#pedrostoriesgift2023

[something-tofightfor]

Snow and Mistletoe - Part 2

Pairing: Joel Miller x Female Reader

No Outbreak AU.

Word Count: 6,325

Rating: M - as a whole for language and innuendo, but this chapter's mostly fluff... and maybe a lil smooch.

A/N: This is a continuation of the @pedrostories Secret Santa fic gift exchange for @burntheedges. I meant to post it yesterday but then we got caught up in family stuff ... so here we go now, and part 3 should be up later tonight.

I'm so glad you liked the first part ... and hope you like this one, too. (And to everyone else - THANK YOU for reading!)

Summary: The Chamber of Commerce Christmas celebration is the first time you and Joel will have together after admitting that there's something there.

But it turns out that that environment isn't the best for getting to know someone ... so Joel takes matters into his own - very capable - hands.

Part 1

When you left work the following Friday afternoon, you were nervous. 

There was no reason to be, because yes you were going to the party with Joel, but the Chamber event was casual, and you’d likely both be pulled in fifteen different directions to talk with people, not stuck to his side all night. 

Ellie and Sarah had almost shoved you out the door of your store, both girls grinning from ear to ear and promising to see you later, Sarah’s fingers wrapped tightly around the neck of the acoustic guitar she held. 

The nervousness grew as you drove home, fingers tapping on the steering wheel, and then blossomed when you got into the shower, the hot water heating your skin doing absolutely nothing to calm you. 

It was just Joel. 

Just Joel - Sarah’s dad, the man you’d gone to high school with and spoken to occasionally throughout the years at Sarah and Ellie’s school events or little league games, the man you said hello to and carried on limited conversation with a few times a week when he came into the store. 

But as you toweled off, you had to admit that he hadn’t really been just Joel for a while. 

He’d morphed from a cute former classmate and the dad of your niece’s best friend into the object of a crush the more you’d gotten to interact with him, and now that something was being done about it, you weren’t sure what to think. 

It was more than his good looks. There was no denying that Joel was handsome; his profile was something that you’d thought about plenty of times, as were his facial features and overall build. But Joel was also kind and capable, the man’s devotion to raising his daughter and giving her the best possible life admirable for many reasons. It’s even more than that, though, too. 

Pulling on a nice pair of jeans and a new sweater, you settled down in front of your mirror to do your hair and makeup, eyeing your reflection. It was no secret that Joel was one of the most eligible bachelors in your area, with his brother Tommy not far behind. 

He’d dated - casually, never letting things go on for longer than a few times out with each woman, and you’d heard good things secondhand. But he’d always seemed unattainable - more focused on Sarah and building his contracting business than on getting serious or settling down. And you couldn’t blame him. 

You knew what had happened after Amanda left Joel and Sarah, and the struggle he’d gone through as a single parent. Everyone that knew him had been witness to that - including Anna and Marlene.

Until Ellie had been more permanently in your life, you’d had no reason to interact with him on a regular basis, even though Marlene had. She’d talked about him to you more than a few times throughout the years, keeping you updated. And despite the things you knew to be true about him, the bits and pieces you’d learned firsthand were even more endearing, though they made him no less mysterious. 

But that night would be the first time it was the two of you actively together somewhere that had nothing to do with Ellie and Sarah, and that was what made you nervous. That was especially true after finding out that Joel was interested in you - enough to invite you to a second night out before you’d even gone to the first. “This is going to be awkward.” You sighed, using both hands to prop up your chin, studying your reflection. “And fun. This is going to be -”

You were interrupted by the ringing of your doorbell and a motion alert from your camera, the sounds startling you as your eyes drifted to the closest clock. Shit. He’s early. Heading downstairs, you opened the front door to find Joel standing on your porch, a tan jacket zipped over his broad shoulders. You froze - momentarily - and then recovered, smiling and inviting him in. “I just need to brush my teeth and put on shoes, and -”

“You look amazing.” He blinked a few times, one hand stuffed into his pocket and the other hanging loosely by his side. “Not that you usually look -” Ok, so he’s nervous too. Good to know. 

“Thank you.” Tugging on the collar of the sweater with two fingers, you grinned. “I got this sweater on sale and haven’t had a chance to wear it yet. Thought tonight would be a good opportunity.” He agreed, giving you another onceover, though it didn’t feel weird the way it usually did when a man looked you up and down “Be right back. Do you want to sit down?”

“Nah, I’m good. Take your time.” 

You left him standing in the hallway to go back into the bathroom and give yourself a final assessment while you brushed your teeth. It was good to know that Joel was felling off-kilter, too - and it surprisingly made you feel a little better. 

With a final spritz of your perfume, you made your way back downstairs and paused long enough to watch Joel running a palm over the woodwork in your entryway, his eyes following its path. You gave yourself a few seconds to watch, trying to push down the feeling of how much you enjoyed seeing him in your house, but before you could tell him you were ready, he spoke up. 

“Gorgeous work. I take it this was here when you moved in?” 

“It was.” You closed the distance between you, bending down to pull a pair of boots on. “There’s more of it throughout the rest of the house. The kitchen cabinets, and there are some built-in bookcases upstairs. And then my bedroom’s got this trim that’s one of the most intricate things I’ve…” You trailed off, shaking your head. “Long story short, yes. It was all here when I moved in and it was so … charming that I didn’t want to change any of it, so I didn’t.” 

He turned his head to look at you, brown eyes filled with warmth. “Good. You shouldn’t.” His smile was small but still there, and you gave him one in return. “It’s beautiful.” 

“Is that why you really volunteered to come pick me up?” Head tilting to the right, you winked at him. “Wanted to get up close and personal with all the vintage wood in my house?” 

“If I wanted to do that, I would’ve asked to see what’s in your bedroom.” That left you speechless - but when Joel winked at you, reaching out to take your hand, you found your words again, speaking up as his fingers slipped against yours. 

“Well, you didn’t… so now you’ll never know what my answer would have been.” He swore under his breath while pulling the front door open, his grip on you tightening. One point, me. 

— 

The party was fun. You were enjoying mingling with everyone, but you hadn’t really seen Joel in almost an hour… and that bothered you. Not because you’d expected to be with him the whole night, but because when you looked for him, you hadn’t been able to find him anywhere. 

He wasn’t sitting at any of the tables, their tops covered in checkered tablecloths and fake Christmas greenery. He wasn’t standing next to the bar, talking with any of the people that had seemingly taken up residence beside it, not wanting to stray too far from the allure of free drinks. 

He wasn’t even on the side of the building that had been opened for families, a jolly looking man dressed as Santa sitting on an ornate throne with stacks of brightly colored gifts and fake snow piles surrounding it. 

You were confused, to say the least, and although as you made the rounds, you attempted to look for him, it seemed to be in vain. Ellie and Sarah will be here before I find him again at this rate, and - 

“Hey.” You felt him step into place next to you, reaching over to touch your elbow. “Sorry about that. Had to step outside and take a work call about the job we’re starting in January.” He spoke almost directly into your ear, and even though you didn’t acknowledge him until you’d ended the conversation you were having with the owner of the movie theater, he didn’t move away from you, either. 

When you did look at him, you saw that his cheeks were pink, the tip of his nose a little red, too. “Cold out there?”

“The wind’s cold.” He shrugged, reaching up to unbutton the top button on his plaid shirt . “I’m good now.” He still had his hand on your elbow, the man’s fingers closing around it. “You done talkin’ to everyone in this place? Want to grab something to eat?” 

“I am and I do, but …” Looking past him and at the food stations, you sighed. “The lines are really long, Joel.” He looked, too, and as he did, you let your attention linger on the man’s neck, finding that even in the slightly muted lighting, you could see scattered freckles on his skin. I never noticed those before. “I… um.” You cleared your throat, taking a breath. “We could go get a drink before we wait for food.” 

“Yes.” He looked back at you, his smile widening. “I like the sound of that.” Joel took your hand again and the two of you walked over to join the short line at the bar, the man saying hello to a few people as you passed. “People are watching you.” He leaned over while you waited, speaking into your ear. “I can’t believe you weren’t going to come tonight.” 

“Or,” you replied, turning your head toward him so that you could meet his eyes. “Or they’re looking at you, and are thankful that you graced them with your presence tonight, Mr. Bigshot Contractor.” His cheeks went pink again, and that had nothing to do with the wind. “You and Tommy are a local success story, Joel.” You stepped up to the bar, placing your order and then moving off to the side to wait. “Miller Contracting is like two jobs away from getting national attention. I’m not surprised that people are staring. You’re single, your brother’s single, your business is booming, your kid’s basically a genius… what’s not to like?” 

He seemed shocked as you were handed the festive cups, but Joel was silent until you got into the food line. “Wait, before you drink…” He raised his glass, making a face as he thought. “What should we drink to?” 

“Oh. Um…” Why not make it a little awkward? Tapping one finger on your lips, you hummed. “How about to the teenage girls we live with and love taking things into their own hands and making this night happen?” He snorted, tipping his glass forward to meet the rim of yours. 

“To Sarah and Ellie and their meddlin’.” You drank together, both of you laughing as you lowered your glasses. “They should be getting here soon, shouldn’t they.” You nodded, scanning the room as you inched forward. “She’s been on my ass about you for months now, by the way.” 

“Oh?” You turned toward him, brows raised in surprise. “Really?”

“Yeah. At first she was subtle, too. But then …” He shook his head, wrinkling his nose. “Right around my birthday, she got real specific.” 

“When’s your birthday?”

“End of September.” He cocked his head to the side, shrugging. “But that was right in the middle of the project. I barely had time to sleep. I wasn’t even thinking about asking anyone out.” September? Hmm. 

“Sarah started working for me at the beginning of September.” You sipped your drink, thinking. “I wonder if that had anything to do with it.”

“Probably.” He laughed, tipping his head back. “She started spendin’ another 20 hours a week with Ellie, and more time around you.” 

“And here I thought she just got a job so she could get a discount on things for you.” You nudged him with your elbow. “Never thought she’d do it just so she could play matchmaker.” 

“You did say she was pretty much a genius.” He grinned, the smile splitting his face. “But it worked, so I can’t really complain.” You didn’t know what to say to that so you stayed quiet, the two of you shuffling forward and toward the serving tables. Did it work? 

You thought things were going pretty well, despite the limited amount of time that the two of you had actually spent together that night. You wondered if he felt the same, wondered if Joel was still looking forward to the following night as much as you were, or if he’d regretted preemptively inviting you for a second date. “Joel, I -”

“Oh, good!” You both turned your heads toward the new voice, a small wave of disappointment at being interrupted coursing through you. “You two are already waiting for food. Perfect.” Ellie and Sarah headed for the line, cutting through a few small groups until they were standing beside you. “How’s it going?”

“Going good, kiddo.” You nodded, looking between the girls. “Everything alright at the -”

“It’s fine.” She waved you off, rolling her eyes. “It didn’t burn down, Sarah remembered to set the alarm, and the drawer was only off by $426 dollars, so -”

“Actually, it was $427.” Sarah cut in, raising her hand to stage whisper to Ellie. “Remember?”

“You two are terrible.” You groaned, scowling at both of them. “Maybe we don’t want to let you in line with us. Maybe -”

“Too late, we’re already here.” Ellie’s grin was infectious, and even Joel laughed, using one hand to gesture for the two of them to step in front of you. Once they were in line, he moved back a half step, putting his hand against your back and letting it rest there. 

It was the most intimately that he’d ever touched you, and despite reminding yourself that you needed to keep calm, you leaned back and into it, glancing over at him and catching his eye. He didn’t say anything - but he didn’t look away, either. Yeah. I think he feels the same. 

— 

The four of you sat and ate together - you and Joel on one side of the table and Ellie and Sarah on the other, and for the next twenty minutes, you and Joel barely spoke to each other. It wasn’t that you were silent - instead, the four of you had a conversation, Joel and Ellie going back and forth about some sci-fi thriller that was older than the girl and you and Sarah interjecting when you could. 

It felt good - sitting and conversing with them for longer than a few minutes at a time outside of the shop. The Christmas music and brightly colored lights strung around the room only added to the cheerfulness of the atmosphere, as did the scent of cinnamon and spice in the air. But again, you were slightly disappointed that you and Joel weren’t getting time to yourselves. Especially after they made sure we’d come here together. 

The room was loud, and admittedly wasn’t the best place to get to know someone. So it’s fine. It’s fine, and … “Hey.” Joel said your name, pulling you out of your thoughts. “Do you wanna get out of here?” 

Sarah stopped speaking immediately, her eyes going wide. You caught Ellie elbowing her sharply, but Joel never looked away. “And go where?” What are you … 

“There’s a place down the street that’s open late.” He pointed with one finger, keeping his eyes on you. “Great coffee. Even better cake. And -”

“You’re just going to leave us here, Dad?” Sarah blinked slowly, her chin resting on one hand. “We just got here, and -”

“Y’know, after the two of you worked so damn hard to get us here together, the fact that you’d want to hang out with us is kind of surprising.” Ellie snorted, quickly disguising the sound with a cough. “Is this supposed to be a date? Or is this two people with their kids at a Christmas party?”

“A date.” Sarah stood abruptly, staring down at Joel. “Definitely a date. Come on, Ellie. Let’s go and see what’s going on in the other room.” The second girl stood a few seconds later, the smile on her face widening, though you could feel the smirk behind it. “Bye.” 

They gathered their trash and beelined it away from you, leaving you and Joel alone at the table again. “Hope you don’t mind. I love my daughter, but I don’t usually make it a point to bring her on first dates.”

“So this is a date.” You leaned against one elbow, tapping a fingertip on the table. “Good to know.”

