“Waiting for the storm?”

Nic turned, finding Sandra watching her from the doorway. She nodded. “Hope you don’t mind, but I figured the sunporch was the perfect place to see it.”

“Of course not. I’ll put the corner lights on outside. You’ll have a better view then.”

She moved to a wall switch and did just that. Lights illuminated the snow that was already on the ground, and in the beam, she could see small, gentle flakes falling.

“The prelude,” Sandra explained. “To hear the weathermen tell it, it’ll be quite fierce when it blows in.”

“Do you ever lose power with storms like this?”

“Oh, it’s rare. A blowing blizzard like this is common. At least once or twice a season, we’ll get a good one, but the wind is rarely strong enough to topple trees. That’s when we’ll lose power.” Sandra sipped from the cup she was holding. Coffee or tea? “I hope you two didn’t have plans for tomorrow. I would imagine you’ll be stuck here for the day.”

“Abby thought we could try sledding again.” She smiled. “Maybe talk Aaron and Holly into going along.”

Sandra smiled too. “Good luck with that.” She sat down and offered the other chair to her. “Have you enjoyed yourself, Nicole?”

“Very much.” She looked over at her. “I don’t know how much Abby has told you, but I didn’t exactly grow up having any sort of traditional Christmas. In fact, none.” She stared outside into the light, wondering if it was her imagination or was the snow starting to get thicker. “Your home is beautiful, Sandra. The tree is…well, it’s perfect.” She looked at her again. “Truth is, I always hated Christmas. Abby and your family have shown me a different side to it.” She was surprised when Sandra reached over and touched her arm, squeezing it gently.

“I’m so glad Abigail brought you, Nicole. It’s been a joy to get to know you.” She smiled. “I hope this is the first of many.”

Nic felt a twinge of guilt as she nodded at Sandra. “Me too.”

“Only a few more days, then you’ll be heading back to the city. It’s always so quiet here when the kids leave.”

“What about your parents? I thought they were coming.”