Trust in Love

Chapter 12

As Christmas approached, Justine had fun helping Jared decorate the house. Jared didn't have too many decorations so Justine went out and bought some more. She enjoyed trimming the tree because she got to contribute her own sense of style to the look of it. For years she had followed her mom's direction when it came to decorating, so it was nice for her to have the freedom to do what she liked for a change.

It felt strange not seeing her mom and brother around the holidays. Justine didn't think she would be welcome at her mom's house.

Nigel and Sandy hosted a party at their place on Christmas Eve. Jared and Justine wore matching ugly Christmas sweaters. Everyone had a fun time. Sandy told Justine that she'd never seen Jared so happy and she had known him for a long time.

'He's an amazing person,' Justine confessed. 'I don't think he realizes how much I care about him.'

'Oh, I think he does,' Sandy argued. 'I've seen the way he looks at you.'

Justine felt her cheeks grow warm.

'You two make such a cute couple,' Sandy said.

'So do you and Nigel,' Justine replied.

Justine and Jared were the last ones to leave the party.

As Jared drove them home, Justine said, 'I can't wait to sleep in tomorrow.'

Jared chuckled.

'Santa might show up early in the morning, so be prepared.'

Justine smiled. She was used to Jared teasing her.

*********************************

The following morning, Jared woke Justine up with a kiss.

'Merry Christmas, sleepyhead,' he murmured as he nibbled on her ear lobe.

'Merry Christmas,' she echoed softly. 'What time is it?'

'Almost ten,' Jared replied. 'Breakfast is ready.'

Justine sat up slowly.

'You cooked already? I was going to do that,' she said.

'It looks like I beat you to it,' he replied playfully.

Justine put on her robe and followed Jared downstairs.

Jared had made crepes with strawberries.

'Wow, this looks delicious!' Justine exclaimed.

'It took me a couple of tries, so I hope you like it,' Jared said hopefully.

Justine took a bite and moaned in pleasure.

'This is divine,' she said appreciatively. 'You've outdone yourself.'

Jared sat down and said, 'I'm so glad you like them.'

After they finished eating and cleaning up the kitchen, they opened their presents.

Justine gave Jared some new ties and a couple of bestsellers he had asked for. He gave Justine a new robe and a diamond necklace. Justine gasped when she saw it.

'Oh, Jared. It's beautiful!' she exclaimed.

'I haven't seen you wear much jewelry, so I wanted to get you something nice,' he replied.

'It's gorgeous! I love it!' she cried.

'Let me help you put it on,' Jared said.

He clasped it for her and she asked him how it looked.