Warm Wishes & Christmas Kisses

Dear Readers:

I’ve compiled three of my favorite Christmas standalones in this collection. I do hope you enjoy

them. Each book is a sweet romance with excitement, laughter, a few tears, and sweet kisses. So, dive in with a cup of hot chocolate, hot tea, coffee, or whatever you like when you read.

Hugs & Kisses,

Stephanie Payne Hurt

Chapter 1

Heidi Roarke had spent several days searching for the perfect place to spend Christmas. On the heels of a rejection of her newest manuscript, a Christmas romance, she needed to reacquaint herself with Christmas, or so her agent, Janine said. According to Janine, Heidi had lost the magic of Christmas. So, she was going to where Christmas was celebrated in a traditional fashion without all the glitz and glamour of the big city.

Not to mention she needed to get away from the memories that flooded her small apartment. She didn’t want to think about any of that now. She’d go away for a while and forget everything.

Then as she searched, something catches her eye. It’s a small town in Montana called Hollyville. Well, isn’t that just perfect. A town called Hollyville surely celebrates Christmas. Heidi said to herself, scrolling down to the list of places to stay in or around the small town.

As she scrolled, a few places piqued her interest, but one caught her eye. It was a beautiful old Victorian house. Holly Cottage was located on the outskirts of Hollyville. According to the website, the bed & breakfast offered rooms with fireplaces, in suite bathrooms and three meals. Heidi was intrigued, since she was an introvert and the thought of staying and eating at one place was the perfect vacation. With a fireplace, she’d be able to sit in front of a crackling fire and write.

She searched the gallery of pictures and was fascinated by the Christmas album. It seemed that Holly Cottage was one of the best dressed for Christmas in Hollyville. This was what she needed. Now to see if they had vacancies for the month of December.

The moment she got into the reservation page; she was surprised to see they had one room left. With anxiety overwhelming her, she made the reservation. The next step was the air fare. Oh, she hated to fly and felt queasy just thinking about it. But, if she was going to find her Christmas spirit, then she had to put herself in the middle of it.

That night she packed and got ready for her upcoming trip. It was never too early to get things ready, especially since she worried about forgetting something. Even though her agent assured her that there would be stores where she was going, but she wanted her stuff. After she lay down for the night, her mind was whirling along with her stomach. Being an introvert was hard sometimes.

Once she was on the plane, she picked up a book and began to read. The only way to keep her mind off the thought of being so high up was to get lost in a story. The four-hour flight was over in no time, and she was leaving the airport in her rental car. As usual, she got turned around using her navigation on her phone and it took her an hour to get to the little town of Hollyville.

The sign announcing her arrival into town was decked out with holly and red ribbons, and it wasn’t even Christmas time yet. The town itself was small, but quaint. It reminded her of the ideal town setting. There was a candy store, hardware store and a busy cafe on the corner of the square. The courthouse sat proudly on a hill in the center of town.

She took a right at the corner of Main and Holly. It didn’t take her long to see the bed and breakfast. The house looked just like the pictures. She put the car in park and leaned forward to look at the graceful old Victorian. It was large, but not so much that it was out of place in the small town. The writer inside of her wondered about the story of the old house. Who had built it?

Stepping out of the car, she stepped right into a pile of snow. While she shook her foot free of the snow, she noticed two other cars parked in the little space beside the house. One had a Texas license plate and the other was Colorado. The diversity of the clients told her this place would probably meet up to the reviews. She walked around to the back of the car and pulled out her computer bag. Once she was settled in, she’d get the rest of her bags.

With a shiver, she walked up the pathway to the front door that warmly greeted her with a huge Welcome to our Inn sign. From the front window she could see a roaring fire in the fireplace.

She opened the door to the sound of chimes. A handsome young man came through a door behind the front desk. He smiled with such warmth that Heidi was instantly glad she’d picked this place.

