Page 27 of Candy Cane Wishes

Epilogue

Two Years Later-

Gerard knocked on Donovan’s office door. “You wanted to tell me something?”

“Yes.” Donovan grinned. “Remember last year, you said I’d have to try hard to top our Christmas headline?”

“I’m not sure it’s possible to beat a Christmas wedding, celebrating your marriage to Zoe. When the town learned the details of your romance, the two of you became celebrities in Nativity.”

Donovan wiggled his brows. “If I give you a story that outdoes it, will you give me a raise?”

A loud chuckle came from Gerard’s portly belly. “You’re already getting a raise and promotion.”

“Thank y…” He stopped mid-sentence. “What do you mean a promotion?”

“I haven’t told the staff yet, but I’m retiring next month. I spoke with Mr. Talbot, and he agrees with me.”

“On?”

Gerard winked. “That you’d make a great editor. You have the insight, integrity, and work ethic. The job is yours if you want it.”

“Are you kidding? Of course, I want it.” If it weren't inappropriate to hug his boss, he’d embrace him with gratitude, but he settled for shaking his hand. “Thank you for believing in me.”

“You’ve proved yourself worthy at every turn. You deserve it.” Gerard let go of his hand. “I believe you had something to tell me?”

He nodded and lifted the paper from his desk and showed it to his boss. “How would you likeThe Daily Nativityto publish the official pregnancy announcements of twins due in May?”

“Well, I’ll be.” Gerard slapped his back and chuckled again. “When you told me two years ago you’d make it up to me when WTCH published the story on Zoe, I didn’t realize the extremes you’d go to. Congratulations.”

Donovan glanced at this desk and eyed the candy cane he kept there. He’d saved it all these years, not knowing it would lead him to Zoe, the love of his life. Gerard left the office, and Donovan packed his attaché case. He’d promised Zoe and Brody he’d only stay a few hours, so he could get home to build the gingerbread house with them.

He drove home, enjoying the visual effects of last night’s snowfall. A yard filled with electric lighted candy canes greeted him. It hadn’t been his or Zoe’s doing, but the citizens of Nativity thought it would be fun to gift them with the decorations. Neither of them minded the thoughtful gift from their beloved hometown.

And they treasured the reminder of the candy cane wishes that brought them together. What had begun as a mission to help others, had healed their own wounds and gave them a happily-ever-after ending.