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The world beyond the windows has disappeared completely.

Jillie considers this excellent news.

"Now nobody can leave."

I nearly choke on my drink.

Sadie points her spoon at her daughter.

"That sounded suspicious."

"I meant because we're having fun."

"Sure."

"I did."

"Uh-huh."

Jillie grins.

Absolutely unrepentant.

Dinner turns into laughter.

Then hot chocolate.

Then there’s a debate about whether marshmallows count as soup toppings.

Apparently, they do not. At least according to Sadie.

Jillie and I remain unconvinced.

We lose the argument anyway.

Mostly because Sadie controls the food.

Afterward, Jillie decides the cabin requires a blanket fort.

Not wants. Requires.

"The living room is too empty."

I look around.

The living room contains:

A couch.

Two armchairs.

A fireplace.

A coffee table.

Bookshelves.

A Christmas tree.