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cheesemonky · 11 months ago

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It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year

ot8 x reader (separate)

genre: pure fluff, literally nothing else

warnings: almost swearing in jisung's, lmk if there's anything else <3

summary: the boys each have different ways of celebrating this time of the year, but all are special and shows how soft christmas really gets them

Chan

Near the start of November, you and Chan had been having a quiet night when he had gotten a call out of the blue. At first you didn’t pay any mind. He always got a lot of calls, whether it was from the members or staff was the question. But it caught your attention when you heard him greet the sudden caller as ‘mum’. You had met his family on multiple occasions and each time you were met with no less than the utmost kindness and inclusivity. They knew Chan loved you, and that you loved him just as much, so they made sure that they felt like family in everything they did. They were nicer than humanly possible! As Chan spoke with his mum on the phone, you couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity creeping in. His conversations with family usually weren't a cause for concern, but this unexpected call sparked a different kind of interest. You carefully observed Chan's expressions as he chatted with his mum. He seemed to be smiling, occasionally laughing, and from what you could gather, it appeared to be a pleasant conversation. Afterwards, you immediately pestered him about it and it turned out they wanted the both of you to come over to Australia for the holidays. The idea of spending Christmas with Chan's family was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. But nevertheless, preparations were made, and tickets were booked.

And here you were. A perfectly Australian, Christmas barbeque with your boyfriend and his family, in the backyard. But it wasn’t just his parents and siblings, no, no, no. Everyone was there. From grandparents to aunts and uncles, from cousins to nieces and nephews, everyone.

“Channie, have you ever even met half these people before?” You whispered, leaning over to reach his ear. “You said it would be just a small get together.”

“This is a small get together. There’s only like, 4 or 5 people I haven’t talked to before tonight.” He said normally, not bothering to whisper back.

You rolled your eyes as you scanned the sea of unfamiliar faces, each one seemingly more enthusiastic and cheerful than the last. As the lively chatter and laughter filled the air, you took a deep breath, attempting to steel yourself for the social extravaganza that lay ahead. The aroma of the barbecue and the sound of distant laughter from children playing created a festive backdrop to the gathering, but your focus remained on the daunting task of navigating through this sea of extended family. Chan, oblivious to your internal struggle, continued to mingle effortlessly. He greeted each relative with familiarity, sharing stories and laughter that echoed through the backyard. You admired his ability to navigate the intricate web of familial connections, wondering how you could ever fit in. But when you went to refill your drink, thankfully, a more familiar face showed up.

“Oh, hey Hannah. You having fun?”

“Hmm, yeah. You?”

“Kinda. Would be better if I knew at least some of these people.”

“Oh, damn. It’s okay, you’ll get to know them better in the future. Congratulations by the way.”

Congratulations? What was she congratulating you for? You hadn’t had a promotion at work recently, and there was nothing big happening right now. Heck, you hadn’t even done anything interesting for the longest time.

“Wha- huh? What did I do?” You questioned, turning to face her, but alas, she had already run off into the crowd. But looking closer, you realised a lot of the partygoers had their eyes on you, even if they weren’t straight up staring. Glances here and there, or watching you out of the side of their eye. What in the world is happening?

“Everyone, hello! I’d like to make a small speech!” The backyard quieted down at the sound of Chan’s voice resonating through the area. You wiggled your way through the crowd and up to the front, where he stood.

“I know I haven’t been here for a long while, and I’ve missed you all. Most of you know that I brought my lovely partner here with me so they could see why I hold you all close to my heart.” A smile graced your face at his words. Even if you were a bit scared to mingle with them, you had seen how caring and embracing they had been.

“Y/N, could you please come up here?”

You looked at him curiously but walked over to take your place next to him. You noticed a twinkle in his eye that you hadn’t seen for a while, especially when he spent his days working. You’d missed it.

