The snow fell gently outside the small cabin, blanketing the world in a soft, white hush. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of pine and cinnamon, mingling with the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses. It was Christmas Eve, and the annual holiday party at the Johnsons' was in full swing. Maggie Johnson stood by the fireplace, a glass of spiced cider in hand, her cheeks flushed with warmth and excitement. She had...