“Of course it is.” He stood, picking up his plate and glass. “And so is tomorrow.” Joel used his chin to gesture to the main doors. “I was serious about leaving, though. I’ve had about all I can take of We Wish You A Merry Christmas sung by Alvin and the goddamn Chipmunks.” 

You laughed hard at that, nodding and standing with him. As the two of you headed for the main bank of trash cans, you tried to compose yourself, catching your breath. I figured he was funny, but that was really funny. You threw everything away, brushing your hands off on your pants as you turned toward the exit. “Joel, before we -”

“Shit.” He swore loudly, one hand on his hip and his gaze directed upward. “Fuckin’ mistletoe.” You looked up, too, wincing when you saw the plant hanging from the ceiling above where you stood. “Of course they put it right there.” 

“It’s fine, Joel.” Your heart was thumping at the mere thought of him kissing you, but you didn’t want to expect anything. “We can just pretend we didn’t see it, and go to the …” You trailed off as he moved closer, both of his hands rising, palms settling against your arms. What is he doing? “What are -” 

He leaned in, his lips set into a small smile, but instead of aiming for your mouth, Joel took a quick breath and then kissed your cheek, letting it linger. Holy shit, really?  “No way in hell I’m kissin’ you for the first time next to a trash can and in front of all these damn people.”  

That made you laugh again, but before Joel could pull away from you, you whispered his name and then turned your head, pressing your lips to his cheek in return. He froze, though his fingers tightened on your arms. When you stepped back, you saw shock on his face. Good. Because that’s exactly how I feel, too. “What is a good place for a first kiss, then?” You felt warm - your entire body almost tingling just from his proximity. 

“Guess you’ll just have to wait and see.” He recovered and answered quickly, squeezing one bicep before he let go and put more space between you. “Now c’mon. Let’s get out of here before someone else tries to talk to us.” 

You had no problem with that request, giving Joel a single nod and then heading for the door, heart still pounding. His phrasing - wait and see - implied that he planned on actually kissing you at some point… and that was something else you had no problem with. 

— 

It was only a block or so to the place he’d mentioned, and the two of you walked there side by side, Joel’s arm brushing yours. 

You both ordered coffee and a dessert, but before you could reach for cash to pay for yours, he set money down, telling the employee to keep the change. 

It was quiet in the restaurant - most of the usual clients either already at home or down the street at the party, and that meant you had your pick of places to sit. He let you choose - and when you settled into an overstuffed armchair, Joel dropped onto the one across from you, letting out a sigh. 

“I’m not used to that at all.” He gestured with one hand, pointing in the direction of the party you’d just left. “Job sites are easy. I tell people what to do, and they do it. Gettin’ contracts and meetin’ clients is easy, because they tell me what they want and I tell ‘em whether or not I can get it done.” He took a drink of his coffee, pausing. “But that? Hours of small talk and a crowd of people and all the holiday shit?” 

“Not a fan of Christmas?” You leaned back in your chair, coffee mug cradled between both hands. “I know a lot of people aren’t.”

“It was hard for a while… with me an’ Sarah?” He frowned, shaking his head. “I wanted to make Christmas special for her, but when she was real little, that wasn’t … I couldn’t always do it. And it’s better now, because me an’ Tommy are actually getting work, but …” Joel looked down, focusing on the table in front of him. “It used to just be us. And I got used to that, to keepin’ to myself, focusing on work and on her and worrying about everything that came next.” When he looked back at you, his eyes were clear, resolve apparent in them. “Didn’t have time for a party like tonight, because it all had to be about her, and both of us survivin’, not small talk.” 

“I’m sorry.” You took a drink, too. “I didn’t even think about …” 

“Nah, it’s fine. Don’t let me ruin the night.” He cut a piece off of his cake and brought it to his lips, the fork slipping between them. Joel chewed and then smiled at you, rubbing his hand over the top of one thigh. “Like I said, it’s better now. And I’m gettin’ there when it comes to socializin’.” 

“Is that why you don’t date much?” You bit the corner off of your pastry, thinking. “Because you don’t like the small talk or the getting to know someone?” 

“No, I don’t date because I’m still busy. Between work and Sarah’s sports, it’s hard for me to find time to do things by myself. Bringin’ someone else into that seems unfair.” He leaned closer, shifting in his seat. “But I like this, tonight? This doesn’t bother me.” He sipped again, shrugging. “Maybe it’s because it’s with you, though.” 

It blindsided you - the compliment and admission from Joel in the same sentence, said almost nonchalantly. But he’s made comments like that a few times now, and … hmm. “I like it too.” You sighed, looking around the cozy space before settling your gaze back on him. “They were surprised you wanted to leave.” He laughed, the sound low but still incredibly endearing. “In all the years I’ve known Ellie, she’s never pushed me like this with anyone before.” 

“She’s a teenager now.” Joel’s smile widened. “Knows what she can get away with. Same with Sarah. I think she’s worried about me bein’ alone next year.” He went quiet then, his expression changing, and you realized - for the first time - that even though you were dreading Ellie leaving for college the following summer, Sarah leaving Joel was probably much more difficult for him to consider. 

“You won’t be alone. You’ll have Tommy.” Raising a brow, you took another bite, talking around it. “And I’m sure he’s got some plans for you.” 

“You have no idea.” He groaned, swiping a hand over his face. “He’s only 5 years younger than me, but it seems like so much more sometimes.” You didn’t know Tommy too well - he’d been on the outskirts of your friend group for a while, but had drifted away when he turned 18 and enlisted - moving even further away after coming back and joining Joel on job sites. But what you did know was that were Joel was quieter and more practical, Tommy was extroverted and impulsive, more than happy to play the part of uncle and friend to Sarah  - and in turn, to Ellie. “What about Ellie? Is she thinkin’ about school?” 

“Yeah.” Clearing your throat, you tried to refocus. “She is. She’s nervous about it because all she’s ever known is Austin, but she’s been applying. She’s going on a couple more campus visits in the spring, too. Marlene’s got some contacts in Utah and Colorado, so she’s going up there, but…” You shrugged. “I’m not sure what she’ll choose. Maybe she’ll stay here and go to UT or TSU.” 

“Hmm.” He narrowed his eyes, staring at you. “How long’s she been with you? Marlene left what, five years ago?” Nodding, you watched as he tipped his mug back, taking a long drink. “Long time. You’re gonna have a quiet house if she decides to go out of state.”

“Just me and all that fancy wood left.” Grinning, you finished your dessert and then leaned forward, reaching for your napkin. “I’m sure Sarah won’t go far, Joel. She -”

“She’s talkin’ about going out of state, too.” He closed his eyes, taking and holding a deep breath. “Funny enough, she also mentioned Colorado and Utah. I think I even heard Boston in there, but I don’t know who the fuck willingly goes to the East coast to live, so…” He shrugged. “I’ll deal with it when I have to. Can’t keep her locked up forever, right?”

“Right.” Sitting up straight, you let your gaze wander over his face, eyes lingering on his mouth and the way his lips curved upward in the barest hint of a smile. “Can I admit something to you?” He nodded, mimicking your position and leaning forward, his hands hanging between his spread knees. “I ddn’t expect us to talk so much about Ellie and Sarah tonight. I figured they’d come up, but I was looking forward to talking about you, Joel. About you and -”

“That’s what tomorrow’s for.” He rubbed his palms together, the tip of his tongue darting out to wet his lips. “I told you, we’ve got a little bit of a drive. Plenty of time to talk.” He was right, but part of you still felt that there was more opportunity that night with him, even though you knew it was almost time to go home. “What do you want to know?” Scooting forward, he pushed his plate to the side. “I’ve gotta warn you, I’m pretty boring.”

“I doubt that.” Crossing your legs at the ankle, you held up one finger. “I remember you from high school, Joel. There was nothing boring about you.” 

“That was also 20 years ago.” He scoffed. “Twenty years and one kid and a hell of a lot of muscle aches ago.” You looked past him and at the clock hanging on the wall, pointing at it. 

“Speaking of sleep, It’s almost 10. Do you turn into a pumpkin at any specific time?” His mouth dropped open, Joel spluttering out your name. “I wouldn’t want to be responsible for keeping you out too late.” 

“Smart ass.” He rolled his eyes, sighing. “No, but you said you have to work tomorrow morning, so we should probably head out.” He was right, but you didn’t want to agree. Despite the fact that the conversation had only circled the topic of the two of you, it had highlighted something very important: Joel was just as easy to talk to one on one as he was in a public setting. And that’s good. I like that. I like it a lot. “You want me to drive you home, or do you want to walk back and find Ellie an’ Sarah?” 

“You.” You answered immediately, standing and gathering your mug and plate. “I’d like you to drive me back, Joel.” 

Your answer didn’t seem to surprise him, and only a few minutes later, you were back in his truck, the heat on low and Joel’s jacket tossed into the back seat. “Should I get ready before you come and get me tomorrow, or can I change in the room once we get there?” 

“Either’s fine. But if you’re gonna get ready at the hotel, I’ll need to come and get you a little earlier, just so we show up on time.” He sighed, putting the truck into reverse. “There’s a schedule. Dinner’s on there, and they have a toast, and -”

“Oh, so this is fancy. You weren’t joking.” 

“No. I wasn’t.” He cleared his throat. “An’ they really like me. The CEO of the hotel company’s going to be there, and she could -”

“Say no more.” Reaching over, you squeezed his knee. “I’ll be ready to go when you pick me up. I promise.” He hummed in approval, pulling onto the main road. Silence filled the cab of the truck, and before you could speak and fill it, your phone vibrated at the same time his center screen lit up, a text message from Sarah sliding in from the top of it. “Oh. Interesting.” 

He reached out, pressing the button to read the text, and you raised your phone, eyeing it. Ellie. 

It turned out that only one of you needed to check the message, because they both said the exact same thing: 

Meeting friends from school at IHOP. I’ll be home before curfew. 

“They definitely didn’t plan this.” You wrinkled your nose, turning your head to look at Joel. “It’s definitely not convenient.” 

“Of course not.” His hand tightened on the steering wheel, Joel’s sigh loud. “It’s pathetic, right? My seventeen year old kid’s settin’ me up on dates and telling me that she won’t be home til later than me.” 

“Not pathetic, no.” You took a few seconds, trying to organize your thoughts. “I’ve only really known her for a couple months, but she’s a really thoughtful kid, Joel. It’s clear she cares about you and wants you to be happy. And,” you continued, leaning closer and dropping your voice. “If she’s anything like Ellie, the idea of accidentally seeing you with someone probably horrifies her, so -”

Joel pulled into your driveway, cutting the engine, though he kept the heat running. “Ellie caught you and some guy?” You hadn’t planned on telling the story, but since you’d brought it up, you figured you had to, groaning as you unbuckled your seatbelt. 

“Not like you’re thinking, no.” You had to laugh about it, though at the time it had happened, it had been mortifying. “I went out with a guy about a year ago, and he walked me to my door when he dropped me off.” You leaned back in your seat, crossing your arms over your chest. “We were saying goodnight on the porch, and he just … went for it. I kissed him back because the date had gone reasonably well, but only a couple seconds in, I heard Ellie’s voice through the doorbell camera, and she was … less than enthusiastic.” 

You didn’t expect him to laugh as hard as he did at your words. Joel actually leaned forward and covered his face with both hands, elbows resting against the steering wheel. It hadn’t been funny at the time, Ellie’s annoyance clear even through the tinny speaker, and when you’d watched the video back later that night, you’d cringed. You’d been embarrassed but laughed it off, though in the end, Ellie’s interruption had been a good thing. Your date hadn’t found the humor in the situation, and he’d stopped returning your texts a day or so afterward. No loss there. 

“Bet you’ll never kiss another man on your front porch again.” He was still chuckling when he swiveled his head toward you. “Or if you do, you’ll disable the camera first.” 

“No. I think Ellie learned a valuable lesson about checking the camera when she knows I’m coming home with someone.” You pointed at the door. “However, I think that if you and I were to walk up to that door right now, they’d both be watching to see if their little plan worked.” 

“That might be a worse first kiss than next to a trash can and in front of a hundred people.” He sighed, tapping his palm against the wheel. You let your eyes wander over your front yard - the lights strung through the bushes and around the front windows and door, brightly colored bulbs casting a cheerful glow over everything.  “But what if that wasn’t the first one?” 

“What?” Turning your body in the seat so that you were angled toward him, you eyed Joel with some curiosity. How wouldn’t that be the first one? “Joel?” 

“Ain’t ideal in the truck, but …” He shifted, too, unlocking his seatbelt and then leaning his elbow against the steering wheel. “Shit. I haven’t done this in a long fuckin’ time.” 

He didn’t move, though - no closer, no further away; the man simply stayed put, watching you. “Was… was that you asking if I wanted you to kiss me, Joel?” You found it hard to believe that he’d be so hesitant. Any man that looked like Joel including Joel likely would have had women lining up for the opportunity, and yet there he was, parked in your driveway and waiting. “Because if it was, then yes. I’d like that.” 

There was no reason to deny it. You were out with him, you were alone in his truck, and the two of you had been flirting back and forth all night. “Good.” 

He said the single word and then moved closer, Joel’s arm lifting from the steering wheel, that hand rising to the side of your face so that he could tilt it back. His fingertips slid over your cheek, thumb beneath your chin - and when you heard him say your name, the sound quiet, you finally closed your eyes, leaning in. 

Joel kissed you softly - the press of his lips firm but somehow reserved at the same time. And you let him - humming at the contact and reaching one hand out. It slid up the back of his arm and stopped there, his skin warm beneath the soft material of his shirt. 

