Christmas Therapy

By Daria White

Heather Shaw, a fitness instructor, doesn’t fall in love. With her six-week rule, she ends her relationships before they get too serious. With Christmas on the horizon, she can’t wait to enjoy her small hometown’s traditions, including helping her mother with the Christmas fair. All of that changes when she runs into Allen—literally.

Allen Richards is new to the small town of Maple Meadow. He’s not big on Christmas, not since he lost his mother during the holidays two years prior. All he wants is a fresh start since his divorce, work his job as a physical therapist, and take care of his father. Nothing more.

When a freak accident leaves Heather with a knee injury, the one man who makes her heart pound is her physical therapist. Heather should stay away. Love never works out for her, but more than mistletoe draws these two opposites together. Then the past threatens to tear Allen and Heather apart, and hearts are on the line this Christmas.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Daria White
• Release date: Jul 10, 2020
• ISBN: 9781370206254

Daria White

Daria has lived in Texas for most of her life. She never enjoyed reading as a kid. In fact, she almost hated it. However, as she grew up, that all changed. Though she received her degree in healthcare management, Daria kept her writing as a hobby. She meant it to be private and her own way of expressing herself. It never crossed her mind to publish until she was in college. She took a chance and published. It worked!

Book preview

Christmas Therapy

Daria White

(A Sweet Romance Novel)

Christmas Therapy

Daria White

Copyright © Daria White 2020

All rights reserved worldwide. No part of this eBook may be copied or sold. This eBook is fiction. All characters, locations, and situations are purely fictional, coincidental, and for entertainment only.

Names, characters, places, and incidents are a product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as fact. Any resemblance to actual events, organizations, or persons—living or dead—is entirely coincidental.

All rights reserved. By payment of the required fees, you have been granted the nonexclusive, nontransferable, right to access and read the text of this book. Except for reviews or in promotional posts or similar uses, no part of this text may be reproduced in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereafter invented, without the express written permission of the author. Thank you for respecting the author’s work.

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Table of Contents

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

Epilogue

About the Author

Stay in Touch

Thank You from Daria

Christmas Therapy

(A Sweet Romance Novel)

Chapter 1

Heather Shaw would never fall in love. She wanted nothing serious— six weeks at most. Anything longer didn’t fit into her life and never would. She had enough broken promises to last her a lifetime.

Speed dating, online dating, or the good old-fashioned meet in person did nothing for her. Her speech to her now ex-boyfriend, Derek Ross, replayed in her head. They were over. Not meant to be. He nodded and they parted ways. She had her closure and, from the way he left the restaurant, he wasn’t too heartbroken over it. It was only six weeks. 

Heather was never cruel during her breakup talks. She was honest. Some men understood while others tried to convince her to give them a chance. One even suggested a pause. A pause? How would that work? Out of the question.

There wasn’t any luck with love for Heather. Who needed it anyway? So she kept to herself. It was easier. No expectations. No disappointment. A win-win in her mind. She swallowed the lump in the back of her throat. As her phone buzzed, the smiling face of Sonia, her little sister, flashed on her screen.

Heather connected her Bluetooth to her phone. I’m on my way home. How’s Tinsel? She couldn’t picture her life without her puppy. 

He’s fine. Why are you coming home so early? Are you... oh, Heather no, Sonia said. 

It didn’t work out.

You always say that. Derek was perfect for you.

Heather licked her full lips. I don’t think so. I don’t do long-term relationships.

What about family?

That’s not what I meant.

Sonia said, How much longer can you go on like this? Every guy you’ve ever—

It’s not as if there’s a long list of exes, Sonia.

I guess not. Are you okay?

I’m fine.

That’s what I’m afraid of, her sister said. 

Heather tucked a loose curl behind her ear, ignoring the tingling in her stomach. Her other hand gripped the wheel of her apple-red Chevrolet Spark. I mean it.

Sonia sighed. Okay. But what if another guy comes along and he’s respectful and sweet—

Sonia?

I get the message.

I am happy, Heather said.

Not since—

I’ll be fine. 

Okay. I won't ask any more tonight.

Don't worry about me. Okay?

Okay.

Heather hung up, changing the radio station on the stereo. Andy Williams' The Most Wonderful Time of the Year played through her speakers, enveloping her in the Christmas spirit. She blew out her cheeks. Sonia meant well, like her mother, but her personal life was just that—personal. Rolling her shoulders back, she hummed along to the Christmas tune, tapping her fingers on the steering wheel. 

