A Christmas list for love

While volunteering at a charity, Sharee Walker meets a charming 'Santa' with whom sparks fly as they bond over spreading holiday cheer

- Rose Ross Zediker

Jingle Bells” greeted Sharee Walker when she stepped off the elevator into the festively decorated lobby of the senior living cooperative to meet her neighbor Frannie for coffee. Sharee saw Frannie waiting by a life-sized nutcracker flanking the coffee shop entrance, chatting with Carter Jones, a very attractive silver fox.

Frannie waved her over. “Here’s my replacement now.” Frannie turned from Carter. “I volunteered to help Carter with his charity event. I didn’t realize it involved baking cookies.” Frannie flopped a hand through the air. “Everyone knows I can’t bake. Carter Jones, this is Sharee Walker, baker extraordinaire.”

He offered his hand. “Nice to meet you.”

Sharee slipped her hand into Carter’s and a thrill lit her up inside brighter than a Christmas tree. “You too.”

“The twinkle in Carter’s eyes held a note of attraction that warmed her cheeks.”

“I don’t want you to feel obligated to volunteer…”

“It’s no imposition,” Frannie cut in. “She made a Christmas wish list. Baking and volunteering are on it. I must run.” Frannie feigned a glance at her wrist and fled.

Sharee sighed. This was obviously a setup. She’d confided to Frannie how handsome she’d found Carter.