There was no zing of connection, no electric current that shot through your body at the touch of his lips to yours… but there was a feeling of contentment, your body unconsciously leaning in toward his while you continued to kiss him, fingers firmly holding his arm. 

He didn’t pull away from you, prolonging the kiss after inhaling through his nose, and when Joel’s hand moved back, palm cradling your head, you sighed against his lips. That was an invitation for him, Joel groaning and parting his lips against yours. You felt his tongue press against them briefly, followed by light pressure as he closed both of his around your lower one, but that was as far as he took it. 

Backing away, Joel took a deep breath, though he didn’t move his hand and his eyes were focused on your face, the man waiting for your response. Did that happen? Did that just … “Hey, Joel?” You took a breath and held it, your hand dropping from his arm to his thigh. “I’m glad you waited to do that.” 

He visibly relaxed, his expression going from apprehensive to a wide smile. “Yeah?” You nodded, feeling his fingers tighten briefly before he let you go. “Me too. There was more you wanted to say, but before you could, he gestured to the front of your house, sighing. “It’s gettin’ late. Let me walk you in?” 

As the two of you headed for the door, Joel once again put his hand on your back, staying close. Part of you wanted to invite him in; to sit with him on your couch with only the glow of the tree illuminating the room. But that’s too forward. We’ve kissed once, and Ellie will be home soon, and … “I had fun tonight, Joel.” You stopped on your porch, digging through your bag for your keys. “Thanks for asking me.” 

“‘Course.” He smiled again, sticking his hands into his front pockets and leaning against the side of your house. “We good?” 

“We are.” Holding up your keys, you nodded. “I’ll see you later?” He agreed, pulling his hands free and then stepping forward, sliding one arm around your waist and then the other around your shoulders. You hugged him back, turning your head so that you could get closer. If you’re watching, Ellie, I hope you’re happy. “Goodnight, Joel.” Murmuring the words, you squeezed him and then let go, meeting his eyes one more time. “Get home safe.” 

He assured you he would before he turned away from you, heading back for the truck and giving you one final look at the way the material of his flannel stretched over his broad shoulders. “Shit.” You rubbed at the bridge of your nose with the hand not holding your keys, and when his lights turned on, the truck backing out of the driveway soon after, you turned away and unlocked the door. 

You were halfway inside when you heard her voice, the girl’s disappointment evident even through the small speaker. “Shoulda kissed him.” I knew it. 

“Aren’t you eating pancakes right now?” Leaning back so that you could look at the doorbell, you raised a brow. “Don’t you have better things to -” 

“I can eat and spy on you at the same time.” She laughed and so did you, but Ellie cut you off quickly. “I’ll be home soon. We’re leaving in a few and I just have to drop Sarah off on the way.” 

“I’m going to bed. I’ll see you in the morning.” She didn’t reply again, and when you shut the door a few seconds later, you locked it and then sagged back against the wood, closing your eyes. 

All things considered, your date with Joel had been damn near perfect … and you had another one to look forward to the following night. 

---

Part 3

[something-tofightfor]

Snow and Mistletoe - Part 3

Pairing: Joel Miller x Female Reader

No Outbreak AU.

Word Count: 10,235

Rating: M - as a whole for language and innuendo... and maybe things get a little steamy toward the end.

A/N: This is a continuation of the @pedrostories Secret Santa fic gift exchange for @burntheedges. It got a little long, but that's how these things go.

Thank you to everyone that's read so far. I really enjoyed this chapter a LOT. (THE CAMEOS.)

Only the epilogue left ... and that one's nowhere near as long as this, I promise.

Summary: Joel's work party gives you an opportunity to spend more time together in a very different setting. Not only do you learn more about him, but you also get to see what he does... and what it means to him.

The two of you have an opportunity to take things to the next level in a few different ways... will you capitalize on them?

Part 1 / Part 2

You were in the worst mood you’d been in in months by the time you left work the following afternoon.

Even Ellie  - whose shift was scheduled to end an hour after yours - hadn’t tried to cheer you up with humor that day, which said a lot. Instead, she gave you a wave and a nod when you left, the girl wrapped up in a conversation with a couple that were deciding between two guitars for their daughter. I know it’s bad when even she doesn’t try to butt in. 

It shouldn’t have surprised you - the day before Christmas Eve was always a shitshow, with people that had waited until the last minute expecting you to feel the same sense of urgency that they were. 

Instead of that, though, you were frustrated, each irate customer making you question whether or not owning the shop was worthwhile. It is, you reminded yourself as you pulled out of the lot, someone honking their horn at you as you merged into traffic. It’s a good  job and I’m my own boss, and … 

You repeated those things to yourself the entire drive home through gritted teeth and an almost painful grip on the steering wheel. It wasn’t until you parked in the garage and turned the car off that you finally relaxed. 

There was no work until the 27th. You didn’t have to worry about customers for three days, and you had a date with Joel that night. An overnight one, you reminded yourself. With a half hour drive each way. 

It was enough to get you out of the car and into the house, heart pounding at the prospect of spending an entire night with Joel, even if it meant staying in two separate rooms. You wondered if that would be necessary - or if it was what he actually wanted. Instead of dwelling on that, you decided to take a shower, using the heat of the water to soothe you and giving you an extra twenty minutes of peace and relaxation before you started getting ready. 

And you were glad that you did, because by the time 4:30 rolled around and Ellie got home, you were a bundle of raw nerves.  You’d applied and then removed your makeup twice, packed your overnight bag and then repacked it, trying to plan for anything that came up over the course of the following eighteen hours. But how do you plan for this? How do you plan for … him? 

Her voice was what brought you back into focus, and when Ellie peeked her head in your door and asked if you were alright, you knew that there was no point in lying, because she’d see right through it. “Where … where are you going tonight?” She stepped into your bedroom, her arms crossed over her chest. “Why do you have a bag packed? Are we leaving? Do I need to -”

“Ellie.” Turning on your chair, you clasped your hands together in your lap. “I’m going to a Christmas party tonight.” She looked confused but stayed quiet, waiting. “With Joel.” At that, her eyes widened, the teenager’s jaw dropping. “He invited me to -”

“His work party. No shit.” She laughed and sat down on the end of your bed. “Sarah was telling me about that last week. She heard him and Tommy talking about it. When did he invite you?”

“Monday.” You shrugged. “I didn’t want to tell you because I knew you’d make a big deal about it, and …” Rolling your eyes, you sighed heavily. “And I didn’t want to hear you gloating for a week.” Her laugh was loud and genuine, Ellie’s face lighting up. 

“Me? Gloat? Never.” She leaned closer, biting her lower lip. “God, it’s about time.” She stood abruptly, heading for the door. “Wait, are you spending the night?”

“It’s at a hotel about a half hour away.” You turned back to the mirror, watching her through it. “I packed a bag just in case. I might be home, I might not.” You tried to say it casually, but at the words, you felt a flicker of excitement in your chest. She knows now. It’s real. It… wow. 

“Can Sarah spend the night? It’s her last night to practice.” She cocked her head to the right and then continued. “I mean, since we’ll both be home by ourselves tonight otherwise, because you and Joel are leaving us all alone to -”

“It’s fine with me if it’s fine with Joel.” You pinched the bridge of your nose, but you weren’t really upset. “And I really appreciate you being so mature about this,  Ellie.” 

“Speaking of mature…” She cleared her throat. “When two people really like each other, sometimes they might want to -”

Your groan drowned her out. A few seconds later you heard her laughing as she headed down the hallway and toward her room, leaving you to finish getting ready with a smile on your face. She was a handful at times, but you wouldn’t trade her presence in your life for anything. And hopefully, I’ll never have to. 

— 

By 5:30, you were downstairs waiting, your packed bag by the front door. Ellie was in her room with the door shut, though you heard her talking. She sounded animated - her voice rising and falling, but you were so nervous that you didn’t focus on it, instead pacing back and forth in your kitchen, trying to force yourself to take deep breaths. 

Ellie - and likely Sarah by that point - knowing what was happening was a relief, but it was Joel that was making you anxious, even though you knew there was no real reason to be. It’s going to be fine, you reminded yourself as you drummed your fingers on the countertop. It’s a first date. There’s no expectation. There’s no reason to worry. He would never do anything to make me feel…

Your phone lit up with an alert followed by the ring of the doorbell, and at the sound, you sucked in a breath. “Here we go.” Letting it out in a slow whoosh, you steadied yourself and walked to the front door, fingers closing about the knob to pull it open. 

And at the sight of him on the porch, you froze in place, eyes going wide. “Holy shit, Joel.” Meeting his eyes, you shook your head. “Wow.” 

“I could say the same damn thing.” His lips twitched as he tried to hide a smile, and when you let out a quiet laugh, he visibly relaxed. “Shit.” 

He was wearing a pair of dark pants and a black suit jacket, open over a dress shirt in deep burgundy that had all but the top button done. You’d never seen him so dressed up, and you didn’t even know where to begin. But wait. “Didn’t you say we had a long drive? Won’t wearing the -”

“About that.” He sighed, lips set into a thin line. “We’re -”

“Oh, good.” Ellie’s voice came from behind you, along with the sound of feet descending the stairs. “Perfect.” What the - “Ok, you two…” She appeared next to you, camera in hand. “Time for some pictures.” 

You laughed and then Joel followed suit, his nervous expression changing into one of relief. By the time Sarah appeared, too, the girl rounding the front of your house and coming to stand beside him, you were outside, your overnight back sitting on the step and Ellie close behind. “This is payback, right? For all the times I took pictures of you before -”

“Yep.” She grinned. “Now go stand in front of that tree. Together.” You snuck a look at Joel, who wasn’t even trying to conceal his amusement - or look away from you.

“We gotta do what she says, right?” He reached out, extending one hand and you took it, his fingers closing around yours and squeezing. “You got five minutes, Ellie. We’ll be late if you take any longer.”

“That’s all we need.” Sarah was grinning, too, her eyes shining as she watched you. “Now put your arm around her, Dad. Don’t make it weird.” 

You and Joel posed for the girls for a few minutes, all four of you laughing together as they instructed you to adopt new poses and keep your eyes on the camera. But Joel’s hand never left you, the tips of his fingers finding the slit in the back of your shirt without even trying, and resting against your bare skin. 

You’d opted for a more casual look, pairing black high-waisted, wide legged dress pants with an off-the-shoulder top in a deep green. It technically had two short sleeves, though one of them was more a bow than an actual sleeve, and when the light hit it just right, it had a vaguely metallic sheen - just like his jacket. We match. We didn’t even realize and … “Ok, all done. Have fun, you two!” Ellie tucked her camera into her back pocket, looking at Sarah. “Come on, we’re gonna order a pizza.” 

Sarah paused, though, looking up at Joel, who turned his head to smile at her. “See you tomorrow?” She nodded, and before he could say anything else, she was hugging him, the girl’s arms tightly wound around his body. You watched for a second, not wanting to interrupt - and when Sarah pulled back, she was smiling again. “Text me if you need -”

“She’ll be fine.” Ellie waved him off, sighing. “We’ll be fine. Joel.” 

He grumbled but finally agreed, and then a few seconds later, the two of you watched as the door closed behind the girls, leaving you and Joel standing on your front lawn. “Something tells me they’re happy about this.”

“Oh, Sarah’s thrilled.” He reached for your hand again, linking his fingers with yours. “Couldn’t get her shit packed fast enough to come over here with me.” His smile widened, Joel’s eyes sweeping over your face. “You look real pretty.” 

“Thank you.” You felt heat rising in your cheeks, his compliment simple but having the desired effect on you. “I like the red.” 

“Me too. And I’m gonna like it even more when I can take this jacket off for good tonight and hang it over the back of my chair.” You snorted at his words, not doubting them for a second. “But we really need to get going. Might be traffic, and I don’t want to be too late.” 

Only a few minutes later, you were comfortably in the front seat of Joel’s truck, the radio playing softly in the background. His jacket and your bag were in the back seat, and he’d unbuttoned the cuffs of his sleeves, though he hadn’t rolled them up to drive. 

The nerves had dissipated almost entirely, and as you put more miles between you and your house, so did the lingering annoyance at the bad day you’d had. Good. Because I want to enjoy this. “I never thought teenagers would be so … interested in what old people are doing.” 

You snorted, shrugging. “Are we old, Joel?” 

“To them, probably.” He glanced over, one hand on the steering wheel, the other elbow resting on the window frame. “Sarah’s never really been …curious about the people I’ve gone out with before. But they planned this, and you know it.” 

“They did.” You nodded, eyes on the road ahead of you. “Ellie’s… pleased with herself. That girl’s got more of her mother in her than she knows. 

“Anna was a year younger than you, right?” You nodded, knowing he could see the movement. “I didn’t know her well. Wish I would have, though.” 

“Amanda wouldn’t have liked that.” It slipped out before you could stop it, and though you winced at your words, Joel took them in stride.

“No, she wouldn’t have.” His fingers tightened on the wheel. “And knowing that shoulda been the first sign that I needed to -”

“Joel, teenagers are inherently jealous of each other. And you were one of the best looking guys in school, of course she was going to be … worried.” 

“One of?” He looked over at you again, one brow arched. “Who else?”

“Nate.” You spoke up immediately, humming in approval. “And Zach, and -”

“Interesting.” He hummed, nodding. “Haven’t thought of those guys in a long time.” 

You hadn’t, either. 

After high school, most of your class had dispersed, leaving Texas to chase their dreams in other cities and states. You’d kept up with them through Facebook for a while, but as the years passed, updates became less frequent. Only a few of you had stayed in Austin - and of those few, the number had dwindled further as more time went by. “You definitely had an edge, though.” 

“Did I?” He kept his eyes on the road. “How?”