Though Thanksgiving only passed a few days ago, Maple Meadow didn't hesitate to deck the halls. Christmas decorations were going up as she drove down Main Street. The twelve-foot tree had already been picked out and she couldn't wait to help decorate it for the tree lighting ceremony. Her stomach growled. If only she stayed for dinner, but she didn't think it was fair to stay after her it's not you it's me speech. 

She passed along the well-tended businesses: deli, coffee shop, clothing store, bakery, and the specialty gift shop. Mark's deli sounded delicious. She licked her lips, already smelling the yeast from freshly baked bread. She could taste the smoky meat, but soup would be a better choice for the evening. Though maintaining a healthy diet, Heather didn't mind cheating to indulge in her favorites. Moderation was her motto, so cookies and cream ice cream would be perfect for dessert for the weekend.

Heather's shoulders sagged. She turned into her driveway, looking forward to a hot bath and curling in bed with her puppy. Tinsel was loyal and lovable. She didn't have to worry about him leaving her behind. 

***

Thank goodness the following day was her day off. Heather sat on the floor in front of her couch in her yoga pants and a t-shirt. Tinsel made himself comfortable beside her as she laid out the papers on her coffee table. Her vanilla-scented candle burned, bringing a sense of calm.

Cutting out snowflakes was her task for the Christmas festival. Her mother ran the celebration every year, and Heather was in charge of the decorations. Her mother and the other volunteers would later gather at Maple Meadow High School to decorate the cafeteria, which they used as a stage for the Christmas pageant.

Heather swayed back and forth as her radio played her Christmas favorites, including Michael Buble’s It’s Beginning to Look at Lot like Christmas. With her scissors, she cut the designs and smiled to herself. The kids would love the decorations and she would save some papers for them to make their own designs.

Crumpled papers cluttered her coffee table. Heather must have tossed one because Tinsel was playing with it. She grabbed a trash bag, gathered the leftover papers, and walked outside. Tinsel trotted behind as she carried the garbage to the curb. She rubbed her hands together as the chill had intensified compared to the previous week. It always snowed in Maple Meadow. It wouldn’t truly be Christmas without it.

Shuffling her feet back and forth, Heather enjoyed her breath fogging in the air. Frost crystals coated branches along with the windows of her car. Tinsel barked as he chased his tail in the yard. Heather pivoted to go back inside as she spotted a man across the street. She didn’t recognize him but since he wore scrubs, he had to be someone in the medical field.

His coat was unbuttoned as he stepped down the porch from her neighbors, the Gomez’s, Lorenzo and Elena. Heather babysat their three-month-old daughter when needed, especially after Lorenzo injured himself rescuing a child from a fire. Elena told her he would need physical therapy. Was this the therapist? Once the front door closed, he walked over to his truck.

Heather turned to walk back inside again but noticed Elena rushing to catch up with the man. He stopped just as she hugged him. Perhaps she was grateful to him since it was quite a scare when Lorenzo’s injuries turned out to be more serious than she thought. Whoever this guy was, he earned the approval of Elena.

Let’s go, Tinsel, Heather said.

Her dog wagged his tail.

Tinsel?

He instead ran into the street.

Heather's heart raced as she dashed for her dog. Tinsel! Thank goodness for the thick soles underneath the feet of her slippers. Tinsel!

He's yours? a male voice asked.

Heather froze in place, staring at the man she'd seen from across the street. Tinsel wagged his tail in front of him. Elena must have gone back inside. Yes, he's mine. Sorry about that.

No problem. He wanted to play, the man said.

Tinsel, let's go. She snapped her fingers and this time, her dog obeyed. Her eyes met the man again, and Heather fastened the tie around her robe. Why did she walk outside without her coat? Sorry, again.

Don't be. The man gave a faint smile and proceeded inside his truck.

Heather tilted her head at Tinsel. Picking up her puppy, she carried him back to their home. You thought that was funny, didn't you?

He barked.

I thought we learned this already in obedient school. She didn't look back at the stranger. He had to be new in town—not that she cared.

***

Just think how much stronger your core will be, Heather said to her class. Then she went into a downward facing dog, giving her abs and obliques a mini break. Music filled her ears as she concentrated on holding her position in place, watching her own reflection in the mirror panels along the wall. She was grateful for the soft give of her workout mat. It made it so much easier—well, mostly. Hold it here, pressing the balls of your feet into the mat. Great.

Heather, you’re crazy, a strained voice said.

She giggled, knowing the voice of her little sister. Sonia told her not to take it easy on her, so Heather relished in the complaints from her baby sister.