Hello, welcome to Holly Cottage. I’m Eric Bale, the owner. He held out his hand and gave her a firm handshake.

I’m Heidi Roarke. I have a reservation. Heidi mumbled, finding it hard to form words. She’d never been one for small talk, unless it was with her characters in one of her books.

Yes, Mrs. Roarke. Eric said.

That’s Miss Roarke. Heidi said to correct him.

Oh, yes, I see the reservation is for one. If you’ll just sign the guest book, I’ll get your key. He turned the book around and handed her a pen. She signed the book, then looked back toward her car. It was so warm and toasty inside that she dreaded the walk back to her car. Being from Atlanta, she wasn’t used to this kind of cold weather. The weather when she left Georgia was only in the fifties. This had to be ten below.

Do you have luggage?

Yes, I’ll go get it from the car. She turned to go back out, but he stopped her.

Please, let me get your bags. He dropped a key in her hand. Your room is at the top of the stairs, second door on the right. It’s room 3.

Heidi didn’t say anything, but just started up the stairs. Her mind was on getting to her room. With her nerves in a jangle from the flight, then the long drive, all she could think about was sitting down in front of the fire that the website said would be waiting on her.

The stairs were polished oak and the railings matched. When she reached the top of the stairs, the hallway was wide with a sitting area situated at the end of the space. Her room was just as the pictures showed, complete with a fire crackling in the fireplace. She dropped her purse and computer bag on the bed on her way to stand in front of the fire. It felt wonderful as she raised her hands to it. She’d forgotten about Eric and her bags as she watched the flames dance in the hearth.

A sound behind alerted her to Eric’s presence. He put her bags on a bench at the foot of the bed. Dinner is served at six, but there are snacks in the sitting room if you’re hungry. We have hot cider and coffee in the kitchen. So just help yourself to whatever you need. If you need me, my phone number is on the table by the phone.

Thanks. Heidi managed, wanting to get back to the fire.

Alright, well, I’ll leave you to it then. He left the room, frowning as he went.

She figured he thought she was a nut job by the way she’d acted. With a shrug, she sat down in the comfortable wing back chair by the fire. She could sit here all day long. But that wasn’t productive. She had to get her word count in for the day. Turning, she pulled her laptop from the bag and sat it in her lap. Before long she was lost in one of the stories she’d been working on. It wasn’t the Christmas romance she was here to polish, but it was one she had a deadline for.

Chapter 2

Eric could tell a lot about a person just by talking with them. From what he saw of Heidi, she was a closed off person, not really a people person. Since she was here for the whole Christmas season, he planned to find out all he could about this woman.

As he grabbed her bags from the rental car, he noticed that to be staying for a month, she packed light. If he didn’t know anything about her, this one thing impressed him. Most women packed several bags just for a weekend.

She seemed sad as he walked into her room to put her bags on the bench. Or was it lonely? Eric had never known lonely, well, that wasn’t true. He wasn’t dating anyone now and he did long for someone to have dinner with or even catch a sunset. Deep down he knew his heart wasn’t ready for anything long term, not so soon after the breakup.

He went back down to the kitchen to finish putting the snacks on a tray for the afternoon hunger that always hit his customers. Even though he wasn’t hungry, he couldn’t resist some cheese and crackers. Eric placed the tray on the sideboard in the sitting room beside the warm cider. When he turned to walk back across the hall, his father, Chris walked in with an old clock in his hand.

Hey dad. Where did you find the clock? Eric asked, looking closer at the clock with interest.

It was in the attic and I decided you might like it here. I think it was your grandmothers if I remember right. His father said as he handed it to Eric.

I’ll put it in the sitting room on the sofa table. It will work well there and be a conversation piece too. Eric said as he moved the large bowl of orbs and placed the clock in its place. Now, that’s perfect.

I see a new car outside. New guest? His father said as he leaned in the doorway.

Eric made a face as he turned to his father. Yes, it’s a new guest. This one has the room for the Christmas season. He raised his eyebrows.

