#hot chocolate kisses

[kiivg]

.Tip: always kiss your LI after big boss fights to receive HP boosts.

[expelliarmus]

[rainyarcades]

Hi is that Jeff from Jeff pizza

[saemisic]

Hot Cocoa & Kisses 西村力

synopsis : December is usually the season of gift-giving, and there is nothing more that Y/N wants than for her lover to return to their lovers arms feeling the fuzzy feeling similar to hot cocoa

genre. fluff, fluff, and more fluff slights hints of angst but fluff

wc. 1,009

pairing. Nishimura Riki x fem! reader

tw I mean nothing unless you hate fluff lol

October 23rd, 2024

was the last time you saw your boyfriend Riki in person.

You knew the countless sacrifices he made to achieve his dream. Being in one of the most popular k-pop groups in the market right now has had its You saw how happy being on stage made him, and you weren't one to ask too much, but was it too much to ask for a night back? Probably, knowing the company was practically milking all of ENHYPEN dry.

The part that made this time sting a little more was it was your boyfriend's birthday tomorrow. You had originally planned a secret surprise party but that was thrown out the window when it was announced that ENHYPEN, for their 4th-anniversary celebration would travel to Manila in the Philippines. As much as you were proud of them, you could feel a little part of your heart break knowing that Riki would most likely celebrate his birthday there instead of with you, friends, and family. This year had been rough for the two of you as ENHYPEN had been touring nonstop, and you barely saw him.

Facetime and messages never made up the cuddles, conversations, and all you used to do. Sometimes, when you slept you would cuddle a plushie and pretend it's Riki searching for any kind of warmth. You missed him terribly. The few days they did return didn't help as they were all so exhausted, planning dates and all were a no-go.

Moping around was a pastime you had gotten accustomed to, you wondered how idols managed to keep relationships especially when they're gone 25/8.

The first snow in Korea had happened not long ago, which signaled the start of December. On that day, you hung out with a couple of your friends, the bitter cold nipping at your bones. As days went by you began to see Christmas lights go up, the pink, green blue, and yellow lights lighting up the streets of Seoul. Winter wardrobe had made its comeback, puffy winter jackets, ear muffs, and mittens. Hot cocoa and gingerbreads were being sold by street markets and vendors and overall a jolly mood settled in Korea.

You and Riki always loved hot cocoa, especially during the bitter cold nights. You two would often go out and get some before snuggling up and watching some anime. It had become a sort of tradition since seeing his family in Japan was hard. He always expressed how grateful he was to have you, in his words "The best thing I ever did, was decide to date you".

Currently, you stood in line with your friends, Eunchae, Kyujin, and Jiwoo. All huddled together to try and conserve heat, "Why can't the line move any faster?" you heard Eunchae whine as the cold winds picked up. "Eunchae, shut up everyone in this line is freezing their butts off" quipped Kyujin. A shared look with Jiwoo of sheer exasperation, Kyujin, and Eunchae always bickered about something and anything. "Let's not worry too much you too. See we're about to get out drinks and go back home" you said turning forward as the line got shorter. Grumbling, the two followed suit and soon enough you were ordering your favorite. " Hi sir, can I get a hot chocolate with marshmallows in a large cup to go please". As you walked down to the sitting area, drink in hand, the feeling of missing Riki began to settle since tomorrow was his birthday.

"Y/N let's head back! it’s freezing out here!" jiwoo called out.

Trudging through the snow, you all laughed and talked about Christmas plans, jiwoo was going to go back home for the holidays. Eunchae would spend it with her members and kyujin still had to decide. You were grateful for the girls honestly, they were the people you could reliably fall back on and trust with your life.  They had suffered through your crushing stage of Riki and practically forced you to confess. they had been the mediator any time you guys had an argument. 

As your apartment site came into view you bid the girls a goodbye and a happy holiday before entering the warm building. As you made your way to your apartment and quietly entered, you slipped your shoes off, and suddenly an overwhelming sense came over you - something or someone was in your apartment, unwelcomed. 

You checked the kitchen—nothing. You moved to the living room—still nothing. The bathroom? Again, nothing. You couldn't shake this feeling, and you were starting to get worried. As the door slowly creaked open into your bedroom, a sense of dread filled you. It was dark, with the only light coming from your computer screen. You quietly tiptoed in before hearing something outside, whipping your head, nothing. You were starting to become r over-paranoid. Suddenly, a hand from behind captured your waist and pulled you closer. Shrieking as you hit something tall and hard, a deep laugh rumbled behind you as you turned your body. “Riki?! Oh my gosh dont ever do that again?” you scolded hitting his chest as he held you close.” hi baby” he smiled at you - you pushed yourself off out of his grip and stormed to the bed furious for such a prank.  “Babyyy im sorry, your reaction was so cute though!” Riki tried to defend himself following you to the bed. “Riki pranks are supposed to be funny, not making your own girlfriend paranoid” you snapped back, turning over. 

