THAT SPARK

By: Lorelai Huffman

CHAPTER ONE

Kaylee pulled up her long dark hair as she brushed her teeth and rinsed out her mouth when she heard the knock on her door. She pulled her robe closed and looked in the peep hole.

"Come on bitch I can see the light moving. Open the damn door!"

Kaylee opened the door and her best friend Tracie came running in with a gift basket in her hand that contained all of Kaylee's favorite beauty products.

"Not Christmas yet Trace."

Tracie was already digging in the refrigerator, "I know...you know how much I love you right Kay?"

"What do you want Trace?"

Tracie popped open a can of soda and gave her best smile to her friend as she feigned innocence, "Want...what could I possibly want?"

Kaylee sat on the sofa and pulled her legs up under her and waited for the other shoe to drop.

Tracie plopped down on the chair facing her friend, "Kay...remember last summer when your car broke down and I had to drive the three hours to pick you up and then the three hours to bring you back?"

Kaylee smirked, "I remember that it was your car that broke down because you borrowed my car to move because mine was bigger and your car broke down and you were kind enough to come and get me in my perfectly fine car."

"Well pish posh...anyway you know that I would come and rescue you if you needed me to…right?"

"What do you want Trace?"

Tracie took a long drink of the soda and Kaylee dreaded what was coming next. Because her good friend more than sometimes got a little flighty and wasn't a stranger to trouble. Or to running off with half and idea and it never ended well.

"I need a small favor...you're off from work until after Christmas right?"

"You know I am...what's up?"

Tracie sat the soda can on the coffee table and leaned in toward her best friend, "Well...I needed some extra money so I answered this listing online. I met this wonderful man..."

Kaylee frowned.

"No, not like that...he's gay...anyway he was looking for someone to pretend to be his girlfriend for Christmas because he lied to his family and needed a girl to present. Brian is a total sweetheart and I needed the money."

Kaylee ran her fingers through her hair pulling it out of the scrunchee and taking a deep breath, "And...now?"

"Peter asked me to go to the Poconos with him...I think he might propose!"

"So...you want me to what?"

"I want you to take my place and be Brian's fake girlfriend for the week...before you say no meet Brian...he is great and he needs our help...and you can have all the money."

"Trace..."

"All you are going to do is sit around this apartment all week and doing nothing."

"That's the point of a vacation Trace is you have the ability to decide to just do absolutely nothing."

"Brian's family is loaded and they are spending Christmas at their ranch in Washington State. It's like acres and acres and it's on a mountain and there's like a mansion with a million rooms...you will love it!"

Kaylee plopped back on the couch with her perfectly painted pink toe nails in the air looking up at the high ceiling which was in dire need of painting.

Tracie slid over next to her on the couch and smiled down into her friend's worried eyes, "Come on Kay...be adventurous."

"Why did you commit to this...didn't you know Peter would want you to spend the holidays with him?"

"Well...actually he said he had to work...but then..."

"Then you told him you were going to Washington for a week to pretend to be the love of another man in a mansion on acres and acres and then suddenly his scheduled opened up."

"Does it really matter why his schedule opened up?" Tracie whined.

Kaylee stood up pushing Tracie out of the way and headed to her room to get dressed.

"Is that a yes...a...maybe...a maybe-maybe?" Tracie asked leaning sideways looking toward Kaylee's room as Kaylee shut the bedroom door.

When she was dressed and had her hair combed out she came back out into the living room and Tracie was sitting in the chair with her feet propped up on Kaylee's coffee table.

"I love you Kaylee."

"Trace...this is nuts...I hate snow...and animals...and flying..."

"You don't have to work the ranch Kay...and Brian will fly you in his family's personal jet."

"What if I wanted to spend Christmas in New York? What if I wanted to skate at Rockefeller Center and window shop...and...?"

Tracie cut her off, "Kay we have lived in New York since we graduated college and you haven't done that once."

Kaylee looked defeated, "Maybe I was going to this year."

"Just meet Brian and Eric. You will love them."

"I'll think about it."

Tracie jumped up and hugged her friend, "Good because we are having lunch with them tomorrow!"

"Tomorrow?"

"Yes, he has to be home early for Christmas. He is leaving the day after tomorrow. His family does a bunch of pre-holiday functions that he has to attend...with his wonderful, kind, caring, loving girlfriend."

"Tracie, what are you getting me into?"

"I have to go shopping tonight with Peter, but I will be here tomorrow to pick you up for lunch...dress nice."

"I hate you Trace."

Tracie kissed her friend on the cheek and ran off quickly slamming the door behind her.

Kaylee put on some old Christmas movie for background noise. Then she attempted to grade the papers her class finished before Christmas break, but she just couldn't wrap her head around it. She wouldn't decide not to do it until she met Brian and Eric tomorrow. Then she would politely decline and tell Brian that he could just tell his family that his girlfriend couldn't make it. They could take some pictures together on Brian's phone in case he needed to give his family some proof of her existence.

