Page 47 of The Office Guest

“I’m leaving this room at some point.”

“Not unless you want to be locked out of it.” I turn away from him and rush out into the hallway.

This was going to be a lot harder than I thought.

FOURTEEN

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO

DOMINIC

Are you coming back to the cottage tonight?

Georgia

Nope.

Where are you sleeping?

Georgia

Far away from you.

I’m leaving the cottage in the morning to walk around the estate. Can you bring it back by then? (Why does the front desk have a “Do not copy this key or you’re fired” note on this cottage?)

Georgia

Tomorrow isn’t a good day for you to leave the house. (Why did you call the front desk at all? You don’t need to talk to them.)

Bring back the key by then.

Georgia

I’ll let you out when it’s time. You have no leverage here. Goodnight. <3

FIFTEEN

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO

GEORGIA

A couple of days later

Iused to give all my family members the same thing for every Christmas: a handmade “rescue” sweater in a shade of their favorite color. Most of the time, they complained about it, but they never understood my reasoning.

I knew they’d re-gift it to someone who truly appreciated the craft of a handmade sweater, but more importantly I wanted to win our traditional family game ofDirty Santa.

Tucking my newest present under my arm, I take a deep breath before stepping into the main lodge.

“About time you showed up!” Taryn waves me over. “I think I’ve guessed about fifteen presents so far, and with any luck I can guess the rest before the game officially starts.”

“That’s cheating, Taryn.”

“I know.” She smiles. “You taught me well.”

I laugh and take off my coat. “Pass me a box.”

“Where’s your fiancé?”