Read Love Finds You on Christmas Morning for Free Online

didn’t even put up a fuss about getting into his automobile.
    When they arrived at her family’s cottage, she turned to face him. “I have no idea what my parents might say or do since they’re not expecting you.”
    “Lillian, you never have to make excuses for anyone, including your parents. Besides, they seem like nice people, so I’m sure they’ll be polite even if they don’t want to see me.”
    “You are one strange man,” she said as she got out of the automobile.
    He caught up with her before she reached the door of her home. “That’s a compliment. I don’t want to be like everyone else—especially with you.”
    “Oh, trust me, you’re nothing like anyone else I’ve ever known.”
    “Lillian, is that you?” The sound of Mama’s voice rang through the house.
    “Yes, Mama, it’s me, and I have company.”
    In less than a minute Mama showed herself in the living room, a confused expression on her face until she spotted William. “Hi, Mr. Tronnier. It’s so nice to see you. I apologize for the mess.”
    Lillian glanced around and saw that everything was perfectly clean and in place. “Mama, the house looks nice. Mr. Tronnier just wanted to stop by and say hi to you and Daddy.”
    “Would you like to stay for supper?” Mama asked.
    William didn’t waste a moment before shaking his head. “No, I’m expected at my parents’ home for supper. Besides, I wouldn’t want to pop in unexpectedly and expect a meal. That would be rude.”
    “In that case, why don’t you come by tomorrow night?”
    Lillian spun around and glared at her mama. She started to make up a reason why he couldn’t, but he was faster to respond. “I would love that. That is, if Lillian doesn’t mind.” He looked down at her.
    What could she say? “Of course I don’t mind.”
    “Then I’ll be here. Would you like me to bring something?”
    Mama wore a false smile as she lifted her chin. “Just yourself, and make sure you come hungry.”
    “Don’t go to too much trouble,” he argued without an ounce of conviction in his voice.
    “It’s no trouble at all. I haven’t cooked for one of Lillian’s friends in a long time, so it will be my treat.”
    Lillian wanted to cringe. Her mother didn’t need to tell him everything.
    * * * * *
    William felt bad for Lillian. He could tell that her mother had embarrassed her, but she needn’t have felt that way. He was used to his own mom talking too much. It came with the territory.
    “I’d best be getting home.” He glanced at Lillian. “Walk me to the door?”
    “Sure. The house is small, so we don’t have to walk far.”
    They stopped when they reached the door. Mrs. Pickard shot them a glance, smiled again, and disappeared, leaving him alone with Lillian. Lillian, however, wouldn’t look at him, so he took a chance and tilted her chin up. He held his breath until he realized she wasn’t going to resist.
    “What are you thinking?”
    She lifted one eyebrow. “Do you really want to know?”
    William laughed. “You are one feisty woman, Lillian Pickard.”
    “And you are one presumptuous man, William Tronnier.”
    “Sounds like a very good match to me.”
    She stepped back, freeing herself from his touch. “All depends on the perspective.”
    “True.” He hesitated before opening the door and taking a step. “Since I’ve officially been invited over tomorrow evening, why don’t I stop by the store and pick you up?”
    “I’m surprised you bothered to ask,” she replied. “You always do whatever you please.”
    Laughter bubbled from his throat, but he stifled more than a slight chuckle. “This is more fun than I’ve had in many years.”
    “So glad I’m able to amuse you.”
    “Until tomorrow.” He didn’t budge.
    She stood at the door and narrowed her eyes. “Are you planning to leave or just stand there bantering with me?”
    William sighed. “I guess that’s a hint.”
    Now it was her turn to laugh. He heard her voice as she closed the door.