“You played guitar. You played football. You were funny. We all knew you were off limits, but it didn’t stop us from looking.” He was quiet for almost a minute, and then said your name. 

“Part of me regrets spendin’ almost my entire time in high school with ‘manda. But then I think about Sarah, and it’s … hard to feel that way.” You understood. When Amanda left him, the woman disappearing with little warning and moving to Seattle with someone she’d met at college, Joel had gone from a man that seemed to have everything figured out to one that was scrambling to survive. 

He’d dropped out of college to become a single, full-time parent. He’d devoted his life to raising his daughter with some help from Tommy and his parents. And from what you knew thanks to Marlene, though he didn’t talk about Amanda much with Sarah, he’d never outright badmouthed her in front of the girl, either, because that’s the kind of man he was. “At least you got something great from your high school romance, Joel. Not all of us are that lucky.” 

‘I did. She’s a pain in my ass sometimes, but I am damn lucky to have a kid like Sarah.” He cleared his throat. “We did say that we weren’t gonna talk about them tonight, though.” 

“We did.” Biting your lip, you paused. But what do we pivot to? Glancing at the clock, you saw that it was just after 6:15, meaning that you were a little more than halfway to your destination. “Does Tommy know you’re coming with me tonight?” You traced a fingertip around one of the golden buttons on your pants, thinking. “I haven’t seen him in months, and -”

“He does.” Joel reached over, changing the radio station. “Seemed excited I was bringin’ a date, but I don’t know if that’s because he’s like Sarah and Ellie, or because it means that he can find someone else to hang out with tonight and doesn’t have to stick with me the whole time.” Joel nodded, his smile growing again. “I think it’s the second thing. And I think I know who he’s going to try to impress.” 

“You do?” He nodded again, looking over at you briefly. “Will you tell me? And also, is there … anyone I need to know about that’ll be here tonight? Anything I should avoid talking about?” 

“It’ll be easier to show you.” He shrugged.”There are a lot of people that’ll be here tonight that I don’t know. But there are plenty I can introduce you to when we see ‘em. If I just give you names, it’ll get confusing.” That made sense, and you told him as much, watching as you passed the sign for Ribelin Ranch Road. “We’re about ten minutes away.”  Joel reached over, switching hands on the wheel so that he could settle his right one on your knee. “And like I said, we can go back tonight if you want. But there are two rooms, so -” No. 

“I’m not going to ruin their sleepover.” You set your hand on top of his, the tip of your thumb rubbing over his knuckles. “We’ll stay. I don’t want you to keep yourself from having a good time just because you’re waiting to see if I want to go back.” Watching the path of your finger, you noticed a scar on the top of his hand, near the base of his thumb. Wonder what that’s from. “Don’t worry about me, I’ll be fine.” 

“Alright.” He sighed. “If you say so.” 

— 

The inside of the resort was gorgeous, and you didn’t know where you were supposed to look as you and Joel made your way through the lobby and toward the registration desk. “There are pictures of it everywhere, from before and after.” He pointed at a row of easels, large canvases with images displayed on each of them. “We had nothin’ to do with the guest rooms. Tommy an’ I were in charge of all the common areas, though. Out here. The dining room. Hallways. The ballroom and conference spaces.” 

He gestured with one large hand, his smile growing, and when you looked over at him, you were grinning, too. “It’s beautiful, Joel. Your guys did amazing work from what I can see.” 

“Wait til you see the room where the party is.” He settled his hand on your lower back, urging you forward. “C’mon. Let’s get our stuff upstairs so we can get a drink and onea those little cheese plates.” 

But it wasn’t that simple - and the two of you were in for a surprise when you reached the check in desk.

“Your brother has already checked in.” The man behind the counter shook his head. “He said to leave the extra key down here for you.” He slid it across the counter in a small, dark green envelope. “Fifth floor.” 

“It’s supposed to be two rooms.” Joel frowned, his head shaking back and forth. “There are three of us, and -”

“There was …” He leaned forward, lowering his voice. “An unfortunate accident with one of the bathtubs on the fourth floor, and an entire set of rooms is now unavailable. You felt Joel deflate next to you, the man’s hand rising to pinch at the bridge of his nose. “So unfortunately, instead of two separate rooms, there is only one allocated for you. But the good news is that the fifth floor are -”

“The suites.” He laughed. “Got it.” Joel straightened up and took the key, tapping his fingers on the countertop. “Thanks for your help.” 

You didn’t say anything as you headed for the elevators, and neither did Joel. So we only have one room. And that includes Tommy. Interesting. 

When the doors slid shut, Joel finally swore, scrubbing a hand over his face and letting his overnight bag fall to the floor. “It’s going to be really cozy in that room, hmm?” You tried to lighten the mood, wincing as you leaned against the railing. “You and me and -”

“We’ll just drive back. I’m not makin’ you share a room with us.” 

“If it’s a suite, maybe it has a pull out couch or a chaise or -”

“It does.” He laughed. “The suites on five have one king bed and a second sleeper in the main room.” He met your eyes. “And you’re not sleepin’ on a couch while I take a bed.” The doors opened, both of you stepping out into the hallway - which admittedly, was beautifully decorated. When you reached the door of your room, Joel swiped the card, waiting for it to beep before he pushed it open. “You first.” 

You gasped when you stepped inside, dropping your bag before your steps quickened. 

It was not only beautiful, but fully decorated for the holidays with greenery and soft lighting throughout, along with vibrant floral arrangements in key spaces. The room felt warm, and you detected a faint cinnamon smell, too, the scent pleasant and comforting. This is amazing. You crossed the room and went straight to the balcony door, settling your hand on the glass. “This view is … woah.” 

He came up behind you, leaving just enough space to be appropriate, but you could feel him there, one of his arms rising so that he could point. “There’s a dock, over there.” You inhaled, leaning back slightly. “It’ll be lit up soon.” He pointed in a slightly different direction, humming. “There’s a pool that way, you can’t see it with the building in the way, but it’s nice.” 

You could smell his cologne, the scent even stronger than it had been in his truck… but it was rich, enveloping you in the same type of warmth that Joel’s laugh did. “I bet it is.” You murmured the words, turning your head slightly toward his. “I’ll see it tomorrow morning.” 

“No you won’t, because we’re goin’ home. I told you, you’re not sleepin’ on a couch.” 

“Joel.” You turned to face him, the cool glass of the door making contact with the bared skin of your upper back. “There’s a solution here.” He blinked slowly, eyes moving over your face, though he stayed silent. “Would you and Tommy sleep on the couch together?” 

His eyes flashed but he started laughing almost immediately, straight teeth visible before he ducked his head and took a half step closer. “Hilarious.” For the first time that night, you felt the pull between you strengthen - the tension dissipating within a few seconds and Joel’s laugh warming you from head to toe. 

“You laugh, Miller, but I’m serious.” You weren’t - the real solution was that you and Joel shared the bed while Tommy slept on the couch, but you weren’t anywhere near brave enough to bring that up. Yet. Not yet. “Honestly, though. If you’re going to be worrying about us having to drive back, you won’t have fun. And if you won’t have fun, there’s no point in us being here.” Deciding to back up the point you were making, you reached out, setting your hand at the center of his chest, one of the buttons there pressing into the heel of your palm. “And I want to be here, Joel. With you.” 

It took a few seconds, but Joel settled his hand atop yours, squeezing. He met your eyes again, a glint of playfulness back in them. “I want to be here with you, too.” He tilted his head to the right, hand sliding down just enough so that he could wrap his fingers around your thumb, grip tightening. “Somethin’ else I want to do, too.” 

“You should do it then.” It felt like the air in the room was gone, Joel’s presence - and the look on his face enough to freeze you in place. But maybe he doesn’t mean… 

He did, though - Joel barely waiting for your reply before he was leaning in, eyes flicking down to your lips and then back up. It was different than the one in the truck had been; much more intimate and somehow more meaningful. 

It was you that moved to deepen it, your lips parting as you inhaled through your nose - free hand going to his hip and Joel’s lifting to rest against your cheek. You licked into his mouth, the motion deliberate, and Joel didn’t hesitate with his response. His body language changed when you initiated the intimacy, the man crowding you against the door and squeezing your hand, the thump of his heart steady beneath it. 

And you didn’t mind - you wanted more, if you were being honest. More kisses, more of his weight against you, more of the sounds he made deep in his throat - more of him. You wanted to share the bed with him that night and other nights, and even though it was only the second date, you were certain of it. 

“We can’t do this now.” He backed away enough so that he could tilt his head down and press his forehead to yours, his sigh loud. “We have to go downstairs. We have to go to the party.” You wondered if he was trying to convince you or himself, and decided that it didn’t matter - because he wasn’t doing a very good job of following through. He was still touching your face, thumb stroking over your cheek and jawline. “I want you to see all the hard work my guys did.” I want to see what you did. 

“We do.” You nodded, though you also angled your head so that you could kiss him again, that one brief, Joel chasing your lips when you pulled away. “It would look really bad if you didn’t show up. And Tommy could walk in here at any second, which would be weird.” 

That was what got him moving - Joel releasing you and backing away entirely, reaching up to run his fingers through his hair. “Yeah. You’re right. We should get downstairs.” 

“And to those cheese things.” You laughed, pushing yourself away from the door. “Whatever they are.” He watched you as you passed by, unzipping your bag and pulling out the smaller purse you’d brought specifically for the party - phone tucked safely inside already. You also grabbed the room key and slipped it into the front pocket, turning to face Joel again. “But I need to be honest with you.” 

“About?” He finally moved, re-buttoning his shirt cuffs before grabbing his jacket and pulling it on, straightening the arms and shoulders even as he walked toward where you stood. “Everything alright?”

“Yeah.” You reached for the door handle, still facing him. “I just wanted to tell you that … if you wanted to kiss me again tonight, I wouldn’t be that upset about it.” It wasn’t what he’d expected, and you were thrilled to have surprised him with your words, but Joel recovered quickly, closing the distance between you. 

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Nodding once, he gestured to the door. “Let’s go downstairs.” 

—  

The first 40 minutes of the party was a whirlwind of introductions. Joel led you around the large ballroom, stopping you when you met people that he’d worked with or to point out his favorite parts of the architecture and the ones he’d had a hand in building and perfecting. 

From what you could see, he was incredibly skilled. There were details in the wood that he’d hand carved - leaves and flowers and even a few smaller animals on a statement piece that was attached above the mantle of the oversized fireplace in the room next to the ballroom - a private lounge that was open for service that evening. 

You’d found the cheese plates and a bunch of other assorted appetizers, too, both of you indulging while you mingled. Unlike the Chamber party, Joel rarely left your side that night… and if he did, it was barely for more than a few minutes at a time. 

He seemed much more comfortable around you, and that included in showing affection. It wasn’t anything over the top, but he touched you often - a hand on your waist or his fingers running over the bare skin of your arms, his elbow bumping against yours when you stood side by side to converse with whoever it was that you happened to be speaking with. 

That in turn emboldened you and encouraged you to touch him more - laying a hand on his bicep, reaching over to straighten the lapels of his jacket when he turned away from the fireplace to get your opinion on it… even linking your fingers with his while you walked between rooms and parts of rooms. 

He didn’t shy away from it, which was a little bit of a surprise to you. But I won’t question it. I don’t want to. By the time you were making your way to the dining room for dinner, you and Joel were comfortable, the topic of going home instead of staying not coming up. You hadn’t run into Tommy, which was a shock, but that changed when you reached your table, the dark-haired man already sitting and deep in conversation with two other men. 

“Joel! Hey!” One of the two - a man with piercing blue eyes and a jawline that could have been carved from marble - looked up and grinned, lifting a hand in a quick wave. “We were wondering when you’d get here.” 

“Frank.” Joel smiled back and reached out, pulling your chair back from the table as he introduced you by name. “I was showin’ her around, and we lost track of time.” 

“Sure you did.” Tommy laughed, looking away from the other man and up at you, the smile on his face wide and the corners of his eyes crinkled just like Joel’s. “Was she impressed?”

“She was.” You thanked Joel and then sat, eyes on Tommy. “But she also had a really crappy day at work and wanted dinner.” He laughed at you and when Joel took his seat to your right, Tommy’s eyes moved in that direction. 

“Didn’t get much better when you got here did it, big brother?” He cocked an eyebrow, raising his glass to take a drink. “The one-room fiasco?” 

“You and Joel are sleeping on the couch.” You didn’t pause before answering, eyes locked with his. “That bed looked really comfortable, so I’ll have to tell you all about it later.” Frank snorted, trying to disguise the sound by taking a drink, but everyone heard it. 

“I sure as shit am not sleeping on the couch.” Tommy grinned, looking past you and lifting one finger. “Hell, I’m not even staying in that room tonight.” You didn’t understand, and if the confused hum from Joel was any indication, he didn’t either. But only moments later, another person appeared, dropping into the chair next to Tommy and immediately scooting closer. “Frank, Bill and Joel already know her, but this is Maria. She works in legal for the company that owns this place.” 

You connected the dots immediately. Maria was the woman that Joel had mentioned in the car earlier, which meant he was right. And that means that it’ll be just me and Joel in there tonight, and... And that opened up possibilities - the two of you sharing the bed, one of you on the bed and the other on the couch, neither of you sleeping and instead staying up all night talking. I know which of those I’d prefer.

“It’s nice to meet you,” you murmured, nodding at the woman. “All of you, actually. I’ve been introduced to so many people tonight that it’s hard to keep up. But I think I’m going to remember all of your names, no problem.” Frank smiled broadly, raising his glass in a salute, but he used his other hand to squeeze Bill’s shoulder, his attention going to the slightly older - and much more stony-faced man. 

