25. Community
The entire population of Castle Rock, all 1281 people, gathered in front of the Church of St. Joseph as they waited for the three-story tall Christmas tree to be lit.
"This is so overrated," Teddy complained.
"Shut up, Teddy, this is the best part of Christmas." Vern bounced up and down with anticipation.
"Yeah, I'll bet you totally thought it was overrated when you were younger," Chris said.
"I did, I always hated this thing."
"Just grin and bear it Teddy, it builds character," Gordie said, turning his attention to the front of the crowd.
"All right, folks," Bob Albright shouted through the mega phone. "We're starting the count down!"
"TEN, NINE, EIGHT, SEVEN, SIX, FIVE, FOUR, THREE, TWO, ONE!" Cheers went off as the lights sparkled to life on the tree. Chris grinned, one of the few genuine smiles he'd had all season.
"Merry Christmas, guys."
"And Happy New Year!" Teddy shouted.
A/N: well that's all folks! thank you to BoatsAgainstTheCurrent for constant reviews and Xxultiment_fangirlxX for physical/moral support :P