The flight attendant pulled her aside just as Jude braced herself to be kicked off the plane entirely. They were overbooked, the man in 23E wouldn’t budge, and Bonnie was starting to fuss against her shoulder. Then came the words that felt like a lifeline. “We have one seat in first class.
Would that work? ”
Jude almost cried with relief. She shifted Bonnie higher on her hip, grabbed her two bags—everything she owned in the world now—and followed the attendant through the curtain into a different universe. The seats were actual chairs.
The lighting was warm and soft. Someone was being offered champagne. She felt like she’d walked into someone else’s vacation. She was still babbling her thanks when she looked up and the words died in her throat.
The window seat was already occupied by a man who was not merely handsome. He was beautiful in the kind of way that made her forget how to function. Dark hair, slightly tousled. A strong jawline that belonged on magazine covers.
He wore an expensive charcoal suit, crisp white shirt open at the collar, and he was staring out the window as if the entire plane didn’t exist. Jude’s brain completely short-circuited. She discreetly lowered her nose to her own shirt and inhaled. She smelled like regurgitation and sweat.
She was about to sit next to that for two hours. The flight attendant prompted her gently. Jude forced her legs to move, settled into her seat as quietly as possible. Bonnie made little grunting sounds of displeasure.
“Sorry,” Jude whispered toward the man, even though he hadn’t acknowledged her existence. “We’ll try to stay quiet. ”
Nothing. He didn’t even glance over.
Right. She was invisible. That was fine. Probably better, all things considered.
She got Bonnie situated with a bottle, bought herself maybe twenty minutes of peace. The plane taxied, and the man beside her finally closed his laptop—but still didn’t look her way. The engines hummed. The cabin was warm and quiet, the seat more comfortable than any she’d sat in for months.
Bonnie’s warm weight settled against her chest, and Jude’s eyes drifted shut. She tried to stay awake. She really did. But she hadn’t slept in thirty-six hours.
Her body was staging a full rebellion. She was asleep before she could stop herself, tumbling into the first real rest she’d had in days. —
Jude woke to the feeling of something warm and solid beneath her cheek. For one blissful, disoriented moment, she didn’t know where she was.
Then awareness trickled in. A firm shoulder beneath her head. The subtle scent of expensive cologne, woodsy and clean. Steady breathing beside her.
The low hum of airplane engines. Her eyes snapped open. She was draped across the hot businessman’s shoulder like he was a pillow she’d ordered off Amazon. Her mouth felt suspiciously dry, which meant she’d probably been sleeping with it open, which meant she was probably drooling.
Oh no. Oh no. Oh no. She shifted carefully, trying to unstick her cheek from his suit jacket, and looked up.
He was staring right at her. His eyes were dark, intense, unfairly beautiful—and very, very awake. “Oh god,” she blurted, jerking upright. “I’m so sorry.
I didn’t mean to. I wasn’t trying to. ”
He raised one eyebrow. “I wasn’t sleeping,” Jude heard herself say in a rush, which was possibly the stupidest lie she’d ever told.
“I was meditating. It’s a thing. A breathing exercise. Very calming for flights.
”
The other eyebrow joined the first. “You drool when you meditate? ” he asked, voice dry as desert sand. He gave his shoulder the tiniest shake, where there was, unmistakably, a wet spot.
Jude wanted the floor of the airplane to open up and swallow her whole. “That’s not— I don’t usually— I’m sorry about your jacket,” she sputtered, face burning. “I can pay for dry cleaning. Do you take Venmo?
I have like forty-seven dollars. ”
But she stopped because she’d just noticed something else. He was holding Bonnie. Her baby was sitting calmly on his lap, one of his large hands supporting her back, the other gently bouncing her.
Bonnie was gurgling—actually happy, content in the arms of a complete stranger. “What are you doing? ” The words came out sharper than Jude intended, maternal panic overriding embarrassment. The man didn’t flinch.
His expression stayed calm, almost patient. “She woke up fussing about twenty minutes ago,” he said evenly. “You were finally sleeping. I didn’t want her to wake you.
”
He glanced down at Bonnie, something softening in his face. “I remember what it’s like when they’re this age. I never slept either. ”
Jude blinked.
He was a dad. Not just a gorgeous, intimidating businessman in an expensive suit—a father. Someone who understood the specific hell of infant sleep schedules and the desperate mathematics of stolen rest. Her shoulders dropped immediately.
“You have kids? ” she asked, settling back into her seat. “A daughter. She’s almost thirteen.
” His mouth did something complicated, not quite a smile. “Which comes with a whole different set of challenges. ”
“Ah, the teenage years. Is it as bad as everyone says?
”
“Worse. ” He adjusted Bonnie slightly, and she made a happy sound, grabbing at his tie. “I’m pretty sure she hates me most days. The other days, she just ignores my existence entirely.
”
There was pain there, hidden beneath the dry humor. Jude recognized it immediately—the specific ache of loving someone who wouldn’t let you close. “She doesn’t hate you,” Jude said gently. “Teenagers are just practicing being adults badly.
Give her time. ”
He looked at her then, really looked. Something passed between them. Understanding.
Connection. The kind of moment that felt too intimate for two strangers on an airplane. “I’m Landon,” he said. “Landon Harlo.
”
“Jude. Jude Mercer. ” She reached out to take Bonnie back. “And this is Bonnie, who apparently likes you better than her own mother.
”
“I doubt that. ”
He handed the baby over carefully, making sure Jude had her securely before letting go. His hands were warm, strong. There was something oddly careful about the way he moved.
Jude was about to say something else—maybe thank him again—when the plane lurched hard. Her stomach dropped. Passengers gasped. Overhead bins rattled ominously.
The cabin lights flickered. Bonnie let out a startled cry. Landon moved fast. Impossibly fast.
In one second, Jude was holding Bonnie. The next, his hands were there, steadying both of them, his body angling to shield them from the worst of the turbulence. “I’ve got you,” he said, voice calm and certain, even as the plane shook again. “Hold her close.
It’s safer than trying to strap her back in right now. ”
The plane pitched. Jude’s fingers dug into Bonnie, her heart hammering, but Landon’s hand braced against her seat back kept them steady. He was completely balanced despite the turbulence.
The pilot’s voice crackled over the intercom, strained and tight. They were experiencing severe weather. They would be making an emergency landing at a regional airport nearby. Emergency landing.
The words didn’t feel real. Around them, people were panicking. A woman across the aisle was crying. A man gripped his armrests so hard his knuckles were white.
But Landon was a wall of calm. “Look at me,” he said to Jude, his voice cutting through her rising panic. “Breathe. We’re going to be fine.
I promise. ”
She didn’t know why she believed him, but she did. The descent was rough. The plane shook and rattled, and Bonnie cried against Jude’s chest, and Jude focused on Landon’s dark eyes and the steadiness of his presence, and the way he kept his hand braced protectively near them the entire time.
The wheels hit the ground hard. The plane bounced once, twice, then settled with a screech of brakes and a collective exhale from every passenger on board. They were down. Safe.
Jude let out a shaky breath, her whole body trembling with leftover adrenaline. Bonnie was still crying softly, and Jude rocked her automatically, making soothing sounds she didn’t even register. “You okay? ” Landon asked quietly.
