ship so they can dance.”
She lifted an eyebrow. “This would be so much more fun with music.”
“Music it is.” He released her and went over to the cabinet. “Hey, I’ve got some peppermint ice cream in the freezer.” He threw her a casual glance. “If you’re interested.” In the old days, Noelle could eat a half-gallon of peppermint ice cream by herself.
“Wow, my favorite. I’m impressed. You’re pulling out all the stops.” A suspicious smile curved her lips as she tipped her head, causing her hair to fall lower on her arm. “Did you come by and stock up the fridge before our date?”
“I stop by every day to check on the house,” he explained. “I might’ve picked up some of your favorite ice cream, on the chance that the evening would go as I hoped.”
“Has it … gone as you hoped?”
A large grin broke over his face. “It has gone much better than I would’ve ever dared to hope.”
“Yeah, for me too,” she said softly.
It was a wonderful thing knowing that the Lord had not only answered Holden’s prayers, but he’d given him more than his lips would dare ask for. Good things come to those who wait upon the Lord.
12
“Hey, babe. How’s it going?”
“Great,” Noelle sang, “I’m just finishing up.”
“Finishing up? I thought you’d already be on your way to Birdie’s. I’m headed there now.”
“I got held up. A walk-in came in at the last minute. I’m leaving here shortly.”
“Awesome. I’ll see you soon. Oh, yeah. I almost forgot. I’ve got a present for Aiden. I hope you don’t mind if I give it to him tonight.”
She smiled, hearing the excitement in Holden’s deep melodic voice. “You never could wait until Christmas to open presents.” She cradled her phone on her shoulder as she worked the broom to sweep up the hair around her station.
He chuckled. “You know me too well. See you soon.” There was a slight pause. “I love you.”
The words came easily from her lips. “I love you too.” As she ended the call, her heart did a little dance of exultation. Things were moving fast with her and Holden, but then again, maybe not. The feelings had always been there. They were just percolating to the surface.
“Look at you, girl, twirling that foot.” Judy was at her station, wrapping the cord on her curling iron. She threw Noelle an insinuating smile. “Sounds like things are going well between you and Coach Dreamy.”
“Yes,” Noelle answered, unable to stop a smile from stretching a mile wide over her lips. Things had been going gloriously well. Noelle could hardly believe what a difference a week could make. She’d been so uncertain about her future, so worried about getting back together with Holden. Now, she was excited about moving forward. It was still rough dealing with Kyle and Dottie, but having Holden by her side imbued her with a new sense of confidence. Noelle and Holden had seen each other on a daily basis. Most evenings, he came to Birdie’s and had dinner with them. This evening, they were going to the ranch to spend Christmas Eve.
“I’m glad things are working out, sugar. You deserve to be happy.” Judy frowned. “I’m just sorry that the witch has been putting you through the wringer.”
Noelle instantly knew who Judy was referring to. “Me too,” she sighed. “Meredith had me blow dry and style three of her clients’ hair today—the ones with long, curly hair.”
Judy’s expression turned sour. “I saw that. I’m just glad she left early today.” She sniffed. “You smell that? Even the air breathes easier.”
“Amen,” Noelle chuckled. Not caring to discuss Meredith any more than she had to, Noelle changed the subject. “What do you have planned for this evening?” She reached for the dustpan and swept the pile of hair into it.
“Joe and I don’t do much for Christmas Eve. I’m mainly looking forward to putting my feet up and relaxing. Tomorrow, we’ll spend the morning opening gifts with the kids and will go to my mama’s tomorrow for Christmas dinner. How about you?”
“We’re going to the ranch tonight and tomorrow. The entire Romeo clan will be there.”
Judy’s eyes lit up. “Will Cash be there?”
“Yep.”
She squealed. “You lucky dog. That voice. Mm … mm … what a cutie. I could listen to that man sing all day.” Her voice grew sultry. “And watch him all day.”
Noelle laughed. “Yeah, Cash is cute enough, I guess, if you’re into that sort of type.”
Judy snorted. “What? You mean the drop-dead