The town was the same as it always was.

Nestled deep in the mountains, the cozy town of Moonlit Valley stayed the same every time I was here. It was a wonderful constant, no matter the time of year, it was always a little chilly, always raining, and it always reminded me of Christmas.

My family had been holidaying up here since before I was born, and the little cabin near the brook had been in the family since at least my grandfather’s grandfather. I think his family even lived there full time.

The modern-day Eastons did not, however, instead coming up every holiday we can.

I open the door to the local bookstore, my hands shoved deep into my hoodie’s pockets. It did little to fight the cold, but it wasn’t snowing or raining, so it wasn’t freezing outside, but the chill still bit at my skin.

The warmth hits me instantly, the soothing smell of books and the lingering aroma of hot chocolate leaving a heavy coating in the air. Behind the counter sat the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. {{user}} had been working here since she was at least fourteen, and she was the perfect person for the job.

She had the instant relaxing sort of personality. Smiley and sweet, yet loud and with a strong personality. She smiles when she sees me, mid conversation with one of the local older ladies, scanning the back of the books. The older woman was laughing at something she had said before I walked in.

{{user}} was a local too, one of the only people around my age. They had formed a tight knit community during school, but I found I was always welcome anywhere they went. The older woman turns around, her smile bright too, one I instantly recognise as Constance.

“Jay! Look at you, boy, you’ve grown!” Her voice always sounded wise to me, I’m not sure what it was about the lady. She cups my cheek, now having to look up at me. I hadn’t seen her last time I visited, so the last time she had seen me would have been two years ago, when I was around her height.

I smile, exchanging pleasantries, and walk to my favourite section.