A few days after their first meeting, Clara hosted a wreath-making workshop in the town square, a tradition her father had started years ago.
She gathered branches, pinecones, ribbons, and small ornaments, arranging everything neatly on tables beneath the lights strung across the square.
Though many families attended each year, she felt a twinge of nervousness-a reminder of her father's absence.
As Clara gave instructions, laughter filled the air.
The kids pressed pinecones and cranberries onto their wreaths while their parents helped them tie bows, the scene evoking a nostalgia she hadn't felt in years.
To her surprise, Jack showed up, hands shoved in his pockets and his camera hanging around his neck.
He observed from a distance, his gaze warm and intent, as if he didn't want to disrupt the moment.
Then, catching her eye, he approached and asked, "Mind if I take some photos? Just to capture the spirit."
She smiled.
"Go ahead.
My dad always said Christmas magic belongs to everyone."
They worked side by side, Jack snapping photos as Clara moved around the tables, showing kids how to shape their wreaths and helping an elderly woman tie a ribbon.
Each time their gazes met, she felt a growing ease with him-a quiet understanding that went deeper than words.
As the workshop ended, Jack handed her a wreath he'd made, slightly uneven but carefully decorated.
"For you," he said, a shy grin breaking his usual reserve.
"Figured you might need one for the farm."
Clara accepted the wreath, warmth spreading through her.
It had been years since anyone had made something just for her.
YOU ARE READING
A Winter's Promise
RomanceA Winter's Promise When Clara took over her family's Christmas tree farm after her father's passing, she vowed to keep his legacy alive, turning the farm into a place where families could find joy and warmth during the holiday season. But as each Ch...
