As the snow fell thicker, the Christmas tree seemed to slip into a velvety white coat, its branches arching in graceful curves.

The distant street lamps flickered on, casting a glow that made the snowflakes appear even more distinct—swirling around the tree in clusters and flurries, as if dancing a silent ballet in its honor. No one wished for the snow to stop, nor did anyone hurry on their way. Instead, they lingered by the snow-clad Christmas tree, watching the flakes gather on its branches, the lights twinkling softly through the veil of white. In that moment, the quiet tenderness of the year’s end seemed to linger there, nestled in the embrace of the snow-covered tree.