“You sure know how to make an old man smile. I pride myself on top-quality Christmas trees.” Al grinned. “Why don’t we head back over to the trees and I’ll wrap it up for you?”
As they walked back toward Oliver and the tree, Maggie couldn’t help but notice Hank had disappeared. She felt a twinge of guilt about not being more receptive to him, but he’d caught her off guard. She probably didn’t have to worry about him asking her out. She’d acted like a skittish newborn colt.
Mr. Pendergast placed the tree in a machine that wrapped it up in netting. Finn easily picked up the tree and strapped it to the top of Maggie’s car.
“I’ll follow behind the two of you in my car,” Finn said. He’d barely said two words since she had surprised him in the tent. Maggie wasn’t sure if he was embarrassed or annoyed with her for overhearing him. Either way, it felt awkward.
“Can I go in Finn’s car?” Oliver asked, crossing his hands prayerfully in front of him.
Maggie tugged at his sleeve. “No, Oliver,” she said in a sharp voice. “You’re driving with me.”
Ignoring her son’s pout, Maggie got in the driver’s seat and revved the engine. Oliver was becoming entirely too enamored with Finn. Perhaps she needed to sit him down for a little talk about their friendship. Oliver wasn’t shy about telling her he wanted her to find him a forever father. It wasn’t too much of a leap for Oliver to imagine Finn in that role.
Lord, please protect my son. His heart is as wide and open as the great outdoors. I don’t want him to get his feelings hurt. He’s already been through so much.
As she drove home, Finn’s words played back in her mind. I’m doing perfectly fine all by myself.
Maggie didn’t know why it bothered her so much to have overheard Finn’s harsh-sounding words directed at Mr. Pendergast. It wasn’t any of her business if he wasn’t a proponent of the town mayor’s matchmaking program. To be honest, neither was she. So what if he didn’t want a wife and kids? It really didn’t concern her. Finn was her friend, not a prospective mate. Because she felt so comfortable around him and she knew Oliver loved him, Maggie had allowed Finn a place in her life that wasn’t strictly in the friendship zone.
If she was being really honest with herself, there was chemistry between her and Finn. The extensive amount of time she’d been spending in Finn’s company had created a bond between them. But Maggie wasn’t looking for love. She was seeking stability and a solid foundation. Although Oliver wanted a father, Maggie didn’t need a man to help her give Oliver a bright future. She was fully capable of doing it on her own.
Finn had made things crystal clear about his wants and needs. He didn’t need to spell it out any further. Finn liked having a solitary life. And he wasn’t interested in changing. For the first time Maggie realized Finn had layers like an onion. On the surface he was jovial and full of zest, but underneath he was struggling with something. Maggie was certain of it. She knew from her own experience what it looked like when a person was keeping secrets.
Maggie had her own problems to deal with as a single mother making a new life for herself. Although Finn was a good friend, it wasn’t her place to try to solve his issues. She already had her hands full trying to make sure Oliver was healthy and happy. The wounds from Sam’s death were still so fresh.
When they arrived home, Finn carried the tree into the house, with a little assistance from Oliver. Maggie couldn’t help but smile at the sight of her son carrying the tail end of the tree. He really wanted to be a mini version of Finn.
Once inside the house, Maggie directed Finn and Oliver toward the living room. Finn placed the tree in the tree stand right in front of their big bay window. She knew it would look spectacular when it was fully decked out with ornaments, lights and a shiny gold star on top. She could imagine it all, including gaily wrapped presents sitting under the tree.
“Thanks for helping us pick a tree, Finn,” Oliver said with a wide grin. “And you were right. You are the best tree hunter in town. Maybe in all of Alaska.”
“Thanks, kiddo,” Finn said. “It was a real honor to be asked to join you and your mother. Finding the perfect Christmas tree is epic. You made my day!”
“You made mine too. It wouldn’t have been half as fun without you.” Oliver looked up at him. “I know you’re super busy, but I really want to go flying with you.”
The wistful tone in Oliver’s voice made Maggie weak in the knees. One word from Finn and her son would be crushed. She found herself holding her breath. Please, Finn, she prayed. Don’t break his heart.
“We can go on Saturday morning, bright and early.” He locked gazes with Maggie. “Does that sound all right?”
There was no way in the world Maggie could say no, even if she’d wanted to. Oliver was looking at her with an expression of such hope shining forth in his eyes. “Sounds like a plan. I’ll head into the store and set up the window display while you boys have your adventure.”
Oliver let out a roar of approval. “This is the best day ever!” he yelled.
“I think it’s time to head upstairs so you can get ready for a bath and bedtime. Say good-night to Finn,” Maggie instructed.
“’Night, Finn,” Oliver said, looking up at him with a shy expression etched on his face.
“See you later, gator,” Finn said, tousling Oliver’s hair.
“In a while, crocodile,” Oliver shouted out as he raced toward the stairs.
Once they were