Although you couldn't hide your smile, he was back in your arms and still the same old boy he was. Then you had a giant man baby crush you as he layed on top, “y/nieeee please, I'm sorryyyyyy” he whined out. As mad as you were you couldn't help but hug him back, it was nice to be able to finally hold him again. “Coming back was the best birthday gift ever” you heard him mutter, a warm fuzzy feeling came over you , just like hot cocoa, as you wanted and hoped this moment would last forever.

saena's afterthoughts: wow, gosh i hate this but i promised so i deliver. I hope you guys enjoy this and happy birthday to my pookie <3 your finally 19!! feedback and constructive feedback is always encouraged and welcomed and thank you so much for reading. I plan to post more often i swear!

[ultravioletbrit]

“blanket” - Jegulus microfic - @into-the-jeggyverse - 736 words

“the night before christmas” - 25 Days of Jegumas - Day 24 - @noblehouseofgay

It’s Christmas Eve at the Potter’s and they’ve been trying to fit in as many of their Christmas Eve traditions as possible. There was a snowball fight and snowmen in the morning, baking cookies in the afternoon, then a Christmas Eve dinner. They all exchanged one gift, and now they’re watching Christmas movies, eating the cookies and drinking Effie’s special hot chocolate.

James and Regulus are sitting on the couch together; their backs resting on opposite arm rests, and their legs between them sharing the same blanket. Their knees are bent but their feet have been brushing one another’s all night. It was about halfway through the last movie that James’ feet brushed against Regulus’, and he didn’t pull them back, Regulus didn’t pull his back either.

Now, the movie’s over, everyone else has gone to bed, their hot chocolate has gone cold and brushing feet have slowly turned into tangled legs. They’ve been sitting in comfortable silence for a while; it’s always comfortable with Regulus. But in the last few minutes James feels like something has changed. The air feels thicker between them and as quiet as they’ve been, somehow Regulus seems to have gotten quieter.   

James looks at his watch then quietly clears his throat to break the silence. “Is there anything else you want to do?” Regulus just gives him a questioning hum. “It’s still the night before Christmas. Is there anything else you wanted to do while it’s still Christmas Eve?”  

Regulus looks at James with an indescribable expression and manages to get impossibly quieter as he looks down at his lap. Regulus is silent for several long moments then takes a small, shaky breath.

“I want to tell you that I love you.” Regulus whispers in the smallest voice James has ever heard.

“What?”

Regulus lifts his head to look at James. “I’m in love with you, James.” He tells him in the same small voice.

James blinks at Regulus several times. He opens and closes his mouth, but nothing comes out. His heart is pounding in his chest like it’s trying to break free. His breathing is shallow and shaky.

He can hear Regulus’ breathing getting heavy. He’s biting his bottom lip so hard James wouldn’t be surprised if it’s bleeding. His eyes are wide and looking everywhere but at James.

“Please say something, James.” His voice cracks and his bottom lip starts to quiver. That breaks James out of his stupor, and he moves to sit beside Regulus.

James takes a deep breath and his lips tick up. “I love you, too.” He whispers and Regulus eyes snap to meet his.

“What?”

James’ smile grows. “I’m in love with you, Regulus.”

“No, you’re not.” Regulus shakes his head.

James breathes a small laugh. “Yes, I am, love.” Regulus shakes his head more at the pet name. “Yes.” James nods slightly and Regulus continues to shake his head.  

“Regulus, you have to stop shaking your head.” James tells him and Regulus just shakes his head more. “Yes, you do. Because I’m going to kiss you now and it’ll be rather difficult if you’re shaking your head.”

Regulus freezes and looks directly at James with wide eyes. James slowly lifts his hand to tuck a curl behind Regulus’ ear and lets his hand linger on Regulus’ cheek. James smiles and Regulus’ eyes soften, and he gives James a small smile in return. James lifts his eyebrows with a silent question and Regulus leans forward, James doesn’t hesitate to lean in to meet him.

The moment their lips touch, Regulus inhales a sharp breath then instantly melts into James. James rubs his thumb over Regulus’ cheek and Regulus lifts his hands to settle on James’ chest.

James isn’t sure how long they stay there; long enough for Regulus’ arms to wrap around James’ neck and for James’ other hand to settle lightly on Regulus’ hip. When they finally break apart, they’re both breathless and they rest their foreheads together as they catch their breath. Eventually, James pulls back slightly to properly look at Regulus.

“I love you.” James whispers with a soft smile.

Regulus doesn’t shake his head this time, he just smiles. “I love you, too.”

James lifts his hand off Regulus’ hip, despite a small disapproving whimper, and looks at his watch.

“It’s not the night before Christmas anymore.” James tells him as he puts his hand back and lets his forehead rest against Regulus’ again. “Merry Christmas, Regulus.” He whispers.

“Merry Christmas, James.”   

[carelessapples]

fuckign. creature

[fullcravings]

Hot Cocoa Cookie Blossoms

[loustica-lucia]

DATV — Heart Shaped Churros

(Last art post for today, promise😂 I cooked too much today, oops haha)

Lucanis & Alba making heart shaped churros, that's it.

(Lucanis Dellamorte & Alba de Riva/Rook [he/they])

[russellius]

ZANDVOORT, NETHERLANDS - AUGUST 23: George Russell of Great Britain and Mercedes in the Paddock prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Netherlands at Circuit Zandvoort on August 23, 2024 in Zandvoort, Netherlands. Photos by Jan Huebner.

