Page 15 of Magic in Mistletoe
“I bet you’ve built many a sandcastle,” Martin said.
“I did,” Sadie said, remembering long days at the beach with her parents. “Things are so much simpler when you’re a kid.”
“Who says we can’t find some of that childlike wonder now?”
“Are you suggesting we join them?” Sadie raised an eyebrow.
“Why not?” Martin laughed. “Let’s enjoy this night like those kids—without a worry in the world.”
Under the beauty of the illuminated town square and the strength of Martin’s hand in hers, she agreed. “Alright, deal.”
As they approached the group of children, Sadie noticed they were struggling to roll the snowball for the base of their snowman. Martin immediately sprang into action.
“Hey, need some help?” Martin called out.
“Yes, sir,” one boy replied, and they eagerly passed the snowball over to Martin.
“Watch and learn, kids.” He winked at Sadie as he shaped the snowball, expertly molding it into a perfectly round sphere.
Elation spread through her chest as she watched Martin interact with the children. He was a natural with them, his playful spirit and affable demeanor making it impossible not to smile. Martin caught her eye and motioned with his head for her to join them.
“Looks like we need a head,” Sadie observed, joining in on the fun.
The children nodded in agreement, and the group set to work on crafting the snowman’s head. Sadie helped the children roll the snow into a ball, and then Martin deftly carved out the snowman’s features with a stick.
When finished, they all stood back and admired their handiwork. Martin added one last touch by wrapping his scarf around the snowman’s neck. The children cheered, then began to roll more snow, leaving Martin and Sadie alone.
“So, how was that?” Martin asked.
“Well, my hands are numb, but I’d say it was worth it,” Sadie said, grinning.
Martin’s smile grew until it crinkled the corners of his eyes. “I’m so glad. Now, how about we warm you up with some hot chocolate?”
“I thought you’d never ask,” Sadie replied, linking her arm through Martin’s. “Lead the way.”
They purchased two hot cocoas with whipped cream and marshmallows and continued to stroll through the square.
As the night wore on and the crowd dispersed, Martin escorted Sadie back to her cabin. The cold winter air nipped at their cheeks, but neither minded, lost in their shared experience.
“Thank you, Martin,” Sadie said as they stood outside her doorstep. “Tonight was...special.”
“Thank you for joining me,” Martin replied. “I couldn’t have imagined a better way to spend the evening.”
Sadie grinned. “I can’t believe I’m saying this about spending a winter night outside in Alaska, but me neither.”
The following morning, the air crackled with energy as Sadie made her way to the Snowflake Sugar Shop.
“Good morning, Mr. Jenkins,” she called out to her neighbor and received a friendly, albeit surprised, wave.
One night of holiday fun and the sun shone brighter. Her heart felt lighter. Martin’s enthusiasm could energize the entire town square. In his company, Sadie relearned the art of living in the moment, embracing a simpler, more joyful approach reminiscent of the carefree days of childhood. If that wasn’t Christmas spirit, she didn’t know what was.
She entered the candy store, finding Rosie already hard at work. Sadie walked right up to her. “Okay. You win.”
“What do you mean?” asked Rosie, then burst out laughing when she noticed Sadie’s expression. “Wait right there.”
Rosie ran into the back office and returned with a Santa hat, which she pulled onto Sadie’s head. “There you go.”
Sadie laughed and examined her appearance in a mirror. “That doesn’t look too bad, does it?”
