But as they drove through the streets of the town, it felt good to be back in Christmas Cove... which was something she thought she’d never think. Her whole life, she couldn’t wait to get out, and now she was so happy to be back she could jump for joy. A few minutes later, the driver pulled up in front of Santa’s Cafe and Mallory threw a bill over the seat.

“Keep the change.”

“Thanks, lady!” the driver said, but yelled after her. “You want me to wait for you?”

“No, thanks!” She waved over her shoulder and hurried inside out of the cold.

“Mallory!” Tammy Snyder, a girl she...