Page 20 of Magic in Mistletoe
“Your father has incredible talent,” Sadie marveled, unable to tear her gaze away from the delicate craftsmanship. “How is it possible your family’s not more well known?”
“Well,” Martin chuckled, rubbing his neck sheepishly. “I suppose we’re somewhat...unconventional.”
Unconventional didn’t begin to cover it, Sadie mused, thinking back on the parade of peculiar characters who frequented Martin’s home. His grandfather, for instance, possessed an almost otherworldly vitality, while his cousin bore an uncanny resemblance to a mischievous yet incredibly stylish elf.
“Martin,” she began, her curiosity bubbling up inside her. The perfect opportunity to ask about his store had presented itself. “I’m curious. You said your family’s business was international. If so, why set up a store in Mistletoe? I can’t imagine you selling enough to keep your store running, let alone an arm of an international business. The candy store is barely breaking even, and it’s the same for Caleb.”
Martin leaned his back against the mantel and looked directly at Sadie. “Well, most of our business is delivery. We don’t need to set up the stores, but we like to be a part of the community where we live and work. And our family has enjoyed the northern climate for generations.”
He ran an online business. Of course! Why hadn’t she thought of that instead of foolishly letting Eleanor Frost play on her insecurities? “Interesting,” Sadie said after a pause, wondering if he could help her set up an online store for Snowflake Sugar, especially since Rosie had such a large following on social media. How had she or Rosie not thought of this before?
“Glad you think so.” Martin flashed her that gap-toothed grin that she found so endearing. “Now, let’s join the others in the family room. I believe they’re about to start a game of charades.”
As they made their way into the lively, laughter-filled room, Sadie felt her heart swell with affection for this enigmatic man who had opened his home, his family, and his life to her.
Chapter 11
Therelentlessstormragedon for two full days, transforming the once-familiar landscape into a frozen tundra. As the last snowflake fell, Sadie peered out the window of Martin’s house, her breath fogging the cold glass. She blinked in disbelief at the thick white blanket that had swallowed their world whole.
“Three feet of snow,” she muttered, shaking her head. “Incredible.”
“It sure is,” admitted Martin, joining her by the window. He wrapped a protective arm around her shoulders, his warmth seeping through her sweater.
“Guess we better start digging out,” Nora chimed in, her excitement palpable as she grabbed her coat and gloves.
“Indeed,” Martin agreed, his voice full of determination. “Let’s get to work.”
The group bundled up and ventured outside, armed with shovels and fueled by a sense of camaraderie. The snow was light. Still, each scoop felt like a small victory as they cleared a path from the house to the driveway.
“Whew!” Sadie huffed, wiping sweat from her brow with the back of her gloved hand. “Who needs a gym membership when you’ve got this?”
“True,” laughed Martin. “But there’s something magical about this kind of snow.” He lifted a handful and blew it gently, creating a glittering cloud that danced around them.
Sadie couldn’t help but appreciate his ability to share his childlike wonder over a handful of snow. Martin appreciated the small things around him and, in doing so, began opening Sadie’s heart to the simple delights in life. A balm to her weary soul. The laughter, shared stories, and simple joys of companionship in this cabin with Nora and Martin were treasures she hadn’t known she needed.
“Are you alright, Sadie?” Martin asked, concern lacing his voice as he noticed her lingering gaze.
“Y-yeah,” she stammered, breaking from her reverie. “Just thinking...about everything.”
“Everything?” Martin prodded gently.
“Like how I ended up here, in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by people who genuinely seem to care,” she admitted, her voice softening. “It’s...nice.”
“Sometimes the most unexpected things can bring us the happiness we never knew we needed,” Martin said.
Sadie nodded, feeling a rush of gratitude for this strange turn of events that had brought her to this place with these people. As they continued to dig, their laughter and chatter filled the air, making the labor feel more like a shared adventure than a chore.
“Almost there!” Nora shouted as the last mound of snow was cleared away, revealing the frozen path beneath.
“Great job, everyone,” Martin praised, his smile wide and genuine. “I’m proud of us.”
“Me too,” agreed Sadie, her heart swelling with growing affection for both Martin and Nora.
A waft of hot cocoa filled the air as Martin, Sadie, and Nora warmed themselves by the fireplace. The fire cast flickering shadows on the walls, creating a cozy atmosphere that brought a sense of peace to the room.
“Would you like some more cocoa, Sadie?” Martin asked, holding up the steaming pot.
“Thank you,” she replied, her cheeks rosy from both the cold and his kindness.