[wingedog]

A page o Fords 🕺🖊️

[kalicox]

rip comic five, you would have never messed with your brother's wife

[idontmindifuforgetme]

so many of u are so kind and wonderful and i wish u all the best in life and hope u overcome whatever it is ur going through currently. adore u beyond words

[atths--twice]

Snow Day

A storm hits Virginia, prompting a snow day filled with fun.

(part 66 in the Family Series)

January 5, 2025

“Sheesh,” Mulder said as he came inside, Bella following behind and shaking, just over the threshold. “It’s really cold out. Smells… like snow.” He drew in a deep breath as he shivered.

“Which you already knew is going to happen, seeing as we saw it on the news tonight,” Scully teased from her spot on the couch, where she was reading a book.

“Weather people are wrong all the time,” he said, taking in another deep breath. “But I know how it smells before it snows. I can feel it.”

“In your bones?” she asked with a smile.

“What are you trying to say?” he asked, turning his head to look at her.

“My great aunt used to say she could feel snow in the hip that she broke, which then became arthritic.”

“Your much older aunt, I’m sure.”

“Than me? As a child? Yes,” she said, turning a page and smiling. “But she was probably only in her seventies.”

“Well, that is old,” he said with a nod.

“Yes. And so much older than sixty three,” she said, watching him out of the corner of her eye.

The door closed harshly, the lock sounding louder than usual, as he turned to stare at her, his eyes narrowing.

“That’s a seven year difference. It’s huge.”

“Weren’t you saying something about your shoulder aching this morning?” she asked, a smile pulling at her lips.

“You mean where you shot me?” he asked, unzipping his coat and taking off his beanie. “Yeah. That tends to aggrieve me from time to time.”

“You mean when I saved your life,” she said pointedly. “You’re welcome, by the way.”

“And I’ve thanked you many times over the years, as you well know,” he said, hanging up his coat and beanie on the coat rack. “Must I do it every time it’s brought up?”

“Yes. Every time,” she said, nodding and licking her lips.

The floor creaked and she fought back a smile, keeping her eyes on the book in her lap. The ponytail she wore was grabbed gently and her head was tilted back. When she looked at him, she saw the smile on his lips as well as in his eyes.

“Thank you,” he whispered, before his lips pressed to hers. “Thank you.” Another kiss. “Thank you.” Another kiss and then another, his tongue touching hers briefly before he pulled back. “There. Now I have three freebies to simply nod the next time you bring it up.”

“Two. You didn’t technically thank me tonight.”

“Oh,” he said, bending his head and kissing her once more. “Thank you. Now it’s three.”

“We’ll see. Everything is negotiable.” He chuckled and she smiled, placing a hand on his cheek and then pulling it away. “Jesus, your face is freezing.”

“I was just outside in the soon to be snow filled air, Scully. Of course my face is freezing.” He stood up and released his hold on her hair, running his fingers across her neck as she yelped in surprise. “Sorry, were those cold too?”

“You know they were,” she said, rubbing at her neck as he chuckled again.

“I’m going to go down to the basement and get the container of snow clothes, hopefully everything still fits Faith. We haven’t had a good snow day in a while.”

“Hmm,” Scully hummed, her attention back on her book. “It should be fine, but she has new boots at least. We can put together an outfit of random items if needed.”

“She’s gonna be so excited,” he said and Scully smiled as she listened to him walk down the basement stairs.

Grey jumped onto the couch with a meow and stepped into her lap, purring loudly as she kneaded the blanket covering Scully.

“Hey, you,” she said to Grey, whose eyes were half closed. “You’ll probably want to stay inside tomorrow, it’s going to snow.” Grey began to purr louder as Scully rubbed her ears with a smile. “We won’t be so lucky with Faith wanting to go out and play. But it will be fun. Oh, I wonder if we have hot chocolate. Sorry, sweet girl, but I’m gonna need to leave you without a lap. But you can stay snuggled in the blanket.”

She placed her book beside her and then moved Grey as she stood up. Setting her back onto the blanket, she covered her as she had done when she was a kitten, making sure she was cozy before she went to see about their hot chocolate stash.

Finding two boxes, one with marshmallows and one without, she took down the box with marshmallows and set it on the counter. Checking to see if there were enough ingredients for pancakes and eggs, she then walked over to the door, unlocked it, and opened it.

A gust of cold air greeted her and she shivered, wrapping her long, dusty blue cardigan around her. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and smiled.

“Yeah, that’s snow air,” she said, opening her eyes and looking up at the still clear sky. She nodded, knowing it would all change in just a couple of hours.

“Hey, what are you doing with that door open?” Mulder asked and she turned to look at him.

“Just wanted to smell the incoming snow.”

“You feeling it in your bones?” he teased as he set the gray container of snow clothes down.

“No. I’m far too young for any of that,” she said, shaking her head.

“Okay,” he said, nodding as he laughed through his nose and took off the lid to begin taking out clothes.

“It smells so good. So crisp and anticipatory.” She drew in another deep breath and let it out. Shivering again, she shut the door and locked it. “It will be a different sight out there next time we open the door.”

