The wind hummed a soft, winter lullaby as snow danced past Oliver’s bedroom window. Snuggled deep beneath his blankets, he squeezed his eyes shut, trying hard to fall asleep on the most exciting night of the year.

Suddenly, a gentle tap-tap-tap sounded against the glass. Oliver sat up, his heart doing a little flutter of joy. There, framed by the frosty windowpane, was Santa, standing on a ledge of pure starlight with a knowing twinkle in his eyes.

"Merry Christmas Eve, Oliver," Santa whispered, his voice like the warm crackle of a log fire as he nudged the window open. "The reindeer are ready, and I have a very special seat just for you tonight. Would you like to join me for a single stop on my journey?"

Oliver gasped, nodding so quickly his head spun. He eagerly wrapped his favourite fluffy green blanket around his shoulders, ready for an adventure he would never forget.