She looked at him—really looked at how calm he stayed, how protective, how his reflexes were too fast, his balance too perfect, his presence too solid for a normal person in a crisis. Something about him didn’t add up. Something she couldn’t quite name. “Yeah,” she managed.
“Thanks to you. ”
His expression shifted, something warm flickering in those dark eyes. Anytime. —
The regional airport they emergency-landed in was dismal.
Half the overhead lights were flickering. Most of the shops had their metal gates pulled down. The only thing open was a sad-looking coffee kiosk with a bored teenager scrolling on his phone. Through the massive windows, snow was falling.
Not the pretty, peaceful kind, but aggressive flurries that swirled and bit. Perfect. Absolutely perfect. Bonnie whimpered, and Jude adjusted her grip, heading toward the airline counter where a line was already forming.
She took her place at the back, trying to bounce Bonnie into contentment. It wasn’t working. “Miss? ” A woman in front of her turned around.
“Do you want to go ahead? You’ve got your hands full. ”
Gratitude welled up in Jude’s chest. “Thank you.
”
The small crowd parted, and suddenly Jude was at the counter facing a tired-looking woman whose name tag read Sharon. “Can you tell me what’s happening? ” Jude asked, trying for a smile. “All flights are grounded,” Sharon said with the flat delivery of someone who’d said the same thing fifty times.
“Severe weather alert. Nothing’s going out until tomorrow morning at the earliest. ”
“Tomorrow? But I have a connecting flight.
I’m supposed to—”
“Your connecting flight was out of Portland, departing tonight at nine. ” Sharon’s fingers flew over her keyboard. “You’ve missed it. ”
“I know, but can we rebook for tomorrow or the next day?
”
“Everything’s booked solid through Christmas. I’m sorry. ” Sharon’s voice was genuinely apologetic. “It’s the holidays.
”
Jude’s chin started trembling. She bit the inside of her cheek hard. Sharon slid a piece of paper across the counter. “Write down your contact information.
If anything opens up, we’ll call you immediately. ”
Jude scribbled down her phone number and email address, then stepped away. She found an empty seat and dropped into it, Bonnie starting to fuss harder. She forced herself to move, unzipping her suitcase and pulling out a warmer jacket and fleece blanket.
“Come here, baby,” she murmured. “Let’s get you warm. ”
Bonnie gurgled and immediately grabbed a fistful of Jude’s hair, yanking hard. Jude smiled.
“You’re very strong, you know that? ”
Bonnie laughed, that pure, delighted baby laugh. Jude’s heart melted. “Yeah, we’re going to be okay somehow.
”
She glanced up and saw Landon standing by the windows, phone pressed to his ear. Someone was coming to get him, of course. Footsteps approached. Jude looked up to find Landon standing in front of her, coat draped over one arm.
“Are you going to be all right? ” he asked. “Yeah, of course. We’re fine.
The airline said they’d call when something opens up. ”
Landon frowned. “Really? Because all flights are grounded until at least tomorrow.
Probably longer given how this storm looks. ”
“I’m sure. ”
Landon studied her. “You should at least get a hotel room somewhere warm to wait.
”
“Right. Yeah. Good idea. ”
He looked like he wanted to say something else, then shook his head.
“Okay, well. Good luck then. ”
Jude watched him go, her forced smile crumbling. She pulled out her phone with shaking hands.
The number mocked her. Not enough for a hotel. Not even close. Bonnie’s whimpering escalated into real crying.
Jude tried to bounce her, shush her, but it wasn’t working. And suddenly, Jude was crying too. Silent tears streaming down her face while she rocked her wailing daughter in a dingy airport terminal on December 22nd with nowhere to go and forty-seven dollars to her name. Hey.
Jude’s head jerked up. Landon was back. He looked uncomfortable, like he wasn’t sure he should be here but couldn’t make himself leave. “Did you find a hotel?
” he asked gently. Jude couldn’t answer. Couldn’t make the lie come out. “I just overheard someone say everything nearby is getting booked up,” Landon continued.
“Do you need help calling around? ”
He stopped when he saw the tears streaming down her face. “Hey,” he said again, softer. He sat down beside her, not too close, but near enough that his presence felt solid.
“It’s going to be okay. ”
“I don’t have enough money,” Jude heard herself say through her tears. “For a hotel. I’m going back to my grandma’s even though we don’t get along.
I lost my apartment after my husband left, and everything I own is in this suitcase, and now I’m stuck here with my baby. ”
She cut herself off, mortified. “I’m sorry. You should go.
Your ride is probably waiting. ”
“Don’t apologize,” Landon said firmly, pulling out his phone. “It’s perfectly all right to need help sometimes. Look, I’ll book you a room.
”
“No, I can’t let you pay for—”
“You can pay me back when you’re settled if that makes you feel better. But really, it’s not a big deal. ”
He put the phone to his ear. Jude sat frozen.
“Hi. Yes. I need a room for tonight. ”
A pause.
“Nothing? ”
He tried another number. Completely sold out. With each rejection, Jude watched the hope drain from his face.
“This is ridiculous,” he muttered after the fifth call. “There has to be something. ”
“Sir? ” A man in a dark suit approached.
“The car is ready for you outside whenever you’re set. ”
“Thanks, Grayson. Just give me another minute. ”
The driver retreated.
Landon turned back to Jude, and she forced a smile. “Thank you for trying. Really. But you should go.
”
He didn’t move. Instead, he looked at her and said, “Come with me. ”
Jude blinked. “What?
”
“Come where? ”
“To my house. There’s plenty of room. You and Bonnie can stay until the flights resume.
”
“I don’t even know you. ”
Landon shifted, looking almost nervous. “I understand. This probably seems weird, maybe unsafe.
But my entire family is going to be there. My parents, my thirteen-year-old daughter, River. My brother and his family are arriving tomorrow. It’s not just me in some isolated house.
”
He glanced toward the windows where the snow was now a full blizzard. “And honestly, it’s a lot better than spending Christmas Eve in this airport. ”
—
In the bathroom, Jude changed Bonnie’s diaper with trembling hands. She pulled out her phone and typed “Landon Harlo” into the search bar.
CEO of Harlo Industries, a tech company worth millions. Photos of him at charity galas, business conferences. Everything looked legitimate. She stared down at Bonnie, who was gurgling happily.
“What do you think, baby girl? Should we trust the handsome stranger? ”
Bonnie reached up and grabbed her nose. Jude took that as a yes.
She headed back to the waiting area. Landon was exactly where she left him. “Okay,” Jude said. “Thank you.
I really appreciate this. ”
The relief on his face was immediate. “It’s no problem. ”
He reached for her suitcase, lifting it like it weighed nothing.
Jude followed him toward the exit, Bonnie bundled against her chest. Through the glass doors, she could see a sleek black SUV waiting at the curb. The snow was falling harder now, and Jude was about to get into a stranger’s car. —
The SUV glided through the dark streets, smooth and quiet enough that Bonnie finally fell asleep in Jude’s arms.
Jude stared out the window, watching the neighborhoods change. The houses got bigger. The lots got wider. “Almost there,” Landon said from beside her.
Jude turned to look at him, and for just a second, his eyes seemed to glow. Gold, bright, catching the light wrong. She blinked hard. When she looked again, they were perfectly normal.
Dark. Must have been the streetlights. Still, she watched him, slightly tense. He’d taken off his tie and suit jacket at some point during the drive.
