My Greatest Joy (Maplewood Falls #2)

Chapter Nine

CHAPTER NINE

FALLON

DAY 5

I roll over in Levi’s bed, pulling up the covers to block out the sun. It was a middle-of-the-night decision that I might regret when I end up addicted to his touch. I shouldn’t enjoy pressing my body against his for warmth, but I do.

Each time he pulls me against his chest, I remind myself that this is only temporary and not to get attached. Truthfully, I haven’t slept this good in what feels like decades. We may start on separate sides of the mattress, but eventually, he covers me with his warmth and holds me tight.

Regardless, none of it changes the fact I’m leaving in nine days. I’ll go home and finish my article, it’ll be published, and I’ll put this whole Christmas adventure behind me. I hope my boss understands the sacrifices I’ve made to save this story when it’s time for a promotion. He knows I want the senior editor position more than anything.

I give up trying to fall back to sleep and force myself out of bed. Once I’m dressed, I go downstairs, where smells of freshly brewed coffee waft through the air. I quickly make my way to the kitchen where a shirtless Levi stands in front of the stove. Dasher’s in his usual position, begging at his feet. And as much as I don’t want to admit it, I’ve already fallen in love with that spoiled fur ball.

Levi notices me and offers me a cup of coffee with a smile. “Good morning.”

“Same to you.”

I sit at the bar as he cooks.

“Are you excited to get out today? I thought I’d show you around the family farm and introduce you to everyone. Give you a proper tour around the place.”

“Can’t wait,” I say because I’m going somewhat stir-crazy. However, I’m not looking forward to the holiday spirit being shoved down my throat all day.

Levi and I quickly eat. After checking the forecast, I decide to add more layers. I make sure my boots are tied securely around my ankles because the last thing I need is to bust my ass on the ice and snow.

After I slide on my gloves, we head toward the Christmas tree farm with Dasher in tow. The roads are cleared now, and I notice how much snow is piled on the sides. Proof I made the right decision to leave the airport.

I stare at the large pines that line the hillside and the fog that hovers above the ponds we pass. Once we arrive at the farm, I plan to take some photos for the article. I capture a few pictures with my phone and quickly review them, knowing it would make a beautiful postcard. It’d probably have some Christmas phrase underneath it like— Dashing through the Snow or ’Tis the Season to be Merry . I laugh at the thought.

“What’s funny?” Levi asks as Dasher lies on me.

“Just thinking how cliché everything is here. It almost doesn’t seem real.”

“Is that a good or a bad thing?” he asks hesitantly.

“That’s still to be determined,” I admit. “When my first flight was delayed, I looked up Maplewood Falls. I remember thinking about how the pictures looked like a classic movie green screen. Now that I’m here and viewing it with my own eyes, it’s surprisingly… breathtaking .”

“It is, but I think sometimes I take it all for granted. Though I couldn’t imagine being stuck in a city when places like this exist in the world.”

I contemplate his words, but I’m too stubborn to admit he’s right. “But there’s delivery,” I say, “ even if there’s snow.”

Levi laughs. “I guess that’s true, but Seattle’s measly six-inch average is nothing in comparison. So tell me what you like most about living there and don’t say delivery.”

“Why? Thinking about moving to the city, country boy?”

“Country man. Trust me when I say there is no boy here.” He puffs out his chest and his gruff voice has me swallowing hard. I know more than anything he’s all man . My gaze trails from the scruff on his chin to his plump lips until I eventually meet his blue eyes.

“You were saying?” The cocky smirk on his face makes me forget what we were even talking about.

I stutter, trying to find my words as I notice the bulge in his jeans. Maybe his cock likes my attitude after all. Getting under his skin has been some of the hottest foreplay I’ve experienced in a long time. I nervously laugh as I remember how hung he is. And he wasn’t even hard.

“I don’t remember what we were talking about,” I mutter and then feel my phone vibrate. I thank my lucky stars that my sister has come to my rescue.

“Hey!” I answer, my voice an octave higher than usual.

“Did I interrupt something?” she suspiciously asks.

“What? No.”

“You’re not having sex with the hot lumberjack?” she whispers like he might hear her. And hell, maybe he can, considering he’s sitting two feet from me.

“No. Absolutely not,” I say, quickly glancing at him.

“And why not? Sounds like a spicy Hallmark movie in the making. Go jump on that.”

