Christmas in Pine Ridge: Clean Contemporary Romance (A Pine Ridge Romance)

  Christmas in Pine Ridge

  Holly Stevenson

  Contents

  Dedication

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  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Chapter 18

  Chapter 19

  Chapter 20

  Chapter 21

  Chapter 22

  Chapter 23

  Chapter 24

  Chapter 25

  Chapter 26

  Chapter 27

  Chapter 28

  Chapter 29

  Chapter 30

  Chapter 31

  Chapter 32

  Chapter 33

  Chapter 34

  Chapter 35

  Chapter 36

  Chapter 37

  Chapter 38

  Epilogue

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  Pretty Please . . .

  Acknowledgments

  About the Author

  Dedication

  To Chelsea, my mentor, cheerleader, and friend.

  Thank you for helping me on this new journey.

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  Chapter 1

  “Have you ever seen anything so beautiful?” Hope leaned forward in the seat of the luxury SUV, nearly pressing her face against the window.

  “It has its charms,” her sister Emily said from the seat beside her. “I had no idea snow could be so sparkly.” Her blue eyes lit up. “This would be great footage for the channel. Eddie, do you mind if I roll my window down?” she asked the driver.

  “Not at all,” he replied. He was a friendly college kid who worked for Pine Ridge Resort, the Colorado mountain lodge where Hope had been invited to teach yoga for the week. “Just let me know if there’s anything else you need.” He glanced at Hope in the rearview mirror, his ears turning an adorable red when she gave him a smile.

  “Thanks.” She turned, pulling the collar of her coat closer as she watched Emily filming through the open window. Her sister had an eye for capturing great footage, making her an invaluable asset to Hope’s yoga channel called Mindful Mornings. She’d started the channel for fun, never dreaming how successful it would become. Hope couldn’t believe she got to do what she loved and get paid for it, making enough to hire her sister on. And now, here she was, in Pine Ridge, invited as a special guest to teach at a beautiful winter lodge. She couldn’t think of a better way to spend the first week of December.

  “You two must be in climate shock, coming from Southern California,” Eddie said, adjusting the heat to full blast to counteract the cold.

  “Yes. It’s slightly warmer where we live in Oceanside,” Emily said dryly as she turned and checked her camera.

  “Slightly.” Hope smiled at her sister’s profile. At twenty-eight, she was only two years older than Hope, but with her brown hair swept back into a ponytail, she looked younger. Her tiny baby bump wasn’t visible at all beneath the fluffy parka she wore. Hope felt guilty asking Emily to come with her for an entire week, leaving her husband, Max, behind. Emily had insisted it wasn’t a problem, but Hope had cooked up a scheme all the same.

  “Here we are—Pine Ridge Resort,” Eddie said.

  “Oh!” Emily hurried to get a shot of the entrance.

  Hope’s eyes widened and she rolled her window down for a better view. The entrance to the lodge was impressive, with a massive wooden arch decorated in pine boughs and poinsettias stretching over the two-lane road. Behind the arch loomed the resort. It nestled into the snowy backdrop of the Rocky Mountains—though the charming chalet design could have belonged in the Swiss Alps. It was festive and cozy and took Hope’s breath away.

  “I love the trees,” Emily said, still looking through her camera.

  “I know.” Hope bounced in her seat as she saw several pines decorated like Christmas trees. “This is too perfect.”

  Eddie laughed. “You have officially given the best reaction of any guests I’ve driven. And you haven’t even seen it at night. The lights are usually the wow factor.”

  Hope touched Emily’s arm and gave another little squeal. “It’s like we’re in a Christmas movie! Promise me you won’t be so busy filming that you forget to enjoy it.”

  Emily turned and gave a guilty shrug. “I’ll do my best. But you know I can’t help myself—especially in a place like this. Your viewers are going to love this episode.”

  Hope nodded. “I wish I could transport each of them here—even for a few minutes—so they could experience it in person.”

  They pulled up to the spacious entrance, passing several cars to park in the spot reserved for the resort SUV.

  “Hold tight,” Eddie said, hopping out to get their doors for them.

  Emily glanced at Hope. “He’s totally crushing on you,” she whispered.

  Hope shook her head. “He’s just being sweet.”

  Emily rolled her eyes but didn’t say more as Hope’s door opened.

  “Here, let me help you with that step.” Eddie offered his hand, an unnecessary gesture since there was already a running board, but Hope took his hand anyway.

  “Thank you.” She ignored Emily’s forced cough and stepped onto the pavement near the valet stand.

  “If you’ll wait here, I’ll get your bags,” Eddie said before hurrying to help Emily.

  Hope wrapped her arms around herself and gave a contented sigh as she looked up at the lodge. Christmas music played softly from unseen speakers, and she smiled as a young family exited the building. A man exited behind them, his posture soldier-straight. Hope’s heart skipped a beat as he walked toward the valet stand. His jacket couldn’t hide how muscular he was. He had dark hair and a face that even from here set her pulse racing. She looked away as he approached the stand.

