Page 36 of Magic in Mistletoe
The crowd clapped until the mayor held up his hands. “As I was saying, it’s hard to believe it was only six months ago that these two approached me with their idea. If Martin brought his entire factory here, not just the toy store, it could be the center of something, well, something magical. And now, here we are, ready for opening day. But before we cut the ribbon, I’d like to have Martin come up here and say a few words.”
Sadie squeezed Martin’s hand. “Good luck,” she whispered. As he walked away, Sadie turned to Nora. “You’re going to love this.”
“Oh, no,” Nora said, covering her face with her hands.
“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen,” Martin began. “I want to thank the town council and all those who made this project possible, but especially my daughter Nora and Sadie, my fiancee, for being the ones who developed this idea. Ladies, I don’t know where I’d be without you.” Martin looked at them and winked.
“Tell me it’s over,” Nora whispered.
“Hang in there. He’s just getting warmed up,” Sadie said.
“As a toymaker,” Martin continued, “Christmas has always been a special time of year, but Christmas is about so much more than toys and presents, because beneath the gentle cascade of snowflakes and amidst the soft glow of twinkling lights, Christmas weaves a spell that awakens the heart’s deepest yearnings. It’s not just the cold that draws us closer, but the hope and joy that Christmas kindles, reminding us of life’s endless possibilities. This season holds a magic that transcends the ordinary, turning fleeting moments into timeless memories. For those who believe in Christmas magic, hope and joy become the heartbeat of every embrace, a silent promise that, despite the world’s uncertainties, there remains a steadfast warmth and brightness, waiting to be rekindled each year. In this magical time, the spirit of Christmas becomes the compass guiding us through winter’s chill, ensuring that no heart feels cold when enveloped in the profound joy and hope that Christmas brings. And now, thanks to Mistletoe, we get to bring that feeling to people all year round.”
The crowd cheered as Martin made his way back to Sadie and Nora.
“Thanks for that beautiful speech, Martin, but now let’s get down to the good stuff.” Mayor Evergreen strolled purposefully toward a huge red ribbon, its shimmering satin fabric elegantly stretched across the town square. Towering behind him stood an awe-inspiring forty-foot Christmas tree, its branches adorned with lights and colorful ornaments. In his hands, he grasped a pair of oversized ceremonial scissors, their blades glinting in the summer sunlight. With a warm, engaging smile, he addressed the eagerly awaiting crowd, “On the count of three, ready?” The air was thick with anticipation as he began the countdown. “One, two, three,” echoed the crowd in a harmonious chorus.
With a decisive snip, the mayor cut through the ribbon, and in that instant, the Christmas tree erupted in a dazzling display of lights, illuminating the square and transforming it into a spectacular Christmas wonderland. The crowd’s gasps of delight mingled with the soft jingle of holiday music, creating a moment of pure, enchanting beauty.
“Okay, then, I’m taking off to join my friends,” Nora said.
“Home by eleven,” Martin told her, and Nora gave him a mock salute.
When Nora left, Sadie reached into her pocket for the Santa hat Rosie had given her and pulled it onto her head. “I’ve been told it suits me. What do you think?”
Martin’s laughter echoed across the square, but then he turned to her with a serious expression. “It certainly does, my love,” he said, his voice deep and full of emotion, before capturing her lips in a kiss. “It certainly does.”
The End
