Publication date: November 13th, 2025
Synopsis:
The holiday spirit is the last thing on my mind, and he's focused on his new beginning. But one mistletoe moment might change everything.
Callie
Spending the holidays alone for the first time in four years wasn't exactly on my wish list. But with a major shake-up at work and more changes than I ever saw coming, embracing my new reality seems like the only option.
And then there's Travis--charming, handsome, and a Texas drawl that could make any woman weak in the knees. But is it too soon to start something new? I've been out of the dating game for a while, and maybe this season is meant for family, friends, and finding joy in my new season.
One thing's for sure--I'm in no hurry for Christmas to arrive.
Travis
Christmas in the Northeast? In the freezing cold? Yeah, not exactly my idea of home. But turning down this job offer wasn't an option--it's the kind of opportunity that doesn't come around every day.
Still, spending the holidays away from everything and everyone I love is tougher than I expected. And then there's Callie. I never planned to meet someone like her, let alone work so closely with her.
Now I'm left wondering... is taking this risk worth everything I've worked for?
Have you read the award-winning UnLucky Christmas? Don't miss the chance to catch up with your favorite characters in Can't Hurry Christmas from USA Today Bestselling Author Melissa Baldwin.
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Excerpt
When I step off the elevator, I glance around the room. Well this is interesting. There is mistletoe hanging from the ceiling everywhere. I'm all for holiday decor, but you really need to watch where you stand or else you could find yourself in an awkward situation.
"Hello, Mr. Kirkland," Callie says. She and her team are all standing in a row like they are the Von Trapp family. It's quite a greeting.
"Welcome to marketing," she adds. Her curly hair is as wild as it was the first time I saw her.
"Thank you. I'm happy to be here," I say trying to avoid the leafy green plant hanging above her head. Mistletoe is a plant, right? Or a flower? I've never put much thought into it.
"Meet my all-star team--Whitney, Katherine, and Sadie." She holds out her arm to introduce them like she's on a game show.
"It's great to meet you all. I've heard only good things."
"That's a relief," Callie exclaims.
"Nah, it's not a surprise," one of them says with a shrug. "We are the best team in the company."
"Very true," Callie agrees.
I smile. "I look forward to seeing you all in action."
"Should we go to my office to chat?" Callie suggests.
"Let's do it."
I follow her carefully, avoiding the decorations that seem to be multiplying. I feel like I'm weaving through the space.
"It's very Christmasy around here," I say.
She groans. "Yes. That would be Whitney's handiwork. She's decided that the office needs more holiday cheer, so she's transforming it to a winter wonderland. I didn't have the energy to push back. She's very determined when she feels strongly about something."
"Well, it does brighten things up. My mother would love it."
She snorts. "Mine would too."
"I've already had a few lectures about decorating my new apartment for the holidays," I say, sitting down across from her desk. "Honestly, I'm surprised she hasn't shown up yet to make sure I have at least hung a stocking."
"Did you?" she asks.
I chuckle. "No."
"I haven't either," she admits. "I'm not in the holiday spirit yet."
"Yeah, I know the feeling," I agree. My eyes lock on hers, making something stir in my chest. She's very attractive, and it's kind of hard not to stare.
"Ugh, I'm so sorry," she exclaims. "We're supposed to be discussing marketing and business."
"Yes," I agree. "You're right. Thanks for keeping me on task."
"You're very welcome," she says, the corner of her mouth curling up. "That's what I'm here for."
"I'm guessing you keep a lot of things running here," I say. "It's obvious that Burton has been checked out for a while now."
She presses her lips together. "So you figured that out?"
I chuckle. "Yes, it didn't take me long. When he didn't have anything to share or even suggest, I knew he was out."
"Maggie is an excellent assistant," Callie says.
"Yes. She's made this transition very easy for me," I tell her.
"That sounds about right. She's the real MVP of this company."
"I'm sure she's not the only one," I say before I can stop myself.
"Good answer," she says leaning back in her chair.
I notice the same coffee cup she had on the first day in the middle of her messy desk. Honestly, I'm surprised she's able to function with all the chaos.
"I like the cup."
She grins. "Thanks, it's my lucky mug. If I ever forget it, my day is a disaster."
"Kind of like this desk." I tease.
She looks taken back. "My desk isn't a mess. I know exactly where everything is."
I try to hide a smile. "Really?"
"Mr. Burton never said a word about the state of my desk."
"I have no doubt about that," I reply. "I've spent most of my time cleaning out the cabinets and drawers in his office. I can't concentrate in a cluttered office." My eyes dart across her desk again.
She gives me a curious look. "Are you suggesting I can't do my job because I have a few pieces of paper on the desk?"
A few?
"Maybe we should agree to disagree?" I suggest. "Who am I to judge the methods used for productivity."
"Ah, very good idea."
"So, let's chat about marketing," I say.
Despite the disarray around her--Callie has a lot of information to share, and she knows her stuff.
USA Today bestselling author MELISSA BALDWIN always dreamed of sharing her stories with the world. She brought the vision to life, becoming an award-winning, bestselling author of over thirty romantic comedies and cozy mysteries. Melissa is also a wife, mother, new empty-nester, and travel advisor.
Her books feature charming, ambitious, and real women, whom she considers part of her tribe. Although she rarely takes a day off, when she's not writing, she enjoys quality time with her family, traveling, attempting yoga poses, and booking Disney vacations. Melissa still uses a paper planner, and her guilty pleasures include Beverly Hills 90210 reruns and General Hospital.
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