  “Hey there, Charlie. Do you mind bringing the SUV around?”

  His Southern accent made her stomach flutter. Was this guy for real? Something about Southern accents always melted her. She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye.

  “Sure thing, Mr. Davis. I’ll have it right out for you,” Charlie answered, taking his valet ticket.

  “Please, call me Owen.”

  Charlie tipped his head. “I’ll be right back, Owen.”

  Owen nodded and turned toward Hope. She flushed, embarrassed that he’d caught her staring. She quickly looked away, focusing on Emily who walked toward her.

  “This Swiss architecture is so charming,” Emily said, staring up at the lodge. “It makes me want to learn how to yodel or something.”

  Hope laughed, grateful for the distraction from her embarrassment. “I would love to hear you yodel. Let’s find out where you can take lessons.”

  Emily smirked. “Max would be thrilled.”

  Eddie came around the vehicle, rolling their suitcases on a luggage cart. “Okay, ladies, if you’ll follow me to the concierge desk, I’ll see that this luggage is taken to your room.”

  They nodded and followed him toward the entrance. Hope darted one more glance at Owen as they walked past the valet stand and her stomach gave a little flip—he was watching her. When their eyes caught, he dipped his head and gave her a half smile
that set her heart pounding. She quickly looked away.

  Emily noticed the exchange. “He’s cute,” she whispered, nudging Hope in the side as they entered the lodge. “Hopefully he’s staying for the week.”

  Hope shook her head. “He’s too cute to be single. I’m sure he’s here with someone.” She sneaked one more look over her shoulder at him before stepping through the entrance doors.

  “Oh wow. Just look at this place,” Emily breathed.

  She and Emily gawked as they entered the main lobby which reached up at least four floors. A thirty-foot Christmas tree stood in the center of the room—and didn’t come close to touching the ornately carved domed ceiling. A gigantic stone fireplace adorned the wall behind the tree, with comfortable seating scattered throughout the space. The Christmas music from outside carried into the lobby.

  Hope’s eyes widened and she touched Emily’s arm. “It’s breathtaking. I wish we could have convinced Dad to come.” Their father lived in Oceanside and rarely wanted to leave the comforts of his own home—and the memories of their mother.

  “We’ll send him lots of pictures,” Emily said. “Maybe that will convince him to join us next time.”

  “Maybe.” Hope lifted a shoulder, trying to sound enthusiastic, but they both knew it wasn’t likely.

  “Excuse me, are you Hope from Mindful Mornings?” a woman with a strong Southern accent asked, touching Hope’s shoulder from behind.

  “I’ll go check us in,” Emily said, giving Hope a wink. She knew Hope liked to talk with fans of her show.

  Hope gave her a grateful smile before turning to the woman who’d spoken. “That’s me.”

  The woman’s hazel eyes warmed. “It’s such a treat to meet you in person! I booked a room here as soon as you announced you’d be teaching classes for the week. I can’t tell you how much I’ve been looking forward to it. I’ve watched all your shows. You’ve inspired me in more ways than you know.”

  Hope’s face softened, truly touched. It was always a boost to meet a fan of the show, but to hear that it had impacted this woman’s life in a positive way was the best compliment she could receive. “Thank you, that means so much. What’s your name?”

  “Beverly Davis. I’m sure you won’t remember me, but I’ve emailed you before.”

  Hope received hundreds of emails and did her best to answer each one, but some stood out more than others. She instantly made the connection. “Yes, of course. You’re the woman with the son who served in Afghanistan, right?” Was he the Owen Davis she’d seen outside?

  Beverly’s face brightened. “Yes! And I brought Owen with me to attend classes.”

  Hope blinked, her pulse quickening. “I think I may have seen him by the valet stand.” He was here with his mom. Did that mean he wasn’t seeing anyone? She found it hard to believe someone so attractive would be unattached. “Is it just the two of you staying here?” She asked, before instantly chiding herself. What was she doing? It didn’t matter if he was single. She wasn’t looking for a relationship—she didn’t need more heartache.

  Beverly sighed. “Just us. We live in Corpus Christi and I couldn’t convince his father or brother to join us.” She gave a little laugh. “I fairly forced Owen to come as it is. The men in my family don’t know how to take a vacation.” She shook her head before moving a tiny step forward, lowering her voice. “I didn’t mention it in my email, but ever since his tour, Owen has suffered from PTSD. I’m really anxious for him to attend your class.”

  Hope swallowed, her heart hurting for Beverly and Owen. “I’m so sorry. And I’m glad he’ll be attending. I’d love to help however I can.” Even as she spoke the words, her stomach twisted. She didn’t know much about PTSD. Would she be able to help?

  Beverly took her hand. “Thank you, honey. You’re just the sweetest thing.” Her phone buzzed, and she gave Hope’s hand a quick squeeze. “That will be Owen. He’s out waiting for me, so I have to run. I’m looking forward to the first class tomorrow!” She waved and hurried toward the entrance, her designer cowgirl boots clacking along the wooden floor as she went.

