Grateful Hearts (Home for the Holidays)

Chapter Eighteen

As the car rolled down the main street in Gatlinburg, Chantel stared out the window, mesmerized by the holiday lights twinkling from every storefront and tree. The entire town was bathed in festive lights, and every building seemed to be draped in garlands and wreaths. Snow dusted the rooftops, creating a scene that looked like it had been lifted right from a postcard.

Yet, for all the beauty around her, her mind couldn’t help but drift back to the past few days with Zach and his family. She already missed the cozy afternoons in the kitchen with Clover and Jenelle, sharing recipes and secrets over simmering pots and trays of cookies. Or the spontaneous snowball fight she’d had with Zach and his brothers, laughing and stumbling through the snow, the kids shrieking in delight. And the talks with Clover, who’d felt like a sister she’d never had.

But then, her heart twisted. Seeing Zach with that other woman had been a brutal reminder that she needed to start looking out for herself.

The driver’s voice broke into her thoughts. “Miss, we’re here.”

Chantel stepped out of the car and nodded her thanks as he pulled her bags from the trunk. She handed him a generous tip along with a small tin of cookies she’d brought with her.

The driver blinked in surprise at the tip and the unexpected gift. “Wow, thank you! And cookies, too? You didn’t have to do that!”

She gave him a small smile. “Happy Thanksgiving. And thank you for the ride.”

Leaving him with a smile, she took her bags and walked into the hotel. The lobby was like stepping into a holiday wonderland—garlands twined around every railing, a towering Christmas tree adorned with glass ornaments and shimmering lights stood in the corner, and the scent of pine and cinnamon wafted through the air. Everything about it felt warm, cozy, and festive.

Once checked in, she made her way to her one-bedroom suite on the fifth floor. The suite itself was even decorated with a small, elegant Christmas tree by the window, and garlands hung over the fireplace mantel. Soft lights cast a gentle glow around the room, making it feel like home, even though she was miles from anything familiar.

After setting down her things, Chantel took a few minutes to just breathe, letting herself settle into the quiet and warmth. Twenty minutes later, her stomach growled, reminding her she’d barely eaten all day. She shrugged on her coat and hat and left the hotel in search of food.

The town was lively despite the holiday, with families strolling down the decorated sidewalks, laughing and pointing at the beautiful window displays. She walked slowly, soaking in the charm of the small town, noting the open shops and the welcoming glow of lights spilling out onto the snow-dusted streets. A familiar ache tugged at her as she watched couples and families bundled together, sharing smiles and laughter. It made her wonder if she’d ever have something like that.

Ahead, she spotted a cozy restaurant that looked inviting, and she started walking towards it, weaving through the crowd. But then, she noticed something odd. The people around her began to part as if making way for someone.

She stopped, her eyes widening in disbelief as Zach appeared in the crowd, his familiar face set with determination. Behind him, his entire family followed closely, looking like they were on a mission. They were all there—Clover, his mom and dad, even his brothers and the kids. And they were all walking straight toward her.

Her heart stopped as a hundred questions flooded her mind. What were they doing here? Why had they followed her?

Chantel stood frozen, watching as they came closer, her thoughts spinning wildly.

The large group was blocking the entire sidewalk. The bustling crowd had to step around them, a few glancing back at the unexpected reunion, curiosity in their eyes.

Her voice finally returned, shaky but clear, as she looked at Zach.

“What are you all doing here?”

Zach looked a little nervous himself, hands stuffed in his pockets, but he finally stepped forward with a small, almost boyish smile. “We’re here to find you, Chantel. Because you belong with us.”

Chantel’s brow furrowed. “What are you talking about? I thought my letter was pretty clear. I can’t be…” She took a steadying breath, her words almost choking in her throat. “I can’t be the girl on the side, Zach.”

Before Zach could respond, Jenelle stepped forward with a warm, knowing smile. “Maybe the two of you should take your conversation over there,” she said, nodding towards a small, quiet area off the main street, its bench surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights. She smiled at Chantel and, with a subtle tip of her head, encouraged them toward a more private space.

