"Thought you could use this," Shepherd said gruffly, holding out the ‘to-go’ cup he was holding. “The wind’s cold today, andthat fabric’s pretty thin.” He glowered at Adrian, but that was Shepherd’s usual countenance.
“Thank you.” Evie took the hot chocolate trimmed with cream and mini marshmallows gratefully, her cheeks pinking even more at Shepherd’s unexpected thoughtfulness. She prayed everyone mistook it for the cold… same for the way her nipples had peaked at being surrounded by the three handsome men.
Even if they weren’t hers, it certainly bolstered her confidence… well, until Adrian opened his mouth.
“Of course, if you weren’t dressed up in some idiotic costume, you might be warmer. You look ridiculous.” His words bit more than the chill, and like usual, Evie couldn’t think of a snappy reply.
“She looks like someone who’s supporting their community and the businesses that benefit from the huge numbers of tourists who flock into the town for this festival,” Shepherd responded, his voice acidic, and while Evie was grateful for the reprieve, there was barely a moment to enjoy it as Shepherd turned on his heel and stomped off, leaving the rest of them standing awkwardly watching his retreat, and Brandi eying his butt… not that Evie could talk, since she was doing the same.
Adrian looked like he was about to spout another mouthful of abuse, but Asher jumped in. “Anyway, I was just looking for you, Evie. I have to get changed into my own ‘stupid costume’ since I’m playing Santa. Are you ready to roll?”
Evie nodded, grateful to get away, and said her goodbyes, only to be embarrassed again when her ex-husband’s caustic voice carried insults towards Asher even from behind them.
“Of course he is - a fool and his toys.”
“Sorry,” she mumbled to Asher, wondering if this day could get any worse.
“What the hell is wrong with you, Adrian? Was any of that really necessary?” Asher and Evie shared a surprised look as they heard Gabe confronting his friend.
“Jesus, talk about a lot of nonsense,” Adrian responded, causing Evie to press her lips together.
“Good grief, man. This event puts money in the pockets of businesses. Christmas accounts for over a quarter of revenue - more than that with an event like this. Never mind that you have a young son.”
“And I’ll be making sure he doesn’t become as ridiculous as his mother.” Evie stiffened as Adrian scoffed, fighting the urge to look back over her shoulder, but she found herself calming when Asher took her hand into his and gave it a squeeze. She allowed herself to soak up his quiet support, even as her heart raced, a mix of embarrassment and gratitude swirling inside her.
"Don't let him get to you," Asher murmured, his grip on her hand warm and reassuring. "Adrian's just being a jerk."
Evie nodded, not trusting her voice. She focused on the crunch of snow beneath her feet, the cheerful jingle of her elf shoes providing a stark contrast to her tumultuous emotions. The hot chocolate Shepherd had given her was a comforting warmth against her palm.
As they neared Santa's Grotto, the excited chatter of children grew louder. Evie took a deep breath, steeling herself to push aside her personal drama and focus on spreading holiday cheer. She had a job to do, after all.
"You okay to do this?" Asher asked, his blue eyes searching her face with concern. "I can find someone else if you need a break."
Evie shook her head, managing a small smile. "Thanks, Asher," she murmured. “But no, I'm fine. This is for Ollie. He’s so thrilled his Mama gets to be Santa’s helper, and my parents will be bringing him by soon. I won't let Adrian ruin it."
Asher squeezed her hand one last time before letting go and giving her a crooked grin. "That's what friends are for. Now, let's go spread some Christmas cheer, shall we?"
Evie squared her shoulders and forced a bright smile as they entered the grotto, and Asher went to change. She wished she’d chosen to get changed here herself, but Ollie had been excited to help her dress in her special outfit, so she hadn’t been able to deny him.
The festive music and children's laughter helped lift her spirits slightly, though Adrian's cruel words still echoed in her mind. She pushed them aside, took a deep breath and allowed the scent of pine and cinnamon to envelop her. Twinkling lights cast a warm glow over the scene, and Evie felt the rest of the tension leave her shoulders. This was why she was here - to create magic for her son, the children of Frostvale, and to help local businesses have a bumper season, her own included. When you lived in a place like this, it was all about community. The community that had pulled together to support her when Adrian left, and she had to juggle being a single parent while running her own business. She’d never have managed without that community spirit; this was a way for her to give back.
Evie took her position next to the grand chair where Asher, now transformed into a jolly Santa, would soon sit as the first group of wide-eyed children approached, their faces lighting up at the sight of her pointy ears and jingling shoes.
For the next hour, she wrangled children. Soothed some who were justifiably scared of the big man in the red suit and bushy white beard and listened to all the wonderful things they wanted for Christmas, trying not to laugh at some of the innocent requests.
“Please, Santa, Mama says I’m going to have a baby brother or sister for Christmas, but I really want a puppy instead.”
"Ho ho ho! Babies are very special Christmas miracles too! What if I bring you some books about puppies AND about being a big brother/sister? Then when your family is ready for a real puppy, you'll know all about taking care of both!"
"Can I please have a talking teddy bear that knows all the answers for when grown-ups ask me hard questions?"
"Santa's workshop is magical, but even my elves can't make bears that know everything! Would you like instead a special teddy who reminds you it's brave to ask for help when questions seem too hard?"
"Santa, I want a ladder tall enough to reach the cookie jar on the top shelf."
"Santa believes in safety first! Instead of a ladder, would you like a magical cookie jar that plays a tune at designated cookie times? Your parents can set when the music plays!"
"Santa, can you make my vegetables taste like chocolate? But just for me, not for nobody else."
