A Very Merry Nanny (Very Merry #2)

Chapter 5

CHAPTER 5

EMMA

“ G ood morning,” Claire says as I reach the end of the hallway that leads to the open-concept kitchen and living room. The two spaces flow seamlessly into one another, and I can easily imagine how cozy it becomes when the fireplace is roaring.

“This place is beautiful,” I reply, still half-asleep.

“Jake designed and built it himself.” She tucks a few strands of her freshly washed hair behind her ear.

“Jake of all trades,” I remark.

She laughs. “Hungover?”

“Nah. Thankfully, your future hubby made sure I drank plenty of water last night. He's like the big brother I've always wanted.” I twist my hair into a low bun, still wavy from yesterday’s French braids. “You're lucky. I’m not sure I would’ve believed a man like him existed if I hadn't seen it for myself.”

“Same,” she agrees. Meeting Jake last year was her Christmas miracle.

As I walk past the couch, I spot Tinsel stretched out from one cushion to another. Her fluffy gray fur sticks out in all directions, and I wonder if she’s as soft as she looks. Around her neck is a collar with a jingle bell attached. “Aww. You’re even cuter in person.”

“Be careful. She'll hiss if you startle her while napping,” Claire warns.

I settle into a stool across from her in the kitchen. Claire hands me a steaming cup of coffee, and I inhale the rich scent of chocolate and hazelnut. I'm glad a part of her is still snobby when it comes to coffee, especially since I wouldn't know how to survive in Merryville without high-quality brews, even if it’s too hot to drink right now.

As I wait impatiently, I glance around, surprised to find no trace of last night’s party. “How did you clean up so quickly?”

When I went to bed, the beer pong table still dominated the dining room, and every flat surface was cluttered with bottles and empty cups. The hardwood floor was sticky from spills.

“Jake took care of it before I woke up.”

My jaw nearly drops.

“And he even brought me breakfast in bed.” She begins pouring herself a fresh mug.

“Pfft. I don’t think I can be any more jealous.”

She chuckles, and after a few silent seconds, she clears her throat. “I heard you and Hudson kissed last night.”

I cock my head, hoping my cheeks don’t betray me. Just hearing his name makes my body tingle. “That sounds like a small-town rumor.”

She blows gently on her coffee. “We both know there’s usually some truth behind every rumor.”

“It didn’t happen,” I assert, watching the steam dance above my mug. It feels like sweet torture waiting for my caffeine fix. “It was just booze-induced flirting, that’s all. You know how I get.”

I’m convinced that the terrible alcohol we consumed too quickly is to blame. But then I recall how close our lips were—I almost moved forward a millimeter and did what I’ve now been accused of.

A part of me wishes I had. The thought is unsettling because I’ve never regretted not kissing someone before; it’s usually the other way around.

“He rejected me. You saw it happen,” I say, trying not to get too caught up in thoughts about a man who doesn't care about me.

“You didn't kiss on the porch?” She narrows her eyes.

“No. Jake assumed.” I chuckle, remembering how he was the one who interrupted us. With a simple clearing of his throat, we were jolted back to reality. If I had kissed Hudson and felt something, the night would have ended differently.

“Jake said he saw?—“

“I promise you it didn't happen. I gave Hudson the chance, but he turned me down. Twice. He's the king of playing hard to get.”

Claire knows I can spot a player from a mile away—even the sneaky ones.

She tilts her head, as if recalling various memories of him. “No way.”

“You’ve never picked up on those fuckboy vibes from him? Just look at him! He could ask any woman to fall to her knees, and they would.”

Claire bursts into laughter, shaking her head. “I think you’ve got him all wrong.”

“Your future hubby said his nickname is Hudson the Heartbreaker. There’s only one way to earn a nickname like that.”

I wonder how many hearts he’s broken over the years. I bet he has a higher tally than I do.

Her brows furrow. “He hasn't dated anyone in years.”

I study her. “Because he pushes everyone away. It’s his MO, and it works for him.”

“Until you,” Claire says.

“I've noticed he doesn't talk much. Why is that?”

Claire grabs some ice cubes from the freezer and drops them into my mug before doing the same for herself. “He doesn’t open up to strangers.”

“But I'm your sister! I should get a pass.”

She snort-laughs. “It took Jake proposing before Hudson believed I wouldn’t leave. Over six months.”

“Wow.” That saddens me because it means his issues run deeper than I thought.

“He has trust issues,” she says.

“No kidding. He told me to stay away from him. Should I? Be honest with me.”

“I don’t want you to get hurt, Em. But I also don’t want you to destroy him. Hudson is a good guy. A great dad. He’s just...”

“Unavailable,” I finish her sentence.

“Exactly. He’s a green flag who thinks he’s red. When it comes to love, he's a Scrooge. A Grinch. He’s really smart, Em, but also extremely private.” Her tone shifts to a warning. “In the game of chess?—“

“You always have to stay two steps ahead of your opponent. I know,” I say, interrupting.