His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, revealing forearms that were decidedly more muscular than she expected. The SUV slowed in front of an ornate iron gate, which slid open smoothly. They turned onto a long, winding driveway, and Jude’s jaw dropped. Landon’s estate was massive, three stories of beautiful stone and timber with tall windows glowing golden.
The light spilled out onto the snow-covered grounds, making everything look almost magical. Jude’s breathing picked up. This wasn’t just wealthy. This was the kind of rich she’d only ever seen in magazines.
And she was about to walk into that house with her baby and her single suitcase. “Full disclosure,” Landon said suddenly, grimacing. “My dad makes terrible jokes. ”
Jude blinked.
“Dad jokes? ”
“Really bad ones. Just warning you. ”
“Oh.
” Jude nodded. “That’s okay. I’m a good audience. ”
It was such a normal thing to worry about that it felt reassuring.
The SUV came to a stop. A tall man stepped out onto the porch, grinning wide, bouncing on the balls of his feet like an oversized golden retriever. “You should stay the night,” Jude heard Landon say to the driver. “No point braving the blizzard.
”
The driver bowed his head slightly. “Understood, Alpha. ”
Jude frowned. Alpha?
That was weird. Must be some corporate thing, she thought. But then she saw the driver bow—actually bow—before driving away. The entrance hall was enormous.
Marble floors, a grand staircase, but decorated for Christmas in a way that felt homey. Garland wrapped around the banister, a massive tree in the corner, the smell of pine and cinnamon. “You must be Jude. ” The tall man was suddenly right in front of her, arms spread wide.
“I’m Declan, Landon’s father. ”
Before Jude could respond, he pulled her into a bear hug, enveloping both her and Bonnie. Bonnie gurgled in surprise. “And who’s this little pup?
” He cradled Bonnie’s face. “Look at those cheeks. ”
“This is Bonnie,” Jude managed, slightly dazed. “Gorgeous.
Absolutely gorgeous. ” Declan beamed. “Welcome to our home. Any friend of Landon’s is family here.
”
“Declan. ” The voice was quiet but carried authority. Jude looked past Declan to see a woman standing near the staircase. She was elegant, tall, poised, light blonde hair pulled back in a tasteful style.
This must be Landon’s mother. The woman stepped forward, and Jude noticed how she moved. There was something unnaturally graceful about it, like she was gliding. “I’m Algra,” she said, offering a polite smile.
“It’s nice to meet you. ”
Her eyes took in Jude and Bonnie with an assessing quality that made Jude wonder if it really was nice to meet them. “Thank you so much for having us,” Jude said quickly. “I know this is probably really weird, but as soon as the airline calls, we’ll be out of your hair.
”
She looked at Landon and smiled. “And thank you. Really, I don’t know what I would have done if—”
But Landon wasn’t looking at her. He was staring up the grand staircase, his expression hopeful and uncertain.
“River? ” he called out. Algra’s expression shifted slightly. “She’s in her room.
Though she is aware we have guests. ”
The emphasis on “guests” was subtle, but it was clear River wasn’t thrilled about their arrival. Landon’s face fell just a fraction before he schooled his expression back to neutral. “Come on,” he said, turning back to Jude.
“Let me show you to your room. ”
—
The hallway upstairs was wide, artwork on the walls, thick carpet. Landon stopped at a door and pushed it open. “This is you,” he said, stepping aside.
Jude walked in and gasped. Not because of the room itself, though it was gorgeous—all cream and soft blues with a massive four-poster bed—but because of what was waiting inside. A brand new car seat. A portable crib, already assembled.
A mountain of stuffed animals and toys. Shopping bags overflowing with baby clothes, diapers, blankets, bottles, formula. Everything still had tags on it. Jude turned slowly to stare at Landon.
“What is all this? ”
“Just some necessities. ”
“Necessities? ” Jude’s voice went up an octave.
“I made a few calls from the car. ” Landon shrugged. “And some things are leftovers from Jared and Freya’s baby showers. ”
Jude stared at him, dazed.
“Jared and Freya? ”
“My niece and nephew. Twins. Real menaces.
You’ll meet them tomorrow. ”
Jude didn’t know what to say. Her throat felt tight. “I can’t accept all this.
”
“You can. ” His voice was firm. “And you will. Bonnie needs these things.
”
“But I—” Jude’s voice cracked. “I can’t pay you back. ”
“I’m not asking you to. ”
They stared at each other.
Jude was holding Bonnie like a shield, feeling completely overwhelmed. “Are you sure? ” she asked quietly. “About us being here?
Your mother seemed—“
“My mother’s just protective,” Landon said, taking a step closer. “She’ll warm up. ”
He was near enough now that Jude caught that scent again. Woodsy.
Masculine. Bonnie started fussing. “I should feed her,” Jude said quietly. “But really, thank you.
I promise we won’t overstay. ”
Landon took another step closer. He was so tall. His shoulders were broad enough to block out half the room.
“You’re not overstaying. You’re welcome here for as long as you need to be. ”
He reached out slowly and adjusted the blanket slipping off Bonnie’s shoulder. His fingers brushed Jude’s collarbone for just a second.
His hand was warm—so warm it was almost startling. “And if the flights don’t clear up by Christmas Eve,” he continued, his dark eyes holding hers, “you’re welcome to spend the holiday with us. With my family. ”
Jude’s brain momentarily short-circuited.
Was he asking her to spend Christmas with him? “That’s very generous, but I don’t want to intrude. ”
“You wouldn’t be intruding. ” He was still looking at her with those intense eyes.
“I mean it. You and Bonnie are welcome here. ”
Her face felt hot. She knew she was blushing.
This was ridiculous. She met this man six hours ago. But the way he looked at her, and the way it felt to have someone take care of her for once—it was intoxicating. She could get used to this.
To him. That was the scary part. —
Jude woke to soft winter light filtering through cream-colored curtains, and for one disoriented moment had absolutely no idea where she was. Then it came back.
The plane. The airport. Landon. She sat up slowly, taking in the enormous bedroom.
Most shocking of all, she felt rested. Actually, genuinely rested for the first time in—she couldn’t even remember how long. Then panic hit. Where was Bonnie?
Jude scrambled out of bed and rushed to the crib. But her daughter was just lying there, awake and content, staring at the mobile of stars above her. “You slept through the night,” Jude whispered, picking her up. “You’ve never done that before.
Not once. ”
Bonnie gurgled happily, grabbing a fistful of Jude’s sleep-rumpled hair. After changing and feeding Bonnie, Jude looked down at herself. She was still wearing yesterday’s wrinkled clothes.
Not exactly the impression she wanted to make on her second morning in a billionaire’s house. She placed Bonnie in a baby bouncer and quickly showered. Then she dug through her suitcase. The pickings were slim, but there was one sweater—soft gray cashmere—that her grandmother had given her three Christmases ago.
She pulled it on over clean jeans, then stared at herself in the bathroom mirror. Makeup? Does she have makeup? “What are you doing?
” she muttered at her reflection. “You’re putting on makeup to go downstairs for breakfast. This is insane. ”
But she knew exactly what she was doing, and exactly who she was doing it for.
She picked up Bonnie and headed for the door. The house looked even more incredible in daylight. She followed the sound of voices and the smell of coffee to the kitchen. Algra was at the stove.
