Part 1:

The Town that Forgot Christmas

In the fading winter light, Snowy Hollow looked like a town that had seen better days. The streets, once bustling with Christmas joy, were now quiet, save for the occasional shuffle of footsteps on the snow-covered ground. The decorations were still there—the garlands hung from lampposts, the wreaths placed on doorways—but something was missing. The magic, the warmth, the unmistakable cheer of Christmas, had drained away.

Charlie Finch stood at his window, watching the gray skies outside. It had been a long time since he’d felt the holiday spirit. His piano, once filled with lively carols, now echoed with somber tunes that matched his mood. The town seemed to reflect his feelings—everything felt hollow. It wasn’t like when he was younger, when the glow of Christmas lights meant everything, and the sound of bells filled him with excitement.

Charlie sighed, plunking out a slow, melancholic melody on the piano, trying to find that sense of joy he’d long lost. It wasn’t there. Not this year. Not for a while, really.

The door slammed open suddenly, breaking his trance. In bounded Mischka Sparks—wild hair, mischievous grin, and energy that could light up an entire town.

“Seriously, Charlie, still moping around?” Mischka’s voice was loud, teasing as always. “Christmas is, like, right now, and you’re here playing your sad piano songs?”

Charlie turned and gave her a tired look. “Mischka, I’m not in the mood.”

“Not in the mood?” Mischka laughed, bouncing around the room. She picked up a snow globe from his shelf and shook it violently, sending flurries inside the glass. “Not in the mood for Christmas? You’re worse than Mr. Tinsley! You’re like the grinch, but somehow grumpier.”

Charlie raised an eyebrow at her. “You broke into my house just to call me a grinch?”

Mischka rolled her eyes. “No, dummy, I broke in because I have a plan. We’re going to Mr. Tinsley’s shop.”

“No way,” Charlie muttered. “That guy hates everyone, especially you.”

“Exactly why it’s going to be fun.” Mischka winked, grabbing his arm. “Come on, stop being boring. We’re going.”