Page 10 of Brewing Up Christmas

Eli met his gaze, a knowing look in his eyes. “It’s already starting.”

As he drove down the snow-covered streets, Eli couldn’t shake the feeling that this was the finalpiece—the thing that could fill the Christmas spirit meter for good. But more than that, it felt right. Like this tree, this tradition, wasn’t just about the mission anymore. It was about something much deeper.

A Tree for the Town

The next day at the brewery, Eli was behind the bar, wiping down glasses, his mind still buzzing from his conversation with Walt the previous evening. The idea of bringing the tree back to the center of town had taken root, and now he couldn’t think of anything else. As the late afternoon sun started to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow through the windows of Harbor Craft, Eli spotted Nolan across the room, taking inventory of the latest shipment of beer.

Now’s my chance, Eli thought, setting the glass aside and making his way over to Nolan.

“Hey,” Eli called out, leaning against the counter. “Got a minute?”

Nolan glanced up from the clipboard in his hands, eyebrows raised. “Sure, what’s up?”

Eli took a breath, the words already forming before he could stop them. “I want to put up a Christmas tree in the center of town.”

Nolan blinked, his expression a mix of confusion and amusement. “A Christmas tree? Like the big one we used to have?”

“Exactly like that,” Eli said, his voice gaining momentum. “Walt was telling me about it last night. He said it was this huge thing, everyone came together for it. I think it’s what the town needs right now.”

Nolan set the clipboard down, crossing his arms. “And you want to bring it back? Find a tree and everything?”

Eli nodded. “Yeah. I can’t do it alone, though. I was hoping you could help me.”

Nolan’s lips twitched into a smile. “You’re really getting into this holiday spirit thing, huh?”

Eli chuckled, scratching the back of his neck. “I guess I am. Besides, it’s not just about decorations. This tree—it’ll bring everyone together. We could have a whole lighting ceremony, make it a big event. It’d be like old times.”

Nolan leaned against the counter, considering the idea. “You know, I’ve missed that tree too. And I think the town could use something like that. But a tree that size… it’s gonna cost a bit to transport and set up.”

Before Eli could respond, Nolan waved a hand dismissively. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll cover the cost.”

Eli’s eyes widened. “You’re serious?”

“Of course,” Nolan said with a grin. “It’s for the town. Harbor Craft can take the hit. It’s worth it to see people come together again.”

Eli’s heart raced with excitement. He could already picture the massive tree standing tall in the center square, the lights twinkling as the townspeople gathered around it. And as the image solidified in his mind, something else happened.

The Christmas spirit meter appeared out of nowhere, hovering beside him like a friendly ghost. The red liquid inside bubbled and surged upward by 20 points, bringing the meter just a little closer to full. Eli’s jaw dropped, his eyes wide with surprise.

“Did you see that?” he exclaimed, pointing at the spot where the meter floated.

Nolan stared at Eli like he’d just sprouted a second head. “See what?”

“The meter!” Eli waved his hand through the air where it had been. “It just went up. Twenty points!”

Nolan frowned, shaking his head slowly. “Nah, man. I didn’t see anything. You sure you haven’t been drinking on the job?”

Eli grinned, feeling the excitement surge through him despite Nolan’s skepticism. “I swear it was right there! I’m telling you, this tree idea—it’s gonna work.”

Nolan chuckled, clapping Eli on the shoulder. “I don’t doubt it. We’ll go find the tree on Sunday. Get ready.”

the sun had barely risen when Eli and Nolan set off in search of the perfect Christmas tree. They drove through the snowy countryside just outside of Bayshore, the landscape blanketed in a layer of white that stretched as far as the eye could see. The truck’s tires crunched against the snow-covered road, and the scent of fresh pine filled the crisp air.

Nolan was at the wheel, navigating the narrow roads with ease. “So, Margot heard about our little mission,” he said, glancing over at Eli. “She wants to help plan the lighting ceremony.”

Eli perked up, turning to Nolan. “She does?”

“Yep. Said she’s got ideas for snacks, drinks, the whole thing. She even mentioned getting the Seaside Café involved for catering.”

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