Her parents were spending Christmas this year with her brother in Dallas because he had a new baby and they wouldn't be home until December twenty-eighth. So that was when she had planned on seeing them...the more Kaylee thought about it...no one would miss her if she went to Washington for a week. She had shipped her parent's presents to their house already and the same with her brothers. So the only present under her tree besides the ones that her students had given her was the one for Tracie.

Kaylee grabbed a pillow off her bed and tossed it on the couch and pulled the blanket that rested on the back of the couch down over her as she found another old Christmas movie to watch. Then poured herself a glass of wine. Kaylee had never sat and thought about her life and whether she was happy or not. She had gotten her teaching job right out of college and was lucky enough to find this one-bedroom apartment with its high ceilings and great view. Tracie had been her best friend since middle school and they had been inseparable except when Tracie found a boy she just had to have. Then Kaylee wouldn't see her for a few weeks until the inevitable break up and then she would be there for Tracie with the mint chocolate chip ice cream and two spoons.

Kaylee was up early the next morning and straightened up the entire apartment. She had two suitcases packed, but kept them hidden in the closet in case she decided to change her mind for the hundredth time. She had talked herself into going and then had talked herself out of going over and over all night long. She could use the money and who couldn't, but did she really want to be around a bunch of strangers all week? But did she want to be alone all week?

Tracie called at eleven thirty and was outside at eleven forty-five. Kaylee didn't get to say a word the entire way to the restaurant because Tracie kept talking and trying to convince her what fun she would have. Kaylee figured Tracie wasn't letting her get a word in edgewise because she was afraid Kaylee would tell her absolutely. Because it was ludicrous to travel across the country with a strange man and lie to his entire family.

In front of the restaurant the ladies hopped out of the car and the valet took the keys and headed off with Kaylee's only means of escape. She followed Tracie into the restaurant and took off her coat and handed it to the impeccably dressed young woman just as Tracie had done.

Tracie gave Brian's name and the young woman escorted them to the table where two very attractive young men were sitting next to each other looking incredibly nervous.

As they approached the men stood up and hugged Tracie and then hugged her.

"Kaylee, this is Brian Vanderguard and Eric Milestone."

"Please to meet you Kaylee," Brian said shaking her hand a little too long.

Tracie went over the entire story again that she had already said to Kaylee yesterday. Then explained to Brian and Eric that Kaylee was considering helping them.

Eric smiled at Kaylee, "Kaylee, I understand that this is a lot to ask...we are asking you to give up your holiday and travel to the other side of the country to pretend to a bunch of strangers that you are in love with a perfect stranger..."

Kaylee interrupted, "Doesn't it bother you Eric that I will be there instead of you...I don't understand..."

Brian interrupted her, "Why I don't just tell my family that I'm gay?"

Kaylee was embarrassed that she had been so...well honest about her feelings, "Well...yes."

"I have wanted to several times. I have always been...well the favorite to be honest about it. Mostly because my older brothers went out into the world and did whatever they wanted. My younger brother and sister haven't had enough of an opportunity to screw up yet. I love Eric more than anything," he touched Eric's hand and they shared a magical smile and Kaylee had no doubt that they were in love. "But...I guess to be honest...I am a coward and I just can't...not yet."

"So you placed an ad..."

"Yes, I needed to find someone who didn't float in the family's social circles, but also someone they couldn't walk all over...and...well..."

Kaylee smiled, "Someone who is perfect enough for the great Brian Vanderguard?"

"For my family's specifications...not mine."

"Kaylee, I would appreciate if you would do this for us. I don't want Brian facing his family alone with a lot of questions that he can't answer. I want him to be able to enjoy the time he has with his family and cost is not a problem. If you need more than we offered than I can arrange that."

Kaylee looked from Eric to Brian and her heart went out to them. She couldn't imagine being in love and having to hide it from anyone.

"I'll do it, but just for the original price that you offered Tracie."

Eric and Brian jumped up and swarmed her with hugs and kisses. Over lunch they ironed out the details and Brian explained he would send a car for her the next morning. And they could be on the flight and in Washington in time for dinner tomorrow night.

On the way back to her apartment Tracie was talking way too much again. Kaylee wasn't really listening but she heard Tracie comment on didn't I tell you they were wonderful...it's going to be great…you will have all that extra cash…

Kaylee kissed her friend before she got out of the car and wished her a Merry Christmas. Kaylee told Tracie she hoped she had a great time this week with Peter and also reminded her that she owed her big time.

When she got to the apartment she opened her suitcases and went through everything again to make sure she wasn't forgetting anything. Christmas in New York wasn't warm, but she assumed Christmas in Washington was going to be a little cooler. She tossed her favorite boots in the mix. Then folded up the papers she was supposed to be grading and tucked them under her hair dryer. She ordered in for dinner and made sure everything was taken care of for the next week. She asked her neighbor to collect her mail and set her lights on a timer. Then threw out all her old food and took the bag down and tossed it in the dumpster.

Everything was ready except for Kaylee.

Around ten her cell phone rang with a number she didn't recognize.

"Hello."

"Kaylee, its Eric...I got your number from Tracie...I hope that's alright."

"Its fine Eric, what can I do for you?"