“Good thing school was already closed in preparation,” Mulder said, laying Faith’s clothes on the back of the couch.

“And I don’t have to work. Though I’m sure I wouldn’t have been able to make it there even if I did.”

“Nor should you have had to try, as much as I know you would want to,” he said, looking over at her. “We need you safe.”

“Aww. You love me,” she teased, walking over to him and wrapping her arms around his neck.

“Eh. You’re alright,” he said, sliding his arms around her waist as she laughed softly.

“Thanks.”

“Hmm,” he hummed, swaying them slowly. She smiled, shaking her head as he winked at her before lowering his head to kiss her.

“You’re alright too,” she whispered, kissing him again.

“Thanks.”

She laughed again and then pulled back.

“Okay. What have we got here?”

They looked through the clothes and took out anything that seemed too small.

“It’s a good start. We can add stuff tomorrow if needed,” she said and he nodded, now laying out their own clothes beside Faith’s. “And we have stuff for breakfast as well as a box of hot chocolate.”

“With-”

“Yes. The one with marshmallows,” she assured him with a smile.

“Yessssss,” he said, punching a fist into the air.

“Who persuaded who to buy that box?” she asked, crossing her arms and raising her eyebrows, knowing full well it was him.

“Oh, it was definitely me pushing for it,” he said. “But when she saw it had rainbow colored marshmallows, well… the box went straight into the cart.”

“Nothing but net,” Scully said and he nodded, miming throwing a basketball.

“Three points in overtime,” he said and she laughed, shaking her head.

“Well, we’re ready,” she said, touching the clothes and then yawning. “Just gotta wait for the snow.”

“You head on up, I’ll take care of stuff down here.”

“Thanks, hon,” she said, giving him a quick kiss.

“Warm my spot up,” he said as she started up the stairs.

“And leave my spot cold? No chance.”

“I thought you loved me!” he said.

“When it’s cold like this, it’s every man, or woman, for themselves.”

“My cold feet will definitely be making an acquaintance with yours.”

“Ha!” she said quietly as she continued up the stairs. “I’ll be wearing socks, so good luck with that.”

“Oh, I’ll be trying.”

“Yeah, yeah.” She smiled as she reached the top and stopped at Faith’s door. Opening the door quietly, she stepped inside the room to check on her.

The small portable heater they had purchased recently was keeping the room warm, but not overly so. Covering Faith, she kissed her on the cheek and smoothed back her hair.

“Hmm,” Faith hummed, turning over and sighing deeply.

“It’s going to be so much fun tomorrow,” Scully whispered, kissing her one more time. Leaving the bedroom, she closed the door softly and continued to their bedroom.

Dressed, with long thick socks on, their own small heater shifted to a lower setting, she laid under the covers, waiting for the sheets to warm up from her body heat.

Mulder came up a few minutes later, being loudly quiet as he closed the door.

“The bed warmed up?” he asked, opening and closing drawers.

“Once you get in, it should start to become so.”

“Hmmm,” he hummed as he went into the bathroom.

When he slipped into bed a few minutes later, he pressed flush against her, his arm going around her.

“Hey! No stealing my warmth!” she said, trying to move away.

“I’m not stealing it, woman. I’m adding to it. Just stay still,” he said. “I’ll even keep my feet away.”

“Mmm,” she grumbled, frowning as she resituated in her spot, his body pressed even closer. “No funny business.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” he chuckled near her ear. “There are far too many layers for that at the moment.”

“Mmhmm,” she agreed, as she relaxed into the bed. “Just warmth tonight.”

“Agreed.”

“Good.”

He sighed as she closed her eyes, her arm over his as they lay close together, the small heater humming and filling the room.

Blinking her eyes, she woke slowly, the sun just beginning to light the day. Closing her eyes and attempting to sleep longer, she remembered the snow. Opening her eyes, she pushed the covers back and stood up. Mulder mumbled in his sleep, turning onto his side as she walked softly across the room.

Stepping into the cool bathroom, she looked out the window and sighed happily at the blanket of snow on the ground, watching as it continued to fall.

“Absolutely beautiful,” she whispered. Breathing out, she steamed up the window and drew a heart. “It’s gonna be a cold but fun time out there.”

She used the bathroom, washed her hands and face, and then brushed her teeth. Walking back to the bed, she got back under the covers and moved closer to Mulder, wrapping her arm around his waist.

“Hmm,” he hummed. “No stealing warmth.”

“Adding to it, remember?” she whispered, kissing between his shoulder blades, his shirt soft under her lips.

“Hmm,” he hummed again, the heater hissing softly as it kicked back on.

“It snowed,” she said, kissing him again and then pressing her cheek against his back. “It’s actually still falling.”

“A lot on the ground?” he said in his sleep graveled voice.

“Enough for a fun day.”

“Well,” he said, clearing his throat and squeezing her hand. “Let’s not waste any of it.” She laughed quietly and nodded against him. He pushed the covers away and sat up with a small groan, then stood to his feet.

“Sure the cold won’t bother you?” she teased and he turned around with narrowed eyes.

