The snowstorm had transformed the world outside into a quiet, pristine wonderland. By the time the last of the lodge’s guests turned in for the night, the sitting room was nearly empty. Holly sat by the fireplace, her hands wrapped around a warm mug of cocoa. The fire crackled softly, and the room was bathed in the cozy glow of Christmas lights draped along the mantel. She told herself she’d come down for the quiet, for a chance to decompress after the long day. But deep down, she knew the truth.
Jack was still here.
He sat across from her in the same chair he always seemed to claim, lounging back with his long legs stretched out in front of him. He wasn’t smiling or teasing her like usual. Instead, he looked almost pensive, his gaze fixed on the flames dancing in the hearth. Holly found
