Chapter 10 - The Warmth of Winter
Two years after the storm that nearly claimed her life, winter returned to the mountains of New York.
A gentle, quiet snow fell outside The Cedar & Sage, coating the town in a soft, picturesque blanket of white. Inside, a roaring fire crackled merrily in the large stone fireplace.
The bookstore was filled with warm light, laughter, and the gentle hum of happy conversation.
It was Christmas Eve.
Eleanor sat by the fireplace, drinking spiced cider and laughing with Thomas, who had brought his daughter and young grandson to join the holiday celebration. Children played near the large evergreen tree decorated with handmade wooden ornaments and twinkling gold lights.
Margaret stood by the front window, looking out at the falling snow.
She was wearing a warm, cream-colored sweater and soft leather boots. In her hand, she held a warm mug of cinnamon tea.
She watched the snow fall onto the sidewalk. A young couple walked past, holding hands, laughing as they pulled their scarves tight against the chilly breeze.
Margaret smiled.
There was no fear in her heart when she looked at the snow now. No phantom cold in her toes. No lingering echo of a deadbolt clicking in the dark.
She placed her hand against the warm glass of the window, feeling the faint chill from outside, but surrounded entirely by the heat of the roaring fire, the love of her family, and the strength of her own invincible spirit.
Thomas walked up behind her, placing a warm, heavy coat gently over her shoulders before wrapping his arms around her, pulling her close against his chest.
"Cold?" Thomas asked softly into her ear.
May you like
Margaret leaned back against him, closing her eyes, feeling the steady, rhythmic beat of her healthy heart.
"No," Margaret whispered, a deep, beautiful smile lighting up her face as she looked around her glowing, love-filled home. "I’m warm. I’m finally, truly warm."