You’ll all thank me later, she replied. Hold it here for the last ten seconds. You got this. You’re strong. Keep telling yourself that… and… rest.

The sighs and heavy breaths filled the rooms as her students rested on their mats. Heather patted her own stomach, feeling satisfied with her second workout of the day. While she wasn’t a morning person, she enjoyed her 7 a.m. workouts before coming to work her shift at 9 a.m. at Better U Fitness.

She applauded her students. Congrats, you’re finished for the day. Remember, exercise is only ten to twenty percent of the battle. The remaining is food. Keep a healthy balanced diet, drink plenty of water, adequate sleep, and—no stress.

Heather reached the disinfectant wipes to clean her mat. Then she retrieved from her bag her portable hand sanitizer. Afterwards, she rolled her mate and returned it to its corner. Her sister walked towards her, hugging her sides as the sweat glistened on her copper skin.

It’s insane how sore I am, Sonia said.

Heather tilted her head to the side. You said not to take it easy on you.

I’m telling mom you almost sent me to the hospital.

Heather giggled. No problem.

Sonia shook her head. After taking another gulp from her water bottle, she sat cross-legged. Heather then dabbed her forehead free from the sweat on her hairline.

Are you coming to the Sawyer’s Christmas party this weekend? her sister wondered. Morgan Sawyer was Sonia’s best friend, who Heather considered another little sister. Taking the torch from her mother, Morgan threw the Christmas party of the year, inviting the whole town.

Yes, but I can’t stay long, Heather said.

Why not? Oh, you have a date?

No, I don’t so don’t get too excited. Besides you promised to stay out of it.

I did and I will. Sonia twisted her mouth as if she had a trick up her sleeve. There’s always Terrance.

Heather pictured the handsome personal trainer and co-worker who worked down the hall from her. With deep brown skin combined with Chestnut eyes and a fit physique, he was one of the most attractive men in town.

Technically, he hasn’t asked me out and even if he did, I wouldn’t say yes. Heather rubbed the back of her neck to ease the tension.

Sonia shrugged her shoulders. Okay, I promised so I’ll keep my opinions to myself.

Ask mom if she wants to ride with us.

Her sister bit her bottom lip.

Heather raised an eyebrow. What?

Mom’s not coming.

What? She comes every year. Why not?

Sonia folded her arms across her chest. Our mother told me she has a date.

You’re kidding?

I’m not.

Heather’s foot tapped on the floor. Mom can’t be serious.

She said she’s going out so I can’t—

Who is this guy? Do we know him? Is he new in town? Where does he—

Sonia raised her hands in a surrendered gesture. I don’t know, Heather. She said she was going out. Mom’s a grown woman.

Do you know this guy?

She wouldn’t tell me anything. Sonia reached for her sister’s hand. Mom’s okay. She’s strong. She’s been through a lot, but she’s fine. Let her have some happiness. She deserves it. So do you.

Heather gave her sister a gentle squeeze of her hand before releasing her grip. Okay, I’ll back off.

I have to shower and change before my shift at work. You’re certain about the party?

I’ll be ready to go this weekend.

Her sister hugged her before exiting through the door. Heather took a gulp of water from her bottle. The thought of her mother dating stayed on her mind. How could she after what she’d been through? Sonia was asleep when it happened, but Heather had heard the door slam that night. Rushing to her bedroom window, she watched her dad’s pickup truck pull out of the driveway.

She had asked her mom after rushing to the steps of their traditional home. Where’s Dad?

Her mother’s sienna eyes shimmered with tears. I’m sorry, Baby. He’s gone.

Heather had watched her mother’s spirit crumble in that moment. Then she rushed to her side for a hug, releasing the sobs trapped inside her.

Heather? Are you okay? A tenor voice asked.

She jerked her head to see Terrance staring at her. Sorry I didn’t see you there.

Are you alright? You look worried.

Heather forced a smile. Why would I be worried? I’m fine.

He folded his muscular arms across his chest.

I’m fine, T. Thanks for the concern, but I’m okay.

He licked his bow-shaped lips. Any chance you’ll be at the Christmas party?

Unless I fake sick.

He chuckled. It’s one of the biggest events in town. Why would you miss it?

I’m kidding. I’ll be there. She giggled only to meet Terrance’s serious eyes. T?

I guess my reason for asking is I’ve wanted to ask you out for a while.

She swallowed. I can appreciate a man knowing what he wants.

He inched closer. Will you, Heather? I’m not a bad guy; get to know me and see.