“Just watch it, woman.” He pointed at her as he walked backwards to the bathroom and she laid on her back, staring at the ceiling with a grin.

“It’s more than I thought,” he said, coming back to the bed a few minutes later and standing at her side. “I think we can make a few snowmen.”

“Ahem,” she said, raising an eyebrow.

“And women,” he said and she nodded.

“No aliens? Or Bigfoot? Or any other monsters?”

“We’ll see how the day goes,” he said, holding out a hand to her. “Come on. Let’s go wake up our girl.”

She took his hand and he pulled her from the bed, kissing her before they walked hand in hand to Faith’s room, opening the door quietly.

To their surprise, she was standing at her window, inside the curtains as she stared outside.

“Oh, you’re already awake, love,” Mulder said and Faith turned to look at him, pushing the curtains back, her smile huge.

“Daddy! It snowed! Did you see? There is so much!”

“I did see,” he said, walking over to her and looking out the window. “Wow. Isn’t it beautiful?”

“Can we make snow people?”

“We can, my love,” Scully said, coming over and smoothing down Faith’s bed head. “Right after breakfast we can go out.”

“Yay!” Faith shouted, jumping up and down. “Can we have pancakes?”

“It’s like you read my mind,” Scully said. “I was thinking the same thing.”

“Yay!” Faith shouted again, spinning around happily.

“Come on,” Mulder said, scooping her up and causing her to squeal and then laugh. “Let’s eat and head out to play in this winter wonderland.”

“Pan-cakes! Pan-cakes!” Faith chanted from his arms, her own raised in the air. Scully laughed as she followed behind them down the stairs and into the kitchen.

Mulder took Bella out, intent on going to find the sleds out in the shed, if they decided to go sledding down the big hill.

Faith helped make the pancake batter, carefully measuring out the flour and baking powder.

“I’m getting really good at helping you cook, Mommy. I like to do it,” Faith said, grinning at Scully as she started to carefully mix the ingredients.

“You are, my love,” Scully said, kissing her on the head. “Makes it taste better when you help make it, doesn’t it?”

“Yeah,” Faith agreed with a nod.

After they each had a full stomach and had been to the bathroom, twice, they dressed for their morning outside, the snow still falling softly.

Bella bounded outside when the door was opened, barking as she ran down the stairs and into the snow.

“It’s so pretty,” Faith said quietly, standing on the porch and staring out at the yard.

“It is,” Mulder and Scully both said, smiling at each other.

“Let’s go play in it!” Faith said, walking carefully down the stairs.

They followed behind her and walked through the powdery snow in their boots. Faith laughed as she spun around, snow falling down upon her. Tipping her head back, she stuck out her tongue.

“I caught one!” she shouted, looking at them with a huge grin.

“Yeah, you did. Try it again.”

She did with a laugh and then fell back into the snow, making a snow angel. Scully pulled out her phone and took pictures of her, smiling at the happiness she exuded.

“Daddy make one with me. And you too, Mommy. We can make our family.”

“Oh, I can’t say no to that,” Mulder said, lying next to her and making an angel. Scully put her phone away and then laid on the other side of Faith, raising her arms up and down and her legs open and closed.

When they were done, they got up carefully, smiling at the snow family they made. Scully took pictures and then they moved on to making snow people.

They had two done when Faith grew bored and Mulder suggested sledding.

“Yes!” Faith shouted.

“How about you guys play out here for just a bit longer and I will get some snacks ready for us to take along,” Scully suggested. “Unless you need to use the bathroom, Faithy…” She looked at Faith and she shook her head.

“I’m okay, Mommy.”

“Okay. How about you two make a snow cat and before we leave for the hill, we all go to the bathroom?”

“Okay!” Faith agreed. “I want to make a Grey snow cat!”

“You got it, babes,” Mulder said. “Let’s get cracking.”

Scully left them and went inside, only taking off minimal clothing as she packed a backpack with snacks and water, saving the hot chocolate for when they came back.

After they trooped back in to quickly use the bathroom, they left the house with two sleds and set off for the big hill. Faith sat in one of one of them and Mulder pulled her along the empty snow filled street, Scully carrying the other.

“Mush! Mush!” she called to him, waving her arm in the air. “Faster, doggie, faster.”

“Your bones will be tired tonight,” Scully said, side eyeing him.

“Pfft,” he expelled through his lips, shaking his head. “Faster you say, Squatch? I can do that.” He pulled the sled faster and Faith laughed happily, passing Scully and leaving her behind.

“Goodbye, Mommy!” Faith called, looking back at her and waving.

“Bye, love,” she called, waving back at her as Bella barked and chased after them.

Taking a deep breath, she readjusted the backpack and sled, looking around.

Jafadine, the large wooden giraffe at Violet and Denis’s house, was covered in snow, looking out of place for an animal from such a warm climate.

“Jafadine,” Scully said as she walked past, Faith’s laughter echoing back to her. “You’ll be needing a coat. It’s going to snow again soon.” She smiled as she continued on, the silence around her feeling different in the snow.

“Scullllaaaaayyy!” Mulder called and she snorted out a laugh, shaking her head.