Chantel gave a small nod, nerves tingling as she followed Zach, who pressed his hand gently to the small of her back. That touch, light but comforting, sent a spark of both excitement and worry through her. The little nook was beautiful and festive. It was surrounded by evergreen branches woven with tiny, glowing lights, the kind of spot that felt like it was made for first dates and whispered promises, not goodbyes.

But before she could even sit down, Zach surprised her by pulling her into a hug. His arms were warm and strong, enveloping her in a familiar, steady presence she’d missed more than she wanted to admit. For a moment, she let herself feel everything—his warmth, the steady thrum of his heart, the comfort of being held by someone who made her feel safe.

But the memory of him with that other woman that had driven her to leave in the first place cut through the moment like a cold wind. She took a shaky breath and stepped back, and Zach’s face registered a flash of hurt. She looked away, biting her lip, not wanting to see the effect her withdrawal had on him.

“Let’s… let’s talk,” he said softly, gesturing for her to sit.

She settled onto the bench, her nerves still high, and was surprised when the first words out of his mouth were, “I’m sorry.”

She blinked, unsure how to respond. “What are you sorry for?”

Zach sighed, his hands clasped together as he leaned forward, sincerity shining in his eyes. “For making you think I was seeing someone else. For making you feel like you had to run. That was never my intention, Chantel.”

Before she could respond, he continued, his voice quiet but steady. “That woman you saw me with, her name’s Naomi. She’s an old friend from high school. She was my high school girlfriend, actually.” Chantel felt her stomach twist, but he reached out, gently taking her hands in his own. “But we haven’t been a thing for years. She’s engaged now and expecting a baby. She was just sharing her news with me, and I was congratulating her.”

Chantel’s eyes searched his face, finding nothing but honesty there. He held her hands a little tighter as if reassuring her of his sincerity. “You’re the only woman on my mind, Chantel. I swear it.”

Hearing his words made her heart flutter, a mix of relief and something else—something deeper. She met his gaze, feeling a mix of happiness, excitement, and, yes, nervousness.

Zach’s face softened as he went on, his voice low but warm. “Honestly, I never expected to want something serious with anyone because of my job. But after these last few days, I realized what I’d been missing out on. I’ve fallen head over heels for you, Chantel.”

Chantel’s breath hitched, her mind whirling. He’d fallen for her? After all these years of protecting her heart, here was someone who saw her, who wanted her. She was quiet for a moment, trying to gather her thoughts, and when she finally spoke, her voice was soft, almost shy. “I feel so stupid for overreacting. I should have just asked you instead of assuming the worst. I was just—” She paused, glancing down at their joined hands, her cheeks warming. “I was scared, I guess. And your family—they must think I’m terrible.”

Zach shook his head, giving her hands a gentle squeeze. “They don’t think that. In fact, they were pretty upset with me at first.” His grin broke through, disarming and full of warmth. He scooted a little closer, leaning in, his eyes intent on hers. “But they understand. And so do I. You were hurt in the worst way by someone who you trusted your heart with.”

His face was only inches from hers now, his voice a low murmur. “You’re the only woman I have eyes for, Chantel. I want nothing more than to see where this can go, to see where we can go. I know my job will make things hard sometimes, but if you’re willing to try, so am I.”

Her heart raced, the promise of his words sinking in. She nodded, unable to fully speak the emotion bubbling up inside her. She felt a thrill of warmth, a quiet sense of joy she hadn’t felt in ages.

Zach’s hand moved to her cheek, his thumb tracing her cheekbone with gentle reverence. His voice was hushed, filled with emotion. “We can figure out everything else later, but right now, all I want to do is kiss you.”

Without waiting for a response, he leaned in, his lips finding hers in a tender, lingering kiss. It was gentle at first, full of unspoken promises and the sweetness of a fresh beginning. Then, as his hand slid to the back of her neck, pulling her closer, the kiss deepened, filled with a passion that sent warmth flooding through her.

