Page 1 of Evan

Prologue

BETTY

Islide into my seat at the polished wooden desk, the celestial symbols etched into its surface seeming to dance before my eyes. I lean over to Gladys, my fellow angel-in-training, and whisper, “I’m so nervous.”

“Me too,” she nods and offers me a reassuring smile. Her blonde curls bounce with the gesture.

Henry, our ever-patient mentor, takes his place at the front of the room, his wings folded neatly behind him. "Alright, class, settle down," he says, his voice laced with amusement. "Today's the big day. You'll each receive your final assignment on Earth, just in time for the Christmas season."

I rub my hands together in excitement. "I love Christmas.I can't wait to spread some holiday cheer.”I've been practicing my 'Ho, ho, ho!' for weeks now."

John, the gruff angel next to me, raises an eyebrow. "Betty, I thought we were supposed to be teaching about the gifts of the season, not impersonating Santa Claus."

I elbow him playfully. "Who says we can't do both? I'll have them feeling grateful for the joy of laughter in no time."

Henry chuckles, shaking his head. "I have no doubt about that, Betty.”

As Henry distributes the letters, I think back to my own life, the challenges I faced and the strength I found through gratitude. When he hands me my envelope, I take a deep breath, sending up a silent prayer for guidance.

"Evan Lawson, a Christmas tree farm owner,” I read again, and this time aloud, my voice softening with empathy.

Arthur leans over, his eyes filled with warmth. "Sounds like Evan could use a reminder of all the blessings in his life, even if they're not always obvious."

I nod, a determined smile spreading across my face. "And that's exactly what I'm going to give him. I'll help him see beauty in the little things, the everyday wonders that are so easy to overlook."

As we rise from our seats, ready to embark on our missions, I feel a sense of purpose settling over me. Laughter might be the best medicine, but I understand the power of gratitude on a profound level. It's what carried me through the darkest days of my past, and it's the gift I'm determined to share with Evan.

I step out into the heavenly gardens of vibrant blooms and gentle breezes. With a spring in my step and a prayer in my heart, I set off on my journey, ready to help Evan rediscover the transformative power of gratitude.

"Get ready, Evan Lawson," I murmur to myself, a smile playing at the corners of my lips, "Betty the Gratitude Guru is on her way.” I chuckle at the title. “And she's got a pocketful of miracles with your name on them.”

One

BETTY

The crisp December air tickles my nose as I arrive near the entrance of Evan Lawson's Christmas tree farm. I inhale deeply, savoring the invigorating scent of pine and the distant aroma of cinnamon wafting from the barn. Benton Falls truly is a picture-perfect town, especially during the holidays.

I glance down at my cable-knit sweater and fleece-lined boots, marveling at how authentic they feel. Blending in with the locals should be a breeze. With a spring in my step, I make my way towards the barn, ready to begin my first assignment as a guardian angel in training.

As I approach, I spot Evan helping a family load their chosen tree onto their pickup truck. His broad shoulders strain under the weight of the massive fir, but his smile seems forced, lacking the warmth and enthusiasm I'd expect from someone surrounded by such holiday cheer.

And that’s why I’m here.

Once the family drives off, Evan turns and nearly collides with me. "Oh, I'm so sorry, ma'am. I didn't see you there. Are you looking for a tree?"

I chuckle and wave off his apology. "No worries, dear. I'm just here to enjoy the festive atmosphere. I'm Betty, by the way."

"Evan Lawson, nice to meet you." He extends a gloved hand, which I shake firmly. "Well, you've certainly come to the right place for holiday cheer.” His words contend with his even tone. “Look around and let me know if you need any help."

"Thank you, Evan. I must say, your farm is absolutely stunning. You must put in a lot of hard work to keep it looking this good."

Evan shrugs, his gaze scanning the neat rows of trees. "It's a family business. Just doing my part to keep it running."

I tilt my head, sensing the weariness beneath his polite exterior. "And do you enjoy it? Running the farm, I mean."

He hesitates, as if surprised by my question. "I... well, it's a lot of responsibility. But it's what my family expects of me."

Before I can respond, a little girl with pigtails and a puffy pink coat tugs on Evan's sleeve. "Excuse me, Evan? Can you help me find a tree that's taller than my daddy?"

---