They Forgot to Invite Me to Christmas—So I Bought a Mountain. When They Came to Take It, the Deputy Was Already Waiting.

playing instrumental carols, trading small gifts that no one had expected to give or receive. Luce found a field guide to mountain wildflowers. Gabe had framed a map of Elk Crest with a tiny gold star marking High Timber. Priya handed me an absurdly luxurious cashmere throw.

“The guest rooms are yours whenever you need them,” I told my friends. “You continue reading …