“Jesus Christ, Taryn. What do you want?” I ask, trying to keep my voice level as Levi glances over at me.

“Nothing. I was thinking about you and checking in to see how things were going with your roommate and work.”

“We’re going to his family’s Christmas tree farm. I’ve started on my article, but I’m still thinking about the story aspect.”

“Maybe the grinch whose heart grew ten sizes?” she muses. “Nah, that’s already been done. My vote is you should write about the girl who fell in love with a burly lumberjack during a blizzard. Think of the sales boom!”

“Okay, sis. Gotta go. Love you.”

She bellows out a loud laugh. “Love you too!”

I hang up, hoping Levi doesn’t see the embarrassment that’s flushed my cheeks. Regardless, I’ll have to thank her for that save.

We turn onto the main road that leads to the Christmas tree farm. A big hand-painted sign with a giant red arrow points toward the farm a mile away. Eventually, we pass an overflow lot and continue farther until we park in front of the shop. It looks like it came straight from Hogwarts with its dark rustic wood, high beams, and large windows that neatly frame the front porch. The smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies wafts through the air as smoke from a fireplace inside puffs from the chimney.

My mouth falls open with amazement as I take it in. Not wanting to forget a single detail, I snap several photos. Levi stands to the side with Dasher and watches me, allowing me time to capture everything I need. When I’m done, he leads me forward and opens the door for me.

“I’m going to put Dasher in the office while we walk around,” he tells me, leaving me on my own in the packed shop. The sounds of laughter and chatter fill the space as carols play overhead. A fifteen-foot brightly lit Christmas tree is the focus in the center of the room, and behind it is a large brick fireplace that I’d expect to see at a ski resort. A few people stand close to it, warming their hands.

I study the beautiful painting of the snowy Christmas tree farm that’s hanging behind the counter. It looks so realistic as if I could transport myself into the scene. My attention travels to the older woman ringing up customers, and I immediately know she’s Levi’s mother. They have the same kind eyes and smile. As soon as she spots me, she waves and makes a beeline toward us.

“You must be Fallon Joy!” She greets me like I’m an old friend of the family and wraps me in a hug. I awkwardly hug her back, not used to people being so friendly. I typically stay in my bubble.

“Yes, I am. You must be Mrs. White.”

“Call me Eloise. It’s lovely to meet you. I’ve heard so much about you.”

“Nothing good, I’m sure.”

She chuckles. “All great things,” she reassures me, but her tone holds a hint of amusement.

“Mom.” Levi returns. “I see you found Fallon.”

“You didn’t tell me she was gorgeous, Levi.”

My cheeks heat at how sweet she’s being.

“Must’ve slipped my mind,” he deadpans.

“Has my son been treating you well?”

“Yes, he has. Oh, I wanted to thank you for the coffee. It was greatly appreciated and so delicious.”

“Anytime. I keep a stockpile in the house if you need more. You should come visit sometime.”

“Thank you. You’re too nice. Why couldn’t I have been scammed into walking into your house instead?” I muse with a chuckle.

Levi rolls his eyes. “Why? So you could mace my poor old parents instead?”

“ Levi Christmas White. Who are you calling old?” she hisses with a popped brow.

I bark out a laugh. “Please tell me your middle name is not Christmas…”

He pins me with a glare. “It’s not.”

“No? Must’ve forgotten in my old age. Should’ve been, though. I missed out on a perfect opportunity.” Eloise shrugs.

“I wouldn’t have survived middle school,” Levi mutters.

The line at the counter backs up, and Mrs. White notices. “Better get back to it. If you’d like anything from the shop, it’s a gift from the family. Please help yourself.”

“Thanks,” I say. “You spoil me.”

She pats me on the shoulder, then excuses herself.

“She’s very sweet,” I tell Levi. She reminds me of my mother, but I keep that to myself.

“Don’t let her fool you. She has a bossy side,” he taunts.

“I find that hard to believe.”

“C’mon, let’s go show you around.” Levi grabs my hand, leading me around the shop before we stop for hot cocoa.

“Whipped cream?” he asks.

I nod, and he hands me a mug. “Wow.” I take a sip.

“It’s made with sweet chocolate and fresh milk. The whip is handmade too, none of that store-bought stuff.”

“You should try one of our gingerbread snaps. They’re kind of a big deal in the area.”

The woman running the small concession pulls a tray out of the oven, and I don’t think I can say no even though I might pay for it later.