“Well, the silence was nice,” she said to herself, looking up to see them, standing and waiting at the bottom of the hill.

“Come on, Mommy!” Faith called, waving her arms back and forth.

“Coming, love!” she called back, walking a little faster, dropping the sled and pulling it behind her.

Bella ran up to her, her whole body wiggling happily. She licked Scully’s hand and then started running back to Faith, who giggled as she caught her. Scully smiled at them, catching Mulder’s eyes as he nodded.

“Okay,” he said as she reached them. “Let’s start up the hill.”

“To the top?” Faith asked, looking up, snow falling softly onto her face.

“Maybe just to the middle? See how the walk is for you?” he suggested. “Walking through snow is a little more work.”

“Can you pull me up?” she asked.

“Yeah, can you?” Scully asked, looking up at him and smiling.

He looked between the two of them, taking in a deep breath.

“Let’s walk first and see how it goes. Snow is more work, like I said, for all of us. Adding your work to my own work makes it harder for me each time,” he said, Faith staring intently at him. “So, let’s do our own work and then if you need me to help you, I will.”

“Okay, Daddy. I’ll walk on my own. Can I hold your hand?”

“You… you absolutely can,” Mulder said, his voice a little shaky as Scully felt tears prick her eyes.

He held his hand out to Faith and she smiled as she took it, their mittened hands holding tight. Shaking his head as he looked at Scully, she rubbed his arm and smiled.

“Okay,” he said, letting out a deep breath. “Let’s go.”

“Yay!” Faith shouted and they began to trudge up the hill.

It was work reaching the middle of the hill, but flying down together, all of them laughing as Bella chased after them barking excitedly, was more than worth it.

Only on the last trip up, did Mulder give in and pull Faith up the hill as she lay on her back in the sled.

“So, I’ll be tired tonight,” he admitted to Scully, his breathing a little ragged.

“Me too,” she said, her hip feeling sore from tipping out of the sled.

“We have bags of frozen peas, right?”

“And carrots,” she laughed.

“Good. Good,” he said, moaning as he continued to walk up the hill and Faith sang Jingle Bells quietly.

Thirty minutes later, they walked through the front door, all of them pink cheeked and chilly.

Clothes and boots were shed, leaving them in their long underwear and socks. Hot chocolate was made, the rainbow marshmallows floating on the top. Sitting down at the table, they rehashed the day, discussing what they liked best.

Scully watched Faith smile and laugh, a hot chocolate mustache on her face, her legs swinging as she talked about how it felt to fly down the hill in the sled.

Not for the first time, she felt the pang of what was missed and what they had been denied. But that pain that sometimes felt like a heavy weight, was made lighter as Faith reached over and squeezed her hand three times- their silent way of saying I love you.

Squeezing back four times, Faith smiled at her before letting go and scooping a pink marshmallow from her mug with a spoon.

Mulder cleared his throat and Scully glanced at him. His eyebrows went up asking a question without speaking, and she nodded with a smile.

Reaching for her mug, she raised it up.

“A toast,” she said. “To snow days and sledding down hills.”

“To snow days!” Mulder and Faith shouted, lifting their own mugs.

Clinking them together, Faith giggled as she then took a big drink, her chocolate mustache deepening.

[starry-nights-17]

Just wanted to say Happy Christmas to you all and leave this here. A short festive story, set in the canon world but sort of AU (in that Ian is living with Clayton).

*Mickey breaks into the wrong house....but maybe it was the right house after all 🤔

(Some derogatory language ahead, not mine, all Mickey!)

----

Christmas was just around the corner, meaning Terry was working them harder than normal. And by work, he meant stealing. Breaking and entering.

Mickey was the perfect burglar. Quick, quiet and small enough to squeeze through tight windows. Tonight's target, a fancy West Side house, which featured a large expensive looking tree in the front room. At the base of it, was a pile of exquisitely wrapped presents. Jackpot.

Mickey jimmied open a window at the back of the house, expertly so, given the practice he had. He crept into the connecting living room, eyes darting around and ears on high alert.

Confident that the house was vacant, considering the car that was usually parked out front was gone, he started tossing the packages into a large holdall he brought with him.

"Mickey, what the fuck"

His blue eyes blinked into the darkness, until he eventually made out a shape and spotted familiar red hair and freckles. The Gallagher kid had moved away a year back. His sister Mandy had whined about missing her BFF for weeks, droning on about how he discovered his mom's affair and that the man who raised him wasn't his real dad.

He made a run for it but the kid grabbed his arm, "I can't let you take it Mickey, not all of it anyway".

His voice was soft, those green eyes even softer, an understanding there. Gallagher picked out a few packages and held them out to him.

"Your dad's an asshole".

Mickey felt his eyebrow pull up and his face scrunch up in confusion, "What's it to you, carrot top?"

Ian, that was the kids name, chuckled and took a step back, his face lit up in amusement.

"Just know what he's like, what will happen if you return empty handed. Just take them, I can replace them tomorrow".

"This a trick, you gonna call the cops on me or something?"

"Course not, South Siders don't snitch".

Mickey gestured around and caught Ian's eye, "in case you haven't noticed freckles, we ain't in the South Side".