In the world of CEOs, my sister is cutthroat—a true nightmare. Even though she isn’t that person anymore, she could be in an instant. Reading and understanding people is one of her superpowers.

“Shit,” she whispers. “I hope you two don’t destroy each other.”

She watches me, concern etched on her face, and I give her a small smile. “I'm not going to date Hudson. You have nothing to worry about. I won't break your future brother-in-law’s heart.”

“Why don’t I believe you?”

“Pretty sure that man is unbreakable.” I stare out at the meadow, likely filled with wildlife in the early mornings. The tall windows let in ample sunlight, and the room glows brightly.

Claire clears her throat. “Not that I'm a relationship specialist or anything, but I believe the right partner could change everything.”

“I hope he finds her,” I reply, recognizing how love can heal deeply rooted wounds. Part of me longs to be the woman who rescues him, but more importantly, I want to discover what I'm missing too. That's why I've searched so fervently and unapologetically. Finding love feels like the ultimate treasure hunt, driven solely by emotion.

“What if you are the one for him?” Claire asks.

“I don't know.” I keep my emotions in check as I reminisce about last night. I can’t shake the thrill I felt when our eyes met. His perfect lips were so close, and our warm breaths mingled together. The gorgeous Grinch had complete control, and what’s frightening is that I was completely okay with it. That never happens.

I wonder if he knows he's gotten under my skin. I hope I’m buried under his.

Claire grabs eggs from a basket on the counter and pulls a slab of bacon from the fridge. “Enough about that. How long will you be staying?”

She skillfully shifts the conversation, effortlessly taking charge. I appreciate her efforts, as my brain hasn’t fully woken up yet.

“I'm not sure,” I admit. “But I can promise I’ll be here for your birthday.”

“That's only three weeks away.”

My sister was born on Thanksgiving over thirty years ago. Every Turkey Day, whether it was her actual birthday or not, we’d celebrate with cake and watch the parade from our father’s penthouse in Times Square. It became a silly family tradition, and we’ve never missed a year—this will be the first time.

“At least stay through Christmas. It’s the most magical time of year in Merryville. You’ll get to experience the Winter Solstice Festival and the tree lighting ceremony too.”

“Maybe,” I smile, recalling how incredible she said it was.

After Maddox and I broke up, I chose to live more spontaneously. Now, I don’t stay in one place or with one person long enough for it to matter. I’m not running from anything, but no one has sparked my desire to settle down. Maybe no one ever will.

Yet, if Claire could find love, given how resistant she was to it, perhaps I could too.

“Do you miss your old life?” I ask.

“No,” she replies without hesitation. “Working for Dad felt like wearing leggings that are a size too small. Sure, you can pull them up, but you shouldn't keep them on long-term.”

I didn’t expect that from her, and I burst into laughter. “I'm genuinely happy for you.”

Claire was the second in command at Manchester Enterprises, our family’s hotel chain, slated to take over when our father retired. But after meeting Jake Jolly last winter, her life transformed.

Now, she runs a thriving snow globe shop in downtown Merryville, showcasing her custom designs. No amount of money could ever replace what she found here: love and passion.

Claire discovered what she had been missing—overwhelming support, understanding, and the feeling of being known and appreciated for who she truly is.

“You know that seventy-five percent of people who visit Merryville during the holiday season end up moving here? Seventy-five percent, Em.”

I laugh because my sister has always had a knack for memorizing facts. It's one of her many quirks, and I love that about her. “So, what's your plan? Have me stay here during Christmas, hoping I’ll move?”

She giggles. “I can only hope.”

As she cooks for me, my thoughts drift back to Hudson.

The more he drank, the more he spoke, but it still wasn't enough. I want to know him better, even though I probably shouldn't. If he wants me to stay away, I should respect that. But I don’t believe him. His words say one thing, but his emerald-green eyes tell a different story.

Claire slides a plate across the bar top, bringing me back from my daydream. My eggs are cooked perfectly, and the bacon is arranged beneath them to form a smiley face—a nostalgic touch. Our mom used to make this for us and called it our happy breakfast.

I chuckle as old memories resurface. “Start the day with a smile. I miss Mom.”

“I do too. She’d be proud of you, Em,” Claire says as she hands me a fork.

“She’d be proud of you too.” I cut into my eggs, trying to push the memories away. “Well?”

The yellow yolk spills out. “You've still got it.”

Eggs are one of the few things my sister can cook, and I appreciate them all the more as my stomach growls in anticipation.

Just as I take a bite, Jake walks in, carrying an armful of chopped wood. He stacks it neatly by the fireplace. “Mornin', Em.”

“Good morning! Is it supposed to rain today? It looks cloudy out there.”

“Nah, just overcast. A storm's coming in on Thursday, and we'll get a cold snap over the weekend,” he explains, removing his leather gloves. “Perfect fireplace weather.”

Once he's done, Jake heads into the kitchen. As soon as he gets near Claire, he wraps his arms around her and kisses her cheek.