“Same with you. And even though it might take him a minute to say it, Bill feels the same.” 

“Sure.” The third man finally spoke up, his gaze sharp as he looked you over. “Any friend of Joels is …” He shrugged. “Welcome.” It startled you, but Tommy waved his hand, laughing. 

“That’s just how Bill is, don’t take it personal.” Tommy winked at you. “But get him talking about what he did for this place, and he might never stop.” 

“Yeah?” You sipped your drink, eyes moving between Bill and Frank as Tommy and Maria started talking. “I know Joel and Tommy actually worked on the construction, so how were you two involved?”

“I was commissioned to do a bunch of paintings.” Frank interjected, using one finger to swipe over his bottom lip. “But I wasn’t inspired when I first got here… at least until this one,” he continued, looking over at Bill and letting his expression soften. Oh… are they together? I never would have guessed. “He metaphorically pulled me out of a hole, and showed me more of the insides of this place and let me look through older pictures and files that had been packed away during the renovations. Don’t let him fool you, he’s prepared for anything.” 

“I work in logistics.” Bill cleared his throat, eyes on you. “I like to plan. I like to be on top of things, so that I always know what to expect.” Frank nodded and so did Tommy, shooting a look at Joel and then at you. “This project was challenging, but that’s what I prefer.” 

You didn’t get a chance to reply before servers began bringing food to the table along with bottles of red wine. Everything looked and smelled delicious, and as you started to eat and the conversation at the table picked up between couples again, you turned your attention to Joel. 

“I’m having a good time.” Reaching over with one hand, you let it rest on his knee. “And I told you that everything would work out with the room.” He nodded twice, fork held between his fingers. “It looks like we’ve got it to ourselves.” His eyes widened at your words, the fork wavering slightly. You saw interest in his eyes, though, almost like the man was just realizing the potential impact of Tommy’s decision to stay with Maria. 

“Hmm.” He took a bite, finally breaking eye contact. “We do, don’t we.” 

“So what do you do?” Frank cut in, saying your name. “You know what we all do, but you haven’t mentioned your job.” You didn’t mind the interruption, and you were almost positive Joel didn’t either. Especially since there are so many other people in this room and at this table. With one final squeeze to his knee, you cleared your throat and turned you attention back to the others. Later. We’ll deal with … the implication of that later. 

“I own a music store.” You watched Frank’s eyes widen further and Bill’s take on an actual glimmer of interest, so you continued. “It belonged to my friend Anna’s family. And when her parents weren’t able to keep up with it anymore, I took over.” Bill nodded, steepling his fingers together. “It’s been a few years but I like it. Keeps me busy, and even on bad days, like today, it’s worthwhile.” 

“The best things in life usually are.” Frank raised his glass and the rest of you followed suit. 

As dinner continued, the six of you delved deeper into conversation. You were even more at ease around Joel and his friends, and you knew that he could tell. A few times, he reached over and let his fingers trail over the space between your shoulderblades, the warmth of his fingers a welcome distraction, and something you watched Tommy take note of, the man meeting your gaze instead of Joel’s and giving you an almost imperceptible nod. 

It was a little thing, but it was enough - Tommy’s approval was important to you, and you knew it was to Joel, as well.

But when the dinner plates had been cleared and people began to get up, you were unsure of what came next. 

That turned out to be Tommy pulling you off to the side and leaving Joel to talk to Frank and Bill, the three men staying at the table while you walked away and toward the bar. 

He didn’t pull any punches with his words, Tommy’s arms crossed over his chest as he eyed you. “You like him, don’t you.” 

“I do.” You nodded, not looking away. “Ellie and Sarah are responsible for this, but I’m glad that it’s happening.”

“Heard about that.” He smiled wider, running his fingers through his curly hair. “I stopped over for breakfast this week, and she was gloating. But he didn’t give her shit the way he usually does when she teases him. He just kind of … seemed excited. I thought it was just the Commerce party, but then he told me about tonight.” Excited? That’s… interesting. “And that’s why when they told me we only had one room, I wanted to make sure I didn’t fuck this up for you.” 

“Tommy, you’re not -” 

“Stop. I mean it. It’s no big deal. I don’t know if Joel told you, but I’ve been into Maria for months, and since we’re not workin’ together right now… I’ve got a shot.” 

“Well then I don’t want to ruin that for you. Do you need to come back in and get your stuff?” He shook his head no, his eyes moving off and to the right before they returned to your face. “Why -”

“Incoming.” He winked and then reached out, squeezing both of your arms. “I’m sure I’ll see you again soon. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” Before you had a chance to reply, he was gone, leaving you standing in front of a fake, though well decorated tree. What was that about? 

“Hey. He botherin’ you?” Spinning around toward the sound of the voice, you were met with the sight of Joel, his arms hanging by his slides. But wait, he… He’d removed the jacket and undone another of the buttons on his shirt, making him look a little less put together but no less handsome. And he rolled up the sleeves. Wow. He looks … “Hmm?”

“No.” You swallowed, closing your eyes. “No, he was just telling me that now he’s in on the matchmaking, because as soon as he found out about the room, he made other plans so we could be alone.”

“Of course he did.” Joel shook his head slowly, glancing down. “Shit.” You had to laugh with him, leaning forward and taking one of his hands. He let you, curling his fingers around yours and then releasing them, the man angling his hand so that he could then lace your fingers together. “I’m not complainin’.” 

He went quiet, the two of you just staring at each other as Carol of the Bells played softly in the background. You wanted to keep that moment going - wanted to prolong the two of you standing in a room that he’d helped to build with the sights and smells of Christmas around you, Joel’s attention focused entirely on you. But we can’t. We can’t, and we need to get back to the party. “I’m not either.” Giving his hand one last squeeze, you let it go, watching as Joel crossed his strong arms over his chest, still watching you. 

“D’you wanna come with me?” He gestured with one thumb to the main ballroom, brow furrowed thoughtfully. “I wanna introduce you to the project manager. She’s the last person I want you to meet, and then we can … relax.” You wondered if he meant at the party or somewhere else, but decided it didn’t matter. 

“Yes. Introduce me.” You nodded, looking over his shoulder. “Where is -”

That was as far as you got, because Joel moved quickly, stepping toward you and slipping an arm around your waist to pull you closer. You gasped in surprise, both brows shooting up - but caught the smirk on his face before he kissed you again, the taste of bourbon and coffee on his tongue.

He didn’t seem to care that there were people around - which was a difference from the previous night - and you were thankful. 

Because you wanted to keep kissing him. You wanted to wrap yourself in him, for the two of you to keep each other occupied long into the night. And even though you were careful to keep your hands above his waist; one of them settled against his exposed forearm and the other arm slung over his shoulder so that you could twist the ends of his hair around your fingertips, you allowed yourself to press your body to his. 

His fingers pressed into your lower back - the edges of his nails digging into your skin, though not painfully - and when he sighed against your lips, you realized that not only was he making good on his promise from earlier, he was expanding on it. And that’s good. You hummed when you pulled back, swallowing before you let out a shaky breath, eyes opening to meet his. “Joel?” 

“Yeah?” The pressure of his hand decreased, his touch once again light, but still reassuring. Go for it. He needs to hear it. “What’s -”

“If you kiss me like that again, you better not stop.” 

He froze at your words, his eyes flashing, but then with a single nod he agreed, leaning in to kiss the corner of your mouth. 

“Let’s go talk to the boss, and then we’ll see how long you keep askin’ me not to stop.” It was your turn to freeze, your stomach bottoming out at the innuendo.  “Alright?” 

You made the decision in a split second, your hand sliding down Joel’s arm until you could take his hand, linking your fingers together. “Alright.” 

You walked through the room and into the second of the two lounges - the one that would serve as the lobby bar - and Joel paused in the doorway, head turning from side to side. You took the opportunity to take in the decor there - dark wood and bronze throughout, an even darker floor, flickering lights that were hung from exposed beams overhead. 

The entire thing was designed to be rustic and cozy, and when your eyes lingered on the wall behind the bar - latticework in one of the most intricate designs you’d ever seen - you gasped. “What?” He turned his head toward you, frowning. “You ok?”

“You did that, didn’t you.” You let go of his hand, stepping forward and resting your elbows on the edge of the smooth bartop. “All of that carving. All of the -”

“He did.” A female voice cut in from your right, and it was full of pride. “Spent three weeks gettin’ it just right.” Turning toward the sound, you met warm hazel eyes, the woman nodding. “I knew hiring Joel would get the job done, but I had no idea he’d do it so well.” She extended her hand, her smile widening. “I’m Tess Servopoulos. They refer to me as the boss around here.” 

You shook her hand, giving yourself a moment to stare before introducing yourself. She was extraordinarily pretty, maybe a few years older than Joel at most - hair in a half updo, curls cascading over her shoulders. She was petite but looked strong, and when she nodded, the smile turning into a smirk, you felt her squeeze your hand before she let go. 

“We came in here to find you, Tess.” Looking over at Joel, you smiled, too. “He wanted to introduce me, but I got distracted by the -”

“It’s just some latticework.” Joel moved to stand next to you, his hand once again resting at your waist while the other reached upward to rub at the back of his neck. “And the mirrors cover up a lot of it, so -”

“Give yourself some damn credit, Joel.” Tess rolled her eyes, looking briefly at him and then back at you. “He also built the bar himself. And the wine rack, and the liquor shelves. He was ahead of schedule with the rest of it, so I gave him the go ahead to do whatever he wanted in here, and…” She gestured with one hand, and for the first time you saw the diamond on her finger, accompanied by a wedding band as it glinted in the light shining down from the garland above. “I couldn’t be happier if I fuckin’ tried.” 

You laughed at how blunt she was, but you could tell she was serious - and you appreciated it. “From what I’ve seen, this place is beautiful. All of it… not just the parts he did.” Looking back at Joel again, you saw that he was watching you with curiosity, head tilted slightly downward and his chin tucked against the top of his shoulder. “I bet you’ll be booked solid when you open.”

“We are.” She nodded, the note of pride coming back into her voice. “Grand opening’s January 5th, and we’re booked solid through Valentine’s Day already.” It didn’t surprise you, especially after everything you’d seen, and you took the opportunity to slip your arm around Joel’s waist, the soft material of his shirt smooth under your palm. “I’m disappointed my husband and son won’t get to see it before we open, but …” Tess shrugged. “Ice storm closed the airport in Detroit, so they couldn’t make it tonight.” 

“Aw, Tess. I’m sorry.” Joel sighed from next to you. “I know you haven’t seen ‘em in a while since you’ve been out here. You were lookin’ forward to -”

“I was.” She smiled, though the expression was sad. “I’m actually flying out tomorrow. I found a last minute flight to Cleveland, and it’s only a couple hours back by car. There’s no way in Hell I’d make Avery drive and then fly and then drive with Jake, so…” She shrugged again, reaching up to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. “They’ll get  to be at the opening of the next one.” Her eyes slid to Joel, lingering for a second before they moved back to you. “And maybe you will, too. With Joel.” 

“What?” You were confused, frowning before you tilted your head to the side. “I don’t know what you mean. Why would -”

“You didn’t tell her?” Tess laughed, her eyes widening. “Brought her here as a date, and didn’t tell -”

“I haven’t told anyone yet.” Joel cleared his throat. “I was waitin’ until we knew for sure, and that call last night confirmed it, but …” He said your name, fingers curling slightly. “Guess it’s time.” 

“What Joel isn’t saying is that we… my company, I mean … has decided to keep Miller Contracting on retainer for the next five years. We have a lot of projects coming up, and after seeing the work that Tommy and Joel did here, we’d be fools to let them go. He might be the muscle, but I’m the brains of the operation, and …” Her smile warmed as she focused on Joel again. “I’m not an idiot. I know I need ‘em.” 

You were simultaneously thrilled for him and saddened by the fact that such extensive work likely meant he’d be gone for months at a time. But it’s what he wants. Success. Stability. Work for him and Tommy that’ll allow him to pay for Sarah’s college. “That’s… wow.” You nodded, wetting your lips. “You’re lucky to have him, Tess. That sounds like an incredible opportunity.” 

“It is.” Joel spoke again, his voice low. “It’s the one we’ve been waitin’ for.” He cleared his throat, continuing. “But we’ll let you get on with your night, Tess. Don’t want to take up too much more of your time. I’m sure you’ve got plenty of people to mingle with, and I need another drink, so…”

“Yeah. I should get out there.” She sighed, rolling her eyes. “It was nice to meet you, though. I hope you enjoy the rest of the party.” You replied with the same and assured her that you would, and  then you watched as Tess turned and slipped away through the crowd, leaving you and Joel where you stood. 

Neither of you spoke, but he turned to face you, his hand moving from your back to your hip and settling into place. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. That call I had to step out last night to take was them officially offerin’ the contract to me, and I had to bring Tommy in on it, and …” He shrugged. “I was gonna tell Sarah on Christmas, and …”

“You don’t need to apologize.” Frowning, you bit down on the inside of your lower lip. “This is an amazing opportunity for you, Joel. And you did say that you didn’t date much because you’ve been focused on work, so I can’t be surprised, and -” He reached up, sliding his palm along your jaw and tilting your head. “Joel?”