“Good morning, Jude,” Algra acknowledged with a nod. “How are you settling in? ”
“Great,” Jude said, settling Bonnie’s carrier on the island. “Actually, better than great.
This one here slept through the whole night for the first time ever. ”
Algra had already turned back to the stove. “Can I help with anything? ” Jude offered.
“No, thank you. ”
Jude shifted her weight awkwardly. A glass on the dish rack started to slide off. Algra’s hand shot out impossibly fast and caught it without even glancing at it.
“Wow. ” Jude blinked. “Nice reflexes. ”
Algra looked up like she’d just remembered Jude was there.
There was a pause, and then, “So, will your husband be joining us for Christmas, Jude? ”
Jude grimaced. “I’m not married. ”
Algra glanced at Bonnie, then back.
“Oh. The father’s not in the picture? ”
“No. ”
“I see.
” Algra’s lips pursed. “Good morning, my darlings! ” Declan burst into the kitchen, humming something that might be “Jingle Bells. ” Before Algra could react, he swept her into his arms and twirled her across the kitchen floor.
“Declan! ” Algra protested, but there was no real heat in it. He dipped her dramatically, planted a loud kiss on her lips, and Algra actually laughed. Jude couldn’t help but grin.
When Declan released his wife, he immediately zeroed in on Bonnie. “And there’s my favorite little pup. Come to Grandpa Declan. ”
He scooped Bonnie out of her carrier and started murmuring nonsense to her.
“You’re going to spoil her,” Jude said, smiling. And then Landon walked into the kitchen, and her brain completely short-circuited. He’d just showered, his dark hair still damp, wearing a fitted black t-shirt and dark jeans. Jude’s mouth went dry.
“Morning,” he said, his voice still slightly rough from sleep. He poured coffee and slid it across the island to her—exactly how she liked it. She grabbed the mug and took a large sip. Do not think about beds and Landon.
Do not think about beds and Landon. “Did you sleep well, Jude? ” Landon asked. The question was innocent, totally normal.
But Jude’s traitorous brain immediately supplied images of sleeping next to him, of waking up in those arms. Her face went nuclear. “Great,” she squeaked. “Fantastic.
The bed was— I mean, the room was wonderful. Thank you. ”
Landon’s smile widened slightly, like he knew exactly what he was doing to her. “Hello?
Anyone awake? ”
And then the kitchen was chaos. A man who looked like a slightly younger version of Landon strode in, followed by a pretty red-haired woman and two seven-year-old tornadoes. “Beckett!
” Declan boomed. “You made it! ”
“Barely. Roads are a mess.
” Beckett kissed Algra’s cheek, and she actually smiled. “You must be the guest,” Beckett said. “I’m Landon’s brother, and this is my wife, Lauren. And these two monsters are Jared and Freya.
”
The twins immediately spotted Bonnie. “Is that a baby? Can we hold her? Does she do tricks?
”
Jude laughed. “She’s not a puppy yet. ”
“Don’t listen to him,” Declan said solemnly. Lauren rolled her eyes.
“Don’t listen to him. He thinks everyone should have the same energy as—” She cut herself off, glancing at Jude, then at Landon. An awkward beat of silence. “Breakfast is ready,” Algra redirected.
“Everyone sit. ”
Jude was getting settled at the dining table when everyone went quiet. A teenage girl stood in the doorway. Tall, dark hair, Landon’s jawline, green eyes.
River. Lauren jumped up. “River! Good to see you, honey.
”
Beckett and the twins followed. River stood stiff, not hugging back. Jude glanced at Landon. His jaw was tight, his arms crossed.
He was staring at his daughter with painful intensity. River didn’t look at him. Not once. She slid into a seat at the far end of the table, as far from her father as possible.
Bonnie made a gurgling sound, and River’s gaze snapped to the baby. For just a second, her expression lightened. Landon cleared his throat. “River, I thought maybe after breakfast we could—”
“I have plans.
” River interrupted. Landon’s jaw tightened. “What plans? ”
“Does it matter?
” She finally looked at him, something challenging in her gaze. “Honey, I’m not working today. ”
“Oh, so I should just drop everything cuz you’re free? ” River snapped.
“No. I just mean it’s Christmas Eve tomorrow. I thought we could spend some time. ”
“I’m good.
”
River stood abruptly. “I’m not hungry. ”
She walked out. The silence was excruciating.
Landon sat frozen, his hands clenched into fists. Jude’s heart ached for them both. —
Later, when breakfast ended, Jude took Bonnie outside. The estate grounds were stunning, snow covering everything in a soft white blanket.
Footsteps crunched behind her. “Hey. ” Landon fell into step beside her, hands in his pockets. “Want a tour of the property?
”
“Sure. ”
They walked in comfortable silence toward the stables. Inside, it was warm and smelled like hay. Several horses poked their heads over stall doors.
“It’s definitely not my business,” Jude said carefully, “but is River okay with us being here? ”
Landon ran his hand down a horse’s neck. “You’re not causing problems. River and I—it’s nothing to do with you.
”
“What happened? ” Jude asked quietly. Landon was quiet for a long moment. “Her mom left three years ago.
I don’t know. I guess we haven’t recovered. ”
“I’m sorry. Breakups are hard.
”
“I meant the relationship with River. ” Landon looked away. “It was awful when it happened, but what really hurt was watching the woman I once loved abandon our daughter like that and having her suffer for it. ”
Jude shifted Bonnie’s weight.
“Ryan left when Bonnie was two months old. Just packed his stuff one morning. He never wanted to be a father. ”
Landon looked up at her, and something passed between them—understanding.
Two people who had been abandoned. “I’m sorry,” Landon said, and he meant it. “Me too. ”
They stood there in the warm stable, Bonnie dozing against Jude’s chest.
—
When Bonnie went down for her afternoon nap, Jude found herself heading for the kitchen, determined to help with whatever Christmas preparations were happening. The space had been transformed into a professional catering operation. At least six people moved around with practiced efficiency, and at the heart of it all was Algra. “Is there anything I can do to help?
” Jude asked. “I’d like to pitch in. ”
Algra barely glanced at her. “We have it covered.
Thank you. ”
“Are you sure? I could—”
“We’re fine. ”
Over Algra’s shoulder, Jude spotted Lauren kneading dough.
Message received. She retreated to the family room. “Good run last night,” Declan was saying. “If you ask me, the snow makes it more—”
He paused.
Landon and Beckett turned to look at her, looking vaguely guilty. “A run in the middle of a blizzard? ” Jude asked jokingly. The three men looked like kids caught with their hands in the cookie jar.
Sometimes it almost felt like they were all sharing this big secret, hidden in plain sight. Jude settled onto the loveseat, pulling out her phone. Someone cleared their throat. River was standing right beside the loveseat.
Jude startled—she hadn’t heard the girl approach. “Your baby’s crying,” River announced. Jude was on her feet immediately. “Oh god, I didn’t hear.
”
She was halfway to the stairs when she realized River was following her. They climbed in silence. Jude could hear it now—Bonnie’s cry. She rushed into the guest room and found Bonnie wailing in her crib.
“Hey, hey, it’s okay,” Jude soothed, scooping her up. “Mama’s here. ”
Bonnie’s cries downgraded to whimpers. River hovered in the doorway.