"Whatever, I'm still fucking South Side Mickey and more than that; I'm still a Gallagher".

Mickey nodded slowly, feeling the kid was being genuine. "Well now I really can't take this shit", he sighed and dropped his bag, "fucking tainted or whatever".

Ian laughed again, a sweet and bright sort of sound that had Mickey's lips curving up at the corners. He didn't know why he was still standing there, hovering, loitering. And at the scene of a crime, although technically he hadn't stolen anything.

"You want a beer or some hot chocolate or something, Clayton, um I mean my Dad and his wife are out, won't be back for hours".

Mickey snorted out a laugh, "you fucking serious, you like retarded or something? I just tried to rob you and now you're offering me hot chocolate?"

Ian grinned and shrugged casually, "not like I haven't stolen shit before. I get it. I know you haven't exactly got a choice Mickey. And," he paused and looked away, almost shyly, "miss the South Side I guess, don't see my family as much as I'd like. Figured you could catch me up on shit, on Mandy".

"That annoying bitch," he joked, "she's still a pain in my ass and a huge slut. There, all caught up freckles".

He turned to leave, feeling awkward now and feeling his cheeks flush with colour as the goofy kid smiled confidently back at him. It was as though he actually liked Mickey's abrupt manner or some shit.

"C'mon Mick, I'll even toss in some marshmallows. I remember you have a sweet tooth".

Mickey raised his eyebrow in a question, "the fuck you know that?"

Ian laughed and started towards what he presumed was the kitchen, "you think I didn't know about all those snickers you swiped from the store?"

Before he registered it, he was walking forward, following him, as if he was a magnet being drawn in that direction.

"You fucking stalking me or something, watching me, kinda creepy man".

His tone was easier and lighter than intended. Shit, he almost sounded like he was dangerously close to flirting.

Ian cocked his head and studied his face for a second before replying, with a wide devilish grin.

"Kinda my job Mick, to keep my eyes on you".

Mickey tried to hide an emerging smile with his hand and was forced to look away, from that intense green gaze. His skin felt electrified and he was sure his cheeks were glowing.

"Well it's not anymore, guess you don't need a job since you moved up in the world".

Ian set a large mug down in front of him, complete with mini pink and white marshmallows floating on top.

"Not so sure I did," Ian paused and seemed thoughtful, "kinda miss it, working, earning money, even miss the fucking ghetto".

Ian laughed dryly and Mickey shook his head at him in disbelief.

"I just mean it's different here, fucking boring and like dad's just trying to make up for lost time so he never yells or says no. Its weird".

"Oh poor you, shit, you don't know how lucky you have it man. Complaining like a spoilt princess about being rich and living in a place like this, where you don't get a black eye every other day".

"You think I don't hear myself Mick. Course I know I sound like a prick. I just don't feel like I belong here. I don't fit in. I don't know how to live this fucking normal life".

"Well, I'd swap places with you any day," he muttered, blowing on the hot chocolate before talking a long satisfying sip. Damn, it tasted good, like proper expensive shit, not that crappy dollar store stuff that masqueraded as "chocolate".

"I'm sorry, I know I suck. I go to a great school and have everything I want. Meanwhile the rest of the Gallaghers are still living in that shithole, with fucking Frank".

"Actually, heard he's shacked up with some rich bitch over on the North Side. Never stops bragging about it in the Alibi".

Ian laughed and shook his head, "course he is. Frank always manages to land on his feet".

"Looks like you take after him in that respect Red, even if he's not your real dad or whatever. Suck it up, you got out. You can make something of yourself. Mandy always said you were smart, so don't waste that education. Go cure cancer or whatever the fuck".

Ian settled down, sitting opposite him, as they both smiled quietly around their mugs. The situation was weird but only in how it wasn't weird, not really. Mickey felt at ease, like he was naturally able to talk with Ian, his usual shyness not present.

"Not really a science geek, believe it or not," Ian joked, an attractive smile on his face again, "more of an English Lit geek".

"You mean like books and shit. Rather you than me pal".

"Wait, you can actually read, Mickey?"

Mickey sat up straight, ready to knock the fuckers teeth down his throat. That was, until he caught sight of Ian's cocky smirk. He flipped him off and felt a smirk of his own creeping up.

"Fucking comedian over here," he muttered, "course I fucking can, dickhead. Might be a Milkovich but doesn't mean I'm a dumb fuck".

"Never thought you were," Ian replied with a gentler smile now and a fondness in his eyes. "Always figured you were smart. And, funny too".

Ians eyes darted away, his lips lowered to the mug again, his cheeks faintly pink.

"Funnier than you anyway," he teased in return, "not that it'd be hard".

"I meant it, I want to help. Don't want you getting into trouble or whatever...with Terry".

Ians eyes appeared sincere and possibly full of concern too. Mickey was surprised, wondering how this kid, who was almost a stranger to him, was genuinely worried about him returning home empty handed.

Then again, he probably witnessed Mickey's battered and bruised face on numerous occasions. Perhaps at the Kash n Grab or at the Milkovich House when he hung out there with Mandy. Likely his sister confessed some harsh home truths to her BFF too. Fuck.

