Her Christmas Kiss — Aileen Fish

Lady Beatrice Winslow first loved James when he was engaged to her best friend. Now he's returned to the village, still single, and she isn't about to lose her chance at claiming the only man she's ever desired. This Christmas she plans to give him the long overdue gift of her heart.When his fiancée broke off their betrothal, James fought rejection by sealing off his heart. After thirteen years fighting in His Majesty's Army, can he finally open himself to love again with his best friend's little sister? This short story was previously released as All Things Merry and Bright in the Christmastide Kisses anthology.