Well, that’s a long stay. What’s the story? Chris said with sudden interest. Eric got his curious nature from his father.

I’m not sure, but I’ll figure it out. She seems lonely. Eric said as he wiped a few crumbs into his hand.

Lonely? What better place to stay when one is lonely than the Holly Cottage. Chris said, then turned back to the door. I’ll see you later at the town hall meeting, right?

Sure thing. Eric said, then walked back to the kitchen. Tonight, he was serving homemade chicken soup with fresh baked bread and salad.

While he worked on the dinner, his mind kept slipping to the woman in the room above. Who was she? What made her so sad? Eric shook his head and pushed her out of his mind. The last thing he needed was to get to know this woman. He didn’t need any romantic entanglements, especially with someone that was withdrawn from society.

At six everyone was seated at the table except his new guest. He looked up at the ceiling and debated whether he should go up and remind her dinner was being served. His conscience took over and before he could stop himself, he was knocking on her door. She answered the door with a wary expression.

I just wanted to remind you that dinner is being served if you’re hungry. Eric said, trying not to think about her sad look.

Oh, I didn’t realize it was six already. I’ll be down in a few minutes. Heidi said, pushing a lock of blond hair behind her ear.

Alright. Eric went back downstairs to join his guests. He made it a point to eat with his guests.

A few minutes later, Heidi came through the dining room door with a shy look on her face. It turned to a look of fear when she saw the other four people that were seated.

Miss Roarke, we’re so glad you joined us. Eric said, gesturing to her to sit down in the empty seat beside him.

One of the ladies at the end of the table smiled at Heidi. Aren’t you the romance author, Heidi Roarke? The lady’s sudden excitement made Eric grin.

Um, yes. Heidi looked down at her plate, trying to avoid the woman’s gaze.

Oh, would you mind signing your latest release. I have it upstairs in my room. The woman turned and looked at her husband. We’re dining with Heidi Roarke. I can’t believe it.

Eric could see that Heidi was about to slide under the table. She was embarrassed at this woman’s apparent fan moment. Eric was glad to know the woman would be leaving early in the morning, which normally he didn’t wish his guests to leave. But this woman was making Heidi uncomfortable.

He wondered why she was a published author if she didn’t like being in the public eye? It was such a strange profession for someone that wasn’t socially inclined. He decided to steer the conversation away from her.

I hope all of you save room for dessert. Eric said and almost instantly the conversation turned.

Heidi looked up at him with a small smile. She saw through his intentions.

At the smile, although small, his stomach flipped. He turned away from her gaze and tried to focus on his meal. Eric had too much to do to get ready for the Thanksgiving feast that would be served in two days. Then of course, the Christmas preparations that had started a month ago had to be seen too. So, he might as well stop acting like a schoolboy and move forward.

Occasionally, during the meal, he’d look at her. She sat with her spine straight and her eyes on her plate, looking like she was miserable. He noticed that she just pushed her food around on her plate. No wonder she was thin, she didn’t eat. Maybe after a month here, he could put a little meat on her bones.

So, Heidi, how do you like your room? Eric asked her, trying to get her involved in the conversation.

For a second or two, she just stared at him, then after clearing her throat, she squeaked. It’s great.

Eric knew it would take some prodding to get her to talk. That room has been voted the favorite in Bed & Breakfast Magazine. We strive to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

The room is cozy, thanks. Heidi said, not sure if he was fishing for a compliment or just wanting to talk.

Well, glad you like it. I always make sure to have a fire going before a guest arrives. It just sets the mood of the Inn. Eric said.

Heidi stood up, not wanting to make small talk any longer as it made her feel out of sorts. The meal was good. She was almost to the door before anyone responded.

Breakfast is served at eight. There will be coffee and pastries starting at six. Eric said to her retreating back. The only response she gave was to hold up her hand and wave.

