn’t tempted to watch Liam and Austin together, to imagine what could have been if she hadn’t pushed Liam away all those years ago.
    * * *
    The bells over the bakery door jingled as Liam walked through. He could have sent Tanner on this errand, but he hadn’t mentioned the brownie promise to his assistant. For some reason it seemed important that he be the one to personally handle dinner and dessert tonight. Besides, Tanner was busy arranging the other supplies.
    A cute woman behind the counter straightened, waving him forward as she set a tray on top of the display cabinet. “Welcome to Life is Sweet,” she said, transferring cookies to a large platter. After a moment she glanced up. “How can I...” Her voice trailed off as she caught sight of him. Her eyes narrowed and Liam searched his brain for a name. She looked vaguely familiar, with dark brown shoulder-length hair and a heart-shaped face, but he couldn’t quite place her.
    “I’m Katie Garrity,” she said, as if reading his mind. “I was a year behind you at the high school.” She paused then added, “I’m friends with Natalie.”
    He gave her a quick nod at the same time he cursed himself for not having Tanner pick up the damn brownies. “It’s nice to meet—or remeet—you.” He stuck out his hand and she shook it, looking almost surprised he’d offered it. “I’m actually here to pick up brownies for Natalie and her son. We’re hanging Christmas ornaments at my nan—at Ruth’s house tonight.”
    Katie’s face relaxed a little. “I have a fresh batch cooling in the back—the ones with a caramel center. They’re Austin’s favorites. I’ll wrap up some for you. It will only