Page 38 of Falling for Santa

After hanging up, Scott sat for a while, staring into the fire as an idea began to take shape. He didn’t want to overwhelm Megan or make her feel like he was pressuring her to stay. But he also wanted her to know how much he cared, and how much he believed in the life they could build here.

New Year’s Eve. It was just a few days away, and the perfect opportunity to remind Megan of the connection they’d started to build.

A quiet evening—something simple but meaningful. Scott thought about the beach, how much Ruby had loved seeing the dolphins, and how Megan had gazed at the moonlit water with a look of wonder she probably didn’t even realize she’d worn.

A candlelit picnic, he decided. Something special, just for the three of them. He’d bring good food, soft blankets, and maybe even string a few lights for ambiance. This time of the year, they’d even let you light a fire in the sand. That should keep them warm.

He would craft something for Megan to show how he felt about her. Something special. He saw the design for the intricatejewelry box in his mind’s eye almost instantly. And one day, it may hold a special set of rings. If she’d have him.

And for Ruby? Scott smiled to himself. He could carve her a small treasure box. Something to keep her “Santa memories” in.

His mind buzzed with plans as he leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees. He wanted to make this night unforgettable. Not just for Megan and Ruby, but for himself as well.

He had no idea what the future held, but he knew one thing for certain. He wasn’t ready to let them go. Taking a deep breath, he picked up his phone and dialed.

“Megan, it’s Scott,” he said, the words coming out fast, almost of their own volition. “Do you have plans for New Years Eve?”

“Not yet,” she said softly.

“How about the two of you spend it with me then?” he asked, his heart beating a mile a minute. “I promise to make it special.”

“We could do that,” she said. “As long as it’s nothing too late, or too loud.”

“It won’t be,” he promised before wrapping up their conversation. “I’ll pick you up around five.”

As the fire crackled softly, Scott allowed himself to imagine Megan’s smile when she saw the picnic, Ruby’s delight at the little box he’d carve, and the possibility of something deeper blooming between them.

“Here’s to New Year’s,” he murmured, his voice quiet but filled with determination. “Let’s make it count.”

Over the next few days, Scott poured himself into preparations. If New Year’s Eve was going to be special, he wanted every detail to feel thoughtful, personal, and meaningful.

His next stop was Mary’s Diner, the place where it had all started. Walking through the door, he was greeted by the warm aroma of freshly baked pies and Mary’s familiar voice.

“Well, if it isn’t Santa Claus himself,” Mary said with a grin, wiping her hands on her apron as she approached. “What brings you in today?”

“Hey, Mary,” Scott said, leaning on the counter. “I need to order one of your famous pies. Something festive but not too flashy.”

Mary arched an eyebrow, her smile growing sly. “Festive but not flashy? Sounds like a date.”

Scott chuckled, scratching the back of his neck. “Maybe. It’s for Megan and Ruby. Something to make New Year’s feel a little special.”

Mary’s expression softened, her teasing replaced with genuine warmth. “Well, aren’t you just the sweetest? I’ll make you a fresh peanut butter pie. It’s Ruby-approved, right?”

“Absolutely,” Scott said, his grin widening. “Thanks, Mary.”

As she scribbled down a note, Scott glanced around the diner, the hum of conversation and clatter of plates adding to its cozy charm. He couldn’t help but think about the day he and Megan had shared lunch here, her laughter brightening the booth and her presence making everything feel just a little warmer.

Mary looked up. “I assume you want to pick it up on New Year’s Eve. We’ll be open until six.”

Scott smiled. “Thanks, Mary. I’ll be here long before then.” By the time the sun set on New Year’s Eve he planned to be at the beach with the two most important people in his life.

From the diner, he headed to the hardware store, where he browsed the aisles with purpose. Lanterns, cozy blankets, and sparklers quickly filled his basket as he envisioned how the beach would look under the soft glow of light.

The sparklers, in particular, made him smile. He could already picture Ruby’s delighted face as she held one aloft, her laughter ringing out against the backdrop of crashing waves.

At the checkout counter, Kenny Brown, the store owner, eyed the collection with interest. “Planning something special?”

“Something like that,” Scott said, sliding the basket forward.

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