Chapter 3

Heidi escaped to the cozy room, shutting the door behind her. Sweat beaded on her brow as she took long gulps of air. Why did she have panic attacks when she was in the public? It was only a simple dinner with a couple of other people, what was so bad about that?

Then as she walked to the bathroom to change into her comfy flannel gown, she realized, it was Eric Bale. There was something about him that made her feel all crazy inside. She shook her head at the reflection in the mirror.

You’ve got to get a grip on yourself. Especially if you’re planning to make the deadline. She said to herself. Then she rolled her eyes.

She pulled her cozy gown over her head, then brushed out her long hair as she did every night. If she was anything, she was dedicated to her routine. After she brushed her teeth and washed her face, she was ready to sit down in the wing back chair and write.

Heidi saw a couple of pieces of wood sitting on the hearth, so she put one on the fire before she sat down. She opened her manuscript and began to write. Something didn’t feel right, but what was it? One thing, she wasn’t home where she was comfortable. The other thing was what? Tapping her chin, she looked around, trying to remember. Then it hit her, a cup of hot tea.

She got up and rummaged through her writing satchel until she found her lemon zest tea bags. Her heart fell as she realized there was no hot plate or microwave to heat her water in. For a moment she stood in the middle the room, uncertain what to do. It was a habit that she’d gotten into. The tea helped keep her focused, how she didn’t know, but it did.

Turning around, she grabbed her robe, then slipped her feet into her bedroom shoes. If she was getting going to make her word count tonight, she’d have to get her tea somehow. With determined movements, she opened the door, then looked out into the hallway. It was all quiet. She’d just slip down to the kitchen and heat a cup of hot water. Surely, she could do that without interrupting anyone.

With soft steps, she walked down the steps. If she remembered right, the kitchen to the right of the stairway. She pushed the door open and spotted the tea kettle. With a happy sigh, she saw it had steam coming from the spout. This would be easier than she thought.

She reached up and grabbed a teacup with saucer from the shelf to her right. A smile crossed her face as she placed the tea bag in, then picked up the kettle to pour the hot water. She’d almost filled the cup when someone spoke from behind her, making her pour water all over the counter. She jumped back to keep the hot water from running onto her feet.

Heidi? Eric said, then when the hot water started going everywhere, he jumped into action. Back up. You’ll scald your feet. He began to wipe it up with a towel he’d had hanging from a loop on his belt.

I’m sorry. I just wanted some hot tea. It helps me write and I don’t know why, but it does. Since I didn’t have a hot plate or anything to make tea in my room, I had to improvise. She began to babble, not sure why. She never just began to sputter words. She was not making a lot of sense.

Eric stopped wiping up water to look at her. That’s the most she’d spoken since she’d arrived this afternoon. It’s alright. You should have called the desk. I could’ve brought you some hot water.

I didn’t want to be any trouble. Heidi mumbled feeling the heat rising in her neck.

It’s not any trouble at all. He handed her the cup of tea. Did you want any sugar, honey or cream?

A little honey would be nice. Heidi said, giving her a sideways smile.

Here, it’s from one of our neighbors. He gave her a honey dipper to get her honey.

Once her tea was sweet enough, she handed it back to him. Thanks.

No thanks needed. I’m glad you have your tea, so you can write. He gave her a wink, then laid the wet towel on the counter. Do you want some homemade sugar cookies to go with your tea? You left in such a hurry earlier that you missed dessert.

Oh, well, if you have a few extra that would be great.

Eric saw her blush, which made his stomach take a turn. Heidi, believe me, we have plenty. The local bakery keeps us supplied in breads, pastries and sweets. There’s an endless supply. He put several on a plate, then handed it to her.

Their fingers touched for just a second, but for that second, time stopped. Both looked up in surprise from the current that ran through the simple, innocent touch. Then, before he could see what passed before her eyes, she looked down at the cookies.

Well, thanks again.

