CHAPTER ONE
Hannah stared at the spreadsheet on her computer. “I don’t see how we can organize the Fergusons’ party. The McKenzies’ fortieth wedding anniversary is on the same weekend.”
Claire, Hannah’s sister, peered over her shoulder. “We’re on track with our other events. What if I plan the Fergusons’ party and book the contractors? I’ll need help with staging the event, but that’s it. Both of us don’t need to be at the McKenzies’ party.”
“If you think it will work, then that’s okay with me. But don’t book any more events for February.”
“Yes, boss.”
“I’m just looking after you.”
Claire sipped her cup of coffee. “As your older sister, aren’t I supposed to look after you?”
“You’re too busy booking more events,” Hannah said half-seriously.
“Talking about events, you’re not wearing that dress to the Christmas party, are you?”
Hannah touched the lace ruffle around her neck. “I’m going as a Victorian yuletide caroler fromA Christmas Carol.Wait until you see the red jacket.”
“Sounds exciting.”
Hannah looked at her green dress. “What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?”
“It’s a little…frumpy.”
“Frumpy? I spent hours searching the Internet for the perfect costume.”
Claire picked up the bag she’d left on a chair. “So did I, and I bought two.”
“I hope the extra costume is for Holly.” Claire’s elf costume wasn’t what Hannah would have called ‘perfect’. For one thing, the red skirt was so short that one gust of wind would blow it around her waist. She had to admit that the red and white striped stockings were cute, and the white fur around the neckline wasn’t too bad, either.
“Holly’s going as a Christmas angel. The extra costume is for you.”
“I don’t think so.”
Claire smiled. “You’ll look amazing. Come on. Just this once let me be your fairy godmother.”
The doorbell rang and Hannah grinned. “Saved by the bell.”
“Only for two minutes. As soon as Holly sees your dress she’ll agree with me.”
Hannah closed her laptop and headed toward their front door. “I’m not wearing a teeny-tiny elf costume.” She opened the door. “Wow. You really are a Christmas angel.”
Holly’s blue eyes sparkled. “I bought the costume when I was in Scotland. I like your dress.”
“Don’t tell her that.” Claire pulled Holly into the living room. “Let me look at you.”
Holly spun in a circle. The tight, satin bodice of her dress exploded into a white tulle skirt. A pair of fluffy angel wings and a silver halo completed the costume.
Hannah had met Holly a couple of years ago when she’d joined the Bozeman Arts Collective. Her paintings were beyond anything Hannah could ever hope to create. With regular exhibitions at galleries around the world, Holly was one of the most successful artists in America.
“I’ve got exciting news,” Holly said. “Daniel and I have finally set a date for our wedding.”
Hannah hugged her friend. “That’s wonderful. I never thought you’d find something that worked for both of you.”
“It hasn’t been easy. But if we get married in mid-March, we’ll be able to go on our honeymoon after my exhibition in Germany.”
Claire’s eyes widened. “March is three months away.”
