Page 14 of Magic in Mistletoe
“I thought the Mistletoe Light Festival and Christmas Market brought in tourists from all over.”
“Well, yes. At least it used to. But each year the crowds grow smaller. And now, it appears our city council has run out of funds for this year’s festivities. They’re saying not to expect much from the light festival tonight.”
“Yes, I heard that rumor,” Martin said. “But sometimes it’s not about the grandeur of the event. It’s the company we share it with.” He flashed Sadie a smile.
“Indeed,” Eleanor sniffed, giving both Martin and Sadie a pointed look. “Anyway, I thought you should know.”
“Thank you, Eleanor,” Sadie replied tersely, forcing a smile. “We’ll keep that in mind.”
With a nod, Eleanor continued on her way, leaving Sadie and Martin alone once more. Sadie sighed, crossing her arms. “Why do I have the feeling she only came here to ruin my mood?”
“Because that’s her way,” Martin chuckled. “But don’t let her words bother you. Tonight will still be marvelous, with or without an extravagant display.”
“Let’s hope so,” Sadie said, but with Martin by her side, she thought that might be true.
The square was full. Sadie hadn’t seen that many people in one spot since she’d left Miami. Small vendor booths lined the outside of the square, and the air hummed with excited chatter as families bundled in winter coats gathered around, eagerly anticipating the start of the light festival. The night buzzed with energy, and despite the cold, excitement fluttered in her stomach.
“Attention, everyone!” Mayor Gregory Evergreen announced from a small podium, his confident voice cutting through the chatter. “I have a surprise for you all. Earlier today, we received an anonymous donation of lights for our festival, and our team has been working tirelessly to string them up for your enjoyment.”
The crowd murmured in anticipation, and Sadie wondered who the mysterious donor could be. She glanced at Martin.
“Without further ado,” the mayor continued, “let us begin our annual light festival.”
As the townsfolk erupted into cheers, Sadie felt Martin’s hand gently brush against hers. She hesitated for a moment before allowing her fingers to intertwine with his, their affection mingling in the frigid air.
“Ready?” Martin asked, squeezing her hand, his smile growing larger.
“Ready,” Sadie replied. Inspired by his enthusiasm and excitement, Sadie let go of the hurt and skepticism triggered by the holiday season. It was time to simply enjoy.
“Let the countdown begin,” the mayor ordered.
“Three, two, one!” the crowd shouted, and the mayor flipped the switch.
The town square erupted into a breathtaking spectacle of shimmering lights, casting an ethereal glow over the snow-covered ground. Gasps of wonderment rose from the crowd as they gazed up at the enchanting display that danced across the night sky.
“It’s...it’s beautiful,” Sadie whispered, her eyes wide with awe as she took in the scene before her. “I wasn’t expecting such a striking display, were you?”
“No. This is even better than I imagined,” Martin replied.
As they gazed at the mesmerizing lights, a thought flickered through Sadie’s mind. Could it be? Was it possible that Martin was the anonymous donor? But why would he keep it a secret?
“Who do you think did this?” she ventured.
“That doesn’t matter, does it? What’s important is that they made our little town magical tonight,” Martin answered.
Sadie studied his face, searching for any signs that might betray his involvement in the donation. He’d avoided a direct response, but his expression remained unreadable, unlike his eyes. As Sadie’s gaze locked onto his, she found herself back under the Northern Lights with Martin, side by side, and suspended in a universe of stories yet to be told.
“Sadie?” Martin prompted, pulling her attention back to the present.
“Sorry, I just...I don’t know. Felt a little lightheaded.” She undid her scarf, welcoming the biting air on her skin as her body flashed with heat from the sudden surge of connection. “I’m truly grateful to be sharing this moment with you.”
“Me too,” Martin agreed, his smile widening.
They basked in the twinkling lights as the townsfolk around them laughed and celebrated. Martin wrapped his arm around her shoulders. His touch was gentle yet firm, and a rush of affection spread through her body at the contact. Sadie allowed herself to be guided by him, following his lead as they walked around the town square.
“Look at that.” Martin pointed to a group of children playing in the snow. Their laughter, contagious and pure.
“I’ve never built a snowman,” Sadie admitted.
