Holly took one last look in the mirror. The burgundy gown fit perfectly, the color bringing out the warmth in her skin. Her hair was swept up in a soft style that felt elegant without being too formal. She looked good. She felt good.
Whatever was happening tonight, she was ready for it.
The three of them made their way down the grand staircase, and Holly’s breath caught at the sight below.
The Christmas Inn had been transformed into something out of a fairy tale. Evergreen garland draped along every surface, dotted with tiny white lights that twinkled like stars. The air smelled of pine and cinnamon and something sweet she couldn’t quite identify. Candles flickered in hurricane glass holders on every available surface.
And at the bottom of the stairs, waiting in the foyer with the rest of the family, was Jack.
Holly’s heart did that familiar flip it always did when she saw him. He looked devastatingly handsome in his tuxedo, his hair perfectly styled, his eyes warm as they found hers.
“Wow,” he said softly as she descended the last few steps. “Holly, you’re stunning.”
“You clean up pretty well yourself,” Holly said, accepting the hand he offered.
Around them, the family had gathered. Jane looked radiant in a deep blue gown. Julie was elegant in champagne silk. Gabe stood with Jane, looking handsome despite the crutches. Christopher and Isabella were there with Maddy, who looked adorable in a pink dress with a full skirt.
“Everyone ready?” Jack asked, and there was something in his voice. A nervousness that Holly couldn’t quite place.
“Ready,” they all chorused.
The doors to the ballroom opened, and guests began streaming in.
For the next hour, Holly stood with Jack and the family, greeting everyone who arrived. She recognized many faces from town. Mrs. Patterson, who had provided ice cream for the impromptu celebration. Marco and the other inn staff were dressed in their finest. Rupert and his carpentry crew, looking proud to be included.
Abe Tanner came with Mrs. Hurling, the two of them clearly enjoying each other’s company.
William Moore arrived and immediately sought out Julie, offering his arm as they headed into the ballroom together.
Even Terry showed up with none other than Victor. Terry looked nervous and apologetic.
Finally, when the last guest had arrived and been welcomed, the family filed into the ballroomthemselves.
Holly gasped.
She’d seen the ballroom during preparations, of course. She’d helped hang decorations and arrange tables. But seeing it now, filled with people and light and laughter, was something else entirely.
The room glowed. Hundreds of candles cast dancing shadows on the walls. The Christmas tree in the corner reached nearly to the ceiling, covered in ornaments and lights. Tables draped in white linens surrounded the dance floor, each topped with centerpieces of evergreen and white roses.
And there, at the far end of the ballroom, was the arch she’d seen earlier. The Mistletoe Arch, she saw now, reading the small sign at its base. It was even more beautiful than she’d thought, covered in fresh green and white flowers and generous sprigs of mistletoe.
“It’s perfect,” Holly whispered.
“It is,” Jack agreed, but when she looked at him, he was watching her, not the decorations.
Dinner was served, and Holly found herself at the head table with Jack, his family, and her own. The food was exquisite. Isabella had outdone herself. Each course was met with appreciative murmurs from the guests.
Between courses, there were speeches.
Julie stood first, her voice strong and clear as she welcomed everyone and thanked them for their support over the pastweeks. “This inn has been in the Christmas family for generations,” she said. “But it takes a community to keep something this special alive. You all proved that. Thank you.”
Jane spoke next, her voice emotional as she spoke about family, legacy, and the importance of home. “This inn is more than just a building,” she said. “It’s a place where memories are made. Where love grows. Where families come together. Tonight, we celebrate not just Christmas, but everything this place represents.”
There were more speeches. Logan talked about the power of community. Christopher spoke about the joy of being part of something bigger than yourself.
And then Jack stood.
Holly’s heart raced as he moved to the microphone. He looked nervous, she realized. Actually nervous, which was unusual for Jack.
