EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the second chapter in a 12-chapter fictional tale that will run through Christmas Day. Parents are encouraged to read aloud to their children.

Gabby blinked, staring at the billboard as they drove past. The cartoon woman stayed a cartoon, unmoving. She must have been imagining things.

Her eyes widened as the town came into view. The blanket of snow covering the ground glittered like diamonds, illuminated by the Christmas lights strung up on every building that managed to shine brightly even though it was daytime. Colorful wreaths decorated the doors, and evergreen garlands framed the windows.

In the center of it all, an enormous Christmas tree stood in the town square, decorated with colorful ornaments and twinkling lights.

“Let’s stop for a minute,” Mom said. “That tree is beautiful, I want a closer look.”

Dad parked in front of a shop called “Jingle’s Toy Parlor” with life-size toy soldiers standing guard next to the entrance.

They all stepped out to get a closer look at everything, but just as Gabby’s nose led her in the direction of a bakery that looked like a gingerbread house, she heard a soft crackling sound. She gasped as she looked behind her.

“Um, guys?” she said, and her family gaped in shock at the sight of their car encased in a layer of ice. Dad tried to open the door, but couldn’t manage to get a grip.

“I don’t understand,” he said, looking around in bewilderment. “How could this have happened?”

Almost like it was answering, a soft chime filled the air and a warm glow appeared at the edge of the town square. A woman walked toward them, dressed in a red cloak trimmed with silver embroidery.

As she got closer, Gabby gasped. It was the real-life version of the winking woman on the billboard.

“Welcome to Merrywood Falls,” the woman said with a smile. “I’m Emily Frost, mayor here. Now, don’t fret about your car; Merrywood Falls never forces anyone to stay. It will thaw if you truly wish to go.”

“But you see,” she continued, “Merrywood Falls is special. It chooses who it needs and when it needs them. And you, my wonderful Murphy family, have arrived just in time for something important.”

Gabby’s eyes widened. The mysterious GPS, which was pre-programed to lead them here…had this woman sent it? How did she even know who they were?

Emily leaned in. “You see, this town was built on the magic of Christmas spirit. But that magic needs to be renewed. Each year, a family is invited to Merrywood Falls to help keep the magic alive. And in return, they find something they didn’t know they needed. Or in many cases, something they’ve lost.”

“Magic?” Gabby spoke up. “Magic isn’t real.”

Emily smiled, waving her hand through the air and leaving behind a trail of sparkling snowflakes that spelled out “Merrywood Falls.” Gabby’s eyes widened at the sight of the snowy, glittering words.

Gabby’s parents exchanged glances, having a silent conversation with their eyes.

“So let’s say we go along with this,” Dad said. “What happens next?”

Emily’s eyes sparkled. “Simple. Start with what’s in front of you. There’s always more to discover if you keep your eyes and heart open. The Christmas tree, for instance, holds its own secrets.”

They turned to look at the massive Christmas tree. Suddenly, one of the ornaments — a large silver snowflake — glowed brightly, catching their attention.

“And don’t worry,” Emily said, “all of your bags have arrived at Mistletoe Manor, our lovely bed and breakfast. Your rooms will be waiting for you. Minus phones and video games, of course; they don’t work here and they’ll remain safe in the car.”

They all looked back at the ice-covered vehicle, which now had two white doves perched on the roof, watching them closely.

“Should you decide you want to leave, you can go anytime,” Emily said. “But I truly hope you’ll make the choice to stay and help Merrywood Falls thrive.”

She looked at them with raised eyebrows, while they all looked at each other, silently debating if they should let themselves be drawn into this unbelievable adventure.

Read chapter 3 in tomorrow’s newspaper.