A not So-Merry Christmas Mix-up

Claire adjusted her scarf as she followed Alex through the swirling snow in the airport parking lot. The flakes were thick and heavy, blanketing the rows of cars in a frosty glow. Her breath puffed out in small clouds as she jogged to keep up with him.

“This one’s mine,” Alex called, stopping beside a navy blue SUV that looked like it had seen its fair share of snowy roads. He opened the trunk and slid his suitcase and guitar case inside, making room for hers.

“You travel light for a Santa,” Claire teased, handing over her bag.

Alex grinned. “Santa’s sleigh has to be fuel-efficient these days. Besides, you’d be surprised what you can fit into one suitcase if you’re creative.”

As Claire climbed into the passenger seat, she couldn’t help but notice the interior was surprisingly neat for someone who seemed so laid-back. A travel mug sat in the cupholder, along with a small bag of what looked like homemade trail mix.

So,” Alex said, starting the engine and cranking up the heat. “Where are we headed?”

“Pine Hollow,” Claire replied, holding her hands over the vents to warm them.

Alex’s eyes widened. “No way. That’s where I’m going.”

“Seriously?” Claire raised an eyebrow. “You live in Pine Hollow?”

“Not quite. I teach at the middle school there, but I live in a cabin a few miles out of town. It’s quieter that way.” He glanced at her. “What about you? Visiting family?”

“Yeah, my parents live just outside of town. I grew up there, but I moved to Chicago a few years ago for work.”

“Ah, the big city girl returns to her small-town roots,” Alex said with a knowing smile. “Classic Christmas story.”

Claire laughed. “And you’re the charming local who brings her back down to earth? Is that how this works?”

“Hey, I don’t make the Christmas rules. I just follow them.”

They both laughed, and Claire felt her nerves ease. Something about Alex’s easy humor and warm demeanor made her feel like she wasn’t sharing a car with a stranger but with someone she’d known for years.

The roads were slick with snow, but Alex handled the drive with calm confidence. They passed fields blanketed in white, dotted with the occasional barn or farmhouse strung with colorful lights.

“So,” Alex said after a comfortable silence, “what’s your plan for Christmas once you get to Pine Hollow?”

“Mostly family stuff,” Claire replied. “My mom’s roped me into helping with the Christmas festival. She’s in charge of the big tree-lighting ceremony this year.”

Alex’s eyebrows lifted. “The Pine Hollow Christmas Festival? That’s a big deal. Everyone in town shows up for it.”

“Yeah, my mom takes it very seriously. She’s been planning it since July.” Claire smiled. “What about you? Other than the concert, what’s on your holiday agenda?”

“Not much, honestly,” Alex said, keeping his eyes on the road. “The concert’s my big focus. After that, I’ll probably just hang out at the cabin, maybe play some music, catch up on sleep. Nothing too exciting.”

“No family to visit?” Claire asked gently.

Alex shook his head. “Not this year. My brother and his family are traveling, and my parents retired to Florida. They’re more into beach Christmases now.”

“Beach Christmases? That should be illegal,” Claire said with mock horror.

Alex chuckled. “Tell that to my mom. She’s probably drinking a coconut margarita right now.”

The SUV hit a small patch of ice, and the tires skidded slightly before Alex expertly corrected the wheel.

“Nice save,” Claire said, clutching the edge of her seat.

“Thanks. Perks of being a teacher in a snowbelt town—you get good at winter driving.”

They continued in companionable silence for a while, the only sounds the hum of the engine and the faint strains of Christmas music playing from the radio. Claire gazed out the window, watching as the snowy landscape gave way to the twinkling lights of Pine Hollow in the distance.

As they entered the town, the sight made her heart swell. Every storefront was decked out in garlands and wreaths, their windows glowing with warm holiday displays. Carolers sang on the corner, their voices rising in harmony as they serenaded passersby. It was like stepping into a Christmas card.

Wow,” Alex said, slowing down to take in the view. “They really go all out here.”

“Welcome to Pine Hollow,” Claire said with a smile. “We don’t mess around when it comes to Christmas.”

He pulled the car to a stop outside the town square, where a massive Christmas tree stood at the center, its lights twinkling like stars.

“Well,” Alex said, turning to her, “looks like you’re home.”

Claire hesitated, feeling a strange pang of reluctance to say goodbye. “Thanks for the ride, Alex. And for, you know, not making me freeze at the airport.”

“Anytime,” he said with a grin. “Good luck with the festival—and don’t forget your presents this time.”

She laughed, climbing out of the car and retrieving her suitcase. As she stood on the snowy sidewalk, watching Alex drive away, she couldn’t shake the feeling that this Christmas was already shaping up to be one she’d never forget.

And somehow, she knew it wouldn’t be the last time she’d see him.