A Very Mystic Christmas (The Mystic Wolves) (5 page)

Annoyed, I lifted the cushions beside the elf to see if the remote had somehow fallen between the cracks. When my search came up with nothing, I quickly scanned the room. It was
nowhere.

Barking out a laugh, I realized how stupid I was. I’d just wasted five minutes
looking for the remote when all I had to do was turn the blaring flat screen off from the source. This was further proof I needed a break.

I clicked the
picture off, plunging the room back into the silence. It was so quiet that I heard a soft noise behind me.

“
Hey, if you find the . . .”
Turning around, my words lodged hard in my throat when I discovered the remote tossed across the elf’s lap. I knew it hadn’t been there a few minutes ago. “Okay, enough is enough. Come on out. You’ve had your fun.”

When no one emerged, all thoughts of my afternoon movie evaporated
. This would be more fun and a game I could fully enjoy—hide and seek. I was a predator; and having fallen prey to this person’s pranks, I was eager to turn the tables. It was time to hunt down and destroy the person behind this evil taunting. Hello, jokester, good-bye blasted elf.

“We can do this the easy
way or the hard way. You have no idea who you’re messing with. Show yourself and I promise to go easy on you.”

“Are you sure about that, chump?”

I could’ve sworn the voice came from the elf.

“Now, now. There’s no need for name calling.” I started moving about the room, thoroughly checking behind furniture for the culprit. “I’m a patient man. I’ve got all day.”

There was a muffled laugh and I zeroed in on the direction it came from. The Christmas tree was standing in the furthest corner, beside the bay window, shrouded by dark curtains. I hadn’t thought to look over there, assuming the jingling of decorations would give away the person’s position if they moved.

Using all the stealth I could muster, I tiptoed closer. “I must admit
you had me going with the toy. I’m pretty impressed with your abilities. If you come out of your hiding place, I may make you my partner in crime.”

There was a slight
pfft
sound. Whoever it was, they were definitely behind the curtains. A few more steps and they were busted. With dramatic flair, I grasped a handful of material and whipped the fabric to the side, shouting, “Aha!”

Nothing. The space was empty. Moving the other panel,
I discovered there was no one there, either.

A louder giggle came from behind
me; and twirling around, I came face-to-face with the person who’d made the last few days a living nightmare for me.

“Surprise!” Jasmine laughed, waving the elf’s arm with her fingers, a smug look of satisfaction filling her features. “How does it feel, Mr. Hot Shot?”

“Hot Shot?” I fired back, stunned that it was her. I’d accused her earlier, with Darcy and Mason, but I’d never put any serious thought in it really being her. Pranking, or in this case, torturing didn’t really seem her style

“Yes, you. Do you know how many times you’ve pulled similar stunts and thought it was hilarious? I figured it was about time someone gave you a taste of your own medicine. It’s
only because I’m a sweet, good-natured person that I’m taking mercy on you and ending it now. I’d hate to make you cry, you know.” She had the audacity to wink at me.

“It was you this whole time?” I still couldn’t believe it.

“Yep. And it was worth it to see the look on your face every time you found the elf. It. Was. Priceless. I just wish I’d thought to video tape it.” She folded her arms across her chest, the elf hanging from her hand.

“You do know this means war, right? I can’t let you get away with
it. I have a reputation to protect.” I took a step toward her and, just like her brother; Jasmine didn’t back down, flinch, or move a muscle. She stood her ground, watching.

“You deserved it. There’s no need to retaliate.”

“Oh, believe me, there is definitely need to retaliate. And, I’m going enjoy making you squirm.” I was finally up close and personal with her and her bravery began to waver. It was one thing to joke around, but I could see the worry flicker in her eyes. She was remembering all the times I’d dished out payback to those who thought they could out-do me. “Thinking about my revenge, huh?”

“You wouldn’t,” she whispered.

“Why shouldn’t I?”

“Because my brother’s your best friend
?”

“What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. I promise I won’t make you wait too long for my vengeance.” I leaned in and snapped my teeth at her, chuckling when she squeaked and stumbled backward.

“Daniel, please,” she begged, stretching out her hand to ward me off.

“Not listening. You tortured me
without mercy with that damn elf, and I’m going to enjoy this.” I stepped closer. Not because I was really going to do anything, but just by the way her eyes widened in anticipation made my taunting all the more sweeter.

Jasmine gulped, her gaze darting back and forth as she searched for a way to escape. “Um, Daniel? Look.” She pointed up and smiled.

Cocking an eyebrow, I shrugged. “So? It’s just another Christmas decoration. It’s not going to save you from me.”

“It’s mistletoe
; and we’re standing under it.” She blushed and I realized her meaning.

“Think you
can distract me with a kiss? I don’t know. It would have to be a pretty amazing one for me to forgive you.” I was totally messing with her. As much as I’d wondered what kissing her would be like, there was too much at stake if I ever screwed it up.

Her bravery had returned
and fire sparked in her eyes. “I have it on good authority that I’m pretty good at it.” She tilted her head as if challenging me to prove her wrong. It had the opposite effect. Instead of stoking my curiosity, it fired up my mile long protective streak.

“Who have you been kissing?” I ordered.

“None of your business.”

“You
’d better believe it’s my business.”

