A Holiday Proposal (4 page)

Chapter 5

M
idmorning on Monday, Holly walked into Mrs. Nelson’s room to the sound of Perry Mason playing on the television. “Good morning. How are you feeling?”

“Better. You think the doc will let me out of here soon?”

Holly grinned. “What’s the matter? You sick of us already?” She took the blood pressure cuff from where it was strapped to the wall and wrapped it around her patient’s arm. “Your numbers are improving, Mrs. Nelson.” She gave the woman’s hand a light squeeze, then wrote her vitals on her chart. “Lunch will be here soon.”

The elderly patient made a face. “You call that food? Whatever happened to chicken-fried steak or something with a little substance? All the fruits and vegetables this place serves are liable to send me to an early grave.”

Holly bit her bottom lip to keep from laughing. “Now, Mrs. Nelson, you know it’s important to eat right to get your blood pressure down and ease the strain on your heart.”

“Posh.” The woman waved a hand. “I’m ninety years old. You don’t think I know how to take care of myself. My ticker is working just fine now.”

The older woman was right. Her heart had responded well to the meds, and since she’d been here, her blood pressure had dropped to normal. “Tell you what. I’ll speak with your doctor, and if he agrees, you can choose whatever you like off the menu for dinner.”

Mrs. Nelson flashed a grin. “Now you’re talking. You’re a good girl, Holly. Thank you.” She rested her head back and closed her eyes. “Think I’ll take a catnap. You mind shutting off the tube?”

Holly punched off the TV, then slipped from the room and spotted Todd speaking with one of her coworkers at the nurse’s station. She strolled over and bumped shoulders with him. “Long time no see.”

“Hey, there.” He raised a hand, then shifted so his back faced her and continued talking with the other nurse.

How rude. Had her rejection of more than friendship stung worse than he let on? Maybe she had hurt his feelings. Her stomach knotted. She hated drama, but it looked as if that was exactly what Todd was dishing out. Then again, maybe she’d interrupted an important conversation. That was probably what it was.

Her cell phone vibrated in her pocket. She quickly glanced at the caller ID and rejected the call. Her mother could leave a message. She wasn’t supposed to take personal calls at work, and her mom probably just wanted to talk about Jessica’s baby, anyway.

With a sigh, she sat in the empty chair at the computer station. She loved her sister, but why did their mother have to play favorites? In her eyes, Holly would never measure up to the perfect first daughter. Jessica had been a straight-A student, never got in trouble and excelled at everything she tried—while Holly had been the opposite. Her grades were average and she received detention more than once for being tardy to class. She knew it was wrong to be jealous, but it was so hard not to be. She craved her mother’s love and acceptance as much as she craved success in her career.

The only thing that could raise her esteem in their mother’s eyes would be to get married and start a family of her own. But that’s not what
she
wanted, at least not yet. Sure, maybe someday, when Mr. Wonderful came along and she was secure in her position. A flash of Matthew’s vivid blue eyes danced across her gray matter, and she shook the thought away. His words from lunch on Sunday still stung. What did he know? He didn’t have to live in the shadow of a supersibling.

Mom would have to acknowledge her younger daughter’s success once Holly was promoted to charge nurse. Of course, she was only in her first month on the job, and a promotion would take time, but Holly was determined to succeed. Her cell vibrated again, and she ignored it. If she was caught answering a personal call she’d probably get written up.

Todd sidled up to her station. “Can we talk?”

Holly looked up and down the hall and didn’t spot her boss. She nodded. “What’s up?” she asked, while keeping her eyes on the computer screen just in case her superior happened by.

Todd crossed his arms. “Sorry about ignoring you. I needed to go over something with Angie.”

Holly nodded.

“Anyway, I’ve been thinking about what you said on the phone yesterday, and we should talk. Yes, we’re friends, but I think we could be more.”

Holly’s fingers hovered over the keys, and she raised her eyes. “Oh. Can we talk about this later?”

“Sure. Lunch?”

“Okay. I’ll meet you at The Gingerbread House across the street. I’ll text you when I’m free.”

He gave her a tight smile. “Fine.” He spun around and walked stiffly toward the rehab department.