Wrapped in his arms, the doubts that had haunted her vanished, replaced with the undeniable pull between them. She kissed him back, matching his intensity, her fingers threading through his hair as she held him close, knowing this was exactly where she belonged.

◆◆◆

As they pulled apart, Zach kept his hand resting on Chantel’s cheek, his thumb brushing gently along her skin. Her eyes shone with a mixture of emotion, and he could see the faintest shimmer of tears. It was all he could do to keep himself grounded, to resist pulling her back into another kiss right then and there.

“Come home with me,” he murmured, his voice softer than he’d intended. “With us. It’s where you belong.”

Chantel looked down for a second, biting her lip, before meeting his gaze again. Her expression was tender, a bit overwhelmed, but a smile broke through. “Yes,” she said, voice thick with emotion. “The last few days with your family and with you it’s been the best holiday I’ve had since my parents passed. I want to see where this can go, too.” She took a breath, her voice softening. “I know it won’t be easy, but I’m ready for a challenge.”

Zach’s heart swelled, and he couldn’t help the grin that broke over his face. “You know,” he said, keeping his tone as casual as possible though his heart was racing, “North Carolina has its fair share of challenges. It’s not quite as festive as Gatlinburg, but it’s got me.”

Chantel chuckled, rolling her eyes at his attempt to play it cool. “I’m up for wherever you are, Zach.”

The simple, heartfelt admission sent a surge of warmth through him. This was real. She was here, and she wanted to stay. “That’s all I needed to hear.”

They stood there for a moment, words not quite enough to capture what they were feeling. Zach couldn’t help himself. He wanted one more kiss, and he needed to feel her close to savor this rare moment of happiness. He leaned in again, catching her lips in a kiss that was soft but unhurried, filled with the promise of everything they hadn’t yet put into words. He could feel Chantel smile against him, her hands resting on his shoulders as she kissed him back, her warmth grounding him in a way he hadn’t felt before.

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps and a round of voices approaching broke through their bubble. They pulled apart, but not fast enough, as Zach’s entire family emerged from around the corner, smiling and looking entirely too pleased with themselves. It was funny.

“Ewww!” Amira, Zach’s youngest niece, scrunched up her face, her hands dramatically covering her eyes. “Uncle Zach, you’re smooching!”

Laughter rippled through the group. Zach groaned, running a hand over his face, though he couldn’t keep a smile from tugging at his lips.

Chantel giggled, her cheeks flushed, but she looked happier than ever, taking it all in stride. Zach’s mom leaned in, whispering just loud enough for the group to hear, “Welcome to the family, Chantel.”

“Thank you,” Chantel said, her voice soft with sincerity.

His brothers didn’t miss a beat, clapping Zach on the back in an exaggerated show of support. “Nice work, Zach,” Ethan said with a wink. “I have to admit. I had my doubts that you could win her over.”

Zach chuckled, shaking his head but letting them have their fun. They’d driven all this way to bring her back, after all. With a grateful smile, he slipped his arm around Chantel’s shoulders and steered her toward the family.

“Alright, everyone, let’s go,” he said, glancing at Chantel.

Chantel smiled, leaning her head against him as they began to walk together, everyone chatting and laughing, blending into the holiday crowd as if they were just one big, happy family. At that moment, Zach felt like the luckiest guy in the world.

◆◆◆

The brisk November air brushed against Chantel’s cheeks as she walked hand-in-hand with Zach. Happiness warmed her from the inside out, drowning out the cold. His family trailed behind them, their cheerful chatter creating a comforting backdrop. Chantel glanced at Zach, her heart swelling.

She squeezed his hand and smiled. Zach wasn’t just kind and thoughtful. He was genuine, the kind of man who made her want to believe in love again.

When they reached the hotel and entered the lobby, her steps faltered, and her stomach dropped. Standing by the concierge desk was Mario.

