“Sorry, we’re closed. This is a private party.”

Adaline swung the door as she noticed a fresh wave of woodsy aroma come flooding toward her, and the distant twinkle lights formed a halo around Jace. Her indignation took a serious hit, especially when all four dogs sniffed and pitter-pattered merrily around him like he was a gift sent straight from Santa.

He bent to lavish attention on each adoring canine and tipped his head toward the tree. “Where would you like me to put it? It’s already got a Christmas tree stand attached. All you have to do is tell me where you want it, and I’ll be out of your hair.”

Adaline bit her lip. It was the prettiest, most fragrant, most perfectly shaped Christmas tree that she’d ever set eyes on.

But there was no way that she was accepting it. Her fifth-grade self wouldn’t allow it. Nor would her thirty-year-old self, though that version of herself was beginning to waver.

“I told you I don’t need a tree.”

Jace stood, his gaze flitting around the interior of the undecorated bakery. “Your lack of holiday decor says otherwise. And look, I feel bad about what happened. I never intended to kick Comfort Paws out of the space. I like dogs. And I’d like to propose a compromise.”

Adaline’s gaze flew to his face. “What kind of compromise?”

Jace’s eyes flashed over her, and his mouth curled a little. “As soon as you let me come inside and set up your Christmas tree, I’ll tell you.”