“Thank you,” Jude said, “for letting me know. ”
“It’s a big house,” River said quietly. “Sound doesn’t carry. ”
Bonnie made a soft gurgling sound.
Jude laughed. “Guess she wants to know how you are. ”
A small smile tugged at River’s lips. “Would you like to hold her?
” Jude asked gently. River’s eyes went wide. “Really? ”
“Have you ever held a baby before?
”
River shook her head. “Okay, it’s easy. Here, support her head like this. ”
She carefully transferred Bonnie into River’s arms.
River’s entire face transformed. The guarded expression melted away, replaced by something soft and vulnerable. “Lunch is ready,” Algra announced from the doorway. Her gaze landed on River holding Bonnie, and her eyebrows climbed.
In the mirror above the dresser, Jude caught a glimpse of Algra’s reflection. For just a second, her eyes seemed to glow gold. —
Evening settled, and the family gathered to decorate the Christmas tree. It was massive, at least twelve feet tall.
The twins ran circles around it. Declan wrestled with tangled lights. River was still holding Bonnie. “Hey Jude, you know what’s bigger than a Christmas tree?
” Declan asked. “What? ”
“A Christmas for? ”
Jude burst out laughing.
Declan blinked, shocked. Landon appeared, eyes wide. “December 23rd, 2024,” Beckett murmured. “It finally happened.
The old man made someone laugh. ”
“I’ll show you, old man. ” Declan shook the lights. Jude laughed harder, and Bonnie started giggling too.
Within seconds, everyone was laughing. Even River. Even Algra. Landon moved closer.
“Thank you. ”
Jude looked up at him, and for a second, she forgot how to breathe. “For what? ” she managed.
He just shrugged. “Come on. Let’s finish these decorations. ”
They worked side by side.
Landon was close enough that their arms kept brushing. “Is your family as chaotic as mine? ” Landon asked. “My parents died when I was a freshman in college.
Car accident. I don’t have any brothers or sisters. ”
Landon’s hand stilled. “I’m sorry.
”
“Your family isn’t chaotic. This is nice. ”
They both reached into the box at the same time. Their hands collided.
Neither pulled away. She looked up and found him staring at her with an intensity that made her skin feel hot. There was just Landon, his hand covering hers, his breath slightly uneven. “Landon?
” Algra’s voice cut through the moment. “We need to talk. Now. ”
Landon jerked away.
“Right. Sorry. I—“
He practically ran from the room. From the hallway, Jude heard Algra’s voice raised.
The tone was clear. Disapproval. Warning. Why did it feel like she and Landon were doing something dangerous?
—
Later that night, Bonnie woke up fussy. Jude made her way down to the dark kitchen. She was warming a bottle, swaying gently with Bonnie, when something outside caught her eye. There was a wolf outside.
A huge white wolf sitting in the snow, watching her. Its fur was pristine white, almost glowing, and its eyes—
Gold. Bright, intelligent gold. Jude frowned, stepping closer to the glass door.
She pressed her palm against it. The wolf’s ears twitched, but it didn’t move. “What are you doing? ”
Jude spun around.
Algra was standing on the other side of the island, arms crossed. “There’s a wolf outside,” Jude said breathlessly. “Right there. A huge white wolf.
”
Algra made a sound that might have been a snort. “A wolf in this neighborhood? We’re miles from the nearest forest. You must have imagined it.
”
“I didn’t imagine it. ” Jude turned back. The wolf was gone. “I saw it,” Jude insisted.
Algra pulled the bottle from the microwave. “You’ve been under a lot of stress. The mind plays tricks. ” She handed Jude the bottle.
“Get some rest. ”
Jude retreated upstairs. But as she fed Bonnie, she couldn’t stop thinking about those golden eyes. The same golden color she’d seen flash in Landon’s eyes, and in Algra’s.
I was probably seeing things, she told herself. But deep down, she knew she wasn’t imagining anything. Something was happening in this house. Something impossible.
—
The following morning, Jude found herself in the library, drawn by the promise of quiet and the floor-to-ceiling windows that let in pale winter sunlight. Bonnie was drowsing in her arms after her feed, and Jude still couldn’t quite believe she was here—in a mansion. A mansion around which wolves roamed. No, she hadn’t imagined it.
The golden eyes, the way it sat there watching her like it knew her. And Algra’s casual dismissal had been too quick, too smooth. Her gaze landed on the photographs covering one wall, and she drifted toward them, still humming quietly to Bonnie. The photos were arranged chronologically, a visual history of the Harlo family.
Young Declan and Algra on their wedding day, both glowing and impossibly beautiful. Beckett and Lauren looking young and happy and so clearly in love. And then Landon’s wedding. Jude stopped and stared.
Landon looked younger, his expression open in a way she hadn’t seen since meeting him. His bride was beautiful—tall, blonde, tan, fit in that effortless way some women just were. Her wedding dress was elegant and expensive, showing off a figure that probably never struggled with post-pregnancy weight or stretch marks. Jude touched her messy bun self-consciously.
Yeah, she and Kendra were definitely not in the same league. The library door opened behind her. Jude turned to see Landon freeze in the doorway, clearly not expecting to find her here. “Sorry,” he said immediately.
“I didn’t know you were in here. ” He started to retreat. “No, please,” Jude called out. “I mean—I’m the intruder here.
This is your home. Stay. I’ll—I’ll go. ”
Landon blinked as if surprised.
Then a small smile spread across his lips. “You’re not intruding,” he assured her, gesturing toward the desk. “I just needed to check something on my laptop. ”
But instead of going to the desk, he closed the door and walked toward her.
Jude’s heart rate picked up immediately. He was wearing dark jeans and a soft gray henley that clung to his chest in ways that should be illegal. His gaze fell on the wedding photo behind her, and he winced. “Bad memories, huh?
” Jude asked softly. He didn’t reply. Just stared, mouth pinched. Quick, Jude thought.
Think of something sensitive to say. Something cool, funny, anything. Bonnie chose that moment to release another very loud burp. Landon’s smile returned immediately.
He reached out and caressed Bonnie’s head with surprising gentleness, his large hand covering almost her entire skull. “We had to retake that photo a hundred times,” he said, looking at Bonnie, “before Kendra was satisfied with how she looked. ”
Jude glanced back at the perfect picture. “Well, it’s a very nice photo.
”
“She left me for another man,” Landon said flatly. “She left River for this other man. Doesn’t matter what it looks like. ”
The casual way he said it—like it hadn’t devastated him—made Jude’s chest ache.
“It’s her loss,” she said firmly. Landon went very still. He was standing close enough now that Jude could see the individual lashes framing his dark eyes. “You really mean that?
” he asked, his voice quieter, rougher. Jude’s mouth went dry. She’d walked right into that one. “I mean—you’re pretty great,” she stammered.
She paused. Did that sound weird? It sounded weird. “You’re fine,” she tried again.
She couldn’t breathe, couldn’t think. Landon’s hand came up slowly, giving her time to pull away. She didn’t. His fingers brushed her cheek, impossibly gentle.
“Jude,” he said. The way her name sounded in his voice made her breath hitch audibly. Landon’s eyes dropped to her lips. His head dipped lower—
And Bonnie released a loud, piercing wail.
They sprang apart like they’d been electrocuted. Jude’s face flooded with heat. “Sorry. She’s been fussy all morning.