I know you, T. She playfully shoved his shoulder.

Not like that, Heather. I’d like to see if there’s more between us.

How about I meet you at the party? I’ll even save a dance for you.

I’ll take it. He checked his wristwatch. I have another class. I’ll see you there?

Chapter 2

Heather grasped the handle of her small basket. She ignored the cinnamon buns and fresh bread, already knowing the choice of ice cream was already pressing her luck. With background music coming through the speakers, she hummed along to the familiar tunes. 

She scanned the ice cream aisle for her favorite flavor and even grabbed a carton of butter pecan for Sonia, who would stop by later. Heather’s nose wrinkled once more at the selection but obliged. A smile spread across her lips when she heard Earth, Wind, & Fire’s Let’s Groove coming through the speakers. She bobbed her head as her hips swayed down the aisle.

How she loved watching her mother and father listen to the classic group growing up. Heather would bounce on her toes as a small child, clapping her hands as her father swayed her mother across the floor. That was before. A twinge of pain hit her chest, but like a cut cord, she wanted nothing to do with it anymore. Rolling her shoulders back, she ignored the dismal memories.

Heather couldn’t ignore the tune, despite the painful recollection. She resumed her dancing, shutting her eyes for a moment. Shuffling her feet back and forth, she twirled but only to bump into something hard. She lost her footing. Oh, no! Opening her eyes, she spotted a hard chest.

Strong arms held her at her waist. Chestnut eyes met hers and her body went still. Licking her lips, she pressed her fingers into his chest, regaining her composure.

The man’s eye contact stuck with hers, as if he was taking her all in. Anchoring his hands around her waist, he helped her resume her balance. He looked familiar. Where did she see him before? The man in the scrubs. She never got his name. Was she staring? Heather swallowed the lump in her throat.

Then the man loosened his grip on her waist and stepped back. Are you alright?

Where was her basket? Heather’s eyes dropped to the floor and spotted it along with her one carton of ice cream. She reached for it, only to meet the gentleman’s hand on top of hers.

She apologized. Thank you. Sorry about that.

He returned her carton of ice cream. Displaying a wide grin, he said, Don’t worry about it. You must like this song.

Inwardly, Heather winced. You saw that?

His eyes sparkled. Nice moves too.

She stood upright. Thank you.

While his height didn’t tower her, she had to look up to reach his gaze. He extended his hand. I’m Allen. Allen Richards.

She accepted the handshake. Heather Shaw. An almost electrical feeling took over at the touch of his fingers. She released her grip. Nice to meet you.

You too. He eyed the contents of her basket. Cookies and cream?

Not your favorite?

He shrugged. I prefer chocolate chip cookie dough.

Raw cookie dough? You know that’s bad for you, right?

So is that. He tapped her carton.

Heather did her best to hide her smile. Moderation.

He raised an eyebrow. Were those dimples in his cheeks? For a moment, she desired to touch his stubble face. Blinking to come back to her senses, Heather cleared her throat. Are you new here to Maple Meadow?

I’ve been here for almost a month.

I think I saw you not too long ago. You know the Gomez family?

He bobbed his head. You’re close with them?

Everyone is close here. I live across the street.

He smiled. I knew you looked familiar. So you know little Gabriela?

I do. She’s a sweet baby.

I agree.

Then welcome to our town. If Gabriela approves of you, then you must be a decent guy.

I like to think so. You’ve always lived here?

Heather said, We moved here when I was fifteen. You?

My parents moved here five years ago. Now, I’m back permanently.

Glad to have you here.

Allen’s eyes drifted away for a moment. 

Heather cleared her throat. Was the conversation over? Should she walk away and go home? Well... I’ll see you around then.

He ran a hand down the back of his neck. Sure. I’ll see you around.

She gave a slight wave and strolled to the checkout area. She didn't dare look back but pushed the stray hairs away from her face. Heather's mouth went dry. Maple Meadow wasn't short of its handsome men or eligible bachelors. Allen was no different.

***

Allen watched after Heather Shaw as she walked to the checkout area. He heard the items being scanned. As he passed the entrees being cooked for sampling, he recalled how his body went still when he held her. Should he have been paying more attention? Did his mind wander where he didn’t hear her behind him? Whatever the reason, his heart perked when he caught the beauty in his arms.

Clasping his pint-sized chocolate cookie dough, he strolled to the checkout line. There she was. Only a few feet away, her hair shining in the fluorescent light. Was that wine or burgundy in her hair? A smirk crossed Allen’s face. Whatever