The afternoon slipped by in a blur of laughter, teasing, and work. By the time we finished, the bookstore looked pristine, the shelves neatly arranged and the faint scent of pine lingering from the holiday decorations Margaret insisted on putting up.
“Alright, my little troublemakers,” Margaret said as she handed us our coats. “Go enjoy the rest of your day. And remember, Lyra, you’re welcome here anytime you need a break from the madness.”
“Thanks, Margaret,” I said sincerely. “For everything.”
Jenna threw her arm around my shoulders as we stepped out into the crisp evening air. The town was glowing with holiday lights, the warm colors reflecting off the thin layer of snow blanketing the ground. The sight was picturesque, almost enough to make me forget the storm brewing at home.
“So,
