Media Secret: Hidden Johansson

Christmas Eve to Remember

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, gently coaxing me awake. The events of last night still played in my mind, a mix of warm lights, sweet drinks, and the comforting presence of Florence at my side. Today, however, I had a different kind of magic to conjure up one that would bring the spirit of Christmas right into Florence's home, and I had just the team to help me do it.

After getting dressed and downing a quick breakfast, I grabbed my phone and sent out a few messages to the people I knew would be all-in for this mission. It didn't take long before my phone buzzed with enthusiastic replies. First was Brie, my best friend and partner in crime on and off set. Then there was Tessa the ever-watchful big sister figure who had looked after the both of us during those grueling filming days, always ready with a pep talk or a teasing statement. Of course, my little sister Rose was thrilled to be included in our plans. At only eight, she had more Christmas spirit in her tiny frame than most people did their entire lives. Finally, my mom, Scarlett, was all too happy to take the lead on this project. She had developed a bond with Florence, that no one realises how strong it is I think.

By mid-morning, we had all gathered at Florence's LA home, a sleek and modern open-plan living space that was in dire need of some Christmas cheer. As I pulled up, the others were already there, waiting with grins and boxes of decorations spilling out of their arms.

"Everyone ready?" I asked, stepping out of my car with a slightly ridiculous elf hat perched on my head. I could barely contain my excitement, a fact that Brie noticed immediately.

"Ready as we'll ever be," she said with a wink, adjusting her own elf hat. "You sure your not like some love angel thing rather than an elf?"

I shrugged, trying to play it cool. "Just thought Florence could use a little holiday spirit."

Tessa chuckled from where she stood by the trunk of her car, pulling out another box of decorations. "Uh-huh. And it has nothing to do with the fact that you've been crushing on her since you saw a photo of her making ice cream with Rose in Scarlett's kitchen?"

I could feel my ears turning red at the memory. Florence had been so effortlessly charming, laughing as she let Rose sprinkle toppings onto the homemade ice cream. I'd bought them matching aprons for Christmas after that day, a small gesture that had made Florence's eyes light up in a way that I hadn't been able to forget.

Before I could come up with a retort, Rose dashed up to me, her arms full of decorations that looked like they might topple over at any second. "Come on, we need to get inside! Flo is going to love this!"

I grinned down at her, tousling her hair gently. "Alright, let's do this."

As we all gathered our supplies, a buzz of excitement filled the air. Scarlett took the lead, her natural warmth and leadership shining through as she directed Elisabeth, Brie, and Tessa on where to start. Rose and I hung back a little, watching as the others grabbed their boxes and made their way to the door.

When Florence opened it, her surprise was palpable. Her eyes widened as she took in the sight before her—a full team of holiday elves standing on her doorstep, armed with Christmas decorations, holiday cheer, and more than a little mischief.

"Merry Christmas!" Rose yelled, her voice bubbling with excitement as she ran inside, leaving the rest of us to follow in her wake.

Florence stood there, blinking at us as if trying to make sense of what was happening. "What... what is all this?"

I stepped forward, barely able to contain my grin. "Well, we thought your place could use a little holiday magic. And who better to help than a team of elves?"

Scarlett swept past us, already heading toward the kitchen with her supplies in tow. "Hope you don't mind, Florence. I'll be taking over your kitchen for a bit—got some Christmas treats to whip up."