Page 59 of My Secret Santa Mason

25

CAMI

The Silver Ridge Community Center was nothing short of magical tonight. The whole place sparkled with holiday cheer, from the twinkling fairy lights draped along the walls to the grand Christmas tree standing tall in the corner, its shimmering ornaments and glowing lights casting a warm golden glow across the room. The smell of pine, cinnamon, and freshly baked cookies filled the air, mixing with the soft sound of Christmas carols played by the local band. Everything wasperfect.

I would never stop loving Christmas, no matter how old I got.

I could barely contain my smile as Mason and I stepped through the doors, hand in hand. Everyone glanced in our direction, but the news we were together now had spread quickly and they were curious in the way people were to see if something was really true.

Of course it was.

And when they were satisfied, we weren’t a spectacle. We were welcomed with open arms by all who knew us.

This was exactly what I’d imagined a small-town Christmas to be—warm, welcoming, and filled with the kind of joy you couldn’t find anywhere else. And tonight, it felt like I belonged here more than ever.

When I glanced at Mason, he looked a little uncomfortable. He wasn’t used to being around people all the time. The town would grow on him, I knew that. But he stood tall, holding my hand with pride, and I had a feeling he would fit in faster than he expected.

We found Rae and Tanner near the entrance, little Hunter babbling happily in Rae’s arms.

Everyone looked festive, from bright red scarves to cozy green sweaters adorned with reindeer and snowflakes.

“Hey, you two!” Rae called out as we approached, her eyes lighting up when she saw us. “You made it!”

I grinned, giving her a quick hug before turning to Tanner. “Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” I said, squeezing his arm. “How’s Hunter? Ready for his big Christmas debut?”

Tanner chuckled, rubbing his hand over Hunter’s tiny head. He had a baby version of the proverbial ugly Christmas sweater and he was adorable.

“He’s more than ready. He’s been bouncing around all day, I swear.”

We all laughed as Rae gave me a once-over, her brow furrowing slightly. “How are you feeling?” she asked, lowering her voice a little. “After everything…”

I smiled at her. “I’m okay,” I said softly. “Really. I’m just glad it’s over.”

Mason’s hand tightened around mine, and I felt a surge of warmth knowing he was there, standing beside me. I wasn’t alone anymore. None of this would have been possible without him, and as much as the last few days had been filled with chaos, it was light and bright now.

This was my happy ending, the one I’d never seen coming.

Betty Thompson stepped up onto the stage, tapping the microphone to get everyone’s attention. Her face was flushed with excitement, her eyes twinkling under the soft glow of the Christmas lights. “Welcome, everyone, to our annual Secret Santa reveal!” Her voice was filled with warmth and pride. “I hope you’re all as excited as I am to find out who your Secret Santa is!”

A cheer went up from the crowd, and I found myself smiling even wider. I’d been so excited about this part of the evening—the reveal, the surprise, the thoughtful gifts exchanged between friends and neighbors. It was such a simple tradition, but it carried so much meaning, and I was so glad I could be a part of it.

Betty continued, her voice cheerful as she called out the first name. “Gregory Treeve!”

The evening kicked off with Mayor Gregory Treeve taking the stage. “Good evening, everyone!” His voice boomed with cheer. “Welcome to our annual Secret Santa reveal! Let’s spread some holiday magic tonight.”

With that, Betty stepped forward, her warm smile lighting up the room.

“Alright, everyone, it’s time for the big reveal! If you haven’t guessed your Secret Santa yet, now’s the moment to find out!”

Gregory stepped forward with a grin, holding out a beautifully handcrafted wooden jewelry box to Laura Bennett, the innkeeper. “I hope you like it, Laura,” he said, his eyes twinkling as he handed it to her.

Laura’s eyes widened as she opened the box. “Oh, Gregory, this is beautiful! Thank you so much! I would never have guessed you’re my Secret Santa.”

The crowd murmured with approval as the next name was called. “Jake ‘The Snake’ O’Hara!”

Jake, with his signature swagger, stepped up with a custom-made hiking backpack for Ranger Lisa Morales. “For all your adventures in the Whispering Pines Forest,” he said with a grin.

Lisa laughed, clearly touched by the thoughtful gift. “Thank you, Jake. This is perfect. I was just planning a new year’s trek.”

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