"Can't take your shit Gallagher. It's fine, I'll hit some other place up on the way home".

Ian rose to his feet, taking out his wallet, offering a wad of cash to him.

"The fuck," he stood and swatted his hand away in offence, "don't want your money either; not a fucking charity case. And just cos your whore of a mother fucked some rich prick doesn't make you better than me".

Ians face grew red with anger and he stepped forward, invading his space, "don't fucking talk about her like that Mickey. I know I'm not better than you, never fucking said I was. Just don't want you getting punched in the face, or worse, by that evil psychotic prick. Fuck me, for giving a shit".

Ian shoved him and Mickey shoved him back. Both of their chests heaved up and down, both clearly emotional.

"Shit, I shouldn't have said that about your mom; not like mine was much better. Not cool. I know she had fucking problems or whatever, " he thumbed his nose, stumbling on his words, "just don't like handouts alright, I can take care of myself".

Iam nodded and his expression softened further, "I know you can take care of yourself Mick. Just nice sometimes to let other people help. Not like I can't spare some cash. Please, just let me help, let me feel like all of this," he gestured around, "means something. If it means saving that pretty face from getting another pounding, then its worth it".

Mickey's eyebrow pulled up and a sharp breath left his mouth, "did you just call me fucking....pretty....think its you thats looking for a pounding pal".

Ian smirked and approached him, head cocked to the side, his voice lowered to a whisper.

"Generally I do the pounding...but I'm always open to trying new things".

As if Ian's bold words weren't having enough of a mind-blowing affect on his body, the asshole winked (actually winked) at him.

Mickey opened and closed his mouth like a fish, rendered utterly speechless. Not only was the kid gay but he was openly flirting with Mickey, implying shit; not just about himself but about Mickey too. The giant sized balls on Ian. He was pretty impressed though, considering Mickey could easily be kicking his ass right now. Talk about a risky move.

"I uh, better go"

He mumbled and pointed vaguely in the direction of the door, "Terry...you know...fucking schedules or whatever".

Ian chuckled and stepped forward again. His hand reached out, trailing down his chest; smoothing out the creases on his shirt, and then he was stuffing something in his pocket. Before Mickey could argue, Ian was shutting him up in the most unexpected and unsettling way. By pressing his warm lips against his.

Naturally his reaction was to push him away, which he attempted to do but Ian was stronger than he looked and held his hands at the wrists. Green eyes locked on his, questioning, searching. And somehow Mickey relaxed enough to nod up and down.

There was that predatory smirk again before those lips were on his once more, firmer now, with puprose and determination. But it was a brief and tame kiss, which he was grateful for. Because if Ian tried to take it further, put his hands on him or slipped him the tongue, he wasn't quite sure what would happen. Could end up in a fuck or a fight, Mickey wasn't certain. All that he was certain of, was that his skin was on fire, his heart was thumping wildly and he was breathing harshly.

"Think of it as an advance payment...or a loan," Ian said next, waking him from his haze.

"Huh?"

"You can repay me"

"How the fuck do you expect me to pay your pampered ass back. Piss poor here, remember".

Ian laughed, once again causing an unfamiliar flutter in his chest and Mickey smiled automatically upon hearing the pleasant sound.

"There's other ways to pay me back Mick," Ian replied with a cheeky grin.

"Fuck off, you think cos you kissed me I'm some sort of prostitute...I'm not even gay man".

He almost choked on the lie and judging by Ian's amused expression he wasn't buying it either.

"If you say so. Besides, that's not what I had in mind....but now that you mention it...."

Mickey scratched his eyebrow and flipped him off, barely containing a smile.

"Fine. No sexual favours, got it, " Ian joked, his hands held up in the air, "I just meant you can pay me back by maybe hanging out with me once it a while, that's all".

"You just want me to hang out with you...and you'll basically pay me for it...the fuck is wrong with you man?".

Ian cackled and shook his head, "nothings wrong with me. I just fucking like you or whatever and I already told you; the moneys insurance, protecting that pretty face of yours".

Mickey's middle finger was raised once more while his face was busy heating up, "ok fuck, fine, i'll take the cash. But not promising you anything. You're fucking weird man, not sure how much more of you I can handle".

Ian's face lit up and he cocked his head in that boyish, mischievous way again, "pretty sure you can handle a lot Mick," he paused and hummed, "hopefully".

"The fuck," he whispered, the word coming out in a shuddery breath. "I'm outta here. Good luck with being rich now or whatever".

He waved at him, clumsily and awkwardly, before swiftly heading towards the door.

"Don't be a stranger Mickey".

He didn't even need to turn around to recognise the grin that cocky redhead was undoubtedly sporting. Ian Gallagher. Of all the houses. Of all the situations. This night had not turned out like he had expected. He paused at the door, his fingertip tracing over his bottom lip, somehow still feeling Ian's lips there. Fuck. Mickey already knew it. He needed to kiss him again.

"Whatever. See ya later, firecrotch".

❤🎁🎄🌈

[moinsbienquekaworu]

Happy birthday, me 🎉

[personofpower]

Hot chocolate ☕️ ❤️ nothing else… 😏