The only space left was a small table on the edge of the market.
The morning sun sparkled off tinsel garlands strung between market stalls, but this table was in a shaded, cold part of the market that didn’t have as much traffic. Kai wished there had been a better spot, but space had been limited, and the holiday market filled up fast.
Nevertheless, Holly seemed grateful. “I don’t know how to thank you for this. I was supposed to be in Los Angeles by now.”
Kai took the top box from a stack they’d wheeled in with a dolly from Brooke’s vehicle. She put it on the table. “This show isn’t as large as the one you planned to do, but it’s something. I hope you’re not disappointed.”
“It’s not that. There’s someone I hoped to meet there.”
Now they were getting somewhere, Kai thought. “A boyfriend?”
“No, someone I want to find.” Holly shook her head and placed her other boxes on the table. “It’s not important. Who shall I pay for the space?”
Kai waved a hand to dismiss the offer. “Normally, that would be Cookie, who manages the farmers market and the new holiday market, but when she heard you were stranded, she comped your spot. It’s the last one.”
“She did that without even knowing me?”
“Well, you know me,” Kai said brightly. “And that’s practically the same thing.”
A smile played on Holly’s delicate features as she spread a metallic threaded cloth over the table. “So, I’m curious—why help a stranger like me?”
Kai shrugged. “I like to stay busy.”
“Doesn’t your baby keep you busy enough?”
“I like getting out and seeing people. And my husband is taking care of Stella today.” Kai glanced around. “People are arriving now. I should help you set up.”
When Holly agreed, Kai reached for a carton. Sometimes, it was easier to talk to strangers than friends, and Holly seemed receptive.
“For years, I performed with touring Broadway shows,” Kai began. “I know what it feels like to land in a new city every few weeks. When I was on the road, I needed to see more than the inside of a theater or hotel room.”
Holly nodded as she listened. “That sounds exciting, though I can see how it might get old. Were you homesick for Summer Beach?”
“Whenever I had time off, I stayed with Ginger. But I was gone for months at a time.” Kai spread a banner across the table. “How is this?”
“That looks nice, thanks.” Holly angled her head. “How did you handle the traveling?”
Kai thought about that. “Between rehearsals and performances, I would slip away to explore the city. Small gestures meant a lot to me in that nomadic life. Maybe it was a cup of coffee served with a smile and a few words. Or a recommendation for a hidden bookstore or the best sushi. Each kindness made me feel a little less lonely. So, I figured you could use a friend for however long you’re here.”
“I’m glad you understand,” Holly said, her voice thick with emotion. “This means a lot to me.”
Kai reached up to flip the edge of the canopy back. Sunlight streamed in like a spotlight. “I don’t think we need this overhead covering unless it rains. And let’s angle the table for better viewing.”
Christmas music drifted throughout the market, and Kai hummed along while positioning Holly’s charming snow globes and glittering tree ornaments.
“Isn’t that “Happy Holiday?” Holly asked.
“Sure is. It’s fromHoliday Inn, which was a 1942 movie and later, a musical.” Kai grinned. “I have a weakness for old songs and show tunes.”
“We all have our gifts.”
“You sure do.” Kai stepped back to admire their handiwork. “Your work is unique—and so beautifully crafted.”
The young woman’s ornaments glittered in the sunlight. Her snow globes held tiny, exquisite worlds within their crystal spheres.
Surveying the display, Holly clasped her hands. “This looks perfect, though I might be biased.”
Kai noticed again how their visitor had an ethereal quality about her. She looked like a Christmas elf who’d wandered away from Santa’s workshop and found herself on the beach.