  Chapter 2

  Owen glanced at the entrance to the lodge, telling himself he was watching for his mom, but secretly hoping for another glimpse of the blonde. Something about her interested him. When their eyes had met, he’d seen kindness there; a gentleness not common with a woman that beautiful. He shook his head to banish the thought. A woman like that wouldn’t want a man like him: hardened, broken. He knew a year ago that love wasn’t going to be in the cards for him. Not anymore.

  He heard his SUV approaching before he saw Charlie pulling it around to the valet stand. He glanced at the entrance again, but there was no sign of the blonde. Annoyed with the disappointment that prickled him, he pulled out his cell and sent his mom a text.

  Car’s here. Are you almost ready?

  He’d offered to get the car to give her a few extra minutes to get ready this morning. He loved his mom, but she could sure take a while putting herself together.

  Charlie pulled their small rental SUV around and hopped out, leaving the ignition running. He nodded at Owen. “All set.”

  “Thanks, Charlie.” Owen had only met him when they’d checked in the day before, but he liked to call people by their first names. It made things more personal. He glanced at his phone again, but there was no reply from his mom. Where was she? He looked at Charlie. “I’m waiting for someone. Is it all right if I stay here a few minutes?” he asked.

  Charlie nodded. “Take all the time you need.”

  “Thanks.” Owen circled to the driver’s side and climbed into the seat, grateful that Charlie had slid it back for him. At a little over six feet, Owen needed the leg room. He cut the engine, missing the sound and feel of his truck back at the ranch. He scrubbed a hand over his face, impatient to get back. He was needed there—and more importantly, he could stay busy from sunup to sundown.

  He’d agreed to come on this vacation with his mom, knowing she wouldn’t leave him alone about it until he did. She had his best interest at heart, wanting to help with the PTSD that plagued him after his recent tour in Afghanistan. She’d researched and planned this trip for weeks, convinced that if he would come to the lodge that promised relaxation and escape, he would be cured. But what she didn’t realize, and what Owen tried tell her, was that downtime was worse than anything else. It gave him too much time to think. Too much time to remember.

  The passenger door opened and he jumped, his heart pounding in his chest. He forced a calm expression, hoping his mom didn’t notice how she’d startled him. Any sudden movement or noise made him jumpy, a fact that annoyed him.

  “Owen, you’ll never guess who I just ran into!” she exclaimed, climbing in beside him as her familiar floral perfume filled the space.

  Good. She hadn’t noticed. He blew out a long breath and smiled. “Who’s that?”

  “That yoga instructor I’ve been telling you about—the one from Mindful Mornings?”

  He gave her a blank stare and she let out an exasperated breath.

  “The whole reason we’re here at this lodge?” She playfully smacked his arm. “Do you ever listen to a word I say?”

  “Oh, that instructor.” He smiled and turned the ignition on, waiting until she’d buckled her seat belt before pulling out of the drive.

  She wagged a manicured finger at him. “Now remember, you promised you would come to the classes with me. Hope Sullivan is the absolute best of the best when it comes to yoga and meditation. I’ve been watching her channel for weeks, and I tell you, I’m a changed woman.”

  Owen raised an eyebrow. “I don’t recall making that promise. Isn’t yoga where people sit around in spandex and chant weird stuff?”

  “No.” She rolled her eyes. “And you did promise—” She picked at a pretend piece of lint on her coat. “—but I may have asked you when you were busy with a stubborn steer. I knew you wouldn’t agree otherwise. But you did. And you’re a man of your word. A promi
se is a promise.”

  “Wait ... what?” He stared at her. “You just admitted to tricking me, and you’re talking about honor?” She shrugged, and he looked back at the road. “Mom, I came here to spend time with you.”

  “And to relax,” she interjected.

  “And that,” he added reluctantly. “But I draw the line at doing some girly meditation exercise. Dad and Cody wouldn’t do it.”

  “Your father and brother aren’t here,” she said, her voice growing stern.

  No, they’re back taking care of the ranch. And I should be helping them. He clenched his teeth, biting back the comment. She had his best interest at heart and he didn’t want to hurt her feelings. “Yoga isn’t the only solution to—” His voice caught on the word that he couldn’t bring himself to say. “To—what I’m dealing with.” He finished. “I agreed to go to therapy. I came on this trip with you. Now, can we drop the yoga talk and just enjoy our time here?”

  Beverly folded her arms. “I know it doesn’t appeal to you, but your therapist specifically recommended yoga. Research has proven that it’s helped with vets suffering from PTSD. And I guarantee there will be other men attending. The class has limited spots, and it would mean so much to me if you’d come.”

  Owen glanced at her and she gave him a pleading look. He frowned and stared back at the road. He had a hard time saying no to her, and she knew it. Finally, he blew out a long breath. “Okay, okay ... enough with the look.” He shook his head, knowing he would likely regret this. “I’ll go to the yoga class—as long as I don’t have to wear spandex.”