Christmas Wishes, Mistletoe Kisses

Book summary

Emma's holiday season is filled with family traditions, festive warmth, and a budding connection with her supportive friend, Jake. As she navigates love and self-discovery, Emma embraces the magic of Christmas in this heartwarming tale of family, romance, and the joys of the season.

Excerpt from Christmas Wishes, Mistletoe Kisses

Chapter 1: A Small Town Christmas

The first snow of the season fell gently over Maplewood, blanketing the quaint town in a soft layer of white. Twinkling lights adorned the storefronts, casting a warm glow that danced in the crisp evening air. The scent of pine and cinnamon wafted through the streets, mingling with the laughter of children building snowmen in their front yards. It was the kind of picturesque scene that felt like it had been plucked straight from a holiday postcard.

Emma Collins pulled her scarf tighter around her neck as she stepped out of her car, the familiar creak of the door echoing in the stillness. After years of living in the bustling city, she had returned to Maplewood for the holidays, seeking solace and a sense of belonging. The moment she set foot on Main Street, nostalgia washed over her like a warm embrace.

“Emma! Is that you?” a cheerful voice called out, breaking her reverie. It was Mrs. Thompson, the town’s beloved baker, her cheeks rosy from the cold. She stood outside her bakery with a tray of freshly baked gingerbread cookies.

“Hi, Mrs. Thompson!” Emma smiled, her heart lifting at the sight of the woman who had always treated her like family. “It’s so good to be back.”

“Come here, dear! I’ve made extra cookies just for you,” Mrs. Thompson said, her eyes twinkling with delight. Emma stepped forward, accepting a warm cookie, the sweet aroma filling her senses.

“Thank you! They smell amazing,” Emma said, taking a bite. The flavors burst in her mouth, reminding her of childhood memories spent in this very bakery, surrounded by the warmth of love and laughter.

As she continued down the street, Emma admired the decorations that adorned each shop. The local bookstore had a display of holiday-themed novels, while the florist showcased vibrant poinsettias and wreaths. The town square was alive with activity, where families gathered to enjoy the annual Christmas market.

Emma’s heart swelled with joy as she spotted the towering Christmas tree in the center of the square, its branches adorned with shimmering ornaments and twinkling lights. It was a tradition for the townsfolk to gather around the tree for the lighting ceremony, and she could already hear the faint sound of carols drifting through the air.

“Emma! Over here!” a familiar voice called out, pulling her from her thoughts. It was her childhood friend, Jake, waving enthusiastically from across the square. He had always been the adventurous one, with a contagious smile that could light up any room.

“Jake!” Emma exclaimed, rushing over to him. They embraced, the warmth of their friendship enveloping her like a cozy blanket. “I can’t believe you’re back in town!”

“Just for the holidays,” he replied, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “I couldn’t miss the Christmas festivities. Plus, I heard Mrs. Thompson’s cookies were calling my name.”

They both laughed, and Emma felt a flutter of happiness in her chest. Jake had always been a source of comfort and joy in her life, and seeing him again brought back a flood of memories from their childhood adventures.

“Are you going to the tree lighting tonight?” Jake asked, his expression turning serious.

“Of course! I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Emma replied, her heart racing at the thought of standing under the twinkling lights with him.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the town, Emma felt a sense of hope and possibility. This Christmas, she was determined to embrace the magic of the season and enjoy every moment with her friends and family.

With a smile on her face and a cookie in hand, Emma knew that Maplewood was exactly where she belonged.

They made their way toward the town square, where the excitement was palpable. The sound of laughter and cheerful chatter filled the air, mingling with the sweet notes of holiday music playing from a nearby speaker.

“Look at all the decorations!” Emma exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight. The square was transformed into a winter wonderland, with colorful lights strung between the trees and festive banners fluttering in the gentle breeze.

“Yeah, it’s like a scene from a movie,” Jake agreed, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. “I love this time of year. Everyone comes together to celebrate.”

Approaching the towering Christmas tree, Emma felt a sense of warmth enveloping her. Families gathered around, children pointing excitedly at the ornaments, while friends shared laughter and joy beneath the twinkling lights.

“Hey, do you remember the year we tried to build a snow fort right here?” Jake asked, a grin spreading across his face. “We thought we were invincible until it collapsed on us!”

Emma laughed, the memory flooding back. “And we ended up covered in snow! I think we spent the rest of the day trying to dry off by the fire at your house.”

“Good times,” Jake said, his expression softening. “I’ve missed this—missed us.”

Emma’s heart warmed at his words. There was a familiarity between them, a connection that felt both comforting and exciting. As they stood together, the world around them faded, and for a moment, it was just the two of them, lost in their shared memories.

“Are you going to join the tree lighting ceremony?” Jake asked, breaking the spell.

