Page 78 of Captiva Book Club

As the final preparations were made, the doorbell rang, and the first guests of the evening began to arrive. Maggie greeted them with warm hugs and wide smiles, her heart lifting as more of her extended family filled the room.

Crawford and Ciara Powell were the first to step inside, their faces glowing with the joy of the season. Crawford, tall and broad-shouldered, had a jovial laugh that filled the room, while Ciara, elegant as always, wore a smile that could light up the darkest night.

“Merry Christmas, Maggie!” Ciara exclaimed, wrapping her sister-in-law in a tight hug. “This place looks incredible!”

“Merry Christmas, Ciara! I’m so glad you could make it,” Maggie replied, her voice filled with genuine warmth. “And Crawford, it’s great to see you too.”

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Crawford said with a grin. “Especially not with food like that on the table.”

Maggie laughed, leading them inside. “You’re in for a treat tonight. Oliver and Iris have outdone themselves.”

Next came Luke Powell, his usual intensity softened by the holiday spirit. He had a relaxed air about him tonight, a slight smile playing on his lips as he greeted Maggie.

“Luke! So glad you’re here,” Maggie said, pulling him into a hug.

“Thanks, Maggie,” Luke replied. “It’s nice to take a break and just enjoy the holiday.”

Maggie noticed the small gift bag in his hand and raised an eyebrow. “Planning to surprise someone tonight?”

Luke chuckled, shaking his head. “Just a little something for the host. You’ve been more than generous to all of us.”

Maggie smiled, her heart touched by the gesture. “Thank you, Luke. You didn’t have to, but it’s very sweet of you.”

As Luke moved inside to join the others, Joshua Powell and Jacqui Hutchins arrived, their hands intertwined. Joshua’s easygoing nature was a perfect balance to Jacqui’s vivacious personality, and the two seemed to radiate happiness as they stepped through the door.

“Joshua, Jacqui! Merry Christmas!” Maggie greeted them with open arms.

“Merry Christmas, Maggie!” Joshua said, his grin infectious. “This place looks amazing. You’ve really outdone yourself.”

Jacqui nodded in agreement, her eyes bright with excitement. “I’ve heard so much about your Christmas gatherings, and I’m thrilled to be here. It’s like stepping into a holiday movie!”

“Well, we do our best,” Maggie said with a wink. “Now come on in, there’s plenty to eat and drink.”

As the Powells settled in, the inn began to buzz with the energy of the growing crowd. Christopher and Becca were already there, helping with last-minute touches, while Sarah and Trevor Hutchins wrangled their three children, who were darting around the room, excited by the Christmas decorations and the promise of gifts.

Grandma Sarah, dressed in her festive best, was holding court in the living room, sharing stories and jokes with anyone who would listen. Her laughter rang out over the conversations, adding to the warmth that filled the room.

Oliver and Iris emerged from the kitchen, each carrying trays of appetizers to start the evening. They set them down on the buffet table, which was quickly becoming a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Platters of coconut shrimp, jerk chicken skewers, and tropical salsa were arranged with care, each dish more enticing than the last.

“Maggie, where would you like the punch bowl?” Oliver asked, holding up a large, ornate bowl filled with the tropical punch.

“Right here on the end, I think,” Maggie said, guiding him to a spot on the table. “That way everyone can help themselves.”

As Oliver set down the bowl, he looked around at the crowded room and smiled, though there was a hint of nerves in his eyes.

“You’re doing great, Oliver,” Maggie said, giving him a reassuring pat on the back. “Everyone’s going to love it. And remember, you’re not alone—Iris is here to help, and so am I.”

Iris appeared beside them, her arms laden with a tray of mini crab cakes. “Oliver, stop worrying. Everything’s perfect. Just enjoy the night.”

He nodded, taking a deep breath as he relaxed into the festive atmosphere. The sound of Christmas music playing softly in the background, the laughter of children, and the hum of conversation all mingled together, creating a warm, welcoming environment that made it easy to forget any anxieties.

As the evening wore on, the guests filled their plates with the delicious spread, moving from the savory dishes to the sweet desserts with relish. The children, their energy never waning, darted around the room, pausing only to grab another cookie or piece of cake.

Grandma Sarah found herself in the middle of a spirited discussion with Crawford Powell about the merits of traditional versus modern Christmas music, both of them laughing as they shared stories from their younger days.

Luke Powell had taken a seat near the Christmas tree, where he was engaged in a deep conversation with Katie Wright, who had arrived with her mother and sister. The two of them seemed to be hitting it off, their quiet corner a contrast to the bustling activity around them.

“Excuse me a minute,” he said to Katie. “Ciara, can I talk to you?”

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