Christmas. It's a bittersweet time of year for me. While I embrace the reason for the season, my heart weighs heavy with grief whenever the first strains of Jingle Bells hit the airwaves. All I want for Christmas this year is a secluded cabin, a good book, and a Do Not Disturb sign on the front door. I need time alone. Time away from happy families and holiday cheer. Away from flashing lights and endless carols. Away from work parties and all things holly and jolly.

The whole reason I've come to Hidden Valley Hideway is to avoid the hustle and bustle and to escape all things merry and bright. I just want to get through the holiday season without being reminded of everything I've lost. I want to forget about the dark cloud of grief that follows me everywhere, and refocus my heart on what truly matters.

But somehow, the snowstorm didn't get the memo that I wanted to be alone. Because as things would have it, I find myself stuck in the cabin of Mr. Christmas himself. A few hot cocoas, a surprising rendition of Silent Night, and some pretty twinkling lights later, I'm thawing to the idea that despite my broken heart, there is still joy to be found.

Perhaps this year, I'll say goodbye to my grinchiness and rediscover that Christmas actually is the most wonderful, heart-warming, hope-filled time of the year.

*This book was originally published as This Christmas. It has been reworked and re-edited.*

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