“You two are adorable,” I say. “Grossly adorable.”

Jake whispers something in her ear, just loud enough for her to hear, and she giggles in response.

“Stop, that tickles!” she laughs as he continues to pepper kisses along her neck.

“I really shouldn't stay here during the holi?—“

“You're good,” Jake interrupts. “It would be an honor. I get to spend the rest of my life with my CeCe.”

Claire loops her fingers in the belt loops of his faded jeans, looking up at him like he's her savior. In a way, he is. “I love you, babe.”

“Love you more,” he replies.

I take a bite of bacon as Jake moves to the fridge to pour himself a massive glass of orange juice.

“I'm heading to the store later to stock up for the weekend. The roads are supposed to be pretty bad. Need anything?”

“A box of condoms,” I blurt out, raising an eyebrow.

“What size?” he asks, tilting his head.

“XXL.”

“She's testing you,” Claire explains. “He has no limits. Nothing, and I mean absolutely nothing, phases him. I've already tried.”

Jake downs his glass. “She's right. With brothers like Hudson and Lucas, I've experienced it all.”

“Pity.” I scoop the rest of the eggs into my mouth.

“You can always try,” he suggests.

As Jake chats about the weather, I finish eating. “What do people in Merryville do for fun?”

“Hiking, horseback riding, crafts, crocheting, farming. There's a book club that meets on Thursdays. I guess there’s a little bit of everything. But it’s the season for holiday events. The sign-ups for the cookie contest just opened up. Judging is the first weekend of December.”

“You shouldn't have told her that,” Claire warns. “But Emma is only staying until my birthday. She won't be around.”

“It's after that,” he confirms.

A wide smile spreads across my lips. “Hmm.”

My sister grows giddy with excitement. “You’ll stay until the contest?”

“I can imagine it now: City girl turns Christmas cookie queen.”

“Do you bake?” Jake asks, pouring himself some coffee.

“A little,” I reply, scrunching my nose.

“And you're considering entering a highly competitive baking contest? They might eat you alive, Em,” he says, genuinely concerned.

“She’s being humble, Jake,” my sister interjects. “She used to bake a lot.”

“I’ve also burnt my fair share of cookies.”

“Well, everyone gets a participation ribbon,” Jake reassures me.

I make a face. “And what does the winner get?”

He gives me a half-smile. “A gold trophy and your name in the Christmas Cookie Hall of Fame.”

“It's official, I'm entering,” I announce.

“You're serious?” he asks, raising an eyebrow.

Claire shakes her head.

“As serious as a heart attack. It will give me something to focus on while I'm here. Now I need to prove to you that I can win.”

“It will be a challenge,” he cautions.

“My favorite.”

“Now, I just need you to commit to staying through the New Year!” Claire claps her hands together. Her excitement is contagious. “It’s happening. I can feel it.”

“Not happening,” I say.

Jake clears his throat. “If you’re serious, go down to city hall first thing tomorrow and pick up a registration form. It will come with a packet of rules. Then, while you're in town, stop by Glenda's Café and get the pumpkin pancakes with cream cheese for breakfast. You'll thank me later.”

“Writing this down,” I say, unlocking my phone to take a note.

“I have a feeling it’s going to be an unforgettable Christmas,” Claire adds, glancing at Jake.

“Can't wait,” I respond as I stand and stretch.

“She's never leaving,” Jake says to my sister.

“I know,” Claire shrugs.

She's hopeful, and I don't want to burst her bubble. I’m unsure whether I could live in a small town like this, but for Claire, I would try. I love my sister. She’s one of my best friends, always providing a reality check and keeping my interests at heart.

As I gaze outside, contemplating what the future may hold, I notice an opening in the woods. “Is that a trail?”

“Yeah. It's a three-mile loop that connects to both my brother's and my parents' houses. It makes it easier to navigate around the farm, especially when it's packed with tourists. Last year, we decided to create it to help us get around more efficiently. It's a lovely little hike, particularly if you enjoy being in the woods. Plus, it's almost impossible to get lost.”

“I can't wait!” I exclaim. “I'm going to check it out now.”

“You should. Take a jacket; the temperatures are dropping.”

I head to my room, where I've been sleeping on the fold-out couch. My suitcase lies open on the floor, its contents strewn about. My Power Ranger spandex is discarded where I peeled it off.

After dressing, I walk through the living room, where Claire and Jake are lounging on the couch with Tinsel.

“If you need anything, call me, okay?” Claire says.

“She'll be fine,” Jake assures her.

Claire makes a face. “She can be clumsy sometimes.”

“Pfft. Don't reveal all my secrets!” I say as I step out through the patio door and cross the backyard. A footpath leads directly to the trail.

The crunchy leaves snap beneath my feet, and a breeze carries the scent of winter. A pleasant shiver runs through me as I enter the woods.

Change is in the air—I can feel it deep within. As I inhale the fresh air, I wonder if Claire is onto something. Maybe there is magic in Merryville. I have nothing to lose and everything to gain.