Meet Me Under the Mistletoe Read Free

is a fine woman, has a solid relationship with the Lord, a good career—”
    “Who thinks the Eiffel Tower is in the Midwest. Kings Island or something. Not that she isn’t pretty and sweet as molasses, but she’s not for me.” Thank goodness Jasmine didn’t live in Starlight, or the situation could get awkward.
    Dylan shook his head. “So she might not be the best at geography, but who cares? Ever think maybe you’re too picky?”
    Jake stared him down. “No, as a matter of fact. Maybe I’m waiting on God’s timing and not yours, mine, or anyone else’s. Ever consider that? You will not—I repeat— not fix me up again. That’s final.” He stood without too much discomfort, and gained the advantage of a few more inches. “If I humor you and go tonight, it’s for the kids, and no other reason. Just so we’re clear on that point.” Dylan always knew how to play on his weakness.
    “Of course, there’s no other reason,” Dylan said. “Don’t worry. We didn’t arrange anything, but Hannah’s matchmaking efforts have shifted into overdrive these days. This nesting instinct of hers makes her want to pair up everyone.”
    Seemed Hannah wasn’t the only one playing matchmaker. “All right. Tell me I don’t have to put on the gear and all’s forgiven.” The full uniform with bunkers—boots, pants and suspenders, combined with the turnout coat and helmet—would add more than fifty pounds. Guaranteed to give him grief and slow the healing process. He headed to the front hall closet, each step a little easier. Moving around was good and helped alleviate the stiffness.
    “I think the chief will excuse you from wearing it,” Dylan said. “You’re one of our finest, but it’s a real shame you don’t have the same effect on women as you do with kids.”
    Jake pushed aside Dylan’s comment, no matter how true. He bent over to retrieve his boots from the hall closet and blew out a breath he hoped Dylan would interpret as physical pain. Not many women could understand the sacrifice of being on call, especially if it meant missing out on planned events. Through the years, his dad had missed a few football games, one of Amanda’s dance recitals, and a school program here and there. Sure, Jake had been disappointed, but he also admired his father’s commitment to the firefighter brotherhood.
    He carefully lowered himself to the steps, wincing with the effort. When Dylan reached out a hand to help, Jake waved him away. “I got it.”
    “Hannah was afraid you were turning into Scrooge. Or a hermit.”
    “Never,” Jake said. At least smiling didn’t hurt. “How’s she feeling?”
    “Better. This third kid’s taking more out of her. She’s convinced it’s a girl since she says this pregnancy ‘feels’ different. Can’t discount a woman’s intuition on these things. She was right about the other two.”
    Jake knew Dylan wanted a little girl to spoil this time around. Might soften him up, so it could only be a good thing. “Hannah’s coming tonight?”
    “Yeah. She’s meeting us there and bringing the boys.” Dylan returned his smile and angled his head toward the kitchen. “It’s safe to come out now, sis. Time to get Captain Jake all bundled up.”
    Within seconds, Julia rounded the corner of the staircase. Dropping to her knees, she tied the laces on his boots. Wow. If this angel of mercy wasn’t already spoken for, he might be interested. As pretty and nice as she was, she’d have guys lined up into the next town waiting to date her, given the opportunity. Plus, she’d seen those ridiculous Christmas boxer shorts. Even if Julia was available, she’d have that silly image forever burned in her brain.
    Once she finished her task, Jake thanked her. Clutching onto the stair railing, he rose to his feet, feeling like less of a man since he needed the support. He wasn’t used to helplessness, and he hated it.
    Retrieving Jake’s jacket from where he’d left it in the living room, Dylan