The crunch of snow underfoot was the only sound as Juniper and Eve made their way up the driveway. The house loomed ahead, glowing with a warm, inviting light that spilled through the frosted windows. Wreaths adorned the front door, and the faint sound of Christmas music drifted through the air. “Your mom really goes all out,” Eve said again, her tone equal parts admiration and amusement. Juniper huffed a laugh, adjusting her bag on her shoulder. “You don’t even know the half of it.” Before Eve could reply, the front door flew open, and Juniper’s mom appeared, her face lighting up with excitement. “Juniper! You’re here!” She checked her watch. ”It's almost 6:30, but who's counting.”