"I'm sure you are nervous about tomorrow, I wanted to tell you again how much I appreciate you doing this for Brian. He is a wonderful man and I love him more than anything. His family isn't that bad, his mom Gwen loves her children and would do anything for them. His older brothers Eli and Trent went out and made their own money and have no qualms about standing up to their parents"

"Boy I bet you wish you would have fallen in love with one of them...sorry..."

Eric chuckled, "No, that was kinda funny."

"Eric, I don't know how you do it."

"It's my choice...I know he loves me and that he will come out in his own good time. I have no right to pressure him to do it before he's ready. I will wait forever if I have to because I love him that much."

"He's a lucky man."

"Don't think I don't remind him of that every day."

"What will you do for the holidays?"

"I will be here in New York with our cats Sylvester and Pinky making sure everything will be perfect for the post-Christmas celebration that we will be having when Brian gets back."

"Sounds perfect."

"I hope so. Kaylee he isn't as strong as he looks no matter what kind of manly front he puts up I can see right through it. You promise me that you will take good care of him."

"I will, tell me about his younger siblings."

"Jenna is fourteen and Ryan is ten. When Gwen wasn't given grandchildren when she wanted she decided to have two more children to adore her and bend to her will. Well that might be a little short sighted on my part...but..."

"I get it."

"Kaylee, I owe you a big one."

"Don't worry about it."

"Keep my number in your phone and if you need someone to talk to just call me, anytime day or night."

"Thanks."

"No problem and I want to invite you to spend New Year's with Brian and me. We have a party every year and I hope you say yes. As a matter of fact I won't take no for an answer."

Kaylee smiled, "Then I would love to."

"Great, get some rest."

"Thanks Eric."

Kaylee put on her nightgown and brushed her teeth and climbed into her bed dreading what she would be facing tomorrow. Brian and Eric were real sweethearts and by the time she fell asleep she felt good that she was helping them.

CHAPTER TWO

In the morning Kaylee went through everything again and made sure everything was locked up and met Brian downstairs. On the way to the plane they discussed how they met and how long they had been together and Kaylee said that he should use some truths about him and Eric to be able to keep things straight.

The plane took Kaylee's breath away. She had seen many private jets on television and in movies, but when she took her seat on this one it was nothing that she could have even imagined.

Brian was warm and charming and she was glad that she had agreed to help him. Kaylee sat back and drank her wine and listened to Brian talk about Eric and how they met and how they fell in love. There was no doubt in Kaylee's mind that they were in love. The flight was over before she knew it and they were landing on a small strip just south of the Vanderguard ranch.

Kaylee held out her hand and Brian placed his in hers and gave her a big smile and kissed her on the cheek, "Thanks for all the torture you are about to endure and know that I really appreciate it."

They walked down the stairs hand in hand to meet the car.

Brian shook hands with the driver, "Greg, this is the love of my life Kaylee...Kaylee this is Greg and he has worked for my family...well for my entire life."

Greg shook hands with Kaylee, "Nice to me you."

Kaylee smiled at him and shook his hand and then she and Brian got in the car as Greg put the suitcases in the trunk.

"So far so good," Kaylee whispered to Brian.

Gwen was waiting at the door and wrapped her arms tightly around her son, "Brian, I have missed you so much." Then she turned and hugged Kaylee, "My dear...so nice to finally meet you."

"It's nice to finally meet you Mrs. Vanderguard."

"My dear call me Gwen."

Kaylee nodded that she would. Gwen Vanderguard was a pretty woman with brown hair with a small amount of gray around her temples. She looked much younger than Kaylee thought considering she had adult children.

"Everyone is here except for Eli. He promised me that he would be here by dinner. Trent is in the den watching some old football game, go and see him while I check on how dinner is progressing."

Brian ran his hand into Kaylee's, "Shall we my dear?"

"Of course," Kaylee smiled at Brian and allowed him to lead her toward the den.

"She's lovely," Greg whispered to Gwen.

"Yes." Gwen said thoughtfully.

As they walked into the den Kaylee was amazed how large the television was but what caught her eyes was the view outside the large bay window behind the television. Then she noticed a pair of socks sticking out on the side of the sofa.

"Trent, how the hell are you? This is my girlfriend Kaylee."

Brian's brother popped up and Kaylee's heart started to flutter. She had never seen a man that gave her palpitations before. Trent Vanderguard was handsome and the gray sweater he had on brought out the blue in his eyes. Trent held out his hand to her and when they touched Kaylee literally felt electricity pass between them.

"Ouch!" she said smiling as he fingers tingled.

"Sorry...the socks," Trent pointed down to the fact he was just wearing socks and that must have been what caused the static electricity.

"Trenton, we have guests do you think that you could put your shoes on?" Gwen asked from the den doorway.

"Yes, ma'am." Trent walked over and picked up his shoes and put them on.

"Want to see our room?" Brian asked putting his arm around her shoulder.

"Of course love bug," Kaylee said smiling at him.

