Page 1 of Santa Loves Curvy Girls

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BELLE

Garland, Maine was a special place where you could make a wish once a year when they put the star on the Christmas tree in the town square. More often than not, my wishes had come true.

Other than Christmas Day, it was my favorite day of the year.

As I finished getting ready, I looked in the mirror and fixed my candy-cane-red scarf. It stood out against my dark wavy hair. Then I checked the rest of my reflection. Tonight, I’d worn a form-fitting green sweater dress instead of an outfit that would hide my extra curves and wide-calf knee-high boots. Before I could second guess my appearance, I turned and headed down the stairs.

I’d never missed the star being placed on the tree, not since I was a little kid who sat on my dad’s shoulders, and I definitely wasn’t going to miss it this year.

I checked the time on my phone. My friends had to be on their way too. I tapped out a quick text as I left my house, letting Mom know I’d be at the town square.

The holidays were always a busy time in Garland, more so in December with thousands of tourists coming to town. There wasso much to do, from volunteering at Santa’s Elves to going on sleigh rides or working at the Snowed Inn Lodge.

Not to mention finding someone cute to kiss at Mistletoe Hill.

I’d done just about everything there was to do in Garland except for that last particular attraction. Not that it was an official attraction. More like the secret make-out spot the local kids went to.

You had to have a cute boy invite you there, and I was just not the kind of girl who got those invites. Neither were my friends. We weren’t the right size or fit into the right crowds at school. Something I’d sadly realized as early as elementary school.

But that was another reason I had to get to Cider Center, where the big Christmas tree stood.

This year would be different. I could feel it in my bones. I had a very special wish to make this time around as the star lit up.

By the time I got to Cider Center, the crowds were bustling and murmuring with excitement.

“Excuse me,” I said politely as I made my way to the front. Even though I was shivering and I could see my breath, I wouldn’t trade being here for anything.

This was my moment.

There was something about the Christmas season that made it so the cold could reach my nose and fingers but my heart felt big, hopeful, and warm.

It was the season of miracles, wishes, and gift-giving. Anything was possible.

“Belle!” I heard someone call nearby.

I turned around, trying to find the person behind the familiar voice.

Holly’s bright brown eyes came into view among the sea of Garland locals and tourists.

“Holly!” I yelled. The crowds were getting louder now. People squeezed and jostled, trying to make it near the front for a good view. In just a minute, the tree would light up, officially kicking off the Christmas season in our little town.

She waved and smiled, our other friends in tow.

“I’m so glad you guys made it.” I hopped on my toes a little, trying to stay warm.

The girls lined up on either side of me.

Carolynn was the last to arrive. “Wouldn’t miss it,” she said, although I may have detected a hint of sarcasm.

“I’ve got five minutes before I’ve gotta run, but I didn’t want to miss this either,” Bethany said.

Sera was still in her work uniform. “Hi, Belle, looking cute.”

Carolynn, Bethany, Holly, and Sera. My ride or die group of best friends since elementary school.

And like me, plus size and desperately single.

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