“Not another set of lights. Really?” Stoker groaned as he held out the string.

“Riker gave those to us and there are never enough lights. Just a few more.” Jessica stood outside, huddling in the cold, her face lit up by the dozens of light strings. “Silent night, holy night.”

Hearing her singing to the Christmas music was breathtaking. Everything about the night was amazing. He shifted on the ladder until he could see her face. She’d never been more beautiful than this moment in time. Sucking in his breath, he knew he’d put up ten thousand lights if she wanted them. This was Christmas Eve. “Right here?”

“Exactly. Perfect.” Clapping her hands, she took a step back, laughing she fell on her butt in the snow.

Mac barked as he pawed her face then shook, covering her with ice crystals.

“You are such a naughty boy!”

Stoker chuckled and clipped the last two feet of line before climbing down. “Here we go, missy. Last strand.” The moment he plugged in the set, he smiled.

“That is gorgeous.”

“Just like my fiancée.”

“You’re just begging for Santa Claus to come,” she purred as she rose to her feet.

“I got my gift. I don’t need anything for years to come.” The words were the truth. How they’d managed to get out of the fire alive, could only be from some magical moment. Surrounded on all sides by intense flames, the team found a narrow clearing and one heading straight down the mountain. Thank God, a big rig trucker had found them. He’d been nice enough to make them as comfortable as he could in the steel box as he drove them back to Missoula. They wouldn’t have survived another night.

“I’ll keep that in mind, buster.” She remained smiling, the look on her face one of reverence. “It’s so silent tonight. As if the world is sleeping.”

“Waiting for Santa Claus.”

“You know? I think they’re embracing the silent night.”

Stoker nodded as he studied her face. There was so much love in her heart.

Sashaying back toward the porch, she crouched over.

“What are you doing?”

“Nothing.”

“Something,” he growled as he pulled the ladder away from the house.

Jessica jerked up and smiled, her happy laughter floating into the air before tossing not one but two snowballs.

One hit him in the back, the other squarely in the face. “Ah!”

Woof! Woof!

She continued to laugh as he teetered back and forth, as if he was going to fall.

“I am so going to get you!”

Yelping, she raced into the house, slamming the door.

Stoker stomped up the stairs, taking a quick look at the sky before turning the knob. Who knew when Santa might arrive. “You are a very bad girl. Come here! Time for another spanking.”

“Not on your life.”

Chuckling, he dragged off his coat and boots then pressed his finger across his lips as he leaned over toward Mac. “Be quiet, little boy.”

He found her easily enough, standing in their bedroom, wearing only a silk red robe. She stood against the window, her face beaming, her eyes so full of love. “Wow. Don’t think this is going to get you out of a spanking. Long overdue I might add.”

“I’ve been a very good girl.”

Her words were laced with a sensual husk and his entire body ached, his cock throbbing. “Not good enough. Come here.” Beckoning with a single finger, he gave her a commanding look. How many times had he wondered whether he’d see her again?

“Are you certain you can handle me?” She inched closer but kept her distance and traced her index finger down the length of her neck.

“Mmm… Only time will tell.”

The moment she took two additional steps, he grabbed her around the waist, pulling her against the heat of his body. “I never want to let you out of my sight again.”

“Then don’t.” She slipped the palms of her hands up his chest to his shoulders then around his neck. “I love you so much.”

Unable to hold back, he crushed her mouth and lifted her off her feet, swinging her around as the kiss became wild, a passionate roar. Every part of his body was shaking as adrenaline flowed.

She wrapped her legs around his as they French kissed, their tongues entwining. Moaning into the kiss, she dug her fingers into his neck.

All time seemed to stand still as he held her, his heart racing. Easing her down to her feet, he licked around her mouth then down to her chin, nipping as he slid his hands down to cup her ass.

Jessica tilted back her head, allowing her long hair to drape down, and gripped his shoulders. “Stoker.”

The word was said with such pain yet such adoration. Using a single finger, he peeled back one side of her robe, exposing her naked breast. Exhaling, he allowed the swath of hot air to cascade across her chest before leaning down, dragging his tongue around her nipple.

Whimpering, she rose onto her toes as he began to suck, his tongue moving back and forth.

He licked and sucked as he slipped his fingers under the silky fabric until he was able to pinch her other nipple, twisting the tender flesh. His dick remained throbbing, pushing hard against his tight jeans. He’d never wanted her more than he did at this very moment.

She pushed at his shoulder and lifted her head, her eyes glassy. “I want you.”

“And I’m going to devour you.”

Giving him a mischievous grin, she wiggled until she was free of his hold then raced into the living room.

Stoker caught her in a few seconds, pulling them both down to the floor. “Not so fast, little missy.” He winked as he sat down and yanked her across his lap. “Such a very naughty girl.”