Trent watched his brother with his girlfriend walk from the room. He couldn't help but notice how shiny Kaylee's hair was resting down her back. Her red sweater fit her perfectly and he knew he shouldn't be looking, but his eyes couldn't help but follow down onto her perfectly fitting black jeans and her high heel black boots.

When they reached the room Brian closed the door and hugged Kaylee tight and swung her around in circles as they both laughed.

Kaylee pulled her phone from her pocket and motioned for Brian to go with her into the bathroom. She turned the sink water on to cover any conversation being overheard and then she hit dial on her phone and handed it to Brian.

She whispered, "Make sure he knows we got here safe." Then she pulled the door closed and started to go unpack her suitcases. The room was beautiful and the queen size bed was covered in this floral comforter with huge pillows. Kaylee put all her things in the closet and the top two dresser drawers. Then she slid her suitcases into the back of the closet and stood at the window to look at the amazing view of the snow covered mountain.

A few minutes later there was a quick knock on the door and without waiting for anyone to say come in a young girl came barreling in, "Where's Brian and who are you?"

"I'm Kaylee...and you must be Jenna."

"I am and I want to see my brother."

"Don't be rude Jenna," Brian said opening the bathroom door and handing Kaylee her phone. "Kaylee is my girlfriend and you will be nice."

"Yes...my dear brother I will be nice," she said biting her lip.

Brian took her around the shoulder and put her in a head lock and gave her noogies on top her head.

"Alright I give!"

"You going to be nice to Kaylee?"

"Of course!"

Brian let her go and gave her the big brother evil eye, "Starting now."

Jenna held out her hand to Kaylee, "Hello Kaylee my name is Jenna Elise Vanderguard and it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, thank you for coming to our home and joining us for the holidays."

She reminded Kaylee of something from the Stepford Wives the way she changed from prissy to accommodating, "Nice to meet you Jenna and I love your shoes."

"Eli's here! Eli's here!" a young man was screaming as he ran down the hall and Kaylee assumed that the young man was Ryan.

Brian turned Jenna around and lightly pushed her toward the door and she went running out and Brian turned to Kaylee, "Eric says hello and that he loves you."

"Two siblings down and two to go," Kaylee said with half a smile.

"Let me warn you about Eli...he isn't warm and cuddly...and he will grill you, but I won't leave your side."

"That's alright, I'll just start talking about our awesome sex life. That will shut him up!"

"Well, I hate to brag," Brian said batting his eyes and fanning himself as the both of them laughed.

When they reached the top of the stairs Gwen, Jenna, Ryan and Greg were standing in the foyer standing around a man who Kaylee had no doubt was Elias Vanderguard. She could see the family resemblance to the rest of the family. Eli stood six foot three inches and was in a business suit with a very strong chin and a pretty intimidating scowl.

As they reached the bottom of the stairs Gwen turned toward them, "Eli, this is Kaylee...your brother's girlfriend."

Eli's eyes were hard and they frightened Kaylee just a little, but she reminded herself that she wasn't really going to be a part of this family. Eli didn't hold out his hand to shake hers so she just stood still making eye contact with him.

"Brian's girlfriend huh?" he looked Kaylee up and down but didn't say another word. Jenna put her arm through her brother's and then they started to walk toward the dining room. Greg and Gwen followed them leaving Ryan standing there with Kaylee and Brian.

"Vickie broke up with him," Ryan whispered to them and then ran toward the dining room.

"Vickie?"

"Yeah, they were dating like eight months I think. She was beautiful and all, but she really seemed full of herself. I think he really liked her, my brother isn't really a lady's man. He is more of a workaholic fit a woman somewhere into my schedule man."

"I'm sorry for him, Christmas is a horrible time to be alone...less long be dumped." "How do you think we are doing so far?" Kaylee asked taking a deep breath.

"I think they will all be jealous because I am with the most beautiful woman they have ever seen and they can eat their hearts out because you are all mine Kaylee Kingston."

Kaylee batted her eyes at him, "Awe, flattery will get you...nowhere!" They both laughed and Brian offered his arm to lead her into the dining room.

An older gentleman she hadn't yet met who she assumed had to be Brian's father stood up and walked over and hugged her, "Welcome Kaylee, sorry I wasn't here to greet you when you arrived but I had a few things to attend to in the barn."

"It's a pleasure to meet you Mr. Vanderguard."

"It's my pleasure, Brian doesn't bring many people home to meet us."

"Then I consider myself very lucky," she said smiling at Richard Vanderguard. Richard escorted her to her chair and pulled it out for her and Brian sat next to her. Everyone else was already seated and Greg started to bring out the first course.

Kaylee noticed during the meal that everyone was talking except for Eli and Trent who seemed lost in their own thoughts and neither one of them seemed to be making eye contact with anyone else. Gwen and Richard asked Brian a few questions about how he and Kaylee had met and how long they had been together and Kaylee knew that Brian had taken her advice and used some of the history between him and Eric as part of their history. Kaylee ate her dinner and nodded a few times as she listened. Brian gave her hand a squeeze under the table a few times for strength.

Kaylee enjoyed the dinner and the wine and she let her mind wander to what Tracie might be doing right this minute. New York seemed a million miles away.