“This means that I won’t need to take as many little projects to make money as I used to.” His eyes locked with yours, he kept speaking. “I can focus on the big ones. Tess is bein’ real generous with us, and havin’ her company backin’ us means we can move forward a lot faster when it comes to supplies and findin’ people locally to work. It ain’t all on me anymore, and I can spend more time doin’ what I’m good at.” He turned your head toward the bar, his touch gentle. “Like that. Woodworkin’. Building things. I can supervise and -”

“Joel.” You turned your head back to meet his eyes, and he moved his hand to rest it on your shoulder. “You don’t owe me an explanation. This is a good thing. I’m happy for you. I’m excited.” You were - it was the truth. But you were also sad, because over the course of the previous week, you’d allowed yourself to imagine more of him in your life. And now he’ll be traveling for work more often, so that might not be possible. “Think of how many people will see your work. Think about how proud Sarah’s going to be.”

“Yeah.” He closed his eyes, taking and then releasing a deep breath. “Do you want to get another drink? I hope that didn’t ruin the night. I don’t want it to.” He paused. “That’s actually the last damn thing I …” 

He meant it. You heard it in his voice and saw the look in his eyes, realizing that Joel had also likely thought about what more travel meant once he was talking about it with you in front of him. And that’s enough. “You ruined nothing, Joel.” Taking a step back from him, you gave him what you hoped was a convincing smile. “Now let’s go and get that drink and you can tell me more about what this new contract means.” 

— 

An hour and a half later, you and Joel had had two additional drinks, and you’d learned much more about what Tess’ offer entailed. 

He was enthusiastic about the opportunity - about what it meant for him and Tommy, and by extension, Sarah, even though she’d likely be out of the house to begin college before he had to be onsite full time for the first project. 

Much of the work could be done remotely during the planning stages, meaning that Joel’s extensive time away from home would only fall during the actual construction months. He’d spend the majority of his time in Texas, where he was free to work on whatever he chose to do - as long as it didn’t interfere with the work for Tess. The first project wasn’t scheduled to begin until the end of February, and it was close - in Colorado Springs.

“How do you feel about it?” He leaned against the bar, elbow resting on the top of it and his chin firmly settled on the knuckles of his balled-up fist. “About the -”

“I’m excited for you.” You sipped your drink, letting your eyes wander around the room. “I hope you’ll show me pictures of what you -”

He interrupted you, the look in his eyes going hard, even though you saw the apprehension in them, too. “No. I mean… how do you feel about spendin’ more time now with someone that might be gone a lot later?” Oh. Oh, he … Your mouth opened but nothing came out, eyes locked on his face. “I know we’ve only gone out twice, but …” Joel shrugged, sitting up straight and lowering his hand to run his fingertips over the smooth wood between the two of you. “But I’d like it to be more than that. I just don’t know how you feel about … there bein’ months where I’m out of state. Where I’m busy. I know you can’t just leave the shop, but …” 

“Joel, I …” You blinked, covering your mouth in surprise. “I dont…” He was putting you on the spot, there was no question about it. And with anyone else, this would feel … strange. It would be too much, too soon. But … But it was Joel, and he’d always been honest. He didn’t have time to beat around the bush, or sugarcoat things. He had to be upfront when it came to his life and what it was possible for him to give to anyone else in it. And he’s not asking for a commitment, just … trying to see how I feel. “It changes nothing for me.” 

It felt good to say the words - and to mean them - and you saw the look in his eyes change at your admission. “What?” 

“You heard me.” Sliding your hand forward, you found his, fingers gliding up and settling atop his knuckles. You traced over the scar you’d seen earlier with the tip of your thumb, glancing down and then back up, meeting his eyes. “You already told me that you didn’t like texting, so at least I know I’d get to hear your voice over the phone while you were gone.” You pressed down, letting the weight of your hand rest heaving on his. “And Colorado’s only a short flight away, right? If … if it got to that point, flying back and forth wouldn’t be … terrible.” 

It wasn’t something you’d thought about for more than a few minutes, but as the words spilled from your lips, you realized that they were your honest feelings. “You’d want that?” 

“I’d definitely be willing to try it.” You nodded, scooting closer. “I’ve had a lot of fun with you the last two nights, Joel. And that’s been with all of this holiday bullshit and the pressure of them being first dates. It’s not like you’re moving across the country or would be gone six months out of the year back to back.” 

“Good.” Joel wet his lips, and then used his free hand to raise his drink, tipping his head back to finish it off in one long gulp. “I was hopin’ you’d say that.” Using his thumb to swipe at his lips, Joel got to his feet, looking down at where you still sat. “Want to go back into the other room? See if we can find Tommy or Bill’n Frank?” You glanced away from him and at the clock, idly stirring the remaining ice cubes in your mostly-gone drink. 

It was only a little after ten, and you knew the party would likely go on for hours, since most of the attendees were staying in the hotel. “We could do that.” You nodded, feeling your heartbeat quicken as you locked eyes with him again. All he can do is say no. All he can do is … “But there’s something I’d like to do even more than that, Joel.” 

You turned in your seat, facing him head on and watching as Joel stepped closer again, one hand on his hip. “Yeah? What’s that?” He’d been receptive to everything you’d said previously - every suggestion and reply had been met with interest at the very least and enthusiasm in most cases. And that’s good. It means he might … want this too. 

“You can say no.” You paused, biting the inside of your lower lip and closing your eyes briefly. “But I’d … we have the room to ourselves tonight, Joel. This is the most privacy we’ll have for …” You wrinkled your nose and he did the same, holding back a smile, his lips twitching with the effort. “For who knows how long. And I wouldn’t be opposed to taking advantage of that.” 

“That’s what you want to do?” You nodded, sucking in a quick breath at the way his voice dropped, his eyes darkening. “Well then what the hell are we waitin’ for?” 

You didn’t have an answer. And when he reached out, waiting for you to take his hand so that he could help you to your feet, you couldn’t look away from him, matching the smile on his face with one of your own. Is this happening? Is it really … shit. 

To get back to the elevators, you had to walk through the main ballroom, where various groups of people were gathered. Some of them - like Tommy and Maria - were dancing, others were just drinking - but you caught Bill and Frank sitting on a couch together by the fireplace, the older man holding an almost full tumbler of something between his fingers, his eyes on Frank, who was animatedly talking to Tess, who sat on a chair across from them.

But you and Joel went straight past them and into the main hallway, the man only stopping as you were about to pass the photo booth that was set up toward the reception area. “What?” Looking over, you tipped your head to the right. “Why’d you stop?” 

“We should get our picture taken.” He blinked twice, squaring his shoulders. “I put the jacket back upstairs already, but …” You didn’t care - and to be honest, thought he looked better without it, the rolled up sleeves and partially unbuttoned dress shirt only making him more attractive. “Be a good thing to have, hmm?” 

You were surprised at the suggestion but agreed, squeezing Joel’s hand and joining the short line without saying anything else. 

It was your turn after only a few minutes, and when you and Joel stepped in front of the shimmering golden backdrop, he didn’t hesitate to put his arm around you, pulling you closer. It made you laugh, one hand moving over to steady yourself against his broad frame - and during that laugh, you saw the camera flash twice before you got yourself under control. “Two more shots for the strip.” The woman behind the camera spoke up, peeking around the edge of it. “Those two were good, though.” 

“Just do a normal smile,” you mumbled, repositioning yourself with one arm around his waist as Joel draped one of his over your shoulders. That was an easy photo, but once it was taken, Joel said your name, urging you to turn toward him. “What?” 

He surprised you when he leaned in, eyes partially closed, the hand on your shoulder moving to the back of your neck to angle your head perfectly, the press of his lips to yours a welcome result of the guidance. 

You were aware of the flash but didn’t care, continuing to kiss Joel until he pulled back, resting his forehead against yours and grinning. “That’s enough.” You laughed too, hoping to disguise your shaky breath. “Don’t wanna traumatize the poor camera woman.” 

“Thanks for that.” The girl laughed. “You can pick up the pictures from the table to the right. Do you want two of them?” 

He agreed, nodding as he backed away and thanked her. But when you met the girl’s eyes she was grinning, giving you a not-so-subtle thumbs up and a wink as you followed him. It only took a few seconds for the machine to spit them out - two copies of the four-picture strips, followed by two more prints of him with his forehead pressed to yours and dopey smiles on both of your faces. Look at us. 

Joel handed both sets to you, wrinkling his nose. “You keep these safe. Was plannin’ on showing them to Sarah, but now …” 

“Maybe we ease into it, hmm?” You groaned, stepping beside him as he pushed the button to call the elevator. “Show them the first two of us laughing, and then in a little while, after they’ve seen us spend some more time together in person, we can show ‘em the other two.” 

“There are three,” he replied as he tapped his foot on the ground, waiting. “That last one is -”

“Not for the seventeen year olds.” No, that’s just for us. “Not yet.” He agreed a few seconds later, and when the doors slid open revealing an empty elevator, Joel didn’t hesitate to pull you inside, crowding you against the railing inside. “Joel, what -”

He reached over and somehow pushed the right button without backing away from you, and when you began to ascend, he kissed you again, that one much less gentle than for the photos. You groaned against his lips, both hands grasping at his shirt and pulling him closer. This is happening. 

He didn’t break the kiss even when you stepped out and onto your floor, Joel leading you down the hall and to the room before reaching into his back pocket for the key with one hand, his tongue stroking along yours before he took your lower lip between his teeth, tugging it outward at the same time as he swiped the key through the lock. 

You were dizzy from his proximity when you stumbled over the threshold and into the room, the door closing moments later and Joel pressing your back against it the same way he had against the glass earlier, though that press was accompanied by a slow rocking of his hips against yours, too. “You tell me to stop and I will.” He forced the words out, grunting quietly before kissing you again. “But I want -” 

Pushing him away with one hand, you blinked the man into focus, letting out a slow breath as you eyed him in the dim glow of the Christmas lights that were hung throughout the room, the light surrounding his head - and the hair you’d disheveled with your hands - like a halo. “What did I say before, Joel?” He smiled, the expression spreading over his face slowly. “You better not stop.” 

---

The drink Joel was drinking is real and it sounds both delicious and perfect for him: The Revolver

[something-tofightfor]

Snow And Mistletoe - Epilogue

Pairing: Joel Miller x Female Reader

No Outbreak AU.

Word Count: 6,419

Rating: M - as a whole for language and innuendo... This is fluff, though, with some innuendo sprinkled in.

A/N: This is the end to the @pedrostories Secret Santa fic gift exchange for @burntheedges. I wanted to close out their story with the *initial* idea I had behind the fic ... so I hope you're still interested. (I might also be persuaded to write the entirety of the night they spent in the hotel together ... if anyone cares, that is ... because I've got some **ideas**)

Thank you so much to everyone for reading and for responding. I had so much fun writing this one. Thanks also for your patience - I wanted to have this posted last night, but that just didn't happen.

Summary: Spending the night at the hotel with Joel changes things in a lot of ways. But when you leave to head home on Christmas Eve morning, it presents an opportunity for the two of you to take what you've discovered between you in a variety of different ways. What happens when Sarah and Ellie are once again thrown into the mix - and what do the two of them have planned for Christmas?

Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3

The drive back from the hotel the following morning was different than the one to it had been. 

You and Joel kept up a steady stream of conversation the entire way, your hands linked together atop the center armrest. He was lighter, somehow - more open - and you were enjoying every second of it, Joel’s laughter joining yours and filling the cab. 

You’d gotten very little sleep, the two of you making the most of the time and privacy that you had had together, and it had been good. No, better than good. Biting your lip, you looked out the window, watching as you passed other cars on the highway. It was amazing.

“What’s goin’ on in that heada yours?” Joel squeezed your hand, humming your name. “You got quiet.”

“I’m just thinking.” Returning your attention to him, you shrugged. “About how much has changed in the last couple days and how much more it could change.” 

“That’s all you’re thinking about?” He turned his head briefly toward you, one brow raised. “Because I’m thinking about the way you -”

“You’re fucking awful, Joel.” Scowling at him, you could feel the heat rising up the back of your neck and warming your cheeks. “But no, that’s not all I’m thinking about.” He laughed again, tugging your hand up so that he could kiss your knuckles, the scruff of his beard and mustache tickling your skin. “What do we tell Ellie and Sarah?”

“Whatever you want to tell them.” He let go of your hand, scratching at the back of his head with his fingertips before using them to grip the steering wheel loosely. “They obviously wanted somethin’ to happen, so they can’t be too surprised that it did, right?” You agreed, letting your mind wander to the smirk you knew would appear on the teenager’s face when you told her that yes, you and Joel would be seeing each other again. “I’m off ‘til the second week of January, and I know you’ve gotta work, but …” He paused, frowning for a few seconds before glancing over again. “But maybe we can find time to see each other?” 

“Of course.” Your hand found its way to his knee, the worn denim soft to the touch. “Maybe we could have you and Sarah over for dinner or something, too. You live close enough, and -”

“I’d like that.” He nodded. “I wasn’t lying when I said that tryin’ to bring someone new into my life was hard because I didn’t want to involve Sarah too soon, but that ain’t… it’s different here.” It was - and while it eliminated one hurdle for you and Joel, it presented another. 

“I think she spends more time at my house than she does at yours.” Joel laughed again, agreeing with you. “This almost seems too convenient, doesn’t it? They’re friends. They plotted to get us together. We let it happen. We get to tell them that they’re right about us being interested in each other.” You blew out a breath, covering your face with one hand. “God, they’re going to give us so much shit when we admit it.” 

“Yep.” He laughed quietly, swearing under his breath. “But I gotta be honest, I’m not all that upset about this one.” 

“Really?” 

“Really.” Joel cleared his throat and took the exit, waiting a few seconds to continue. “Last couple days have been a lot of fun. I’m done makin’ excuses. I’m kinda pissed it took two 17 year olds to make me act on it, but I’m glad they finally did.” You were glad, too, and you knew Ellie - knew that even though she’d likely make some comments for a little while and give you an appropriate amount of shit for dating her best friend’s father, the girl would actually be happy for you. Because she knows me. And she knows Joel and Sarah, and … 

“I guess I’m not, either.” You pulled your hand back and let both of them rest in your lap, eyes on the familiar scenery as you got closer to your house. “What do you and Sarah usually do on Christmas Eve?”