Chantel’s grip on Zach’s hand tightened as disgust washed over her. Mario hadn’t changed. His tailored suit screamed arrogance, and his slick smile only deepened her unease. How dare he show up here, of all places. An even better question was, how did he find her?

“Chantel,” Mario said, his voice low and cutting as his eyes narrowed at her and Zach’s clasped hands.

She drew herself up, glaring at him. “What are you doing here, Mario?”

He scoffed, ignoring her question. “I could ask you the same thing.” He glanced at Zach again. “What? You had to come all this way to get even with me? So much for your high horse, huh?”

Her stomach churned at his accusation. “Even?” she repeated, her voice sharp. “I caught you in bed with another woman. Don’t twist this into something it’s not.”

Mario took a step forward, his tone growing sharper. “I came to take you home, Chantel. To Boston. Where you belong.”

She stiffened, her pulse quickening in anger. “I am where I belong,” she said firmly, her voice loud enough for everyone to hear.

Zach started to step forward, his jaw tight, but she stopped him with a hand on his chest. “No,” she said, her voice steady. “This is my fight.”

She turned back to Mario, her gaze unwavering. “Do you have any idea how much you hurt me?” she asked, her voice trembling with emotion. “I gave you everything, and you threw it away.”

“Chantel—” Mario began, but she cut him off.

“People who love each other don’t betray one another,” she snapped. “You didn’t love me, and now I see that. We’re over.” She glanced up at Zach and met his gray eyes. Her voice softened. “I’ve already moved on.”

Mario’s face darkened. “You don’t mean that,” he said, reaching out to grab her arm.

Before Chantel could react, a tiny blur darted between them.

“Hey! Leave Ms. Chantel alone!”

Amira stormed forward, her tiny fists clenched, looking every bit like a miniature warrior. Everyone froze, unsure of what was about to happen.

“Amira, wait—” Chantel started, but it was too late.

To everyone’s astonishment, she delivered a swift, perfectly aimed punch right to Mario’s crotch.

Mario’s face twisted in horror as his knees buckled. He let out a strangled squeak and crumpled to the floor like a deflated balloon.

Amira glared at Mario, who was now groaning on the floor. “You’re not taking Ms. Chantel from Uncle Zach!” she declared with a stomp of her tiny foot.

Chantel pressed her hand over her mouth, torn between mortification and laughter. “Amira, sweetie, I—”

“I did what Uncle Zach would’ve done!” Amira said proudly.

Zach raised his eyebrows, shaking his head. “Sweetheart, I think you might’ve done it better.”

The room went silent for half a second before Bear burst out laughing and looking at his daughter with a sense of pride. “That’s my girl!”

As Mario struggled to his feet, still hunched over, Ethan smirked and leaned in. “You might want to ice that.”

Mario snarled at him, but it didn’t faze Ethan.

Chantel stepped forward and looked Mario in the eyes.

“Go home, Mario.”

With one final glare at the crowd, Mario hobbled toward the exit, the door mercifully shutting behind him.

Zach leaned into Chantel with a grin. “Well, that was one way to handle it, though I can’t say that I saw that coming.” He said, referring to Amira’s right hook.

Chantel couldn’t stop giggling, tears forming in her eyes. She bent down to Amira’s level. “You’re my hero,” she said, giving her a quick hug.

The little girl beamed. “I know.”

When she stood back up, Zach pulled Chantel into his arms. “Are you okay?” he asked softly, his eyes searching hers.

“Better than okay,” she murmured, wrapping her arms around his neck.

He smiled and kissed her, slow and deep, the laughter and cheers of his family fading into the background. When they finally broke apart, Amira’s voice piped up.

“Can we go home now? I want to put the star on the Christmas tree!”

The room burst into laughter again, and Chantel couldn’t help but join in. As they all headed out together, she couldn’t stop smiling. She had found something special here—a family, a place she belonged. And as her hand found Zach’s again, she knew her heart had found a home, too.