”
She patted Bonnie’s back, trying to look anywhere but at Landon. But when she risked a glance at him, he was still staring at her. His chest was rising and falling faster than normal. His jaw was tight.
And his eyes—his eyes were doing that thing again. That flash of gold she kept seeing and dismissing. Their gazes remained locked even as Landon slowly backed away toward his desk, like he didn’t trust himself to stay close. “Guess I should—work.
I should work. ”
Jude nodded, not trusting her voice. “She probably needs a diaper change,” she managed finally, even though that wasn’t why Bonnie was crying, and they both knew it. She was halfway to the door when Landon’s voice stopped her.
“Jude? ”
She turned back. He was standing behind the desk now, gripping the edge like it was the only thing keeping him anchored. “Thank you for what you said about River.
I’ll—I’ll give it some thought. ”
Jude nodded again, then fled before she could do something stupid like go back to him. She didn’t start breathing normally until she was back in her room with the door closed. “Okay,” she whispered to Bonnie, who was already calming down.
“We have a problem. A really big problem. ”
Because he almost kissed her. No—she almost kissed him.
And she wanted him to. She wanted him to so badly it scared her. —
The next day, Jude placed the final pot on the dish rack and dried her hands, turning toward the chef kneading dough at the island. “What next?
”
From the breakfast nook, Bonnie let out a happy gurgle. Jude glanced over, smiling at River playing with the baby. “Go be with your baby,” the chef said. “We’ve got this.
”
“River’s on baby duty, and judging by everyone’s reaction to her being downstairs, I wouldn’t dare take Bonnie away. ”
The chef nodded. “It’s been a long time since I’ve seen her around like this. ”
“What do you mean?
”
“Algra mentioned she didn’t even come down for Christmas dinner last year. ”
“Wait, you cooked for Christmas last year too? ”
The chef chuckled. “Christmas, Fourth of July, Halloween, birthdays, corporate events—for the last decade.
”
“So, you’re, like, family, then? ”
The chef gave her a wry smile. “Sure. Something like that.
”
As they worked, the chef shared stories about the Harlo family—Declan’s terrible jokes, Algra’s perfectionism. Then she mentioned something that made Jude’s ears perk up. “Sophia, Declan’s mother, used to bake these chocolate chip cookies every Christmas that Landon absolutely adored. Him and Beckett would fight over the crumbs.
”
Another chef laughed. “Sophia’s nutmeg cookies. Those were legendary. ”
“Do you know the recipe?
” Jude asked. The chef smiled. “I do, actually. Why?
”
—
Later, after the catering staff had left, Jude put Bonnie down for her nap. River hovered in the doorway. “Could you watch her? ” Jude asked.
“Just for a little while. I want to try something in the kitchen. ”
River’s eyes lit up. “Really?
”
“Really. I trust you. ”
Those words seemed to mean something to River. She nodded and moved to sit beside the crib.
Jude headed back down to the kitchen, the recipe clutched in her hand. The kitchen was blessedly empty. She got to work. Chocolate chip cookies with nutmeg and cinnamon.
Sophia’s secret was brown butter and homemade vanilla extract. The rhythm of baking was soothing. She used to do this with her mother. She was sliding the first batch into the oven when she heard footsteps.
“What’s all this? ”
Jude turned to find Landon in the doorway, sniffing the air. “Your grandmother’s cookies,” Jude said, suddenly shy. Landon’s eyes went wide.
“What? How? ”
“The chef gave me the recipe. I wanted to do something nice for you, since you said I saved you again.
”
Landon groaned, but he was smiling. “So—is it all right? ”
“All right? ” Landon crossed the kitchen and stood in front of the oven like a kid on Christmas morning.
“It’s amazing. ” He peered through the window. “How much longer? ”
Jude chuckled.
“If you tap that button, you’ll find out. ”
Landon threw her a grin. “Smartass. ”
Heat flooded Jude’s face.
“I didn’t know you could bake,” he said. Jude shrugged. “Guess it never came up. ”
“Can I help with the next batch?
Give me something to do or I’ll start climbing the walls. ”
“I’ve got the next batch, but you can do the dishes. ”
“Deal. ”
They worked in companionable silence—the kind that felt full instead of empty.
Jude shaped cookies. Landon washed mixing bowls, sleeves pushed up to his elbows. Jude stole glances at him. The strong line of his jaw.
The concentration on his face. Their eyes met once, twice, three times. Each time they smiled—small, secret smiles that made Jude’s stomach flip. The timer dinged.
Landon lunged for the oven, but Jude beat him there, laughing. “Patience,” she said, pulling out the tray of perfectly golden-brown cookies. Landon inhaled deeply, his eyes closing. “Oh my god.
That’s exactly how I remember them. ”
“You have to wait for them to cool. ”
“Worth it,” Landon muttered. He finished the dishes and joined her at the island.
He was standing close—close enough that Jude could smell that woodsy scent again. She straightened and brushed her hair away from her face, leaving what she was sure was a streak of flour. Landon’s eyes tracked the movement. “You have some flour.
”
He reached out slowly. She didn’t pull away. He used the back of his fingers to gently wipe her cheekbone. Jude froze.
Her eyes went wide. Her breathing picked up. Landon’s hand lingered. He flipped it, cupping her face.
His head dropped lower. Jude’s eyes started to close. “Stop. Just stop this.
”
The voice was sharp, angry—loud enough to shatter the moment. Jude’s blood froze. River. Landon dropped his hand and stepped back, and Jude was suddenly devastatingly cold.
She turned to see River standing in the doorway, Bonnie in her arms. The teenage girl’s face was twisted with emotion—anger, fear, something else underneath. “River,” Landon started. But River was already shaking her head, backing away, holding Bonnie like a shield.
—
“What do you think you’re doing? ”
Jude flinched. “Your dad invited us. We were stranded.
”
“What are you doing here? ” River’s voice rose sharply. “With all of us? You don’t belong.
You’re human. ”
The way she said that word made it sound like an insult. “River, that’s enough,” Landon started. But River ignored him completely.
“You’re not part of the pack,” she continued, still glaring at Jude. Then she turned to Landon. “She’s not one of us, Dad. What are you talking about?
”
“What pack? ” Jude asked. River’s glare transformed into something darker. She carefully handed Bonnie back to Jude.
“Take her. ”
Jude did, confused, as River took several steps back, putting distance between them. And then she changed. Her body convulsed.
There was a sickening sound of bones shifting, breaking, reforming. Her spine arched impossibly. Her face elongated into a muzzle. Fur erupted from her skin.
A small brownish wolf with bright green eyes stood where River had been. Jude gasped, stumbling backward, her arm outstretched instinctively to ward off the animal. “Shift back! ” Landon growled.
His voice was nothing like Jude had ever heard from him before. Commanding, powerful, terrifying in its authority. The wolf’s body convulsed again, the same brutal process in reverse. Bones cracking, reshaping.
Then River was standing there again—human. Except that she was naked. Landon quickly threw her a jacket. Jude’s chest was heaving.
She couldn’t stop looking from one to the other. Couldn’t stop shaking her head. “We’re shifters,” River said to Jude, ignoring Landon’s protest. “The entire family.
All the people you’ve met in the past few days—the chef, the driver—everyone. ” She tilted her head mockingly. “Dad is Alpha. He succeeded Grandpa.
