Liam smiled, absorbing the festive atmosphere. “They look amazing, don’t they?”
Chloe leaned in closer, her arm brushing against his. “This is Oscar’s favorite part of the holidays,” she said with a smile.
He glanced at her, his heart warming despite the chill. “I can see why. It’s magical.”
The next float came into view, featuring angels with golden halos and robes, followed by one with elves tossing candy into the crowd. Oscar eagerly reached out, catching a piece and grinning triumphantly.
“Nice catch!” Liam laughed.
The local police and fire departments passed by next, their vehicles decorated with colorful lights and banners. Officers and firefighters waved to the crowd, some handing out small toys and ornaments. The dance school followed, students performing a choreographed routine to a cheerful holiday tune. The elementary school and church groups brought up the rear, each adding their own touch to the parade.
As the final float approached, Liam noticed a familiar figure dressed in a classic Santa suit, complete with a fluffy white beard and a twinkle in his eye.
“Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!” Santa called out.
Oscar’s eyes lit up. “It’s Santa!”
Liam squinted, recognizing the man behind the beard. Frank, a fisherman he’d met on a tour he’d done of the lake, was sitting on a red and gold sleigh. Beside him, children dressed as small elves waved to the crowd.
Frank caught Liam’s eye and gave a subtle wink before returning to his role, smiling at the children and tossing candy canes into the crowd.
After the parade finished, Liam felt a tug on his sleeve.
“Can we go see the big Christmas tree?” Oscar asked eagerly.
“Of course we can,” Liam said, exchanging a smile with Chloe.
They walked together, the festive atmosphere wrapping around them like a warm blanket. As they reached the square, the towering evergreen stood adorned with ornaments and lights. Whether it was the latest dusting of snow, or the excitement from the Santa Parade, the tree looked even more stunning than when Liam had last seen it.
Liam studied Chloe’s face as she looked at the tree. A surge of affection made his heart pound. This week had been a whirlwind of discussions with Paul and decisions that would hopefully rebuild Oscar’s relationship with him.
“How are the travel plans coming along?” he asked her.
She sighed. “They’re almost sorted. I’ve booked our flights to Washington, D.C. and I’m finalizing the schedule with Paul for our visits next year. It’s been a little crazy, but we’re getting there.”
“If there’s anything I can do to help, just say the word,” he offered.
She smiled appreciatively. “Thanks. You’ve already been a big help just by being here.”
Liam wanted to tell her how he felt, to ask her the question that had been on his mind since he’d returned from San Francisco. But this wasn’t the right time.
Oscar tugged on Chloe’s jacket. “Tommy has a cup of hot chocolate. Can I get one?”
Chloe nodded. “Sure, sweetheart. I think there’s a stall on the other side of the tree.”
They made their way through the crowd, following the rich scent of chocolate. After buying three steaming cups, they found a bench to sit on. Oscar was sitting beside Trixie, happily sipping his drink while he listened to a group of carolers.
Chloe wrapped her hands around her cup. “It’s moments like these that make moving here worthwhile,” she said softly.
Liam nodded. “I couldn’t agree more. I forgot to tell you that I got some good news today.”
“Oh?” Chloe turned to face him. “What was it?”
“My agent called this morning. He loved the outline I sent for Eleanor’s book,” Liam said, unable to keep the excitement out of his voice. “He thinks it’ll appeal to a lot of publishing houses. But if that doesn’t work out, I’ll publish it myself.”
Chloe grinned. “I knew he’d see how special it is.”
Liam took a sip of hot chocolate. “I was a bit nervous about what he’d say. It’s one thing for us to be excited about it, but Mark’s a little harder to impress.”