I’m handed one wrapped in a candy cane-striped napkin. It’s still warm.

It smells like pure molasses, and I take a small bite. The flavors of sugar and spice explode in my mouth. To say I’m impressed by how delicious it is is an understatement. “Incredible. Really,” I tell him, covering my mouth while I finish chewing.

“Is this me winning you over…one cookie at a time?” Levi waggles his brows, and I roll my eyes.

“Keep dreaming.”

Once we finish the shop tour and I’ve downed my drink, Levi guides me toward the gift-wrapping area with a line to the door.

“Lucy,” Levi calls, and I see a woman who looks like him but with softer features. She’s beautiful with dark-red lips and curly brown hair. “This is Fallon, the journalist.”

“Oh, hi,” she says, brushing loose strands of hair behind her ear. “Nice to meet you. I’m his twin sister—also known as the cool one.”

“ Twins ? Well, now I have a lot of questions,” I say.

“Don’t worry, I’ll spill all his secrets later when we hang out.” Lucy’s lips curve up into a smirk and Levi’s smile fades.

He places his arm on my shoulders and pretends to lead me away. “And now it’s time to go.”

“But it was just getting good!”

Levi moves his hand and turns back toward his sister. “I know you’re busy. We’ll plan something and meet up later, for real, so you guys can chat.”

“Oh, I know,” she tells him. “Have fun, you two.” She waggles her brow like she knows something I don’t.

I give her a smile as Levi leads me down a long hallway. He opens a door, and Dasher wakes up, rushing to greet us.

We take a side exit to avoid the crowd and use a sidewalk that leads to the tree farm’s entrance.

“So how’s it work?” I ask.

“Well, you can either chop down your own tree or have one of our workers help cut it with a chainsaw. Either way, one of our guys drives around on a four-wheeler and will come and tag it. Then you pick it up at the front once it’s been wrapped and ready to go. A lot of people visit with people and stroll around because it’s a fun environment. They browse the shop and try the samples.”

“Wow. That sounds cool. Looks like you found your own way of making things more efficient.”

Dasher runs around, playing. His tongue eats up the snow as Levi tells him to stop it.

“Yeah, but we still try to keep the tree-picking experience as authentic as possible, too. It’s why we offer axes for people who want to chop it manually. Makes it like it was back in the day when the farm first opened. I honestly think that’s why we’ve been so successful over the decades.”

I open the notepad app on my phone and jot down a few things. “I can quote you on whatever you say about this place, correct?”

He nods. “Absolutely.”

We make our way down a well-maintained trail until we arrive at a live tree section. I notice how many stumps there are—hundreds—just in this small area.

“Are there other farms like this around here?” I ask.

“Next one is about a hundred miles, but it’s not even close to our magnitude. Coming here has become a tradition for many families, and people drive from all around to visit. Apparently, it’s an influencer favorite too. My sister runs our social media. I’ll ask her what hashtags they’re using. I don’t pay much attention to it, and things are always changing.”

“If you could get that info for me, that would be great. I’ll have to do more research and see what I find.” I continue typing on my phone, noting to look that up.

Once we reach the end of the long row, a teenage girl on a four-wheeler passes us and waves. I’m shocked at how many people are out here, considering Christmas is in less than two weeks.

“Is it typical for trees to be purchased this late in the season?”

“Oh yeah. We stay open through December twenty-third, and we’ll be this busy until the minute we close. Then I have some time off and won’t work again until after the new year.”

“Really? What do you plan on doing?”

Dasher doesn’t leave my side.

He arches a brow. “I dunno how to break this to you, Fallon. I’m Santa and have to travel around the world to deliver gifts.”

I chuckle. “You’re ridiculous.”

“And you’re on the naughty list.”

It’s impossible for me to hold back my smile. “Sounds like you’ve got me all figured out, Levi.”

“Oh, I know I do,” he confidently says, picking up a stick and tossing it for Dasher, who bolts after it.

“When does the season start?”

“We work year-round. From late February to mid-April, we plant seedlings to regenerate the trees we cut. But tourist season ramps up in mid-October when we begin shipping trees to our wholesalers around the country. We open to the public on November first and work our asses off for eight weeks straight. We make enough money to keep the farm running throughout the year while we’re doing farm maintenance, replanting, and shearing. A lot goes into it. The shop has been my mom’s passion project for decades and now stays open year-round. And yes, the theme is Christmas all the time.”