She blew out a breath and refocused on the computer screen. The pending conversation with Todd knotted her stomach, but it was best to hear him out and then make him understand her position.

An hour later, Holly pushed back from her station. “I’m taking lunch.” She sent a text to Todd and walked toward the exit.

He sauntered out of the rehab center just off the exit. “Late lunch break today.”

Cool air washed over her as the sliding doors whooshed open. “Yes.” Holly frowned. She hadn’t expected him to leave the second she texted him. She’d planned to gather her thoughts and meet him there, but there was nothing to be done about it now.

They picked their way across the snow-covered street in silence and trekked the short distance to the quaint shop. The sign out front said The Gingerbread Factory, but she much preferred to think of it as The Gingerbread House.

Todd held the door open, and she went ahead of him. Fortunately the small place wasn’t busy. She ordered a sandwich and coffee to go, then paid and waited for Todd. Her stomach churned, and she wondered if the sandwich was a mistake. Then a memory of her near collapse in front of Matthew surfaced. She’d better eat or risk a repeat of that embarrassing experience.

Todd retrieved both their orders. “Do you have time to sit and talk or should we walk and talk?”

“Walk.” No way did she want to let him think this was a date. She took the bag with her sandwich and turned toward the exit but had to wait for another patron to enter. “Matthew!” Her heart tripped.

His eyes widened and he stopped, effectively blocking the doorway. “Holly. This is a surprise. What are you doing here?” He flashed a tight smile at Todd.

“Just grabbing a quick lunch.” She glanced at the display case holding a plethora of gingerbread cookies of all sizes. “Checking out the competition?” she teased.

Matthew chuckled. “I don’t even try to make gingerbread cookies. Why bother when there’s a place like this in town?” He moved out of their way. “Have a good one.” He nodded to Todd.

Holly looked over her shoulder to gauge Todd’s response. A grim expression covered his face. The door closed behind them, and they walked slowly side by side. “So, you wanted to talk.” She pulled out her sandwich and took a nibble.

“Yes. About us. We are good together. I think we should date.”

She gentled her voice. “There is no us, Todd. I value your friendship, but beyond that...you know how I feel about distractions.”

“I don’t think of myself as a distraction. I’m an enhancement. I’ll improve your quality of life.”

She almost laughed and then realized he wasn’t joking.

“I like you, Holly, and you like me.”

“Sure, I like you as a friend. But I don’t think it’s a good idea to date a colleague. It’s always awkward if it doesn’t work out and you still have to work together every day. Besides, I’m not looking for a relationship right now, Todd. You know that.” Matthew’s image floated across her mind. Why couldn’t she stop thinking about him? And why couldn’t Todd understand plain English?

“I was getting a different vibe at your parents’. Plus, you were seriously flirting with Matthew. Seems to me you say one thing and do another. Are you sure you’re not interested in dating?”

“I don’t mean to be sending mixed messages. I really am committed to my career, and I can’t invest time into anything other than friendship.” She’d been accused of being a flirt a few times in the past. What was she doing wrong? Since when was being friendly flirting? She took another bite of her sandwich and sipped her coffee as they walked across the street. Her break would be over in a few minutes, and she couldn’t be late. “Look, Todd. I value your friendship, but if that won’t work for you...”

“Okay. I get it.” He grinned. “Friends.”

“Really? You’re not just saying that?” Talk about a one-eighty.

“I mean it. You’re fun to be around when you’re not stressing over your family or work.”

Her mouth stretched into a wide smile. “Thanks!” Holly gave him a quick hug. “I gotta go. Can’t be late.” She rushed inside and two-stepped it to her station.

The head nurse, aka Nurse Ratched, raised a brow and looked pointedly at the clock.

Holly sat with one minute to spare and held her breath, anticipating a dressing down. For what though, she didn’t know. Her brow furrowed as she quickly signed back into the computer.

Nurse Ratched walked away without a word.

Holly’s fingers slowed on the keys. “What was that about?” She rubbed sanitizer over her hands, then opened her sandwich.

“Better not let Jill see you eating. You know the rules.” Kelsey, her favorite coworker and the only RN on duty besides Nurse Ratched and herself, pursed her lips.