“Now, we’ve been together for a good while and I wanted to give you a little gift to help you remember your visit here. Forever.” He said more to himself than anyone else. You could hear the whispers and giggles of the crowd but before you could say anything, a pair of hands were wrapping a blindfold around your head.

“Sorry about this, he wanted it to be real special.” You recognised the whisper as Lucas’ voice and now your confusion knew no limits.

“And… take it off.” You couldn’t see it, but you knew Chan was smiling when he said it. The cloth came off and your eyes instantly shot downwards to where Chan was kneeling. Wait, kneeling? It was only then did you notice the small box in his hand. You covered your mouth with your hands, the tears already forming in your eyes.

“Come on, don’t cry. I haven’t even asked yet!” He laughed. Everyone had been in on this, hadn’t they? This is what Hannah meant, this is why people were looking. Everything made so much more sense.

“Chris, do not play around right now…” You had forgotten about everyone else, only remembering after hearing a few chuckles amidst them.

“Okay, okay… Y/N L/N, the love of my life, my dearest one ever, my soulmate-”

“Christopher.”

“Hahah, fine..!”

A beat of silence as he opened the box, revealing a simple yet perfect ring.

“Will you marry me..?”

“Yes.”

Minho

“Aww, who’s a good kitty?”

The voice had confused him. That didn’t sound like any of the employees that worked here. An intern, maybe? Another volunteer? But they hadn’t gotten anyone new in ages. Who could it be? He glanced around quickly but there was no one in his area of the shelter. Still suspicious, he squatted down again and turned his attention back to the cats in front of him.

“Sorry about that. I guess I’m going crazy.” He murmured, mostly to the cats but perhaps to himself as well. That’s the only explanation to what was happening anyways, there's no way someone else is here with him.

Away from all the staff.

In a secluded area of the shelter.

…

He got up with a sigh and began to walk towards the door, keeping an eye out for any intruders. He closed the door, but not before looking both ways. As he walked back to the playpen, there was another sound, but not a voice. He recognised the sound; a cat’s carrier had been opened. One of the newly rescued ones. In a heartbeat, he had picked up a wooden brush and held it close to his chest. He stepped carefully and silently, moving closer to the source of the noise. But he hadn't realised how close to a cabinet he was getting. He fell back onto it, causing the contents to shuffle and the noises from before to cease. He kept as still as a dead man, which is what he could become any second now. Nonetheless, he continued forward again, because he was not about to let someone hurt or take one of these cats. He heard soft footsteps and leaned back against the wall, shutting his eyes tightly and praying to anyone that he might survive tonight. At least, if he did die, it'd be in a place he loved with those he loved.

"Uhm... are you alright?" He opened his eyes to see another, very not-dangerous looking person standing in front of him. You looked up at him with a curiosity that, in turn, made him curious.

"You're not-... o-oh, yeah. I'm fine." He mumbled, relaxing his shoulders and loosening his grip on the brush. "I haven't seen you here before. Who are you?"

"You got your confidence back quickly, eh? Well, I'm here to volunteer. You too?"

"Mhm. Is this your first time?"

"First time at this shelter, yeah. I moved here recently but I used to volunteer there as well." Minho smiled at your words. A fellow cat lover, eh? And a gorgeous one at that.

“I’m Minho. Nice to meet you.”

“Likewise. I’m Y/N.”

Minho couldn't help but feel a mixture of relief and embarrassment as he realised that the mysterious voice and presence he sensed earlier were just those of a fellow volunteer. He chuckled nervously, feeling a bit silly for getting so worked up over a potential intruder.

"Sorry for the overreaction back there. I thought someone was sneaking around, and I got a bit paranoid," Minho explained, scratching the back of his head with a sheepish smile. You laughed, a warm and friendly sound that immediately put Minho at ease.

"No worries! I guess I startled you. I was just checking on the new arrivals. They can be a bit shy, you know?" Minho nodded, feeling grateful for the company.

"Yeah, they're still adjusting. Some of them had a rough time before coming here. It's good to have someone else who cares about them."

