Excerpt

Susan stood and came over to the counter. “How did it go?”

“You’re looking at the only items of any value. At least I think they have value.”

She picked up one of the tin figurines and studied it. “These are old. They have to be valuable.”

Jay took the Santa out of the box.

Susan picked up the cover and looked between it and the ornament. “It’s in the original box. That should make it worth even more. What’s this?” She pulled a yellowed paper out of the box. “This doesn’t feel like paper.” She opened it. As she read it, her eyes grew large. She looked up at Jay.

Curious, Jay took it from her and read it out loud—

“He who finds this ornament has the first twenty-five days of the month of December afforded him to find true love. One touch will unlock the magic hidden inside and guide him on his quest. Sinter.”

“What does that mean?” Jay asked, frowning.

“I guess you’ll find out tomorrow. It’s December first.” She grinned.

“Like that’s gonna happen. Me and love have never been on speaking terms.”

“Do you want true love?” Susan asked pointedly.

“Don’t you?” He stared directly at her.

“Uh, of course I do,” she answered sheepishly. “But you found the ornament and touched it. Its magic belongs to you.”

“Yeah right. If this ornament has magic, my name is Kris Kringle.” He searched the internet on his computer for a local appraiser and called for an appointment.