“We make dinner together.” He stopped at a red light, squeezing the wheel. “This year we’re makin’ spaghetti and meatballs. That’s about it. We used to go to my parents’, but when my dad passed, that stopped.” He turned down your street, the truck moving slowly. “You?” 

“I’ve got presents to wrap. Ellie usually calls Marlene and we all talk for a little while, but aside from that, no plans. We get takeout and then have leftovers for tomorrow while we hang out.” He was quiet as he pulled into your driveway, but when Joel parked the truck he finally spoke again, unbuckling his seatbelt and turning toward you. 

“Would you want to come over for dinner? We always make enough for leftovers, and since Tommy’s not comin’ this year, we’ll have even more to start.”

“I don’t want to intrude.” Your heartbeat quickened, though, lips parting in shock at his invitation. “Joel, that’s… it’s been you and Sarah, and …”

“It has been.” He shrugged, eyes locked on your face. “But things change.” 

“Bring it up when we go inside.” You nodded. “See what Sarah says. It’s up to her, Joel.” 

You expected him to get out of the truck then, but instead Joel leaned in, head tilted slightly to the left so that he could kiss you softly. 

It wasn’t a kiss that would lead to anything else; instead it was just an agreement, the man letting you know that he’d heard you and would do what you’d suggested. But it was just as meaningful as the ones you’d shared in the room the previous night and earlier that morning - no hesitation or restraint on his part, Joel acting on instinct and encouraging you to do the same. 

“Let’s get this over with.” He rested his forehead against yours briefly, but when Joel pulled back, he was grinning. “You ready?” 

You were, and so you both got out of the truck and headed for the house, your overnight bag slung over one shoulder and Joel walking a step behind you. 

The house was quiet when you entered, but after a few seconds, you heard the sound of music from Ellie’s bedroom, turning to look over your shoulder at Joel - who nodded with a slight grimace on his face - before you leaned against the wall and called out to them. 

“Ellie? Sarah? I’m back. Joel’s here with me.” There was a pause and then you heard the sound of quick footsteps coming down the hallway, followed by the appearance of both girls at the top of the stairs, their eyes moving between the two of you. “Hi.” 

“Hey, Dad.”  Sarah pushed past Ellie, her socked feet on the steps as she hurried toward where Joel stood. “How was the party?”

“Was good, babygirl.” He held an arm out to hug her, Sarah stepping into the embrace without pause. “How was your pizza? 

“Good.” Ellie plopped down on the steps about halfway down, her hands hanging between her knees. “Have a ton left over, too.” Joel’s eyes flicked to you and you nodded once, crossing your arms over your chest. 

“You don’t have to eat leftovers if you don’t want to, Ellie.” Joel looked over at the girl, Sarah pulling away enough so that she could look up at him and then over at her friend, her eyes going wide. “Haven’t brought it up with you yet, Sarah, but …” He looked down, both hands stuffed into his pockets. “How about we invite them over for dinner tonight?” 

She was quiet for a few seconds and then her jaw dropped at almost the same time Ellie swore under her breath, the words holy shit hissed out in shock. “For real?” Sarah’s eyes landed on you, and you saw it briefly - a look of genuine confusion in her eyes followed by one of understanding, the expression similar to the one you’d seen on Joel’s face more than once. “Can they stay and watch the movie with us, too?” 

“What movie?” Ellie spoke before you could, her smile widening. “And what’s for dinner?”

“Spaghetti and homemade meatballs.” Joel cleared his throat. “And I’ve been talkin’ up the Curtis And Viper 4 chase scene for weeks, so -”

“Oh, dude. It’s so good.” Ellie groaned, shaking her head. “Sarah, you’ll love it.”

“I’m not so sure about that, but…” She laughed and so did Joel, but the girl’s next words shocked you even more than the movie invite had. “If you invite them over for Christmas Eve, you should invite them over for Christmas dinner, too.” 

“Wait, what?” You spoke before anyone else could, your eyes focused on Sarah. “We can’t, Sarah. That’s for you and your dad. And you’re going to -”

“Don’t you dare say no.” Ellie stood, holding up one hand, pointer finger extended. “He smokes a brisket on Christmas. For sixteen hours. Do you know how fuckin-” She cut herself off, apologizing, but Joel’s laugh interrupted that, the man swiping at his face with one hand. 

“And I make mac and cheese and broccoli salad from my grandma’s recipes.” Sarah nodded, her eyes on you. “Even if Uncle Tommy comes over tomorrow and eats half of it, we always have a ton left over, because my dad doesn’t know how to buy small amounts of anything.” 

“I… we…” You looked at Ellie, who was staring expectantly at you, and then over at Joel, whose lips were raised in a half smirk, his eyes bright. Fuck it. Why not? “What can we bring?” 

“Yes!” Ellie pumped her fist in the air, following it with a quiet “hell yeah!” and Joel nodded once, tongue darting out to wet his lips. 

“Something to drink? I don’t know. Maybe a dessert? Sarah’s always complainin’ that all we have are cookies.” 

“I can do that.” You glanced over, looking at the clock on the wall. “Ellie and I will run to the store before everything closes and pick some stuff up. What time?”

“Six?” He looked down, checking his watch. “I forgot this damn thing stopped working. Shit.” Joel shook his head. “That should give us all plenty of time. It’s not even noon yet.” You agreed with him, and only a few minutes later, he and Sarah were heading out the front door, Ellie already back in her room to change clothes. 

You stopped him before he could walk out, though, saying his name quietly. When he turned back to face you, one hand still on your door knob, you blinked, shaking your head. “You didn’t have to invite us, Joel. And tomorrow, that’s … I feel like we’d be intruding.”

“You aren’t. I promise.” He reached out, taking your hand in his and squeezing. “Wouldn’t have invited you if I didn’t want you there … and neither would she.” You knew it was true, and so you didn’t say anything else, just nodding. “See you in a few hours.” 

You watched him walk down the walkway and toward the driveway, disappearing around the front corner of your house. Holy shit, all of this … wow. When he started his truck, you closed the door and then leaned against it, covering your face with both hands. “Wow.” 

“We told you.” Peeking through your fingers, you looked up the stairs at Ellie, the girl standing at the top and grinning. “I know you always tell me I’m too nosy, but …” She shrugged. “All I’m saying is that my present from Santa better be amazing this year, since I played a part in getting you a date with your dream dude and getting us invited over on Christmas, and -”

“The only thing you’re going to get is a box full of coal under the tree if you don’t stop gloating, Ellie.” She snorted, eyeing you as you pushed away from the door and grabbed for the strap of your bag. “Honestly, though … thank you, kiddo.” Climbing the stairs, you reached out and wrapped an arm around her, pulling her into a quick hug. “He is pretty dreamy, hmm?” 

She groaned and pushed herself away from you, rolling her eyes. “Gross. Stop it.” You passed her, heading for your bedroom and only turning when she said your name again. “What are you going to make… we’ve only got a couple hours?” 

Tossing the bag onto your bed, you put your hands on your hips, narrowing your eyes. “I don’t know. But we’ll figure it out.”

— 

The two of you stood on Joel and Sarah’s front porch at exactly 6 PM, each of you carrying two things. She had the brownies she’d baked and a bottle of non-alcoholic Prosecco for her and Sarah to share, the bottle nestled into a decorative bag that was stuffed with tissue paper. 

You carried a large dish of peach cobbler and a bag that contained two bottles of wine - one red and one white - the weight heavy over one arm. But you weren’t nervous when you rang the doorbell or when Sarah opened the door, the girl’s smile widening at the sight of you. 

“Come in. You can go and help Dad in the kitchen. I think he’s currently burning meatballs. Ellie and I are going to go upstairs and practice one last time.” You agreed and winked at the girl, the three of you making your way through the living room and into the kitchen, the sight of Joel’s broad shoulders in a thin t-shirt sending a shiver through you. “Dad, they’re here.” 

He grunted once, but didn’t turn around, and as you and Ellie set everything down and the two girls disappeared toward the stairs, you stared. He can’t see me, so it’s fine. “Do you need the fridge? There should be room.” He stepped to the side and picked up a spatula, using it to flip the meatballs in the pan. “I’m going to finish these and dump ‘em in the sauce and then jump in the shower.” 

“Sarah said you were burning dinner?” You put the Prosecco and the desserts into the refrigerator and moved over to where Joel stood, resisting the urge to settle your hand on his back and instead nudging him with an elbow. “Smells pretty unburnt to me.” 

“The day I burn meatballs is the day hell freezes over.” You laughed and so did he, eyes on the food in the pan and the deft way he handled the utensil, quickly turning the remaining ones to ensure they cooked evenly. “This is Sarah’s favorite thing I make. When she was little and first started eatin’ real foods, my ma’s meatballs were one of the only things she’d ask for. So I started making ‘em too.” 

Every new thing you learned about Joel and Sarah was like a gift. He was letting you in piece by piece, including you in small pieces of his life - giving you the opportunity to know the two of them. And it’s only been a few days. “They look amazing, Joel. Do you make the sauce, too?” 

“Sort of.” He looked over, nodding at the stockpot with his chin. “I start out with jarred sauce and add to it. It’s meatless, because Sarah went through a phase where she tried to eat less of it, but it always tastes a little different every time because there’s no real recipe.” 

“You said you add the meatballs when they’re cooked, but -”

“I do.” He pointed to a second, smaller pot. “I like to cook ‘em in sauce, just for flavor, but I know not everyone eats meat, so…” He trailed off. “Gimmie a second and you can taste it.” 

You stepped away and let him do what he needed to finish, only a few more minutes of sizzling in the pan before the last batch of meatballs were soaking in the simmering sauce. Joel wiped his hands on a towel and then reached for one of the spoons in the drawer, taking a lid off of the larger pot and dipping it in. For a second, you thought he was going to feed you, but instead he handed it over, one eyebrow raised. Blowing on it, you waited until it had cooled to taste it, your eyes going wide at the flavor. “Shit, that’s good.” 

“I know.” He winked, reaching up to swipe at the back of his head. “Glad you like it. Do you think Ellie will?” 

“Yes. She’s going to love it.” Setting the spoon down in the sink, you turned back to look at him. “I brought a red and a white, and Ellie got some nonalcoholic -” 

“Whatever you brought is fine.” Joel reached out, putting his hands on your hips and urging you closer. “I’m not picky.” He kissed you softly, the man’s lips lingering in their press against yours. “I’m glad you’re here.” 

“I am, too.” Murmuring the words, you nodded. “Do you need me to do anything while you’re in the shower?” 

“I’m going to start boiling the water for pasta, but nah. I should be done before it’s ready. TV’s in the other room, you can turn it on if you want.” You weren’t going to do that, but thanked him for the offer nonetheless, your eyes wandering around the kitchen as Joel exited it, too, the pot of water on the still-warm burner that he’d used for the meat. 

When you were sure he was upstairs, you turned toward the sink and reached for one of the sponges in the drain rack. Hope he has good water pressure. Grinning, you started washing the dishes he’d used, humming to yourself as you worked. 

You felt comfortable in his kitchen. You felt comfortable in his house, knowing that Ellie and Sarah were upstairs, the girls likely whispering behind a closed door as Sarah put the finishing touches on what she’d been working on for the better part of two months. I wonder when she’ll give him his gift. You chewed on your lower lip while you wiped the countertop down, cleaning up a few stray splatters of grease. Tomorrow, before we get here I’m sure. 

“You didn’t have to do that.” Turning at the sound of his voice, you froze in place at the sight of him standing by the edge of the counter, water droplets still clinging to the skin of his throat above the collar of his dark green shirt. Seeing him after a shower twice in one day? It really is Christmas. “I was going to do it while the pasta’s cooking.” He ran his fingers through his hair, the salt-and-pepper strands slicked back and away from his face, your eyes following the movement. 

“Now you don’t have to.” Shrugging, you wiped your hands on the towel. “Dishes are done. Water’s just about boiling. I stirred the -” He closed the distance between you swiftly, one arm going around your waist and the other hand lifting to curve around the back of your head. “Joel? They could walk down and -”

“I know.” He nodded as he leaned in, trailing a line of kisses over your cheek and against your lips. “Don’t care, though.” Yeah, I guess I don’t, either. You kissed him back, inhaling the scent of his body wash and shampoo, those two things combining with his cologne in a trio of scents that was cozy, his hold on you firm. When Joel broke the kiss, he didn’t let go of you. Instead, the two of you remained in front of the stove, the man’s gaze locked with yours. What is he… “We should have done this sooner.” 

You agreed. You’d been single for just under a year aside from a few dates here and there, and based on what you knew of Joel’s life, he hadn’t had anything serious in that time, either. Can’t change it now, though. “Well, we’re doing it now, and I’m not going to complain about that.” 

His return smile was soft, Joel nodding once before he released you and headed for one of the cabinets. He opened it and pulled out a large box of pasta, setting it down on the counter. “Pick a wine and put it in the fridge. We can save the other bottle for tomorrow.” 

“You think we’ll go through an entire bottle between the two of us?” You laughed, moving toward the bag and pulling out the red, a bottle of Beaujolais-Villages. Turning it over in your hands, you held it up. “Only needs to be chilled, not cold. How long until we eat?” 

“Not that long. Maybe a half hour? Gotta make the bread and boil the noodles.” He shrugged. “That enough?” 

“Yes.” You stored the wine in the fridge and then made your way back to the counter, watching as Joel poured pasta into the water. “You’re making enough for an army, Joel.” 

