Mistletoe and Magic — Deb Julienne

Rafe Donnelly's mother abandoned him at birth, leaving him without a name or anything to call his own. Growing up in an orphanage, holidays left little to be desired, Rafe only knowing what they could be from those who didn't stay long. As an adult, he prefers escaping to warmer climates over the hustle and bustle of the festive season.

Single mother Ali Sanders struggles day in and day out, juggling two jobs to keep a roof and four walls surrounding her and her son, working overtime to make sure he has a Christmas he'll remember. But the holidays are looming, and five-year-old Gabe still hasn't announced what he wants for Christmas.

A last-minute change of plans has Rafe sitting in for Santa Claus at a Thanksgiving function. As the clock signals the end of his torture, a little boy sits on Santa's lap and asks for something unexpected, changing the lives of everyone around him.

Can a little boy's Christmas wish bring warmth to a cold heart and much-deserved happiness to the holiday season?

**Previously published as "All I Want For Christmas" in various collections.**