After dinner the family went into the den and started going through boxes of Christmas decorations as Richard brought in the tallest tree that Kaylee had ever seen. Kaylee put on her coat and walked outside into the snow. The air was chilled and she pulled her gloves out of her pocket and started walking down the sidewalk and that's when she noticed the frozen lake. The ice was glistening with the clearness of the night and the sight mesmerized her.

Kaylee attempted to walk down the little snow covered hill to get a better look when her feet started to slide and she started to fall.

Before she could even react or call out she felt a pair of strong arms grab her, "Whoa there...you have to be more careful."

Kaylee caught her breath and turned around to face Trent, "Thanks." Kaylee couldn't help but realize that Trent hadn't let go of her arms and he was standing very close to her with that very nice cologne and those mesmerizing eyes.

"Everything alright?" Brian called from the sidewalk just off the back porch.

Before Kaylee could answer Trent released her quickly and abruptly and walked back toward the house.

Kaylee walked up to meet Brian near the back door, "This place is incredible."

"Wait until tomorrow when the sun is up. I will give you a tour. You want to come in and help decorate the tree?"

"Sure," Kaylee said smiling at her new friend. Brian took her coat and hung it up for her and took her hand and they walked into the den. Kaylee noticed that Trent wasn't in the room. Eli was handing ornaments to Jenna and Ryan and Gwen and Richard were hanging lights around the window.

Brian gave Kaylee a peck on the cheek, "Shall we take a window?" Kaylee and Brian decorated three of the six large bay windows laughing and joking with each other as they did so.

Trent stood in the kitchen eating a muffin from one of the batches Greg had made to deliver to the neighborhood school for their Christmas carnival tomorrow. He stood in the doorway watching Brian with his girlfriend. He was mesmerized by Kaylee. He wanted to feel guilty for being attracted to his brother's girlfriend, but he couldn't take his eyes off of her.

Kaylee was tipsy by the time she headed up to bed because the family started drinking this rum drink and she didn't have the heart to turn it down. Brian had told her that he would be up in a little while so she closed the bedroom door and showered and brushed her teeth. After she put on her nightgown and her robe she crawled into her side of that oh my crazy comfortable bed.

She was sleeping when she heard Brian come in and lock the door behind him and fell back asleep while he brushed his teeth and put on his night clothes. Kaylee felt the bed shift when he crawled in next to her.

In her sleepy tipsy haze she whispered, "You don't have cold feet do you?"

She could tell Brian was smiling when he said, "Don't worry I won't be putting my feet on you, but you better hope I'm a gentleman."

Kaylee rolled over and rested her head on his arm, "Goodnight sweet prince." She felt Brian lightly kiss her the top of her head before she fell fast asleep.

It was almost four in the morning when Kaylee woke up and her mouth was dry so she snuck down the stairs to try and find some juice or bottled water. The kitchen was dark until she opened the refrigerator door and found a half gallon of orange juice. She sat the juice on the counter and used the refrigerator light to try and find a glass. She opened the first cabinet and there were plates and serving dishes.

"The next one."

Kaylee almost jumped out of her skin as she whipped around and Eli was sitting at the table in the dark, "You scared me."

"Didn't mean to. The next cabinet has the glasses."

"Thanks." Kaylee turned around and took out a glass and poured her juice and put the jug back.

She was trying to decide whether or not to say anything else to Eli, but before she could get away he said, "My mother will make him get a pre-nup."

"Excuse me?" she said walking around the counter toward him.

"She will protect the family money."

"I don't want Brian's money and I think it makes you an ass to assume that I do since you don't even know me."

"You may be good at...whatever it is that you do for him...but you won't be able to convince..."

"Look," she interrupted, "I understand that right now you are hurting and I'm sorry that your girlfriend hurt you, but I'm not her and you don't have to give me a chance because I really don't give a crap what you think, so keep your unwanted opinion to yourself and if you don't have anything nice to say...well then you just keep what you've been doing and rudely ignoring me!"

Eli was so stunned that he couldn't even respond before Kaylee stormed away in her little tiny robe carrying her orange juice.

"Well then..." Eli said taking a sip of his coffee.

Kaylee reached the bedroom feeling good about standing up for herself. She finished her orange juice and crawled back into bed.

"Lurking around the house?" Brian whispered.

"No, leaving that up to Eli."

Brian could hear the sour tone in her voice, "Everything alright?"

Kaylee took a breath and reminded herself once again that she wasn't really going to part of this family, "Everything's fine."

Brian pulled her close to him, "You are a bad liar…what did Eli do?"

"He's a dick."

Brian chuckled, "Told you he wasn't mister warm and fuzzy."

Kaylee rested her head on Brian's chest, "It's only one week right?"

"We will avoid him whenever possible."

"No, you can spend time with him. I will just carry my whip and chair when I am in his presence."

"What did he say?"

"That your mom would force you to get a pre-nup to protect your money from me."

"What a dick."

Kaylee smiled and curled up against Brian, "Go to sleep, he will be just as much a dick tomorrow."

"Too true," Brian said closing his eyes.

