Snowflake Falls is lit up by garlands of twinkle lights, and the local kids have been busy building snow people in their front yards. I even spot a life-sized golden retriever snow sculpture in one of them, which makes me smile.
I pass by Magnus’s place as he’s hammering a nail in their front door. A huge wreath sits beside him. As I slow down to wave at him, he lifts up the bent nail and smiles, pointing to the wreath. It’s clearly so heavy that it’s fallen off the door.
I grin and wave back. I’ve been working with Magnus on my new app, which is designed for communities to organize their projects while working remotely. All the profits will go to charity, and I’m excited about its release next year. Now the new animal shelter is up and running, I’m also involved in rebuilding the local community center.
While more people are aware that I’ve been donating money to fund local causes, I haven’t made any big announcements. I’m happy to keep it that way. But what’s changed is I’ve dropped the grump thing. I don’t need to keep people at arm’s length to preserve my secrets anymore.
My cell beeps.
Melody: I’m here! See you soon xxx
I make the turn for the rink, slowing down as I approach the parking lot. Not many people are left out on the ice. Most folks will have headed home to celebrate Christmas Eve with their families in front of the fire.
Melody, Max, and I are due at her parents’ house, along with Rhys and Sienna, and her sister Estelle. Her Mom has been cooking for weeks and my stomach rumbles at the idea of all the delicious holiday food.
I get out of the truck and Max hops down, following me on the winding path to the rink. Melody’s been at work at the agency in Bakersville all day and she’s stopped here for a quick evening skate before we head to see her family.
Christa smiles as I walk past. “Hey Santa! Where’s your red suit?”
I tap my head. “Just going with the hat this year. How’s business?”
“Rockin’! We sold out of all Melody’s cards and I had to order in new candy canes. Busier than ever. She’s out on the ice. Jamal says you’re all set. Here’s the box. I’ll have you know that I’ve kept this secret for the last 48 hours. My husband says it’s a record.” She taps the side of her nose.
“Appreciate it, Christa. I was worried Mel would find it if I left it in a cupboard somewhere. She’s good at finding stuff. I don’t think she has any idea, though.”
“Good luck. You two were meant to be together. Snowflake has a way of making the right people find each other. I’ll look after Max while you do your thing.” She smiles.
I walk to the edge of the ring, putting on my skates. I’m a little steadier on my feet, now Melody’s taught me the basics, but I’ll never be in her league. I like my feet firmly planted on the ground. Melody’s spinning in the center of the ice, her blonde hair whirling under her knitted red cap.
I could stand and watch her forever, but I’m eager to get closer. Even a few hours apart makes me keen to see her, excitement building in the pit of my stomach as I clutch the little velvet box in my coat.
She turns around, her eyes lighting up as I skate towards her. “You’re wearing the Santa hat!”
“I thought it was the right time of year for it.”
“You know what that makes me think of…”
I pull her into my arms. “Presents? Turkeys?”
“You’re a turkey. It makes me think of getting it on with you by the fire, next to our very own Christmas tree. I can’t wait until we get home.”
I stroke a lock of hair away from her cheek. “I have something to ask you first.”
She beams at me. “Anything.”
I slowly kneel down. The ice is slippery under my knee, but I manage to stay upright. I reach into my pocket and pull out the velvet box. Melody’s eyebrows shoot up and she catches her breath.
“Melody, will you marry this grumpy Santa and make him the happiest guy in Snowflake Falls?” I ask.
Her eyes shining, she nods. “Yes! I can’t wait to be your wife.”
I slide the sparkling diamond onto her finger and then stand up, only wobbling a little. She presses her body into mine and we kiss.All I Want For Christmas Is Youstarts playing at top volume. We look over and Max is barking, accompanied by Christa and Jamal, who are both clapping and cheering.
“We should go tell your family…” I say, taking her hand.
“We should. One more kiss before we go…” Melody presses her lips on mine again and I forget everything else except her.
* * *
