Can't Love Christmas

Thirteen

It was nearly six o'clock before Rowan got to Ash's place. She rushed out of the house before he even got out of the truck.

"I'm sorry I'm late, I had to deal with something at work."

"It's okay. Let's go." Rowan put the truck in gear and they headed out.

"So, what's in the bag?"

"Oh, extra clothes."

Rowan looked alarmed. "Why do you have extra clothes? I thought you said we weren't staying."

"We aren't. It's for the drive home. So I can change out of my dress. It's winter."

"Okay. Makes sense I guess."

"I figured suits were comfortable enough."

Rowan scoffed. "Comfort is up for debate. They do cover your whole body at least. So is there anything in particular I need to know for tonight?"

"I don't think so. I don't actually know all that much. Sadiq said the parties are fun, dinner is usually delicious and there's drinks and dancing and sometimes something else for entertainment. Every pharmacy in the chain from around the region is invited. Everything is free, including the door prizes, the only thing you have to pay for are the silent auction items if you win. We are officially seated at a table with the Miska store, but apparently there is a lot of mingling once the dinner service is over."

"Wait. You're using a corporate party to try and get me to like Christmas? Are you daft?"

"No! Where did you think we were going?"

"I don't know, I figured we were going to a fancy party you found somewhere, and wanted to show me the classy side of Christmas events." He drummed his fingers on the wheel. "Do your coworkers know you are bringing me?"

"Yeah, I mentioned it today."

"Any judgment from them?"

"Are you worried about what people think of us?"

"No, I'm worried about what they think of me, and how that might affect you. I know that matters to you."

Ash smiled and reached over to place her hand on his arm. "I appreciate your concern. Everyone I've met loves you. Even Mrs. Rawson does, regardless of what she told me about your personal life. You're like the golden child of Miska."

"I highly doubt that. They all know me too well."

"Well, they still like you. Margaret was very excited that I said you were coming. She clapped."

They both laughed at Ash's impression, and the tension eased out of Rowan's shoulders.

Half an hour later they pulled into the hotel ballroom. Rowan got out first and then helped Ash step down from the truck. The parking lot was slippery and she teetered in her heels. She clutched his sleeve for balance.

"I thought you were used to walking in heels, Cinders."

"Not skinny heels like these. Normally I wear sturdier boots. Also, it's not usually this icy."

"Fair enough. Did you need to bring your bag in?"

"No, I'll just grab it and change later. I don't know if there will be a place to store it. I've got my clutch for the party."

They reached the front door and found the coat check. When Ash turned to look at Rowan, her throat went dry. He wore a white shirt under a navy suit, the top two buttons left undone. In exchange, Rowan looked her up and down with wide eyes, taking in her burgundy v-neck halter dress which stopped three inches above her knee.