Holly had to think twice about who Jill was and almost laughed when she realized that was her boss’s first name. She’d referred to her as Nurse Ratched so often in her mind she’d forgotten the woman’s real name. With a shake of her head, she took a quick bite, rewrapped the sandwich and dropped it into her purse. If she hadn’t been so busy talking with Todd she would’ve finished eating on the walk back.

Her mind drifted to The Gingerbread House and Matthew again. For some reason she couldn’t shake off the memory of seeing him and it surprised her to realize she hoped to run into him again sometime soon.

* * *

Matthew slid the rolls into the proofer to rise, then returned to the marble countertop, where he’d been prepping dough for cutout cookies. The dough spread easily under the gentle pressure of the wood rolling pin. He dipped the metal cookie cutter in flour, then cut pumpkin shapes. He’d frost only half and leave the rest plain. He actually preferred them plain, but to each his own.

He spotted the orange frosting through the clear glass refrigerator door and, for whatever reason, the color reminded him of Holly. He’d been in The Gingerbread House a few times recently and had never run into her. It was strange that he’d see her now. Of course, that probably had more to do with his new schedule than anything.

Too bad Todd had been with her. That guy really bothered him, but Todd was Holly’s problem. Although April insisted that Holly and Todd weren’t an item, it looked as though his sister was wrong.

He finished the cutouts then gave instructions to George, his right-hand man. “You sure you can handle all of this?”

“Of course, boss.”

“You have my number, just in case?”

George gave him a tolerant smile. “Go. I’ve got this. Take that niece of yours sledding. Who knows how long the snow will last.”

Matthew washed his hands then untied the apron from his waist and tossed it into the hamper in the closet. “Okay. Thanks.” He rushed home, eager to fulfill his promise.

Little Ava had stood at the living room window jumping up and down when it started snowing at bedtime last night. He’d appeased her by promising to go sledding today. He hated leaving work early, but at least he had reliable help.

His mind went back to Holly. It seemed to be doing that a lot lately. He’d enjoyed the gingerbread cookies and even running into Holly, but she’d looked stressed. Could she still be upset about her sister? He’d like to ease whatever burden she carried, but she didn’t want his help. She’d made that clear as sparkly gel icing. He only had his big mouth to thank for that.

He got into his truck, and after starting the engine he turned the heater on high and waited for the windows to defrost. He glanced at his reflection in the rearview mirror and noted that a frown puckered his brow. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, forcing himself to relax. Why would Holly think she had to compete with her sister for her mother’s affection? He couldn’t remember noticing a problem between the sisters in the past. Maybe April would be able to shed some light on this mystery.

He pulled out of the parking lot and headed for the highway, but before he could go far, a familiar figure half walked, half slid across the street in front of him. “Holly?” He rolled down the window and leaned across the passenger seat. “Hey, there. Can I give you a ride somewhere?”

Holly turned wide eyes toward him. “Oh, it’s you.” She shuffled over to his rig and stood at the open window. “Thanks. I was just walking home from work.” She motioned toward the hospital.

“I’d be happy to drop you.”

She shook her head. “I just live there—” she pointed “—above the candy shop.”

He grinned. “That’s convenient.” He noticed her drooping shoulders and pale skin. “You have a rough day today?”

“I’ve had better and worse. Guess I’m just tired.” She shrugged. “I should let you go.” She stepped back.

“I’m taking my niece sledding. You’re welcome to join us, if you’re not too tired, that is.” Before she could respond, he rushed on. “I thought the hill by the gazebo would be a nice, easy slope for her first time sledding.” He spotted a car in his rearview mirror. He stuck his arm out the window and waved for it to pass.

Holly waved, as well. “That’s a great idea. My friend Keira takes her son there, too. He loves it.” She yawned and covered her mouth. “Sorry. Sledding sounds like fun, but I really am beat. Think I’ll go take a long bubble bath and read a good book instead.”

“If you change your mind, we’ll be there in about forty-five minutes.”

She nodded. “Thanks. See you.” She turned and picked her way through the snow.

He tooted the horn and eased forward on the slick road. Not for the first time, he was thankful he’d invested in good tires and a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Living in the mountains demanded he be prepared for all kinds of weather.