(fairy tale)

As Christmas night approached, little Mary sat by the window, looking at the snowflakes. The young mind wondered if Santa really existed. And if so, how did he manage to bring all the presents?

From the kitchen came the noise of plates and glasses, as Mum and her older sister Jane set the table. Mary ran up to her sister, hugged her and looked at her with a sad look.

“What’s wrong honey,” Dasha asked worriedly.

“Does Santa exist? I don’t think he will come to see me one day, for he has so many houses to go round. How will he have time?” said the little sister sadly.

Then Dasha sat her sister down and told her this story:

“Of course, it is hard for Santa alone, but he has little helpers, and also very, very fast sleighs that take him to every corner of our world.”

“But who are they? These helpers?” Mary asked with deep interest, sparkling in her eyes.

“Kiddo, don’t interrupt, and I’ll tell you all about it. His helpers are little winter fairies. With magic, they carry even the largest presents, and because of their small size, they get into the house with ease. Santa values and loves his helpers very much.”

Mary was inspired by her sister’s story. She had been waiting all night to meet the little fairy, having so many questions for her. But, as if by magic, the girl fell asleep, right by the window, and the little fairy appeared beside her. It was Dasha. That’s how she knew so much about fairies and Santa. Dasha left a present for her little sister and flew out the window in time to please the other children.

So throughout the night, each waiting child received their gifts and the pinch of magic of Christmas night.