Snow was silently falling in Ania’s backyard. Colourful lights glittered in the window. The house smelled of gingerbread and oranges. Ania was sticking a little snowman on the balcony. Mum was hanging baubles on the Christmas tree. Dad was looking for the star for the top. Felek the dog was wagging his tail and squealing. It was a quiet Christmas Eve evening. Everyone was whispering and waiting for the first star. Suddenly, the bell rang in a completely different way. It was a quick sound, like toys. Ania crouched down and looked under the Christmas tree. A small red sock was lying there. It wasn’t theirs — certainly not. On the sock was a silver letter A. Inside, something was quietly buzzing and trembling. Felek stood on tiptoe and barked. Mum winked at Ania and whispered, “Check.” Ania took the sock and looked inside. A golden key on a blue ribbon slid out. A star and a small reindeer glittered on the key. Next to the radiator, Ania discovered a small door — one she had never seen before. There was a star-shaped lock on the board. The key fitted perfectly and clicked softly. Felek perked up his ears and fell silent. A cool forest breeze blew from the door. Something rustled behind it, like a tiny coat. Ania took a breath and touched the handle. The handle vibrated, and a light shimmered in the darkness.