Kaylee was sleeping when she heard a knock. She opened her eyes and the bedroom door was open and Eli was standing in the doorway. She pulled the blankets up to her chin and leaned up on the pillow and looked at him.

"My brother and my mother say I have to apologize to you...so I apologize."

She looked at him and couldn't help herself she started to laugh; he looked so pitiful standing there like a scolded child and she found it funny.

Eli stood there looking annoyed waiting for her to say something.

"So, go tell them you apologized," Kaylee said pulling the blankets over her head and trying to go back to sleep. No such luck though as she could just tell that he was still standing there. She peaked out from under the covers and looked at him with her big blue eyes, "Anything else?"

"I'm sorry for being..."

"A dick," Kaylee assisted because he didn't seem to be able to get the words out. "Look Eli, I appreciate that you want to protect your brother and that I am a stranger to you, but give me a chance." "Surprisingly enough you might find that I'm a nice person. You might even be surprised to realize that you can even tolerate me...and again...I'm sorry about your pain."

Eli gave a small smile, "I'll see you down at breakfast."

Kaylee nodded and waited for him to walk away before she slid out of bed and picked something to wear for the day.

Trent was sitting at the table waiting for breakfast as he drank his coffee and noticed Kaylee when she came walking through the foyer. She had on a fluffy white sweater that gathered around her neck and he had on a pair of comfortable looking black pants and she was in her bare feet. Trent tried not to stare at her when she walked into the room, but he failed miserably.

"Where is everyone?"

"Packing the cars so we can leave for the school right after breakfast."

"Not helping?" Kaylee asked because she was curious.

"No, mother is making me dress as Santa this year so I refused to help load the cars."

"Very mature," Kaylee said with a smile.

"Maturity isn't big in this family. You better get used to that...if you plan on staying around."

"I do plan on staying around. Your brother is very important to me."

It struck Trent odd that she hadn't said that she loved his brother.

"Pick a seat, breakfast will be served in a few minutes."

Kaylee smiled and took the seat across from Trent.

"You must have been excited to come here for Christmas."

"Not really. I'm afraid of animals and flying and I wanted to skate at Rockefeller Center for Christmas this year, but Brian convinced me I would have a great time being here and meeting his family."

"My brother is kind and genuine."

"I know...he is very special."

"I wouldn't have thought that you would be his type."

"Because I'm a brunette?" Kaylee said waiting to be insulted again.

"No...because..."

Before Trent could say anything else the family came walking back into the house and Greg started to serve breakfast. Kaylee ate her breakfast quickly because she wanted to go for a walk before she went with the family to the winter carnival.

CHAPTER THREE

She slid on her coat and her gloves and double checked with Brian what time she had to be back and then headed out for her walk. The lake was even more beautiful in the morning sun. Kaylee made her way down to the barn, but stayed outside because she was afraid of the animals. Wind was blowing at the top of the mountain and Kaylee could see the snow being blown around. The sight took her breath away as much as she loved New York she could see loving this place too.

"Can't see that in Manhattan," she said out loud to herself.

"No, you can't."

Kaylee jumped because she thought she was alone.

"Trent, your family has this thing about startling me."

"It's fun," he said with a smile.

"Shouldn't you be getting ready?"

"Had to make sure you didn't fall in the lake."

Kaylee smiled at him, "The view is incredible."

Trent held out his hand, "Come with me...I want to show you something."

Kaylee was hesitant for a second but then she placed her hand in his. He led her about fifty yards from the barn in this small inlet near the base of a small piece of the mountain. Trent took her by the arms and placed her in the spot he wanted her.

"Now what?" she said standing close to him and looking into his eyes.

"Close your eyes," he whispered.

Kaylee looked at him like he was crazy.

"Trust me."

Kaylee took a breath and closed her eyes. She felt Trent step away and in an instant she started to feel the snow twirl around her and brush her cheeks. There was a small area that was perfect to twirl the snow in a circle with the wind funneling. She opened her eyes and watched the snow twirl. Kaylee felt like she was in the middle of a human snow globe. She smiled at Trent in her amazement and he smiled back at her the warmest smile she had ever seen. The men in the Vanderguard family were all handsome, but Trent had something in his eyes that she had never seen.

"I want to stand here forever," she said smiling at him.

"You look like a fairy princess."

Kaylee smiled at the compliment.

"However, Mom will kill me if I make us late."

Kaylee closed her eyes for another few seconds just to feel the snow blow on her cheeks before she was ready to go. When she opened her eyes she didn't expect Trent to be standing so close to her. Kaylee licked her lips and looked into his eyes.

"Do you love my brother?"

Kaylee opened her mouth to speak, but before she could her cell phone rang.

Saved by the bell.

"Hello," she answered stepping away from Trent.

"How goes it?" Eric asked.

Kaylee looked over her shoulder and half smiled at Trent, "A little complicated." Kaylee started to walk toward the house as she spoke and Trent followed but not too close.

"You keeping my man happy?" Eric asking jokingly.

"Doing my best, but his family is..."

"Complicated?"