“Absolutely! I wouldn’t miss it for anything,” Emma replied, her excitement bubbling over. “I love how everyone gathers around to sing carols and watch the tree light up. It’s magical.”

“Let’s grab some hot cocoa first,” Jake suggested, nodding toward a nearby stand. “I’ll race you there!”

Before Emma could respond, Jake took off, his laughter ringing through the air. She couldn’t help but smile as she chased after him, the chill of the evening air invigorating her spirit.

They reached the stand, breathless and giggling, and placed their orders. As they waited, Emma glanced around, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling square. The warmth of the cocoa in her hands felt comforting, and she savored the moment, knowing that this was exactly what she had been missing.

“Here you go!” Jake said, handing her a steaming cup. “Cheers to a cozy Christmas!”

“Cheers!” Emma clinked her cup against his, feeling a rush of happiness.

Sipping their cocoa, the crowd began to gather around the tree, and Emma felt a thrill of anticipation. The mayor stepped up to the microphone, welcoming everyone and sharing a few words about the spirit of the season.

“Tonight, we come together to celebrate love, friendship, and the magic of Christmas,” he said, his voice warm and inviting. “Let’s light this tree and fill our hearts with joy!”

With a countdown from ten, the crowd joined in, their voices rising in unison. Emma’s heart raced as she stood beside Jake, their hands brushing against each other.

“Three… two… one!” the crowd shouted, and with a flick of a switch, the tree erupted into a dazzling display of lights, illuminating the square in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Gasps of awe filled the air, and Emma felt a surge of joy as she looked up at the tree, its beauty taking her breath away.

“Wow,” she whispered, her heart swelling with emotion.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” Jake said, his gaze fixed on the tree.

Emma turned to him, their eyes locking for a moment that felt special. The world around them faded, and all she could see was the warmth in his eyes, the way his smile made her heart flutter.

“Yeah, it is,” she replied softly, feeling a connection that went beyond friendship.

As the crowd began to sing carols, Emma felt a sense of hope and possibility wash over her. This Christmas, she was ready to embrace the magic of the season.

The last notes of the carols faded into the night. Emma and Jake stood together, their eyes still fixed on the magnificent tree that now illuminated the square. The vibrant colors danced in the crisp winter air, and Emma felt a warmth in her heart that had nothing to do with the hot cocoa she had just enjoyed.

“Wow, that was incredible,” Emma said, turning to Jake with a smile. “I love how everyone comes together for this.”

“Me too,” Jake replied, his gaze lingering on the tree. “It’s moments like these that remind me of what the holidays are all about.”

They began to walk back toward Emma’s car, the snow crunching beneath their boots. The streets were lined with twinkling lights, and the festive spirit was palpable. Emma felt a mix of excitement and a hint of nostalgia, knowing that their time together was coming to an end for the evening.

“I had a great time tonight,” Emma said, glancing at Jake. “It felt so good to relive those memories.”

“Same here,” Jake said, his voice warm. “I’ve missed hanging out with you like this.”

When they reached her car, Emma paused, feeling a flutter of nerves. “So, what are your plans for the rest of the holiday season?” she asked, trying to keep the conversation light.

“I’m not sure yet,” Jake admitted, leaning against the car. “I might help my parents with their holiday preparations. You know how my mom goes all out with the decorations.”

Emma chuckled, picturing Jake’s mother with her elaborate holiday displays. “That sounds like fun. I’m sure you’ll be roped into helping with the lights again.”

“Of course,” Jake said, shaking his head with a grin. “But I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It’s part of the tradition.”

They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the air filled with the sounds of laughter and joy from the square. Emma felt a sense of warmth, wishing the night didn’t have to end.

“Hey, do you want to get together again before Christmas?” she asked, her heart hopeful. “Maybe we could go ice skating or check out the holiday market?”

“I’d love that,” Jake replied, his eyes lighting up. “Let’s make it happen.”

Emma smiled, feeling a rush of happiness. “Great! I’ll text you, and we can figure out a time.”

As she opened the car door, Jake stepped back, a friendly smile on his face. “Emma, it’s always nice to catch up. I enjoy our time together.”

“Me too, Jake. It’s nice to reconnect,” she replied, feeling grateful for their friendship.

“Okay, I should get going,” she said reluctantly, breaking the moment. “I’ll see you soon?”

“Definitely,” Jake replied, waving as she climbed into her car. “Drive safe, Emma!”

“Thanks, you too!” she called as she started the engine, her heart still warm from the evening.

As she drove away, Emma couldn’t help but smile. The night had been magical, and she felt excited about what the holiday season might hold. With thoughts of family gatherings and festive traditions swirling in her mind, she headed home, ready to embrace the warmth of the holidays.