Page 32 of Magic in Mistletoe
“Really?” Sadie couldn’t hide her surprise. People often supported an idea in theory but weren’t willing to partake in making it a reality. But not here. Not in Mistletoe.
“Absolutely,” Rosie assured her. “You should be proud, Sadie. Your passion for the Snowflake Sugar Shop and Mistletoe has everyone inspired. Caleb’s donating the proceeds from all the Christmas Trees he sells, and Mr. Thompson is donating all his profits from haircuts on Saturday.”
“I can’t believe it,” Sadie murmured, her voice barely audible over the clatter of candy making. “And thank you, everyone. I don’t know what to say,” she said, loud enough for all to hear.
“Say you’ll help us finish up,” a volunteer called out. The others chuckled and nodded in agreement.
“Alright,” Sadie agreed, rolling up her sleeves. “I will. Rosie, what do you want me to do?” And as she immersed herself in the whirlwind of candy production, guided by Rosie’s unwavering optimism, Sadie knew this town was home.
If only Martin wasn’t making her choose between home and love.
“Sadie, where’s your Santa hat? A bet’s a bet,” Rosie called out.
“I forgot it. I’ll get it later.” Sadie forced a smile. Could she ever wear one again? Did Martin wear one? There were too many questions.
“I’ll hold you to that. Now pass me that tray of caramels,” Rosie said, her hands and apron coated in sugar. Sadie quickly obliged, her own fingers becoming sticky with the remnants of chocolate and caramel.
“Got it,” Sadie grunted, sliding the tray across the counter, happy for the change of topic.
Volunteers bustled around them, their laughter and chatter filling the room. They were like a well-oiled machine working tirelessly.
Soon, the sounds of Christmas carols filled the hall as everyone sang their favorite songs. Everyone but Sadie. Every song about Santa caused her chest to tighten and her stomach to knot.
“Sadie?” Rosie’s voice interrupted her thoughts. “You’ve been awfully quiet. What’s on your mind?”
“Nothing,” Sadie lied, trying to keep her emotions in check.
“Come on, spill it,” Rosie insisted, a knowing glint in her eye. “I can tell something’s bothering you.”
“Alright,” Sadie sighed, deciding to confide in the colleague she now knew was also her friend. “Martin told me he’s leaving Mistletoe.”
“He’s leaving? Why? When?”
“Apparently, there’s some building code issue or something.” How did Martin keep up the rouse? She was struggling the first time she tried. “And I’m not sure exactly when he’s leaving, but I think it’s as soon as possible.”
“What about the candy order?”
Sadie froze. The candy order. He wouldn’t cancel it, would he? She pulled out her phone and texted Martin.
We need to talk. ASAP.
It buzzed back right away.
This is Nora. Dad forgot his phone. Again.
Will he be home soon?
I think so.
Good. I’m heading over.
Wait. I’ll send the sleigh. It’s easier that way.
Sadie was about to type no thank you. Then she realized she had no idea how to get to Martin’s cabin.
Okay. I’ll wait in front of the candy store.
“I’ll be back soon,” she said to Rosie. “Hopefully, with some answers.”
