Father Christmas (Kringle & Co #4)

Chapter 4

CHAPTER FOUR

N oel's finger hovered over the photo on Mindy's resume, tracing the curve of her cheek. She was beautiful, no doubt about it, with sparkling green eyes and a smile that could light up a room. His Santa pants suddenly felt a little tighter.

This was dangerous territory. Hiring an elf he was attracted to could get messy—fast. But Mindy had the perfect look and attitude for this adult Christmas party.

His chest tightened as vivid images filled his mind—her rosy cheeks flushed with passion, soft lips parted in ecstasy. He shifted in his seat, crossing his legs uncomfortably. Down, boy , he told himself. She's too young. There's no way she'd be interested in an old-timer like you .

He had to have twenty years on her. He'd celebrated his fortieth birthday just a year ago. And though he felt like he was in his prime, it was a different prime than a twenty-something.

Yup, he confirmed as his index finger skimmed down Mindy's resume. She was twenty-two. So not quite twenty. But close enough.

Noel took a deep breath as he set down the documentation, his heart racing. He couldn't deny his growing attraction to Mindy, even though he knew it was likely inappropriate given their age difference.

Running a hand through his beard, he pictured her enthusiasm, those bright green eyes and rosy cheeks. She seemed genuinely excited for this job, not deterred in the least by the adult nature of the party. In fact, her eagerness only added fuel to the fire burning inside him.

He shifted in his seat as arousal stirred again. It was too late now—the decision was made. She would be his elf tonight. The thought sent a spike of heat through his body.

Standing, Noel adjusted his pants and jacket. He had to get control of himself before the party. This job was first and foremost about bringing joy and Christmas magic, not indulging his own desires.

Still, as he glanced at the clock counting down the hours until the event, he couldn't deny the thrill that ran through him at the thought of seeing Mindy again. He only hoped his Santa suit would be enough to conceal the effect she seemed to have on him. It was going to be a long night.

Noel headed to the fitting room to retrieve his own Santa suit. He might need his sister to let it out just a bit, as he hadn't worn it in at least a year. His attention was on his phone, scrolling through emails, when the door creaked open. He looked up, ready to greet Cin. But it wasn't his sister.

Mindy emerged from the fitting room, a vision of holiday enchantment. The elf costume hugged her curves perfectly, accentuating her slim waist and flaring out just enough at the hips to create a playful yet flattering silhouette. The rich green velvet glistened under the soft lights, the red and gold accents catching his eye and drawing him in. The bodice was fitted, emphasizing her figure without being too revealing, and the sleeves ended in delicate cuffs adorned with small jingling bells.

Her long chestnut hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing her face, which was lit up with a bright smile. The skirt, adorned with gold trim and tiny, intricate embroidery of holly and snowflakes, ended just above her knees, showcasing her shapely legs in the candy-striped tights that completed the ensemble.

Noel's pulse quickened. She looked like a holiday dream come true, a perfect blend of charm and elegance, and for a moment, he was utterly speechless. He tried to gather his thoughts, reminding himself of his role as her boss and the years of age difference between them. He couldn't allow himself to be attracted to her, no matter how stunning she looked.

"She looks good, doesn't she, bro?"

Clearing his throat, Noel finally managed to find his voice. "Mindy, you look...fantastic," he said, hoping his smile seemed professional and not as dazzled as he felt.

Mindy beamed at the compliment, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Thank you, Noel."

He nodded, forcing himself to look away before his admiration became too obvious. His sister could sniff out anything he ever tried to hide like an extra cookie, the girl hiding in his closet after curfew. Mainly because Cin wasn't averse to stealing his last cookie—or the girl hiding in the closet.

Noel didn't appreciate the way his little sis was eying Mindy at the moment. But if he dared to yank his new elf toward him, all bets would be off. His sister would have her suspicions confirmed, and Mindy would likely quit on the spot.

He could feel his attraction simmering beneath the surface, a feeling he struggled to push down. It wouldn't be appropriate—couldn't be appropriate. He had to maintain a professional distance, especially since this job meant so much to her. She was young, eager, and clearly thrilled to be part of the Christmas magic he worked so hard to create.

"Are you ready for tonight?" he asked, trying to steer the conversation back to safer territory.

Mindy nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely. I'm ready to go whenever you are."

"Great," he replied, forcing a casual tone. "Just let me get changed and I'll meet you at reception."

She gave him a grateful smile, and Noel felt his heart skip a beat. He had to get a grip. Tonight was about spreading Christmas cheer, not getting caught up in his feelings for his beautiful elf helper. With a final nod, he turned to leave, mentally steeling himself for the evening ahead. He had to hide his attraction, no matter how difficult it might be.