Before he could find his tongue, she was out the door and going up the stairs. There was something about that intriguing woman.

Heidi balanced her plate of cookies on her teacup as she opened the door to her room. Her fingers still tingled from their touch. When she was inside, she placed her plate and cup on the small table beside the chair.

With her laptop in her lap, she opened it and began to write again. As she wrote, she took a sip of her tea, then sighed. Unconsciously, she reached for a cookie. One bite and she was lost. They were the best cookies she’d eaten.

She didn’t close the laptop until three in the morning. Heidi stood up and stretched, then climbed in between the cool sheets. She didn’t even bother putting another log on the fire. Her brain was tired and so was her body from her traveling. Sleep claimed her almost as soon as her head hit the pillow.

Chapter 4

The sun streamed through the window, sliding across the pillow and into her eyes. Heidi opened her eyes with a flutter, then pulled the blanket over her head. It was way too early to be so bright outside. With a groan, she rolled over to look at the clock that sat on the bedside table. At first, she didn’t believe what she saw.

It was almost eleven. Sitting up with a surprised gasp, she rubbed her eyes. She never slept this late. Then she sank back under the warm covers. The room was freezing. One look at the dark fireplace, she knew why. Surely there was a furnace in this place. She looked around but didn’t see a thermostat anywhere. Nature was calling with a loud voice, so she had to get out of the bed.

The walk to the bathroom was quick and cold. She was happy to find a heater in the bathroom. A turn of the knob and welcome heat flowed out into the cold bathroom.

Heidi took a shower, then walked downstairs. She was sure that breakfast was long gone, but hopefully she could snag a banana or roll or something. Her stomach was growling with an unladylike persistence by the time she walked into the dining room. The house was quiet except for the sound of pans in the kitchen. She pushed the door open and found Eric stirring something in a large stew pot.

Eric looked up, Good morning sleepy head. I was beginning to think you’d sleep the whole day away. He saw the dark circles under her eyes. Someone must have stayed up late writing.

Yes. She looked around for something to snag for breakfast. Any chance there’s a banana or something for breakfast?

As a matter of fact, I made you a plate and put it in the oven to keep warm. I knew you’d be hungry when you came down. He pulled the plate laden with eggs, bacon, a thick, fluffy Belgian waffle and hash browns.

Thanks. Her stomached growled loudly, making her giggle in embarrassment. This looks good.

Coffee or juice or both? Eric said as he pulled a mug from the shelf.

Both please. Heidi said around a mouth full of waffle.

Eric placed a steaming cup of coffee on the table and poured her a glass of orange juice. Do you like clam chowder?

It’s my favorite. Heidi said as she poured sweetener in her mug, then creamer until it was almost white.

Eric raised a brow. That’s what we’re having for lunch. Then he looked back at the mug of coffee. Do you like creamer?

A little. She said, then she sipped the coffee, feeling herself begin to wake up.

Any plans for the day? Eric stirred the chowder while he talked, adding a little salt.

I was planning to go for a walk in town, you know, get my bearings. Heidi took a sip of the juice.

Make sure that you go to the general store. Everyone loves it. The store has stayed the same for over a hundred years. Of course, they have an updated cash register, but other than that, it’s still the same.

Oh, I’ll go by there.

And there’s the town visitors center. It’s nice.

Heidi finished breakfast, then went up to grab her coat and purse. She wasn’t really wanting to go to town, but if she was to get the hang of this small-town thing, she had to do it.

As soon as she stepped outside, the cold wind assaulted her. She pulled her coat tighter. Town was only two blocks away. It was a cold walk, but the general store was on the closest corner, so she made her way to the front door. Once inside, it was nice and warm. She spotted a potbellied stove and walked over to warm her frozen hands. When she packed, she hadn’t thought about gloves and scarves.

An older lady came up to her. Dear, you need to be dressed warmer. You’ll catch your death out there.

"I’m from Atlanta and it’s