He’s the leader of the entire pack. ”
Jude’s pulse was thundering in her ears. Her mouth was so dry she could barely speak. “I don’t understand.
”
“Shifters mean we can shift into animals,” River snapped. “Or in our case, into wolves. ”
Jude’s mind was reeling, piecing things together. The fluid grace.
The predatory way they moved. The comments she’d overheard. Pack meeting. Alpha.
And the wolf outside. She swiveled toward Landon. “It was you outside that night? The white wolf?
”
Landon nodded, his lips pressed tightly together. Jude’s head shook again. But she saw it. She saw River change right in front of her.
“Are we safe? ” she asked, the words tumbling out before she could stop them. “Is my daughter? ”
The instant the words left her mouth, she knew it was the wrong thing to say.
River gasped like Jude had just slapped her. Landon’s expression dropped, disappointment flooding his features. “See, Dad? ” River exclaimed.
“She’ll never understand. I don’t understand how you could bring her here in the first place. Do the opposite of what you did last time when mom left, and you just let her go. ”
Landon flinched.
River’s face contorted, tears spilling from her eyes. She wiped them away angrily and bolted up the stairs, her footsteps echoing. “River, wait—” Landon started after her. “I’m sorry,” Jude said desperately.
“Landon, I didn’t mean to. ”
Landon whirled on her. Jude took an involuntary step back, clutching Bonnie tighter. His eyes flashed gold.
His jaw was tight. When he looked at her now, it was like he was looking at a stranger. “River’s just trying to protect herself,” he said flatly. “And the pack.
”
Jude took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. “I understand that,” she said quietly. Landon’s expression softened just a fraction. “I’m not sure you do,” he said carefully.
“Of course I do,” Jude’s words came out in a rush. “She’s shocked, just like I am. I shouldn’t have asked if you would hurt us. I know you wouldn’t.
”
“Jude, I understand where you’re coming from,” Landon interrupted, sounding defeated. “But I can’t risk hurting River again. ”
“Of course not. I don’t want that either.
”
“Well, perhaps you shouldn’t have asked her if she was a threat to you and your baby, then. ” Landon sighed, shoulders tense. “You were looking out for your kid. But I need to look out for mine.
”
He shook his head. “Bringing someone new into our lives so suddenly was thoughtless, especially when that someone is—” He didn’t finish the sentence. He didn’t have to. Human.
“You can’t expect me to take this all in stride,” Jude protested. “I need time to process. ”
Landon stayed quiet for a long moment. Jude desperately searched his expression for hints of what he was thinking.
From what she could gather, it didn’t look good. “I think you should leave,” Landon said, his voice flat, empty. “I’ll arrange for someone to pick you up tomorrow morning, first thing. ”
The air left Jude’s lungs in a forceful exhale.
It felt like someone had punched her in the chest. “Landon, you—” she tried. “Like I told you before. It’s too complicated.
” Landon stepped back, putting more distance between them. “I’m sorry. I have to think about River. ”
He turned and walked toward the door.
“Landon. ” Jude’s voice broke on his name. He didn’t turn around. He didn’t look back.
He just opened the door and walked through it, slamming it so hard behind him that the whole frame rattled. Jude stood alone in the kitchen, surrounded by the smell of cookies and the ruins of something that might have been beautiful. She was shaking, her whole body trembling. A sob formed in her throat.
She tried to gulp it back down, but it escaped anyway—small and broken. She wouldn’t cry. She wouldn’t. But the tears came anyway.
—
Jude couldn’t sleep. Every time she closed her eyes, she saw Landon’s face. The disappointment in his expression. After what felt like hours of tossing and turning, she gave up and abandoned the bed.
Bonnie was still sleeping peacefully in the crib, blissfully unaware that their entire world had just imploded. Jude watched her for a moment, chest tight. Then she tiptoed into the hallway, closing the door softly behind her. The house was dark and quiet.
Everyone must be asleep. In the kitchen, she quickly washed a baby bottle and set it on the drying rack. Then she froze. There was a rustle outside.
Jude’s heart jumped. She gripped the edge of the counter. It was probably a wolf—one of them. Landon.
Jude hesitated, then peered around the tall cabinet at the end of the counter. Through the glass doors, she could see a figure wrapped in a blanket sitting on the porch swing, watching the falling snow. River. The girl turned as if sensing Jude’s presence.
Their eyes met through the glass. Jude hesitated. After everything that happened, would River want to talk to her? But then again, she was leaving tomorrow.
She might as well try before she did. Jude stepped outside into the cold night air. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to intrude. I was just hungry.
” She lifted the plate. “Skip dinner? ”
“Me too,” River said quietly. “Want to share?
”
River shrugged. It wasn’t a no. Jude closed the door behind her, shutting out the warm kitchen, and took a seat at the other end of the swing. She placed the plate between them.
“Dig in. ”
“There’s brie. ” River started crying—not quiet tears, but full-body, shaking sobs. “You don’t have to eat the brie,” Jude hurried out.
“I also brought nuts—and—oh, River. ”
River choked out, “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry for earlier. ”
This time, Jude didn’t hesitate.
She slid closer to River and threw an arm around the girl’s shoulders. “You don’t have to apologize. You were looking out for your family. ”
“Still.
” River kept sobbing. “I shifted right in front of you and scared you. ”
Jude sighed. “Well, you were rather abrupt,” she conceded.
“But I understand. ”
River looked at her, wiping her cheeks with the blanket. “You do? ”
Jude nodded slowly, the words forming as the thoughts crystallized.
“Ever since my parents died in the car accident, I’ve been pushing people away. I was nineteen when it happened. An adult, yet still a child in so many ways. ”
“Your parents are dead?
” River asked, voice small. Jude nodded, continuing. “I pushed friends away because I was secretly terrified they’d disappear from my life too. Even Bonnie’s father—I kept him at a distance.
Always kept an exit strategy. Always on the lookout for the first signs he was pulling away so I could drop him first. ” She laughed bitterly. “Ironically, he still took me by surprise when he announced he couldn’t do this and left.
”
“What is your point? ” River asked quietly. “My point is that all I accomplished was making sure I was truly alone. An island.
Someone who didn’t have anyone to ask for help when she needed it most. ”
She looked at River directly. “Your mom left. And I know that must have hurt.
But it’s not about you or your dad. It’s about her. Her choices. Her decisions.
”
River started crying again, but the tears rolled silently now. “Mom left when she found her fated mate. I begged her not to go. When that didn’t work, I yelled at her—like I yelled at you tonight.
” She hiccuped. “And she still left. She was dad’s mate but chosen, not fated. And the pull isn’t as strong with chosen mates.
At least that’s what the lore says. ”
They sat together on the porch swing, watching the snowfall, letting the cold night air sting their faces. “Your dad isn’t going to leave you, River,” Jude said, meaning it. “He would never.
”
River hesitated. “You don’t know that. You don’t know what fated bonds do to us shifters. My dad isn’t very big on trust or meeting new people, and yet he knows you for all of five minutes, and he brings you to our pack.
”
Jude frowned, trying to understand what River was getting at. “What are you saying exactly? Are you—do you think I’m your father’s fated mate? ”
River shrugged, looking deeply uncomfortable, her gaze fixed on the falling snow.
