Chapter 26 - WINTER WONDERLAND
Christmas arrived at Sterling Manor, bringing a massive twenty-foot pine tree into the grand foyer.
Golden ornaments, twinkling lights, and red ribbons decorated the tree, reflecting off the polished marble floors.
Piles of brightly wrapped presents sat beneath the branches, waiting for Christmas morning.
Little Thomas ran around the tree, pointing at the sparkling star at the very top with wide, excited eyes.
Jonathan lifted his son onto his shoulders, letting him adjust the golden star on the highest branch.
Maria stood nearby, sipping warm hot chocolate while taking photos of the sweet father-and-son moment.
"Everything is perfect, Jonathan," Maria whispered as he walked over and wrapped his arm around her waist.
"Because you are here with me, Maria," Jonathan answered softly, kissing her cheek under the mistletoe.
The estate was wrapped in a blanket of peaceful white snow, safe and secure from the outside world.
May you like
Their lives were filled with warmth, love, and unshakeable peace.
***