It was her turn to raise her eyebrows at me. “Maybe I’ll share that secret with you in exchange for a pranking pardon.”

“No, you’ll tell me.” I stared hard at her.

“You’re as big a pig as my brother. A girl doesn’t kiss and tell.”

“He mustn’t have been any good then.” I smirked. My comment caused her skin to flush with indignation. I’d struck a nerve. “Maybe it’s a good thing we’re standing underneath mistletoe. Maybe you need to know what it’s like to really be kissed.”

“You wouldn’t!” she stammered, nervous
ly

“You’re the one who offered. I’m just looking to collect.” I closed the distance between us, encircling her waist with my arm. Tugging her against my body, she squeaked again and I tried not to laugh. This was too easy.

“Daniel.”

“Sssh, don’t worry, honey. I’ve got you. I’ll be gentle.” Cupping her face, she closed her eyes, moistening her lips.

I faced a decision—one that warred inside me. Here was the perfect opportunity to put my questions to rest. I could kiss her and blame it on the mistletoe, as well as being caught up in the moment. There were only a few years difference between us and we’d grown up together, so wouldn’t it almost be expected? Or, I could maintain my resolve, and respect for my Alpha, and keep her at arm’s length.

Truth
was, I liked having her in my arms a little too much. Her body trembled against mine and there was no mistaking it, she was responsive. One small kiss. My mouth began watering at the thought.

A million thoughts raced through my mind and I made a choice. Brushing my lips across her forehead, I tried to ignore the disappointed exhale she released. She wasn’t the only one wondering what it would’ve been like had I chosen otherwise. A voice screamed in my ear that it wasn’t too late to change my mind, to lower my mouth and claim hers.

Unfortunately, we never found out what might have been. Seconds later, Mason entered the room, looking for his sister.

“Hey, what’s going on?” he asked suspiciously. I dropped my arms from around Jasmine and stood back.

“Nothing,” she answered for both of us. “Nothing; but Daniel got his just desserts.” She pointed down at the discarded elf, smiling as though the last few minutes hadn’t happened.

“That was you?” Mason asked incredulously.

“Uh huh.”

“Ohhh, she got you good!”
He high fived his sister before pulling her into a hug. I squashed the fleeting thought that she should’ve been in my arms. There was no point playing the ‘what if’ game. Our relationship would remain the same—she would continue to be the sister of my best friend and Alpha. Nothing more.

“Meh, she was okay. For an amateur.” I winked at her and was relieved when she punched my shoulder.

“Hey, this amateur almost made you cry. Don’t ever forget that.”

Joking back and forth, Mason finally shared what had him looking for her and I realized I’d missed my movie. Staring at the elf, I realized there was no need to hide away. The mystery had been solved
; and hopefully, everything would return to normal.

One last look at Jasmine as she left with her brother caused my chest to tighten.

I sighed, thinking of what might have been.

Mom’s English Toffee

Submitted by Lisa Markson

Ingredients

1 cup
butter

1 cup
sugar

1 Tbs
light corn syrup

2 Tbs
water

1 cup
chocolate chips

1 cup
almonds, sliced

Preparation

1.
       
In a heavy saucepan, combine all ingredients except chocolate chips and nuts.

2.
      
Stirring constantly, cook over medium heat until candy thermometer reads 300 degrees or until candy is thick and golden.

3.
      
Spread on a greased baking sheet and then sprinkle with chocolate chips. Spread chips evenly until melted and top is completely covered.

4.
     
Sprinkle with almonds and refrigerate to set.

5.
      
Break into pieces before serving.

Ginger Bread Cookies

Wet Ingredients



1 1/2 cups dark molasses


1 cup dark brown sugar


2/3 cup cold water


1/3 cup butter

Dry Ingredients



6 cups flour


1 tsp
. allspice


2 tsp
. ginger


1 tsp
. cloves


1 tsp
. cinnamon


1 tsp
. salt

Directions


1.
       
Mix all wet ingredients together then add in all the dry ingredients.

2.
      
Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours or best if overnight.

3.
      
Roll out 1/4″ thick and cut into shapes.

4.
     
Place on un-greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for approx. 10 minutes.

5.
      
Let cookies rest in the pan for another 2-3 before transferring to rack for cooling.
 

Frosting Ingredients

1 stick butter


1 can sweetened condensed milk


Powdered sugar


1/4 tsp
. salt


1/2 tsp
. vanilla extract

Directions


1.
       
Mix butter, salt and vanilla together.

2.
      
Add powdered sugar and condensed milk to desired consistency.

3.
      
If using a frosting decorator like a squeeze bottle, you’ll want the frosting to be a bit thicker.

Great Grandma's Molasses Cookies

Submitted by Michelle Graves

Ingredients

3/4 cup Margarine

1/4 cup molasses (level full)

1 cup sugar

1 large egg

2 3/4 cup flour

2 tsp
. baking soda

1/2 tsp
. salt

Method

1.
       
Mix first three ingredients well then add in the egg.

2.
      
In a separate bowl combine the flour, salt and baking soda.

3.
      
Once combined, slowly add in wet mix to the flour.  Stir until no flour is visible.

4.
     
Refrigerate dough until it is cool.

5.
      
Roll dough in little balls then roll in sugar.

6.
      
Bake at 350 degrees until light brown on top level of the oven.