“This doesn’t surprise me.” I continue asking as many questions as I can. “How long does it take a tree to get to this size?” We pass one that’s taller than me.

“About seven to eight years.”

“Wow. And how long has this farm been here?”

Levi chuckles at my amazement. “About a hundred and twenty-three years.”

“That’s really…impressive.”

“Yeah, you could say my love for Christmas has been passed down through the generations.”

“Guess that explains all the decorations in your house,” I add.

“We don’t ever get rid of ornaments. But what’s cool about Maplewood Falls is how the surrounding farms have become a part of the local culture. We bring in a lot of tourists around the holidays. My best friend’s family’s apple orchard celebrated its centennial last year, and it was a huge deal.”

“Really? Will I be able to see it?”

“Yeah. I can set something up with Finn’s grandma, Willa. I think you’ll like her a lot. Then I can introduce you to him and his girlfriend, Oakley.”

“That sounds perfect.” I appreciate his help and him sharing all this knowledge with me. When I meet his blue eyes, butterflies swarm in my stomach. I turn my head, breaking the electrical current streaming between us.

We return to the shop and tell Levi’s family goodbye before we go to the truck. Dasher sits between us, staring out the window. On the way out, we pass a horse pulling a sleigh full of people, and the driver waves at Levi, who returns the gesture.

Levi spends hours driving me around the farm, showing me the different areas of operation. I’m amazed by how much goes into this between planting and harvesting. He shows me his parents’ house and points out which window was his room growing up, then takes me to his sister’s. A lot of employees live on the property as well.

“I can’t believe how large the place is.” I take countless pictures of the scenic views so I can send them to my boss and show Taryn.

“Sometimes, I can’t either,” he admits.

Once I’ve seen most of it, we head back to his cabin. My stomach growls so loud, he hears it.

“Should we get a pizza? They have gluten-free. And we’ll do beef. No pepperoni.”

I nod. “Works for me.”

He pulls his cell phone from his pocket and places an order. We pass his driveway, and I realize we’re driving toward town. He parks in front of a pub on the corner of Main Street. “I’ll be right back. Unless you want to tag along?”

I chuckle because he knows damn well I’m staying in the heated truck. “I’ll stay and keep Dasher company.”

He smiles, then quickly walks toward the building. Five minutes later, he returns with an extra-large box. I take it from him, not minding the warmth of it on my lap as we drive back.

Once we’re inside, I set the pizza on the counter, and Levi grabs us plates.

I put a few slices on mine and so does he.

“Mm,” I moan around a large bite. “This is so good.”

He nods. “Yeah, I’ve never tried this crust, but it’s not bad at all. They make great hot wings too. It’s the closest thing we have to fast food.”

Levi snags a fourth piece, and I grab another too. Dasher stays at my feet as if he’s hoping the cheese will slide off the top and land in front of him.

“Thanks again for showing me around today. It was fun learning about what you and your family do.”

“You’re welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed yourself. Showing you around is a welcomed distraction.”

“I’m looking forward to getting to know your mom and sister more. They seem sweet and down to earth.”

“They are. Most everyone is, though. We’re a community and look out for one another.”

I nod, seeing it as a small-town perk.

After we finish eating, he kicks off his boots, then sits on the couch. As he reaches for the remote, I speak up.

“Do you mind if I use your tub?”

“As if you need to ask. You basically live here,” he teases, flipping through the channels.

“Ha-ha. Well, figured I’d ask so you don’t barge in naked again.”

“I mean, I can make that happen for ya.”

Walking toward the stairs, I call over my shoulder, “No need. The image is still burned in my brain.”

He chuckles.

Once I’m in the bathroom, I draw the water and undress. Then I sink under the warmth and relish how good it feels.

With my eyes closed, I allow my imagination to wander as I envision Levi’s lips nibbling on my ear and neck. My hand slides between my thighs as my body begs for a release. When I touch my swollen bud, I moan in anticipation. My pussy clenches as I insert one finger inside. As much as I want his touch, I know I’m terrible at choosing men. The last thing I need is to get my heart broken again, which would be inevitable since we live thousands of miles apart. I can’t deny how things have changed between us since I first arrived.

I move back to my clit, which grows sensitive with each circle I make. I steady my pace, wishing his mouth and tongue were all over me as he breaks me with his huge cock. My erratic breathing fills the bathroom as I greedily race to the finish line.

