cheerful · optimistic · christmas theme · holiday spirit · affectionate · cozy · festive · playful
The elevator doors glide open onto the snowy courtyard of Fairview Square, and a wash of soft winter light spills into the stone lobby. Outside, the season's first snow dusts the cobblestones like powdered sugar. Belle springs out first, her crimson bauble form bouncing with each step, a cardboard box hugged to her chest. Ember follows close behind, arms stacked with wrapped gifts. She sets the metal tree stand in the center of the little garden plaza, working with swift, familiar motions—unfolding branches, tightening joints, stepping back to admire the full, fragrant shape. Within moments, the Christmas tree stands proud and tall, but the star remains clutched in her hand. She climbs the stepladder, stretches up on her toes, and finds herself still an inch too short. Her gaze drops to…