Christmas With My Girlfriend's Stepsister

The setup

Kenzie flies in for the holidays, and her stepsister's boyfriend is the one sent to collect her. The drive from the airport is mostly glances, with a nagging voice reminding him that his eyes belong on the road. Before the driveway, Kenzie rings her stepsister to report that they're almost home, praising his manners and promising there's no reason to worry, which is exactly what someone with something to hide would say. Then she invites him inside, the front door opens and the house greets them with a cheerful Merry Christmas. The rest of the series keeps the tree lit and the secret warm: Kenzie has a present in mind, and it isn't meant for opening in front of family.

Why it earns its number

Most stepsister stories run on one big secret. This one runs on a cover story delivered live, by phone, with the boyfriend at the wheel. Tinsel, family dinners and a midnight deadline set the scene, and few series in the collection are quicker to wrap up.

Who should collect it: For anyone who wants holiday mischief in one evening, with a cover story, a ticking clock and a stepsister who plans ahead.