“Fuck,” I murmur as I climb closer to the edge, wishing I could feel his hot breath between my thighs as he devours my pussy. Oh God . I want him to talk dirty to me in his rough, growly voice and wrap my hair tightly around his fist. A long moan echoes off the wall as I lose myself. As I come, I insert two fingers to ride out the wave.

Levi gets me so fucking worked up that I greedily want another. No man has ever captured my attention so quickly. I know we have nothing in common, but they say opposites attract. There’s something sexy about the way he looks at me—as if he wants to trace every inch of my skin with his tongue and teeth. It makes me wonder if our chemistry would ever be enough for something more. He hasn’t even kissed me, and my skin burns whenever he touches me.

I move back to my clit, teasing myself for this one. With my free hand, I pinch my nipple and tug on it, enjoying the pain mixed with pleasure. I almost wish he knew what he does to me and how wild he drives me. I groan, feeling the build come alive once again. I slide deeper into the tub, spreading my legs wider as I finger fuck myself to oblivion. My breasts rise and fall as I nearly gasp out his name in satisfaction.

I lie in the water, staring at the ceiling until it fades from hot to warm. A part of me wants to know what he’s like in bed—a bad boy with a dirty mouth or a delicate lover who’s passionate and sweet. If I got to choose, I’d want a perfect mixture of both. A man who will fuck me until I’m sore, who enjoys me choking on his cock but isn’t afraid to stare into my eyes and admit how much he loves me.

I almost laugh because what are the odds that man exists?

However, I think with Levi’s experience, he’d be the one to teach me a thing or two. Unfortunately, I’m too stubborn to admit I’m attracted to the man who loves Christmas as much as I hate it.

Apparently, he’s as much a chickenshit as I am. His thick erection while I sleep next to him tells me he really likes me near him.

When the water turns cold, I climb out and wrap a towel around me. I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror and study my naked body. My shitty ex made me feel disposable, as if I’d never be good enough. Levi, on the other hand, looks at me like I’ll disappear if he blinks. Sometimes I catch him staring, and he makes me feel sexy.

If I could get over my trust issues and make a move, I would because I deserve to be happy, too. Whether that’s temporary or possibly something that could be long-term. Regardless, I’ll never know if I stay guarded. Secluding myself from everyone is all I’ve known because it’s easier.

Once I’m dry and have wrapped my hair in a towel, I open the bathroom door to find Levi. He’s standing with his back to me and a towel wrapped around his waist.

He must’ve just finished showering in the other bathroom because drops of water trace down the muscles of his back. Before I can announce myself, he drops the towel, giving me the perfect view of his ass.

“Shit, sorry,” I say, flustered and frozen in place.

He pays me no attention. “Nothing you haven’t seen before, Fallon.”

“I gather you’re not shy,” I muse, drinking him in a little bit longer.

He slips on some joggers, then looks at me. “If you weren’t here, I’d probably walk around naked.”

“Well, don’t let me stop you. But give me a warning when your reindeer and jingle bells are loose.” My eyes trail down to the outline of his cock pressing against the material of his pants. I swallow hard at the thickness.

He licks his lips as my gaze travels up his happy trail and abs to his eyes. Yeah, I’m definitely busted.

I briefly lose my ability to speak and force out a good night before moving past him. I needed to get the hell out of his room before I did something stupid.

“Night,” he calls out with amusement in his voice.

Once I’m in my room, I settle in my bed with my laptop. I work on transferring the notes from my phone into my document. An hour later, I can’t keep my eyes open.

I shut everything off and slide deeper under the pile of blankets. My body begs for sleep, but I roll around for at least an hour. I try to count down from a hundred to zero twice . It doesn’t work.

Instead of fighting it any longer, I get up and make my way into Levi’s room. Dasher’s head pops up as soon as I tiptoe inside. Without a word, Levi lifts the blankets like he’s been expecting me. I don’t hesitate and climb in. As soon as he covers us up, I mold my body against his, settling my ass against his groin.

He wraps his strong arm around my waist and leans into my ear. “Fuck, you smell so goddamn good.”

His warm breath tickles against my neck, and I hold back a smile. He holds me tighter, warming me from the inside out, and I feel safer than I’ve ever felt before.

Being in his protective embrace relaxes me as I close my eyes. It only takes a few minutes to fall asleep—a comfort I’ll miss when I leave.