The day before the Snow & Ice Festival’s sculpture competition dawned clear and bright, a rare moment of sunshine casting a dazzling glow over the snow-covered streets of Snowfall Valley. Holly stood in the middle of the square, admiring the sight as the final preparations for the festival buzzed around her. Volunteers hurried to finish last-minute tasks, children ran around giggling and throwing snowballs, and vendors called out to one another as they set up their booths.
Despite the chaotic energy, Holly couldn’t help but smile. The town had truly come alive over the past few weeks, and being part of it all had made her feel more connected than she’d felt in years. Still, there was a nervous flutter in her chest as she thought about Jack.
She’d spent the morning helping him put the fin
