Thomasina kept herself busy by delving into the business of Bell's Bakery. She spent the better part of the week getting to know Ashley and Heather who worked there and getting familiar with the goods, as well as learning some of the town gossip.
With her eyes focused on an inventory sheet, she listened with half an ear to Ashley and Heather chattering away. Hearing her phone buzz, she paused her number crunching to check her messages. She'd been hoping to hear from Elias, her longtime boyfriend.
Elias: Babe, I won't be able to make it this weekend. Big project, working through the weekend, and traveling to new site for the holidays.
Thomasina: What about Christmas? I thought we were going to spend it together here in Mistletoe.
Elias: What's the hold up with selling that bakery and hurrying back home? I'm sure we can find someone to handle it for you. There's no reason why you can't leave that hick town and come home and go with me on this trip. Wouldn't you rather Christmas in the tropics?
Thomasina heaved a sad sigh as she looked out the window at the falling snow. She was happy here, content. It was peaceful and picturesque-just like one of those holiday Hallmark movies she loved so much. The thought of being at a resort in the tropics, all alone, without snow or a brightly lit Christmas tree while Elias worked away made her feel incredibly alone.
It would be a repeat of the last two years. He'd never understood her love of this town and certainly couldn't be bothered with joining her on her visits to her aunt throughout the years. He was always too busy with work or had something else to do. He also didn't understand her love of Christmas and traditions. It was just one more thing that he couldn't be bothered with.
As she continued to watch the snow fall and the families strolling up and down the street, hand in hand, she made a decision. She would stay in Mistletoe for Christmas and indulge in all her traditions at Aunt Bethany's house, even if it meant being alone.
Feeling good about her decision, she typed out a quick reply to Elias and then put her phone away. She took a deep breath and then smiled just as Nick walked into the shop.
"Hey, Thomasina! You're just the woman I was looking for." He walked up to the counter and handed her a large to-go cup. "I come bearing gifts. It's hot apple cider, my own special blend." He passed her the cup with a smile.
"Thank you, Nick. That's very kind of you," she said as she accepted the cup and took a sip. "This is delicious!" She smiled in awe.
"Thank you, but I actually have ulterior motives. I'm trying to sweeten you up for a favor. I was hoping that you'd be willing to donate some baked goods for the baskets that we're putting together at the church. Your Aunt Bethany always donated to the cause, helped me assemble the baskets, and even helped deliver. I know you're probably too busy to help, but I was wondering if you'd still be willing to donate some things."
He looked at her with such hope that she couldn't bring herself to not donate and volunteer to help. Besides, she now had plenty of free time on her hands for the holidays.
"I'd love to help with it all! Please just tell me what you need and when to be at the church to help with the baskets."
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