"Well yes, but I don't think anyone suspects."

"That's good."

"You miss him, don't you?"

"More than I thought I would."

"Why don't you come to Washington, Brian and I can slip away for some alone time and he can see you."

Kaylee could hear the hesitation even on the phone.

"I can't."

"Because Pinky and Sylvester need you?"

"Funny, no I don't want him to feel pressured and what if his family would find out?"

"Not any more of a risk than what I'm doing besides I bet he misses you too."

"I'll think about it."

"You mean you need time to talk yourself out of it."

"Hey now...don't be so..."

"Truthful."

"I think you rock Kaylee."

"Thanks," she said as she reached the back door. "I have to go and deliver baked goods, promise me you will think about it."

"I promise."

Kaylee hung up the phone and walked into the kitchen. Her cheeks were still cold and delightfully red.

"My dear it is freezing out there," Gwen said coming out of the kitchen.

"It's amazing here."

"Thank you, I have always thought so." Gwen turned her attention to Trent when he walked through the door, "You ready my darling son?"

"Let's go mom," he said taking off his gloves and heading into the foyer to pick up his keys.

It took about ten minutes to drive to Nisqually Elementary School. There were children running around everywhere in their hats and little coats and their boots. Everyone took an arm full and followed Gwen into the school. The gymnasium was decorated for the carnival and there were games and a giant empty table that the Vanderguards almost filled up with everything that Greg and Gwen had baked. Brian and Kaylee went out to get a second armful as Gwen started to organize and price everything.

"I talked to Eric," she told him when they were alone.

"How's New York?"

Kaylee gave him a sad smile as he handed her another tray, "He misses you."

Brian smiled and picked up his tray and pushed the door closed.

Kaylee could tell that Brian was missing Eric too.

Richard and Gwen manned the table as the rest of the family helped out with other areas in the carnival. Brian was working the cotton candy machine and Kaylee was handing out apple cider.

Eli walked up to the table taking a break from running the miniature train that the children were having fun riding even though it went in a circle. He held up his finger requesting one apple cider.

"Here you go Sir Eli."

Eli took the cup from her, "Having fun?"

Kaylee gave him a good-natured smirk with her eyebrow raised, "Why, you come over to ruin it?"

"I guess I deserve that."

"How are things Eli?"

"What do you mean?"

Kaylee motioned that she was going to step away for a second and the other volunteer gave her a smile and a nod. Kaylee walked out into the hallway and Eli followed her.

"Have you spoken to her?"

"You don't speak to someone who breaks up with you...if they wanted to speak with you then..."

"Yeah, yeah...then they wouldn't break up with you," she interrupted. "I know it's none of my business, but if you want to talk I am more than willing to listen."

"It's just a bunch of dramatic bullshit."

"Oh, you mean whiny girl stuff?"

"Will you stop?" Eli asked with a smirk.

"Only if you talk to me," Kaylee said sincerely.

"Somehow the talk of engagement came up, not that I was proposing or anything and she said that she couldn't marry me because then it would turn into a lawyer fest of pre-nups and red tape. She said she wanted love and marriage and family, not a piece of paper that made the marriage seem that it was doomed to fail even before it began."

"Do you think she wants your money?"

"No, that isn't what I'm saying...I just..."

"May I say something?"

"I imagine Miss Kaylee if you wanted to say something that no power in the universe could stop you."

"You flatter me Mr. Vanderguard."

"Go ahead...speak your peace."

Kaylee ran her arm through Eli's and they walked down the hall together, "It's scary, I'm sure not just for women, but as little girls we believe in Prince Charming and being swept off your feet with birds flying around us and when we grow up the real world tells us we get pre-nups and Nannie cams."

"I'm far from being a Prince Charming."

"See the problem with that theory is that you aren't the one who gets to decide if you are a Prince Charming. That is up to the woman who loves you. Do you think she loves you Eli?"

"I don't know."

"Do you want her back?"

"Again, I don't know."

Kaylee noticed how sad Eli's eyes looked and he wasn't as scary anymore, "I think she was just scared that it would be all or nothing...that she would be drug down by the red tape and that made her unhappy." "She may not want your money, but the fact is that you have a boat load of it. Why don't you decide if you love her and if you want her back and if you decide she is worth another try than tell her that you are willing to give it another try, but that you want to take it slow. Extend the honeymoon phase and just be happy being in each-others company. You can live and love and spend time together and even live together without all the red tape. Love is a wonderful and a terrifying thing Eli, but it's worth it. I don't know Vickie, but I can see how she could fall head over heels for you." "I mean you have this all going on," as she smiled and waved her hand up and down at refer to his tall muscular figure and perfect hair and handsome face.

"Are you a therapist?"

Kaylee smiled and leaned against the lockers, "No, just a teacher."

Eli hugged Kaylee, "I don't believe you are a just anything Miss Kaylee…thanks."

"Anytime," she said into his muscular chest as his large arms engulfed her.

Kaylee was dozing as they drove back to the house. She had the best time helping the family and handing out the cider, but most of all she was happy because she felt she made a breakthrough with Eli. For a few moments a day she would forget that this was all lies and that she wasn't really going to be a part of this family, but those few minutes when she forgot she enjoyed the thought of being surrounded by them and loved by them.

