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They disappeared and Jules came back out a few minutes later

My sweat froze on my exposed skin and

“What are you doing out here?”

“I was going to run hoet some provisions Hot chocolate Soured it would make the snow day more fun”

I let go of the shovel with one hand and wrapped ainstfor me” Our lips were icy hot and steam rose between us

“Of course” Her words were breathless, just the way I liked

With her arms out like she was on a balance beam, Jules skidded across the street Her front door opened and closed behind her Three-quarters of a cleared parking space later, she came back out with her arms loaded up with containers stacked on top of containers

Sweatingat the same time, I barely cleared the space in time to help her up the steps

“That was fast” Her winter-chapped reddened cheeks glowed This hat she loved to do Feed other people and make them comfortable and happy She sure as hell made me happy

Inside the house, you’d have thought she’d shown up ater to a group wandering through the desert

“Jules, you’re the best”

“If I’m ever snowed in anywhere, I want to be snowed in with you”

“These are so good, I hope we never have to leave this house”

They laid it on thick, trying to keep the chocolate, vanilla, and sugar goodies co

“Alexis, go upstairs” I’d noticed her sulking in the corner, having removed Jules’ warm jacket “There’s some sweatpants and a thermal up there You knohere they are”