Page 44 of Howling Holidays

"Logan, you've shown me a world I never knew existed, and you've made me feel loved and cherished. I can’t wait to start my life in Everwood." She looks up at me, our eyes locking as we shared a tender smile.

"Neither can I," I reply, pressing a soft kiss against her forehead and feeling relieved that I don’t have to say goodbye to Emily.

Outside, the snow falls gently, covering the ground in a blanket of white. The sound is soothing, a quiet reminder of the beauty of nature that surrounds us. As we lay there, entwined in each other's arms, the chaos of secrets and curses fades away until all that remains is the warmth of our love.

Chapter eighteen

Emily

Thefirstraysofsunlight filter through the curtains, casting a warm glow on Logan's sleeping face. I can't help but smile as I watch his chest rise and fall with each steady breath. The events of last night still linger in my mind, the passionate connection we shared, finally celebrating the curse being broken.

"Morning," he murmurs, eyes fluttering open and catching me staring. A slow grin spreads across his face as he pulls me closer, his strong arms wrapping around me.

"Good morning," I reply, my heart swelling with happiness. "Merry Christmas."

Logan's amber gaze is filled with warmth as he tucks a strand of hair behind my ear. "Merry Christmas, Emily. I'm glad we're spending it together."

"Me too." Our lips meet in a tender kiss, sealing our newfound bond. As we break apart, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and the sound of sizzling bacon drift in from the kitchen.

"Seems like my Grandma is already up," Logan notes, disentangling himself from our embrace and getting out of bed. He offers me a hand, helping me up. "Let's join her."

Together, we make our way to the kitchen, greeted by the sight of Iris preparing breakfast in her cozy robe and slippers. The cabin is filled with the scents of cinnamon and pine, and the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree cast a festive atmosphere.

"Good morning, you two," Iris says with a loving smile. "I hope you slept well."

"Very well, thank you," I respond, feeling a blush creeping up my cheeks. Logan chuckles beside me, clearly amused.

"Sit down, breakfast is almost ready." Iris gestures to the table, which is already set with plates, mugs, and an assortment of homemade jams.

As we enjoy a hearty meal of bacon, eggs, and fresh-baked cinnamon rolls, conversation flows easily between the three of us. I can't help admiring the deep bond between Iris and Logan, their love for each other evident in every glance and gesture.

"Shall we open a few gifts?" Iris suggests once we've finished eating. We move to the living room, where the Christmas tree stands tall with colorful ornaments and twinkling lights.

"Here's one for you, Emily," Logan says, handing me a neatly wrapped box. "I hope you like it."

My heart races as I untie the ribbon and peel back the paper. Inside, I find a delicate silver necklace adorned with a charm in the shape of a wolf. Tears prick my eyes at the thoughtfulness of his gift.

"Logan, it's beautiful," I whisper, tracing my fingers over the intricate design. "Thank you."

"Let me help you put it on." He takes the necklace from me and carefully fastens it around my neck, the charm resting just above my collarbone.

"Your turn," I say, handing him a small package. He unwraps it to reveal a leather-bound journal, its pages blank and waiting to be filled.

“I was thinking we could detail our journey to breaking the curse, and everything that comes after. You know, for the next generation to find.” I offer with a smile.

"Emily, this is perfect. Thank you so much." He leans in to kiss me, sealing our exchange of gifts with a tender touch.

As we continue to open presents and share laughter-filled stories with Iris, I can't help but think about how much has changed since I first arrived in Everwood. My heart swells with gratitude for the love, connection, and sense of belonging that I've found here, all wrapped up in the strong, enigmatic man by my side. This trip didn’t turn out anything like I had planned, but I know one thing for certain: I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be.

The sun casts a warm, golden glow over the snow-covered streets of Everwood as Logan and I step out into the crisp winter air. The scent of spices and pine mingles with the laughter of children playing nearby, filling the atmosphere with an infectious joy that seeps into my very core. Hand in hand, we make our way toward the main square, where the town is reveling in the joy of the holiday. Townsfolk mingle about, some build snowmen while others stroll by enjoying their warm drinks. The lively chorus of Christmas music fills the crisp air, blending with delighted shouts and laughter from the skaters on the ice rink. The click-clacking of skate blades across the ice provides a tempo to their joyful sounds.

"Isn't it beautiful?" Logan's voice is tinged with pride as he gestures to the twinkling lights that adorn every tree, lamppost, and storefront. "Every year, the town comes together to create this magical scene."

I nod in agreement, my heart swelling with appreciation for the enchanting sight before us. "I've never seen anything quite like it," I confess. "It's like stepping straight into a fairy tale."

As we enter the bustling square, I'm greeted by familiar faces from my time in Everwood. Bonnie approaches us with a smile, her granddaughter Callie at her side.

"Emily, Merry Christmas!" Bonnie exclaims, pulling me into a tight embrace. "We're so thrilled you could join us today."

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