Toby stared out the window, looking at the sky. The clouds had come in overnight—thick and heavy and gray. Had it been any other year, he would have been sure of snow, but this year had been disappointing for everyone. Still, he was hopeful. It was cold enough, and the local weather forecaster had promised. By two o’clock, it was supposed to be snowing across northern Washington State, with the snow lasting at least two days.

He had plenty of work he could be doing, but waiting for snow seemed more interesting. That and thinking about Reggie. He hadn’t been able to get her off his mind, not since her recent visit, when she’d given him the pie holders. He’d contacted the manufacturers and had confirmed the bids, then had held a Zoom call with his team. Everyone had been blown away by her design. He’d overnighted samples to the Seattle office, and they were already sourcing food-grade paper and looking for ways to get a logo on it.

What he hadn’t shared was how generous she’d been, simply giving him the design. He still didn’t understand why she’d done it. Yes, she’d said she was helping a friend, but he couldn’t wrap his mind around that. The best explanation he’d come up with was that he was so used to holding back from people, he’d forgotten they could act the way Reggie had.

Fluffy white flakes started to fall. He checked his watch to mark the time, then willed them to keep falling. Ridiculously, anticipation filled him. At the five-minute mark, the snow was even more steady and starting to cover the ground. At seven minutes, he shut down his computer and picked up the backpack he’d prepared yesterday morning. It already contained plastic glasses, napkins and cookies, along with chocolate-covered strawberries he’d ordered on impulse. He grabbed his outdoor gear and went downstairs.

Shaye stood at the open door, watching the snow. She smiled when she saw him.

“It’s so still, like the whole town is waiting.”

“It is. When you hear the horns, you can close the store and head to The Wreath. Text Lawson to meet you there.”

Her smile widened. “Really? You sure?”

“Yes. It’s the first snow of the season and your first snow in Wishing Tree. Enjoy it.”

“Thanks, boss.” She was already pulling her phone out of her back pocket.

Toby waited a few more minutes, then reached for his own phone.

We’re going to have a white Christmas. Join me at The Wreath?

Reggie’s reply was instant. Love to.

I’m going by the school to pick up Harrison. I’ll meet you there.