Love in the Fields

12

The farmhouse glowed with holiday lights that reflected off the fresh layer of snow, casting a warm, festive glow over the quiet countryside. Camila took it all in, a quiet thrill building in her chest as she realized this was her first Christmas here in the countryside—a first holiday far from the city lights but somehow feeling closer to home than anywhere else. Inside, the scent of pine and cinnamon lingered in the air, a comforting blend of freshly cut branches and baking spices from Pam's kitchen. Camila knew this was going to be a Christmas like no other.

Lauren and her family had arrived earlier in the day, arms laden with gifts and treats, their laughter filling the house with energy. They had settled right in, chatting with Pam and Rob as though they'd known them for years. Lauren had spent most of the day at Camila's side, showing her how to make holiday wreaths and hanging mistletoe over the doorways with a mischievous smile that made Camila's cheeks warm.

But as evening fell, Camila's excitement was tempered by an uneasy feeling in her stomach. Her parents were coming. Her mother's visit was a surprise blessing, and Camila missed her terribly, but the thought of her father's stern disapproval set her on edge. She hadn't forgotten why she'd been sent here in the first place, and she could only hope that his presence wouldn't sour the warmth of the holiday she'd been looking forward to so much.

When her parents finally arrived, her mother's embrace was immediate and full of love, melting some of Camila's nerves. But her father's greeting was cool and distant, his gaze already wandering over the decorations with that familiar critical eye.

"Look at this place," he muttered as he set his suitcase by the door. "It's... quaint."

"Welcome! Merry Christmas!" Pam greeted warmly, stepping forward to embrace both of Camila's parents. "We're so happy you're here. Please, make yourselves at home."

As the evening progressed, the house was filled with the sounds of laughter, Christmas music, and clinking dishes as they all gathered around the living room. Camila found herself falling into easy banter with Lauren, who had a way of bringing out her laughter, even through the tension she felt. They exchanged light-hearted teasing and the occasional lingering glance, and while most thought it was just two friends enjoying the holiday spirit, her father's gaze was sharp, catching each subtle exchange with a tightening jaw and narrowed eyes.

"Camila, could you set the table properly? This isn't some... casual event," he muttered as he watched her place the silverware.

"Of course, Dad," Camila replied, keeping her tone light, though the weight of his judgment settled heavily in her chest. She noticed Pam's frown as she glanced at her brother, and Rob, who cleared his throat to draw her father's attention away.

Despite her father's disapproving glances, Camila tried to let the holiday joy take over. She felt her spirits lift as Lauren slipped a piece of holly into her hair, grinning as she admired her handiwork. "You're practically part of the decorations now," Lauren teased, brushing her fingers gently along Camila's hair in a way that sent a warm thrill through her.

"Just trying to blend in," Camila joked back, her cheeks warm from more than just the fireplace. The two exchanged a glance that held more than words, and Camila felt the closeness between them grow, though she knew they were being careful not to make it too obvious.

But her father, ever-watchful, was quick to comment.

"Camila, stop fooling around," he said sharply, his voice cutting through the laughter. "If you want to impress everyone, perhaps act like an adult for once."

The room fell silent, and Camila swallowed, nodding as she stepped back from Lauren, her smile fading. Her mother quickly interjected with a nervous laugh, trying to smooth things over. "Now, it's Christmas, everyone. Let's enjoy this, please."