“No!” She threw her hand back as he held the small of her back, pushing her down. “Not fair.”

Lifting the edge of the robe, he rubbed her ass cheeks. “Very fair. You didn’t call me even once.”

Crack! Pop!

“I did too!”

“Right. But not before I found out on television that you were staying another week!”

Slap! Crack!

“I didn’t have a chance,” she whispered and kicked out her legs.

Whap! Crack! Pop!

“Right. Not even two seconds,” he huffed.

“I tried.”

“Not good enough.”

Smack! Slap!

He issued a dozen more until she stopped wiggling and he was too breathless to continue. He rolled her over until her head was just on the edge of the velvet, her hair splayed out in a beautiful fan. Leaning over, he rubbed his thumb across her cheek. “I thought I’d lost you.”

“You’ll never lose me. Never.”

Untying the sash, he eased the robe aside and gazed down. “So gorgeous.” As he bent over, kissing between her breasts, she used the tips of her fingers to massage his chest.

“Too many clothes.”

“You’re right.” His eyes never leaving hers, he unbuttoned and removed his shirt.

She arched her back and reached for his belt, but he pushed her hands away.

“Not yet. You’re all mine tonight. You do exactly as I say. Lie down.”

Obeying, she eased her arms over her head until her hands were able to touch the presents. “What did you buy me?”

“You’ll see. Only if you’re good.” He crawled between her legs, lifting and pushing them back, exposing her shorn pussy. “My special sweet treat first.”

The moment he pressed his mouth against her clit, she opened her mouth, a string of whimpers erupting.

He loved to watch her expression, the way her eyes moved back and forth when he ate her, licking every drop of her cream. Grunting, he swirled his tongue around her clit as he pressed his fingers into her thighs, keeping her wide open.

She tossed her head back and forth as he continued teasing her tender flesh until she was left panting. “Stoker!”

“Mmm…” He thrust the entire length of his tongue inside her pussy, wiggling as she moaned, then buried his face, moving the tip of his tongue up and down in a methodical manner. With every long swipe, her body quivered, responding to his touch.

Jessica’s hands fluttered to her chest and she rubbed her fingers around her nipples, keeping them rock hard.

He continued feasting, his actions becoming frantic, his need building to the point he could no longer focus.

“I’m going to… come.”

“Not yet.” He lifted his head and sucked on the insides of her thighs, watching her every move.

Slapping at his shoulders, she laughed and pressed one hand across her eyes. “Don’t stop. Please!”

Issuing a single growl, he resumed licking, this time his tongue moving rapidly, his fingers dancing along her pussy lips.

Her body continued to shake, her head moving from side to side.

He could tell she was close to coming. Opening his mouth wide, he sucked until her body tensed.

“Oh! Stoker! I…” The single scream was followed by a series of purrs, the sound floating between them as she climaxed.

Only when her body stopped shaking did he rise to his feet, removing his jeans. There were so many words he wanted to say, a myriad of thoughts that remained in the forefront of his mind, but this was exactly where he needed to be. She was the most precious gift of all. As he crouched over her, he placed each hand on the side of her head, using his upper body strength to lean over. “Forever.”

“Forever.” She wrapped her legs around his upper thighs, pulling him down until their lips touched, his cock pressed against her groin. “Make love to me.”

As she guided the tip of his cock just inside, he shuddered, goose bumps popping along every inch of skin. “Oh, baby.” Thrusting the entire length of his shaft deep inside, he threw his head back, roaring as she squeezed around the thick invasion. “God!”

Jessica sighed and rubbed her hands up his chest then around his neck, easing him all the way down.

The scent of her intoxicating, he drove in and out, every cell in his body on fire.

Her grip tight, she moved with him until their bodies became one. The harder he plunged, the more euphoric her expression.

Stoker raised up until he was able to pepper kisses around her mouth then dragged his tongue across the seam. He wasn’t going to be able to hold back for long. This was too intense, too special.

Wiggling underneath, she clenched her pussy muscles and linked her feet together.

Beads of sweat rolled down his forehead, dropping against her face as he tried to hold back, thrusting harder and faster. His entire body shaking, his balls swollen, he was unable to control his needs. The moment he erupted, hot cum flowing into her tight pussy, he captured her mouth. “Amazing.”

“I’m glad you’re safe.”

“Baby, don’t worry. Please don’t worry.” But he knew the fear would continue for both of them. For now, they were at peace.

They held each other, caressing and kissing, both lost in the moment. When she shivered and nuzzled closer, he leaned up on a single elbow. “Let me get a blanket. Would you like wine or hot chocolate?”

Smiling, she fingered his chin. “Hot chocolate.”

He kissed her lips before rising to his feet. Tossing her a blanket, he gave a heated look. “I’ll be right back. When he returned, he found her in the same place, the blanket around her shoulders, her feet crossed and her gaze on the tree. The smile was one he would never forget. “You can have one present tonight.”

