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He hesitated. “Us, Sage. I know it’s soon to mention my feelings. I was attracted to you for a long time. After the fiasco earlier with the office romance that went sour, I held off asking you out. The timing was wrong, and I feared Mowrey would frown upon us dating, especially when you were in line for the promotion. It went without saying Troy would use the news to his advantage.”

Sage listened to what he said, but her head barely got past the first part. Motioning toward Ethan, she said, “Let’s go back to the beginning part of that statement.”

He narrowed his gaze, as if trying to remember what he’d said.

“The part about it being too soon to express your feelings,” she elaborated.

A smile replaced his puzzled expression. “You mean out of all I said, you’re more interested in what my heart is telling me than anything else?”

“Yes,” she admitted eagerly.

Ethan didn’t hesitate. “I’m falling in love with you, Sage.”

Her smile was huge as she launched herself into his arms. “That’s the most wonderful news, because, Ethan, I’m falling in love with you, too.”

Ethan kissed her then, his arms holding her tightly against him.

When the kiss ended, Sage continued to hug him, her heart feeling so light she felt like she was ten inches off the ground.

Once her head cleared, Sage was excited for Ethan. “You’re really going to start your own company?”

“I am. It’s been in the back of my mind for the last couple years. Like I said, I was flattered when Mowrey approached me, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that if I did win the promotion, I would be putting my own dreams on hold. Stepping out on my own is a big leap. I’m not afraid to admit I’m more than a little intimidated. I’m putting my entire financial future at risk.”

Sage didn’t hold a single doubt he would do well. “I believe with my entire being that you’re going to be a huge success.” She meant it with all her heart. She grew serious then. “Mainly I want to be sure you aren’t bowing out because you’re concerned what it will do to us.”

His features softened. “My decision had far more to do with me being willing to make a major change in my life. I’ll admit, our relationship is of far more value than my employment. These last few weeks have shown me leaving Park Marketing was the right thing to do. Falling in love with you gave me the push I needed.”

Sage lost the ability to speak.

“This promotion means everything to you,” he continued. “You’ve earned this. I’ve noticed how many nights you’ve worked late. You’ve put your heart and soul into this company. If Mowrey doesn’t choose you to take over the management, he’s a fool.”

“Thank you.” His affirmation meant the world to her. That he would credit her with the courage to move forward with his own dream deeply touched her. “Oh, Ethan, I’m so pleased and proud of you.” He had everything it took to succeed. He was dedicated, hardworking, loyal, and honest, and had great people skills. The only downfall as far as she was concerned was that she wouldn’t be seeing him every day. She’d miss their short but meaningful exchanges.

“I’ll miss seeing you on a daily basis,” he said.

“I was just thinking the same thing,” she told him.

“One of the reasons I delayed it as long as I did is because I wanted to remain close to you.”

Ethan placed his hand under her chin and angled her face up until their eyes met. “I want nothing more than to make you part of my life.” With that, he lowered his mouth to hers, claiming her with a kiss that left her with no doubt about his feelings.

Sage moaned softly and returned his kiss, savoring the pleasure of being in his arms. She never wanted to leave. When Mark and Annalisa betrayed her, she’d been convinced love and marriage weren’t in the cards for her. She’d basically closed herself off from relationships, fearing a repeat and unwilling to trust her own heart. Ethan had shown her otherwise. He was trustworthy and had proved it by his patience and caring for Ricky and her.

If it hadn’t been for Ricky and his insistence he talk to the real Santa, she might never have lowered her emotionally fragile walls to allow Ethan in. Now that she had, there was no holding her back. She wanted this. Wanted him.

Ethan’s eyes were bright and happy. “Are we good?” he asked, and kissed her again.

“More than good,” she answered on a contented sigh.

A noise came from behind them, and Sage turned to find Walt Cornwell, Ethan’s father, standing in the doorway to the den. He wore a knowing look and appeared pleased with himself.

“Hey, Dad,” Ethan greeted. His arms remained firmly around Sage, holding her close.

“Hey,” Walt returned, with a satisfied smirk. “Guess I was right. Despite all the denials, you two are far more than friends.”

“It certainly looks that way,” Sage said, smiling up at Ethan.

“No one ever listens to me,” he complained, chuckled, and then added, “It’s halftime and you know what that means. Your mother has the Santa suit in your old bedroom.”