Page 50 of A Moon Lake Christmas Hero

Later, Lisa cornered me by the dessert table. "The twins adore you," she said bluntly. "And James... I've never seen him like this. Happy. Complete."

Even Richard stopped by, his usual intimidating presence softened by the Christmas lights. "We protect our own here," he said simply. "You're one of us now."

"Speaking of which," Lisa chimed in, "girls' night next Thursday? We're teaching Edith how to shoot."

"I don't know how?—“

"Perfect!" Birdie grinned. "Another student for me."

Snow started falling outside, big fluffy flakes illuminated by the Christmas lights. "White Christmas" played softly in the background as James pulled me toward the center of the room.

"Look up," he whispered.

Mistletoe. Of course.

His kiss was gentle, full of promise. The twins crashed into our legs, giggling, and he scooped them up, one in each arm.

"Picture time!" Claire called out. "Everyone gather around!"

What followed was cheerful chaos as everyone tried to arrange themselves.

Max lifted Milli onto his shoulders so she'd be visible in the back. Goofy made bunny ears behind Peaches's head. The twins insisted on sitting on the floor with the other kids.

"Erin," James said softly, before he gave me a come-hither sign.

As I moved to join my little big family, others shifted to push me into the center, where James pulled me close into a back hug.

I’d never felt like this before, surrounded by warmth and love.

"Say ‘Chistmas!’” Lisa called.

“Christmas!”

Later, as we gathered our coats and said goodbyes (which took nearly an hour, as everyone needed one last hug or conversation), I found myself hanging back, taking in the scene one last time.

The room still hummed with joy and warmth. Dorothy and Richard slow-danced by the tree. Hawk was in a heated discussion with Birdie and Peaches. Goofy was helping Milli pack up leftover cookies for the kids. Alan and Jessie gathered their sleeping toddler, while Blake danced with a teenage girl.

The twins, exhausted but happy, leaned against James.

"Ready to go home?" James asked, wrapped an arm around them and lifted them up.

Home.

Not just his house anymore—our home.

Not just his daughters—our daughters.

Not just his community—our family.

Despite the short time I’ve been to Moon Lake, despite our whirlwind romance I just knew.

"You know what?" I smiled, watching snowflakes dance outside the window. "I think I'm already there."

He took a step closer and pressed a kiss to my temple. “You’re where?”

“Finally home.”

He grinned. “Welcome home, love."

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