Everyone went upstairs to change while Greg started making coffee and cutting up pie for everyone and Kaylee walked out back and sat on the swing. She was surprised that she had fit right in with the Vanderguard family as though she belonged. Brian and his brothers were truly special and she would always be glad that she had a chance to meet them.

Everyone was very chatty at dinner that night and Kaylee got to learn more about all the Vanderguards. They were a great family and Kaylee could tell that Gwen was proud of all of her children, but she made no secret that she wanted grandchildren to spoil.

After dinner they enjoyed alcohol and dessert in the den and it was late when she and Brian turned in for the night. Kaylee fell asleep as Brian was going into the bathroom to call Eric. The room was a little cool so she bundled up under all the blankets and fell asleep hugging one of the many pillows.

Kaylee woke up in a cold sweat trying to catch her breath. She was breathing hard and trying not to wake Brian. He was sound asleep hugging his pillow, he was so adorable. The nightmare made it impossible for her to get back to sleep.

She took her phone off the charger and looked at the picture that Eric had sent her earlier of him and Brian. They were adorable together in their elf hats looking perfectly in love.

Kaylee snuck down the stairs into the kitchen and poured herself a glass a juice. The tile was cool against her bare feet and she liked it. She knew there was hot chocolate somewhere, but she had no idea where to find it so she settled for the juice.

When Trent walked into the living room wearing just his pajama bottoms he saw Kaylee sitting on the floor staring at the fire.

"Should I ring a bell or something so that I don't startle you?"

Kaylee looked over her shoulder and smiled.

Trent sat down next to her, "Trouble sleeping?"

"Nightmare," she said with a little shutter.

"Care to share?"

"Not really," she said staring at the flames.

"Come on...I'm not a bad person...I can listen."

Kaylee turned around to face him. In his pajama bottoms. With his perfect skin and muscles.

"Have you ever thought that you would never find love...that you would be alone forever...and that you were so sad that you are jealous of two people that have found a perfect love?"

"You have my brother."

"I'm talking about my nightmare. It was awful. I was so alone and I couldn't find anyone to help me."

"I see happiness in your future Kaylee, my brother is a great person."

Kaylee smiled at the thought of Brian and how happy he looks when he looks at Eric, but that just gave her that sad feeling that she would be alone forever and the chill of the nightmare touched her once again.

Trent saw her shudder.

"Cold?"

"A little."

"Want some hot chocolate or coffee?"

Kaylee jumped to her feet, "I would kill for some hot chocolate!"

Trent pushed himself up and walked toward the kitchen as Kaylee tried not to notice the perfect muscles of his perfect back and that perfect little butt. She sat quietly at the counter while he made the hot chocolate and he opened the cabinet and pulled out a bag of mini marshmallows and he dropped a few into her cup and Kaylee motioned for him to add a few more and then a few more.

Trent carried the cups back into the den and sat on the floor in front of the fire and Kaylee joined him. She liked how the warmth of the fire felt on her skin.

"So, tell me about you," Trent asked sipping his hot chocolate.

"There isn't much to tell. I live in Manhattan and I work as a teacher. A job that I love. My parents live in Florida and my brother lives in Texas and that's really it."

Trent was mesmerized how her eyes sparkled in the fire light, "Tell me about you." "I know where you live and what you do, what do you like?"

"You mean hobbies or movies?" she said and then happily sucked melted marshmallow from her mug.

"I mean…what makes you…you?"

"There really isn't anything interesting about me."

Trent totally disagreed with that statement, but sat quietly listening.

"I talk a lot about things that I want to do which I never really make time for. I go out on the weekends with the people I care about, but during the week I sit home alone and watch television or grade papers. I have a car that I rarely ever drive and I don't really ever go anywhere besides visiting my parents a few times a year because I really hate to fly." Kaylee got a really sad look on her face so Trent reached out and touched her hand as she finished her thought, "I never really knew what I was missing until I came here to spend time with this wonderful family."

"We're glad you're here Kaylee."

"Thanks Trent," she smiled that perfect smile.

Trent reached up and touched her cheek lightly with the back of his hand, "I'm really glad you're here."

Kaylee felt her stomach flutter with his touch and she licked her lips and tried to keep from breathing. Brian…Brian…Brian…

"I better get back upstairs."

Trent stood up and offered her his hand to stand, "Yes, we wouldn't want Brian to wake up and worry where you are.

Trent pulled her to her feet and he was surprised when she wrapped her arms around him and hugged him tight so he returned the hug. She smelled so good and their bodies fit perfectly together. Trent didn't know what he would have done if she wouldn't have leaned back and said, "Goodnight Tre and thanks." And then picked up her hot chocolate and dashed out of the room.

Trent was sweating and he knew it had nothing to do with the fire or the hot chocolate. He didn't know how she had done it, but Kaylee had found a place in his heart. He wanted to tell himself that she belonged to the brother that he loved, but right that moment his body wasn't listening.