When I recruit my Christmas-loving roommate for a holiday charity fundraiser, I don’t expect a kiss under the mistletoe to risk our friendship.

We have three days in a scavenger hunt to rack up as many points as possible and Brin is the perfect person to do this with—she exudes enthusiasm and energy, especially when it comes to the holidays.

I would know—we share a room in an apartment in New York City. It’s close quarters. Too close, judging by how often I catch myself thinking about her. 

Things I try not to think about, because Brin is also too kind, too small-town sweet for someone like me. My job as the personal assistant to one of the wealthiest trust fund socialites in Manhattan is to be his fixer—when he needs someone to be an asshole, I’m the one he calls. And I'm good at my job, because that’s what I’ve done all my life, pushing away everyone I loved.

As we race around the city ice-skating, eating sufganiyot, honoring the winter solstice, and yes, kissing under the mistletoe, I discover Brin has some secrets of her own, and I may be just the type of man she needs.

Chock-full of holiday cheer and pining, these best friends and roommates will realize that they complement each other everywhere that matters. Cuddle up for a cozy and hot winter wonderland!