Naughty St. Nick by Calista Fox Read Free Book Online Page B

transpired between them. And the heat from that kiss—good Lord!
    She was still giddy the next day as she wandered along Blitzen Street, noting that the storefront windows were all alight and filled with holiday displays. That was new.
    Whoever had taken over as Santa was perched in the big, elaborate chair, listening to more wishes from the kids. And if Vixen weren’t mistaken, those children didn’t appear to be locals. In fact, the entire square was abuzz with activity and there were many faces she didn’t recognize.
    The tourists had returned.
    Her heart swelled. Tears prickled her eyes. Even the weather had turned frigid—she’d had to put on her jacket before leaving the house this morning. And the unbelievably delicious scent wafting from Sugar Plums was magic unto itself.
    Vixen stood in the center of the square and absorbed the sights and sounds—including the perfectly timed It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas from the wandering group of carolers, all decked out in festive garb.
    Indeed, it truly was looking a lot like Christmas. And Nick and his co-conspirators, whoever they were, deserved the full credit.
    “This is so wonderful, isn’t it?”
    Vixen turned at Jenny’s voice and smiled. Around a lump of emotion, she said, “I’d actually forgotten how sensational all of this was. Like I put it out of my mind as soon as my grandfather died and everyone stopped celebrating.”
    “I know,” Jenny said, clearly feeling some strained emotions as well. “It’s been pretty painful for all of us. Traditions die hard, you know? We cling to them, especially when they’ve been such a huge part of our lives. Every day. With Mr. White and the endless holiday spirit, it was all we knew. So when it went away... It really went away.”
    Vixen glanced around the square, then said, “What’s interesting, though, is that there are still some similarities—the tree, for example. Although, the lights have never blazed so bright. It’s stunning. And the new setup—putting Santa and his village in the square instead of keeping it all contained to the department store... I mean, he’s what this town is all about and for it to be showcased right here... That’s incredible. It’s impossible not to be sucked into Christmas all over again.”
    “Yes,” Jenny said with a knowing smile that made Vixen wonder what she knew about the Secret Santas in town. “It’s sort of a new generation of North Pole, don’t you think?”
    “That’s exactly what I think. And it’s gorgeous.”
    “And still so perfect.” Jenny admired the festivities a moment longer, then said, “Oh! I almost forgot.” She handed over a small gift bag. “This is for you.”
    Vixen eyed her curiously. “Our tradition is to exchange gifts with friends on Christmas Eve, family on Christmas Day.”
    “Well, this isn’t from me, per se. And I think we’re seeing that traditions are meant to be broken. Or, at least, brought along with the changing times.”
    Vixen couldn’t dispute that. She opened the bag and pulled out the box inside. Jenny took the bag to hold for her so Vixen could lift the lid. She peeled back delicate, silvery tissue paper and gasped.
    “Those look divine,” she said with a dreamy sigh.
    “There’s a card.”
    It was tucked into the lid. Vixen extracted it.
    For your sweet tooth. All you have to do is believe, Vix.
    Nick
    Vixen’s heart fluttered.
    Jenny said, “He asked me to make them specifically for you. Give one a try.”
    “What’s on top of them?”
    “Just try it. Be surprised.”
    Vixen selected a dark chocolate piece from the box and bit into it. The truffle melted in her mouth, but the unexpected taste of salt was explosive.
    “Oh, my God! That’s the most decadent thing I’ve ever tasted!”
    “It’s grey salt on top of the chocolate.”
    “Sensational!” She polished off the piece and resisted the urge to inhale the rest. “Wow, unreal.”
    Jenny beamed and confessed, “I put