“Leftovers.” He grinned at you, eyes crinkling at the corners. “When I say Tommy eats like a horse, I’m not kidding.” You both laughed, the sound filling the kitchen. 

The two of you talked for the remainder of the time he spent with the pasta and bread, and by the time you headed upstairs to let Ellie and Sarah know that dinner was ready, you’d already decided that that Christmas was at the top of your list of holidays. 

You knocked twice before Sarah told you to come in, and when you pushed the door open, you saw Ellie sitting cross legged on the floor while Sarah was on the bed, an acoustic guitar on her lap. “Dinner’s ready.” Your smile widened and you pointed at the instrument. “That the one you -”

“Yeah.” She bit her lip, frowning. “Ellie said I shouldn’t restring it before tomorrow morning because he’s probably going to want to do it himself, but …”

“I agree.” You leaned against the doorframe. “Plus you’re used to playing on those strings, and if you get new ones, it might feel different, and you definitely don’t want that.” She nodded, her expression serious. “When are you -”

“After dinner.” She swallowed hard and then took a deep breath. “While you guys are here. Because I need … I need you here.”

“No.” Ellie stood, staring at the other girl, even while shaking her head. “You don’t need us here. You’ve got this.” She reached out, taking the instrument from Sarah and then setting it carefully in the case “But I’m so fucking excited to see you play for him, Sarah.” 

That was all the encouragement the other girl needed, Sarah bouncing to her feet and nodding as he finally relaxed. You gave Ellie a wink and a discreet thumbs up, and then the three of you headed down the stairs and back into the kitchen, where Joel was pulling plates out of the cupboard. 

Well, looks like my question’s answered then. Eyeing Sarah as she hugged her father with one arm, you hung back until both girls had served themselves from the pots and bowls, both of them giggling as they did so. 

Sarah carried both of their plates into the other room while Ellie followed with the bottle of Prosecco and two glasses, and when you and Joel were left alone in the kitchen, the man spun to face you with a smirk on his lips. “Your turn.” 

With a laugh, you stepped next to him and picked up a plate, but as you started to take food, Joel moved to stand next to you, doing the same. Both of you loaded your plates in silence, casually bumping into each other a few times before you’d finished, though it wasn’t on accident. Just as you reached for your fork and knife, Joel said your name and reached around you, one hand grabbing a stack of napkins, his fingertips grazing your lower back as he withdrew his arm. 

And when you looked up, you caught Ellie pointing her phone at you and grinning, Sarah’s eyes bright over the rim of her glass as she watched, too. 

But you and Joel ignored it as you carried your plates into the dining room and sat down, avoiding the chairs at the ends of the table and opting to sit next to each other - much like you had at the Chamber party. 

It was Joel that began the conversation, digging into his plate of spaghetti and sauce and focusing his attention on Ellie. That led to Sarah chiming in between bites, and finally you spoke up, too. The four of you talked throughout the entire meal, and though it was all loose conversation it felt warm, the soft glow of the tree next to the TV stand and the light from above the table setting the mood. 

You felt comfortable there, too, and even though you knew that a lot of the time you spent with Joel wouldn’t be with Sarah and Ellie, it calmed you to think that if the opportunity ever came up, things wouldn’t be awkward. Well, not as awkward as they could be between a teenager and their parent’s date. 

The food was delicious - and when you made a joke about Sarah having to teach Ellie how to cook, you were rewarded with a deep scowl from the girl and a laugh from Joel, Sarah’s immediate agreement resulting in a groan from Ellie, her face buried in her hands. “Merry Christmas to me, right? Must be gang up on Ellie day.” 

“Nah, I just don’t want you to starve when you’re at college next year.” You shrugged, taking another bite. “I know you’ll have a meal plan and all that, but … you might need to fend for yourself, and it’s always nice to have options.” 

“They have microwaves in dorms, you know.” Ellie wrinkled her nose at you, followed with a roll of her eyes. “I can make Easy Mac and Chef Boyardee ravioli.”

“Yeah but you can’t live off that shit … I mean…” Joel groaned, rubbing at the space between his eyes with one hand. “It’s good, but …” 

“I know.” Ellie cleared her throat. “Also, am I allowed to have a second plate? These meatballs are amazing Joel.” 

He waved her off, fork in hand, and when she sat back down, the conversation shifted. The girls took over on dish duty at the end of the meal and you and Joel quickly moved to the other room, taking both wine glasses and the bottle with you. He refilled them after you settled down onto the couch, but Joel didn’t turn the TV on. 

Instead, he turned his head to look at you, one brow raised in question. “Well? What do you think of Miller Christmas Eve so far?” You waited a few seconds before you answered, giving yourself a chance to look around the room and take it all in before you spoke. 

“I think …” Catching Ellie’s eye, she held her phone up and then looked over at Sarah, and then at Joel. What? You looked over, smiling at him. “I think I’ll be able to answer that better after we watch this movie. But the food was good. Wait til you taste dessert.” His lips twitched, Joel’s eyes on you. “How’s it feel to have company?”

“Good.” He nodded. “I like having the two of you here.” He lowered his voice, eyes focused on you. “You bein’ here.” There was no hesitation when he spoke, Joel’s words honest, and in an instant, you were upset with yourself for not giving him a straight answer. 

“Joel, I -” 

“I’m going to go upstairs for a second, I’ll be right back.” Sarah’s voice interrupted your thought, both you and Joel turning your attention to her. “Don’t start the movie without me.” It’s happening. You inhaled sharply, locking eyes with the girl as she passed in front of you and headed for the steps. Joel assured her that he wouldn’t, and when Ellie settled into the armchair, curling her legs beneath her body, you looked over at her, mouthing the word “OK?” 

She gave you a discreet thumbs up, and when you repositioned yourself on the couch, you looked over at the kitchen counter, noticing that a cell phone was propped up against a candle, aimed at where you and Joel sat. Talk. Don’t just sit here in silence. “So, Joel, what’s so special about this chase scene?” 

He started talking immediately, and even Ellie cut in, but at the first sound of footsteps on the stairs, she trailed off, her smile growing. “Dad?” Joel’s head turned toward the stairs and yours followed suit, teeth digging into your lower lip at the sight of Sarah standing there, the handle of a guitar case clinched between the fingers of one hand. “Can I give you a Christmas present tonight?” 

“What?” He leaned forward, clearly confused. “What are you…” She stepped closer and his eyes moved down to what she held and then widened, both of his hands flattening against his thighs. “Sarah, where’d you get that fr…” His attention returned to you only a few seconds later, recognition in his eyes. “From you? From the -”

“Give her a second, Joel.” You shrugged. “Just listen.” 

Sarah moved even closer, setting the case down on the ground and then reaching for one of the tall chairs in front of the counter, flipping it around. “I wanted to do something without you knowing. Because…” She unlatched the case, flipping it open and then reaching into it, her fingers curving around the smooth wooden neck of the guitar. “You’ve done so much for me and I wanted to surprise you.” 

She sat on the chair and situated the guitar over her knee, taking a deep breath. “Sarah… Babygirl, I …” He leaned forward, hands curled into loose fists. “What are you doin’?” 

“You’ll see.”

You’d been witness to many of the practice sessions and lessons Ellie had given Sarah throughout the months of November and December. You’d seen the girl’s confidence grow from day one, her skill with the instrument not exactly that of a novice in the beginning, though she’d been nervous, especially when playing on the expensive instruments in the store. 

But as the weeks passed, Sarah progressed … and even though you were capable of helping her play the song she’d chosen, it was Ellie that had helped her with singing in the previous few weeks, the teenagers working to seamlessly combine one skill with the other. 

So when she took a deep breath and looked at Joel, her nervous smile turning into a full-fledged one before she opened her mouth to begin the song, you were just as shocked as him. She sounds fantastic. 

I'll be home for Christmas

You can plan on me…

As she played and sang, Sarah closed her eyes and tilted her head down, her picking more confident with each note. You only looked away from her once, stealing a glance at Joel, who was leaning forward, one large hand covering his mouth, eyes shining above it. 

Sarah paused halfway through, taking a deep breath as her fingers continued to pluck at the strings, and when she caught your eye, you nodded, lips pressed together. She looked at Ellie next and though you didn’t see her reaction, you saw Sarah’s - her grin widening before she began to nod her head in time with the music, casting her eyes down again. 

Please have some snow and mistletoe

And presents by the tree… 

You were dimly aware of Joel’s hand finding your knee and squeezing, but you didn’t look away from Sarah, even as you put your hand on top of it and squeezed back. You were glad that the song was being recorded, because you knew that Sarah would remember very little of it once it was over, and from the sounds of it, it was the first time Joel had ever heard her perform - at least while playing, too. And he’ll want to keep this. 

But it was the last lines of the song that truly caught you off guard, and from Joel’s sharp intake of breath, they hit him hard, too - which was the girl’s intention. She looked up again as she played, entirely focused on her father’s face - and in a voice as clear as a bell, sang directly to him. 

I'll be home for Christmas

It won’t be in my dreams. 

She strummed out a few more notes and then let out a shaky breath, her hold on the guitar tightening as the sound died away - and then the room was silent, everyone waiting. “I mean it, Dad. Even if …” She stood head shaking back and forth slowly. “No matter where I go to school, I’ll be here with you for the holidays. I’m not leaving for good, I -”

He pushed off of the couch and took the few steps necessary to reach her, both of his arms going around the girl in a hug that took her by surprise. She had the sense to hold the guitar out, Ellie reaching for it before you could even think about moving. When it was safely in the second girl’s grip, Sarah hugged Joel back, her arms wrapped so tightly around him that you heard him release a quiet “oof”, though he made no motion to let her go. 

You looked at Ellie then, her expression full of pride in her friend, and when you gave her a thumbs up, she beamed at you, but stayed quiet. You heard Joel murmuring to Sarah, and when she laughed, backing away, he leaned down to press a kiss to the top of her head, his hands moving to her arms. 

“Thank you.” He scoffed, looking up at the ceiling and then back at her - before turning his head toward Ellie. “Do you … d’you think I can play that guitar before you take it back?” Joel twisted back to look at you, sighing. “That’s the one I’ve been lookin’ at when I come in, and …” 

“Dad.” Sarah spoke before you could, reaching out to grab the phone on the counter, sliding it back into her pocket. She then moved over to take the instrument back from Ellie. “That wasn’t your real present. This is.” She held it out to him, looking nervous for the first time. “I know how much you wanted it, and when Ellie was telling me about her discount, I figured that if I worked there, too I could…” 

“Sarah Jane Miller, you did not buy me a Taylor acous-”

“I sure did.” She thrust it toward him, her expression defiant. “And I didn’t get a receipt so you can’t return it.” It was your turn to cover your mouth at the sight of Joel’s hands reaching out to take the guitar from her, his breath catching in his throat as his fingers closed around the neck. 

“You shouldn’t have done this, Sarah. It’s too much. I don’t…” 

“You do.” She stepped away from him, sitting on the arm of the chair Ellie was in. “After everything you’ve done for me after Amanda left?” She smiled, crossing her arms over her chest. “And I got a really good deal on it. I kind of know the owner.” 

Joel looked at the guitar again, and for a split second, you thought he was going to take Sarah’s place in the chair and start playing, which would have been great. But instead, he took a breath, thanking Sarah as he let it out, and then bent over to put the instrument back in the case, latching it shut. “Yeah… I know her, too.” 

He turned back to where you sat, and only moments later, Joel was standing in front of you and holding his hands out, ready to pull you to your feet. “What are -” 

“Thank you for bein’ so nice to my little girl.” His hold on your hands was tight, but when Joel let go, he didn’t move away. Instead, he got even closer, placing both hands on your hips. What is he … oh, shit. Oh, shit. “And to me.” 

He leaned in and kissed you before you could reply, and though your first instinct was to jump backwards, you fought it. Instead, you brought your hands up to his arms and rested them there, he warmth of his skin through his sleeves radiating against your palms. It was a short kiss, the man barely giving you a chance to enjoy the press of his lips against yours before it was over … but it was enough. He didn’t back away from you even after ending it, his still-shining eyes locked with yours as though asking if what he’d just done was alright. It is. Of course it is.

“Duuuuuuuuude.” Ellie’s voice startled you, your attention moving to her - and to Sarah, whose mouth was open so wide that it almost made you laugh. “Is there something you need to tell us?” 

“Nope.” You laughed, hands slipping under Joel’s arms so that you could hug him, the man urging you even closer. “Not a damn thing.” 

It was Sarah’s turn to laugh, the girl standing and moving so that she could grab one of the blankets and some pillows from next to the couch, dropping them on the floor and then throwing a second blanket at Ellie. “Are we gonna watch this movie or what?” 

Joel let you go then, dropping back onto the couch and waiting until you sat down next to him to reach for the remote. But once he’d turned the TV on and navigated to the correct streaming service, pressing play, he slung an arm around your shoulders, urging you closer. 

You rested your head against his shoulder, repositioning yourself so that you were more comfortable - and just as the movie’s opening credits started rolling, you felt his lips on your temple, his beard scraping softly over your skin. “Sorry about that.” He whispered the words, fingers curling around your arm. “Couldn’t help it.” 

Angling your head so that you could look up at him, you smiled. “I don’t want you to.” He raised both brows, the smile slowly spreading across his face. “Merry Christmas, Joel.” 

He didn’t reply, instead tilting his head to rest his cheek against the crown of yours as the two of you settled in to watch what you hoped was the first of many movies together. 

— 

The version of the song I based Sarah's performance on: I'll Be Home For Christmas - Lizzy McAlpine

Tag list reblog coming soon.