Kapitel 17: Chapter 17

He stopped when he got close to where I was seated on the couch and then looked up at me as if asking permission. I nodded and he quickly popped open the tops, carefully setting them to the side. One tub was filled with knickknacks, a few winter-themed prints, and an artificial garland I usually hung over the front door. The other bin had the lights carefully wound and secured so they wouldn’t tangle, the tree stand, and boxes of ornaments. It was enough for me, and they were things I’d carefully chosen and purchased over the last seventeen or so years.

Noah was silent as he absorbed what he was seeing. Then he took a deep breath and lifted his gaze to meet mine. The sweet and serene smile was all I needed to see, and I couldn’t help but return it. The fact that he liked my decorations and it showed on his face warmed me.