“Look, River,” Jude said carefully. “I’m not exactly sure what a fated mate is. But what I can tell you is that your father has already made his choice. And that choice is you.
”
River looked up at her. “What do you mean? ”
“Landon said someone’s picking me up in the morning,” Jude said, trying to keep her voice steady. River sat up straighter.
“He can’t mean it. He has feelings for you. I can tell. ”
Jude tried to put on a brave face but knew she probably failed.
“Look, it’s complicated. I like him too. ”
“You do? ” River’s eyes lit up, even though we’re not human.
”
Jude chuckled at that. “Honey, your dad opened his home when I was desperate and alone on the brink of a complete meltdown. He bought a ton of stuff for Bonnie and never asked for anything in return. ” She squeezed River’s shoulder.
“So if he or anyone else in your family needs to be a wolf sometimes, I promise it’s fine by me. ”
River gaped. Then she threw herself into Jude’s arms, giggling through her tears. Jude joined her.
For a moment, sitting on a porch swing in the middle of a snowy Christmas Eve with a teenage werewolf, everything felt almost okay. Almost. —
Jude woke to sunlight streaming through the curtains. For a moment, she just lay there, staring at the ceiling, her heart heavy.
Today she leaves. Today she goes back to her real life—the one where werewolves don’t exist, and billionaire CEOs don’t almost kiss her in their kitchens. She abandoned the bed and went to Bonnie, who grinned up at her with that pure, uncomplicated baby joy. “Merry Christmas, sweet girl,” Jude whispered.
She rummaged through their luggage and found the outfit she’d packed for Christmas—a red velvet dress. She changed quickly, picked up Bonnie, and ventured outside their room. Voices and laughter drifted from the living room, but Jude headed to the kitchen first to warm a bottle. She found Algra at the counter, drinking coffee.
Jude stopped in the doorway, swallowed. “Good morning, Algra. ”
Jude explained she was just warming a bottle for Bonnie. Algra frowned.
“I hope I haven’t made you feel so unwelcome that you feel the need to explain yourself for entering a kitchen. ”
Jude bit her lip. The silence lengthened. Algra let out a sound that might have been a laugh.
“I don’t blame you. I especially apologize for when you saw Landon outside that night. I gaslit you. I’m sorry.
”
Jude released a breath. “I get it. ”
“You do? ”
“Yeah.
” Jude moved to the fridge. “I’m a mother too. I understand wanting to protect your family. ”
Algra gave her a thoughtful look.
Algra approached and patted her shoulder. “Landon’s just protecting himself. Don’t let him be a coward. ”
Surprised, Jude glanced at the older woman.
Algra took Bonnie from her arms. Algra said she’d feed her, and told Jude he was in the library. “Go talk to him. ”
A bit dazed, Jude nodded.
She made her way down the hall, her heart hammering. With a deep breath, she lifted her arm to knock. But River’s voice reached her from inside. “I’m really sorry, Dad.
”
“This is the fifth time you’re apologizing, River. ” Landon’s voice was gentle, patient. Jude’s hand dropped. She knew she shouldn’t listen.
She should leave. But she couldn’t move. “Does that mean Jude and Bonnie can stay? ” River asked.
“River—“
“She’s your fated mate, isn’t she? ”
A loud intake of breath. “Don’t look at me like that,” River said. “It’s obvious.
”
A beat of silence. “Does everyone know? ” Landon asked. Jude held her breath.
“Does that mean—is she Landon’s fated mate? ”
Oh my god. “Dad,” River said, pleading. “Ask her to stay.
”
“You want to? ” Landon’s voice was strained. “River, I can’t. It’s complicated.
”
Jude’s shoulders dropped. She turned to go. “But it doesn’t have to be,” River said louder. “She told me she likes you.
”
“Really? ” Landon’s voice filled with hope. “Yeah. And I like her too.
And Bonnie. Do you like them? ”
A pause, then, so quietly. “Of course I do.
But I—“
“Good,” River interrupted, sounding amused. “Jude, you can come in. ”
Jude jolted. Beyond the door, she heard River giggle.
“We’re wolves, remember? Your heartbeat gave you away three minutes ago. ”
The door opened, and River strode out, pulling Jude into a quick hug. “Dad didn’t know you were there,” River whispered.
“He was too preoccupied because he likes you. Good luck. ”
She headed toward the living room, leaving Jude standing in the hallway. Jude took a deep breath and peeked around the door.
A hand sneaked out and gently pulled her inside. Her back hit the door, and suddenly Landon was there, caging her in with his arms on either side of her head. “Hey,” he said sheepishly. “Hey,” Jude managed.
His gaze traveled down, taking in her red dress. His eyes darkened to almost black, and a low rumble erupted from his chest. “Was that the wolf? ” she asked.
Landon rubbed the spot over his heart, looking embarrassed. “I’m sorry. That must be weird. ”
“No.
” Jude hesitated. “It’s kind of hot, actually. ”
Landon smiled softly. “I’m also sorry for what I said.
About you needing to leave. I wanted to rip my tongue out as soon as I said it. I mean—of course, you can still leave anytime you want. You’re not forced to remain if you don’t want to.
River was hurting, and you were scared for Bonnie, and I just—“
“Landon. ”
His mouth snapped shut. “I think I’ll stay for Christmas,” Jude said softly. He smiled back, slightly hesitant.
“And then? ”
“We’ll see. ”
“Okay. ” He nodded rapidly.
“We’ll take it slow. That is—if—wait, I messed up again. I didn’t mean to presume you’re staying because of, you know, us. You definitely don’t have to do anything you don’t want to.
I’d rather die than pressure you into anything. ”
“Hey. ” Jude reached up, cupping his face. “Big Alpha.
Shut up and kiss me already. ”
Another rumble erupted from Landon’s chest—deeper, more resonant. It vibrated through Jude’s entire body. He leaned in slowly, giving her time to change her mind.
She didn’t. When his lips finally met hers, it was gentle at first, tentative. But Jude rose on her toes, pressing closer. Landon made a sound low in his throat and deepened the kiss.
His hand cupped the back of her head, fingers threading through her hair. His other hand found her waist, pulling her flush against him. When they finally broke apart, both breathing hard, Landon rested his forehead against hers. “Merry Christmas, Jude.
”
She smiled and was about to reply when, from somewhere in the house, Declan’s voice boomed. “Are they done kissing yet? The twins want to open presents! ”
“Grandpa!
” River’s mortified voice carried clearly. “Give them a minute. ”
Landon groaned, dropping his head to Jude’s shoulder. “Come on,” he said, taking her hand.
“Let’s go face the chaos. ”
“I can’t wait,” Jude said, and she meant it. They walked toward the living room together, hand in hand. When they entered, the whole family erupted in cheers.
River was grinning. Algra winked. Declan was already launching into a terrible joke. The twins bounced around like they’d had eighteen cups of coffee.
Beckett handed Jude hot chocolate. Lauren squeezed her shoulder in welcome. And Bonnie—sweet, perfect Bonnie—was in Algra’s arms, babbling happily. Jude took her daughter and settled onto the couch next to Landon.
This time yesterday, she was alone. Stranded. Terrified. Now she was surrounded by warmth and laughter and a family that apparently included werewolves.
Now she was allowing herself to hope—really hope—for the first time in years. Maybe this Christmas miracle wasn’t over yet. Maybe it was just beginning.
