In the quiet night, little Emma heard a giggle. "Hee, hee, hee!" It came from near the Christmas tree. Emma peeked. Who could it be?
Under the tree, she saw a tiny elf with a twinkle in his eye. "Hello!" said Emma. "Why do you giggle?"
"I'm Jolly the Elf," said the little one. "I love to play. I love to giggle. Let's have fun today!"
Jolly the Elf jumped up high and tied a ribbon on Emma's teddy. "Oops!" said Emma, giggling too. "What a funny thing to do!"
Jolly the Elf bounced around, hiding a cookie under the couch. "Where's my cookie?" asked Emma. Jolly winked, "It's a surprise!"
Emma laughed. The lights on the tree twinkled bright. Jolly danced around with glee, hanging ornaments in silly spots.
"Jolly, why do you make such fun?" asked Emma, clapping her hands.
"To bring smiles, to bring cheer! That's what I do, my dear," said Jolly, with a big, happy grin.
Emma felt happy. She understood. Jolly's tricks were a part of Christmas joy. With Jolly by her side, everything felt magical and fun.
Emma giggled, and Jolly giggled too. Together, they watched the stars twinkle, feeling warm and happy. All was merry, all was bright, under the Christmas tree that night.