Jessica reached up, intertwining her fingers with his. “Sit down, baby. We should talk.”

“Talk?” Instantly on alert, he sat down, placing his legs around her.

She took a sip of the hot cocoa before easing the cup onto the floor. Taking his, she did the same then placed her other hand on tops of theirs. “My gift, the one I planned, was held up by the storm. Maybe tomorrow.”

“Oh, honey. I don’t need a gift. Don’t you understand. You are my gift.” He could tell that something was wrong by the look in her eyes. “Talk to me. What’s going on?”

Jessica looked over at MacGyver, who remained sleeping on the couch. “This is my home.”

“Absolutely. You’re my family. You have to know that.” A ringing sounded in his ears. She was sick. He could tell.

Touching his cheek, she nodded. “I do know. I have never loved anyone like I love you.”

“But?”

“No buts. I do have a small gift for you.”

“I already told you that—”

“Shut up, big he man. Let me do the talking.” She laughed then took his hand. “I hope this is a gift you’re going to like.”

“Anything you give me I’ll love.”

“Shh!” Shaking her head, she forced his hand to travel down from her neck to her breast then lower, stopping on her stomach. When he looked into her eyes, she was crying.

“I don’t understand.” His ears were ringing, and he sucked in his breath. “Wait. You’re…”

Pressing her hand over his, she nodded. “A family.”

Stoker heard the words. Sucking in air, he allowed his eyes to travel to the position of his hand. “You’re pregnant?”

Nodding, she licked away several tears. “Are you happy?”

“Oh my God!” Gathering her into his arms, he wept. “We’re going to have a baby!”

* * *

“Are you ready for this?” Jessica asked as she straightened Stoker’s collar.

“I am terrified for some reason, but yeah.” Stoker remained idling at the intersection, almost praying the light wouldn’t turn green. He wasn’t certain why except he was fearful they were too late, that the little boy wouldn’t be able to enjoy his presents. Nothing would devastate him any worse.

“This will be perfect. You’ll see. Come on, baby. They need a reason to celebrate.”

“The tree! Shit. I hope Shannon saved a tree.”

She laughed. “Shannon saved a huge tree. Stop worrying.”

Nodding, he exhaled and tapped on the steering wheel until the light turned. The moment he rounded the corner, he gasped. “They’re all here.” Every jumper stood just across the street. On the lawns were dozens, hundreds of boxes and baskets, colorful wrapping and large stuffed animals.

“Did you really think they wouldn’t be?” she asked as she blew him a kiss.

“I think a little elf told them when we were coming.”

“Maybe. As if they shouldn’t be a part of this wonderful moment. I’m so happy I’m here.”

As he parked the truck, he looked from one smokejumper to another. Every man seemed to be dressed in some form of a festive outfit, every jumper with a wide smile. “Look at the boxes, the toys.”

“I’ve never seen so many. The guys are wonderful. They knew what to do. Thought we might be busy.” The lilt in her voice was joyful.

“You, my dear, are something else.”

“Oh my God,” Jessica whispered as she climbed out of the truck.

He noticed the big rig as well as the large man standing beside it and broke into laughter. “That man is the reason we are here.”

“What are you talking about?” she asked as she walked closer to the street.

“He found us after the fire. I’m not certain what we would have done if he hadn’t come along. Just out of the blue.” He noticed the odd stare as Jessica turned her head, the way she paled. “What’s wrong?”

Jessica continued walking as the smokejumpers and the truck driver moved closer together. She stopped short, her body swaying back and forth.

“Whoa. What is going on?” Stoker grabbed her around the waist.

“That man is an angel,” she struggled to say, “he brought me from Casper to Missoula.” She tipped her head until she could see into his eyes. “He told me to believe in magic, in Santa Claus. His name is Dawson.”

“Dawson.” Shocked, his mouth dropped open as Dawson shook hands with the other jumpers. There were no words to describe the way he was feeling, the shivers running the course of his entire body. How could something like this happen without… He gulped and looked up at the sky. This was God’s country for a reason.

Dawson closed the distance, a smile on his face. “Merry Christmas! A little bird told me that you guys were collecting for a family desperately in need. I convinced some folks in my home town to divvy out a few of their presents. Some food. I hope that might help.”

Stoker could see Garcia’s face as his friend pointed to the back of the open truck. Both he and Jessica walked several steps, until they were able to see. “What did you do?” The entire back was full of boxes.

“Just had a few friends who owed me some favors. I told them that some magic was occurring in Missoula.” Grinning, he nodded to Jessica.

“My angel,” she said as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “This is a special time for you.”

“My little boy was saved on Christmas Eve so, yes, the best time,” Dawson said. “Congratulations on the new baby.”

