Christmas in Evergreen Tidings of Joy - Nancy Naigle Page 0,81

and send a Merry Christmas to Evergreen in fifty more years.’ Which means we have a lot of work to do this year.”

“We’re going to seal up the wall?” someone asked.

There were mixed feelings about that among the crowd.

“I’ll be like Nick and Nan in fifty years. One of the old people in town dropping hints so they know to open it,” David sang out. “That is really cool.”

“It is,” Thomas said.

In the gazebo, Elliott kissed Hannah on the cheek. She skipped as if on wings to her spot. She lifted her hands gracefully in the air to lead the choir, Elliott included, in a quiet and appreciative carol.

Everyone sang along.

A little distance away, Lisa sang from the sidewalk with her two foster dogs on leashes, each wearing a brightly colored Christmas bandana from the store. She turned to look across the way and saw her boyfriend Kevin step from the crowd. She and the dogs ran to meet him halfway.

There was a noticeable spark between Nan and Nick walking closely behind Michelle and Thomas to lead the people of Evergreen through town square toward the church in their candlelight processional.

Katie and Ben held their candles, but more than just candles lit their way tonight.

Ben looked over at Katie. “I’m so glad you’re here to share this tradition with me.”

“Traditions.” Her smile spoke volumes more. A promise there’d be more traditions between them.

A few days later, the Evergreen Express sounded the horn for passengers to board to return to the city. Those who’d been visiting for the holidays hugged teary goodbyes and well wishes. Others were bound for new adventures.

Nan and Nick stood with Ben near the train. Nan had tears in her eyes.

“It’s only an interview,” Ben said.

“I know.” She kissed him on the cheek. “I want you to do the very best job that you can.”

“Of course. I’ll make you proud.”

“You always have, Ben.” She straightened his scarf around the collar of his jacket.

“Nick.” Ben shook the man’s hand, knowing Nan had someone new to watch her back and help out these days.

Katie’s voice carried from the platform. “I’ll see you on the train in a minute, Mom.” She raced over to join Ben as her mom boarded. Breathless, she took Nan’s hands. “Bye. Oh?” She wrapped her arms around Nan. “I miss you already. Who will help me with all my research?”

“You always have a spot in my office in the library. Come anytime.”

“Thank you.”

“You have an enjoyable train ride,” Nan said.

Katie walked over to Nick. As much as she’d resisted the notion, she was almost convinced he was the true-to-life Santa Claus. “Bye, Nick.” She leaned in and whispered, “I’m beginning to think you are behind all the magic in this town. The snow globe. All of it.” She stepped away, and Nick didn’t deny it. “Thank you all. Bye.” Katie walked over and boarded the Evergreen Express with Ben right behind her.

Ezra stepped up on the train and waved.

Michelle clung to Thomas’s hand. Ezra had been a wonderful mentor. Katie had no doubt that Michelle would be just fine without him there as a safety net.

Across the way, Nick and Nan stood along with other locals, all saying goodbyes to holiday guests. Hands lifted in the air, waving to the smiling faces in the windows as the train readied for departure. A blend of goodbyes, thank-yous and Christmas salutations filled the air. Michelle knew Evergreen would always be a special place where memories were made. She couldn’t wait to help spread that joy throughout everything the town did all year long.

She watched Ezra take a seat in a row at the front of the train, ready for his new life in Boston. As excited as Michelle knew Ezra was, he looked a little nervous.

Katie’s mom was busy typing on her computer, and Katie took an empty seat a couple of rows in front of her. She leaned toward the window, waving. Michelle waved back.

Ben boarded the train. Michelle had a pretty good idea they wouldn’t be seeing as much of him from now on. She saw him pause at the seat where Katie was. Katie slipped over, allowing Ben to slide in close next to her. She laid her head against his shoulder.

Michelle pulled her hands to her heart. Friends, old and new, as they left Evergreen. But they’d all be back, if only for a visit.

Thomas wrapped his arm around her. His love warmed her to the core. She placed a loving hand on