Page 258 of Daddy's Naughty List

Lulu beamed at the praise, but a wistful sigh escaped her lips. "I just wish Ben was here to see it. He put a lot of thought into this event."

"I know," Zoey said, giving her a sympathetic smile. "It’s a real shame. Everyone’s disappointed for you, knowing that he was your Daddy and everything. It would have been so lovely to spend Christmas together. But you’ve got all of us, you know? Your new family at the ranch.”

Lulu smiled, but deep down, she knew that even being around these guys would be short-lived. In just a few days, she’d be heading back to Philly, to her soulless apartment and a boss who didn’t respect her.

As the final decorations were hung and the last peppermint stick planted, Lulu surveyed her handiwork with satisfaction. The ranch had been completely transformed, a glittering testament to the power of Christmas magic and one determined Little girl.

"We did it, Flopsy!" Lulu whispered to her faithful stuffed companion. "The most amazing Christmas carnival ever."

As she took in the scene before her, Lulu made a promise to her stuffie. “This time next year, Flopsy,” she said in a quiet but determined voice, “we’re going to be fulfilled in every sense of the world. I’m going to find a way to be Little all the time, to be around good people like these ones, and to use my art for good, not . . . for boring greeting cards.”

Flopsy gave her a solemn look, as though aware of the gravity of her words.

“But now,” she said, speaking louder, “it’s time to focus on the main event!”

Lulu smoothed the festive green velvet of her dress, taking a deep breath as excited Littles and indulgent Caregivers began to arrive at the enchanted forest.

Zoey, dressed somewhere between an elf and a kitten, stood beside her, practically vibrating with excitement. "I can't wait to read our story!" she whispered, clutching their hand-made picture book to her chest. "Everyone is gonna love it! It’s so much better with your pictures in it, Lulu. Thank you again."

Lulu hugged her friend. “I couldn’t have done it without your awesome words as inspiration. And by the way, don’t you dare make a sequel without getting me involved!”

Zoey squealed with delight. “A sequel! Now, there’s an idea!” Just then, Zoey noticed her Daddy, Silas, and ran over to him.

Lulu managed a smile, trying to focus on the joy of the moment rather than the ache in her heart.

As if sensing her thoughts, Chuck appeared beside her. “Are you okay, little one?” he asked her kindly. “Today’s a very big day for you. If you need any help with anything, let me know.”

“Thank you,” Lulu said. “It’s all under control, though. It’s just been a bit . . . hectic, trying to sort it all on my own, since Ben left.”

Chuck nodded, scratching his scruff. “Lonely, too, I should think.”

Lulu blushed. “Yes. A little.”

“You know, Ben really likes you, Lulu,” he said. “If it’s meant to be, this won’t be the end of your story.”

She swallowed. “Some things don’t last forever, even when they’re good,” she replied bravely. “Like chocolate pudding. And Christmas.”

“That’s true,” said Chuck. “Although they do often come around again.”

His eyes twinkled as he delivered that last line, and then he walked away, humming under his breath.

Lulu took a deep breath, trying to ground herself. Everyone here was being so nice, so positive, and yet. . . Never mind.

Focus on the here and now, Lulu.

The start of the carnival was a great success. Everyone gasped when the beautiful lights came on in the enchanted forest. Amazing smells and sounds filled the air: Little’s laughter, hot apple cider, the sweet sound of carol-singers. The excitement was palpable in the crisp winter air, and Lulu couldn't help but feel a warm glow at seeing her vision come to life.

Lulu watched with a mixture of excitement and nervousness as the Littles lined up eagerly for the peppermint treasure trail. It was her idea to have this fun, interactive game, where the participants would follow a trail of peppermint candies around the ranch to find hidden treasures. The treasures were mostly candies and tiny Christmas tree decorations, but the Littles looked so delighted each time they found one it was as though they’d stumbled upon a chest of gold.

As the last Little ran off to hunt down peppermint treasures, Lulu finally had a moment to catch her breath. She leaned against a nearby tree, the bark rough against her back, and closed her eyes for a brief second. The rustling of leaves and the distant chatter of happy voices enveloped her in a comforting cocoon.

“Lulu!”

She opened her eyes to see Chuck approaching with a warm smile. “I just wanted to say how amazing this is. You’ve truly outdone yourself, little one.”

Lulu blushed at the compliment, grateful for his kind words. “Thank you, Chuck. I couldn’t have done it without everyone’s help.”

Chuck’s gaze softened as he looked at her. “You’re a remarkable young lady, Lulu. I hope you know that.”

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