Easing back, Jessica blinked several times. “How did you know?”

Dawson grinned. “My wife. She had the same glow.”

Stoker shook his head, goose bumps popping along every inch of skin.

“What are we missing?” Landen asked as he walked toward them.

“They get all sappy like this. You know that,” Boone said then grinned.

“Come on, guys. We have some things to do,” Antonio suggested as he nodded toward the house.

“Somebody grab the tree,” Stoker instructed.

“I have it,” Cooper grinned as he walked closer, dragging the tree behind him.

Taking Jessica’s hand, he wiped away his tears as the group walked across the street. He stood at the front door, a lump in his throat, until he was nudged by Riker. “I’m going.” Issuing three hard knocks, he stood directly in front of the door, blocking the view.

When the door was opened, a face peered out then the eyes registered recognition. “Mr. Hansen. Right?”

“Stoker. Please. Merry Christmas. I know this isn’t a great day, but we have something for you, well, for Joey really.” Stoker heard the strangled sound in his voice.

“Son, wait. I have your change first. I told you I would pay you back.” Mr. Michaels shaking hand slipped into his back pocket.

“Mr. Michaels. Don’t. I wasn’t completely honest with you.” Stoker swallowed hard. He stepped away, his nerves ragged.

“What do you mean?” Mr. Michaels looked over his shoulder, narrowing his eyes.

“Daddy! I want to open presents.”

The sound of the little voice made Stoker reach back for Jessica. He could tell she was crying.

“In a minute, Joey. Okay?” Mr. Michaels looked toward them, tears in his eyes. “He’s having a very good day today.”

Stoker nodded and pulled out the envelope from his pocket. “I opened the lot for you so that I could make certain you had a nice Christmas. My team worked with me this season to keep the lot open. This is for you.” The last words almost inaudible, he took a giant stride backwards and wrapped his arm around Jessica, willing the tears away.

Mr. Michaels looked at each man, then at the truck and the various boxes lying on his front lawn. He exhaled as he opened the envelope.

“Daddy! Presents. Can I go out and see? Please?”

Mr. Michaels stood shaking.

“I’ll take him. If that’s okay,” Boone said as he held out his hand.

“Get your coat, Joey. Then you can go with the nice firefighter,” Mr. Michaels managed. “I don’t understand. Why did you do this?”

“Because we care. The whole town has been a part of this. They heard about Joey and wanted to give back, to your family and to your little boy’s care,” Antonio said as he inched besides Stoker.

Stoker held his breath and his eyes were drawn to a little boy, his sweet smile, his almost gray complexion, but eyes of a wondrous child at Christmas.

“Oh!” Mr. Michaels exclaimed as he fell against the door, tears running down his face.

“Daddy. Are you okay?” Jumping up and down, Joey shuffled into his coat.

“Come on, little fella. Santa couldn’t put everything inside this year,” Boone said as he crouched down.

“Son, I’m just fine. I’m happy.” He looked up at Stoker, mouthing ‘thank you’.

“We have toys and food. A tractor trailer load and much more,” Jessica said as she reached out, touching the man’s arms.

“Please come inside. Please. Martha. We have company.” Mr. Michaels walked outside, hugging every man, Stoker last. As he clung onto Stoker, the bear hug tight, he whispered, “You are an angel. You have no idea what this will do for my little boy.”

“I think I do, sir. You have no idea what you’ve done for my family. Merry Christmas.”

As the others walked inside, carrying boxes, baskets of food and wrapped presents, their voices filled with laughter, Stoker hung back, turning away as the tears fell.

Jessica slid her arms around his waist. “I love you.”

“I love you, baby. My two babies.” He touched her stomach and smiled.

“Just out of curiosity. How much was the check?”

“Almost forty thousand dollars.”

“From selling trees? I’m in the wrong business,” she teased.

He looked up at the sky, groaning when he heard his cell phone ringing. “You know, there is a Santa Claus.”

“You do look hot in red.” Blowing him a kiss, she took a step back.

“Hansen.”

“I tried Jessica’s phone first. There is some band here ready to set up. They said some elf sent them to play a concert for free because of some CD release party. Everything is paid for? Would that be our lovely Jessica Dunn?” Shannon laughed.

“A band, huh? Setting up at Ziggy’s. A CD release party that I wasn’t told about. I might know the naughty elf responsible. We’ll be there in a little while. I have some things to take care of.” Stoker slipped his phone into his pocket and walked toward her. She’d heard every word. “I can tell by your red face and impish look that you forgot to tell me something.”

“I might have. My second present. I’m not going anywhere anytime soon, baby. Daddy.”

Stoker smiled hearing the words. He was going to be a father, something he never believed possible. As he pulled her in for a kiss, he could swear he heard bells jingling in the sky.

“Ho. Ho. Ho. Merry Christmas!”