For a moment, the two of you just stared at each other in silence, both subconsciously observing the other. Then, before either of you could speak again, an actual staff member popped out from behind the door.

“Minho can you- oh, you guys have already met! Y/N here is a new volunteer. Well, thanks for the help tonight! You guys can head home early, it’s Christmas Eve after all.” Minho cringed internally at the reminder. Christmas this year was gonna be a pain. He turned to get his stuff as the staff member left, and then waited for you by the door.

"Are you busy?" He asked, looking you straight in the eye. It was a little nerve-wracking, having someone so openly stare at your face.

"Nope. Wanna grab a bite? It's already 8:30, and I sure am hungry."

"Is this a date?" Your face flushes and you look away at the floor. It sounded that way, hadn't it? To be fair, he was a handsome man and he seemed to have the same passions as you. You let out a small chuckle in response.

"Ah, n-no..! Just... do you want to get something to eat?"

"... why not. Let's go, I'll pay."

And after a comfortably silent walk, the two of you had sat down outside a small cafe, eating and talking.

"You didn't have to pay for me. I have my own money."

"Yeah, I know. That's why I'm expecting you to pay me back." He chuckled, raising an eyebrow. You sighed playfully and continued to eat and savour the moment. It’s not like you were doing anything important tomorrow.

"Got any Christmas plans?"

"Asking me on another date, while we're on a date?"

"Man, just answer the question." he smiled at your reply, but it faded as he thought about it more. This time round, Christmas wasn’t as… Christmassy as he had hoped it would be.

"No. All my friends and family are on holidays elsewhere. It's just me and my cats."

"Same. Wait- cats? You have your own cats?"

"Mhm. Soonie, Doongie and Dori."

"3?! Wow, I just have to meet them one day..."

"Come over tomorrow then." He said simply, not looking up from his food. You didn't respond at first. You couldn't. He's really inviting you over? You've only known each other for a night! He could just be doing this to let you see the cats… but still!

"Haha, are you asking me on a date now?" you teased, not expecting what came next.

"Yeah, I am. Can I get your number?"

Now you really didn't know what to say. He’s so calm and collected, no sign of hesitation at all. Yeah, he was handsome, and sure he was good with animals, but who knows what you were getting yourself into? Getting your heart broke was not one of your New Year's resolutions. But you'd rather spend Christmas with someone. You were just going to trust your gut feeling with this one.

"Sure. Wanna have dinner at yours tomorrow?"

"Sounds good to me. Also- Thank you... so much."

“It’s my pleasure… now, back to Soongie, Doongie and Dori, was it?”

Changbin

The winter sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the snowy landscape. Excitement filled the air as you set out to create the perfect snowman, armed with scarves, hats, and a carrot for its nose. You had told Changbin that you wanted to make a perfect snowman before Christmas, and were waiting for a miracle. The weather forecast had said that there would be a small chance of snowfall this Christmas, and you were more than excited to say the least. But alas, the snow never came. You’d have to wait until January, after all the festivities were done and the holiday spirit was fading. Your hopes for a perfect white Christmas and perfect snowman were crushed. But Changbin couldn’t bear to see you disappointed, even in the slightest, so he spent his days secretly searching for the best time of day to build one, what size the body and head should be, even figuring out how to compress the snow to get them to stay in shape. So here you both were. Christmas might have passed, but he was determined to make you happy.

“This looks like a nice place to start.” Changbin pointed to a spot in the clearing, his breath visible in the crisp winter air. Despite the delayed timing, excitement bubbled within you as you and Changbin began rolling the first ball of snow for the snowman's base. Changbin, ever the meticulous planner, explained the intricacies of snowman construction with a twinkle in his eye. You listened with amusement as he detailed the ideal size for each section, the right consistency for the snow, and the importance of compacting it just right.

“How do you know all this, Binnie?” You asked, a playfully sceptical grin forming on your lips.

“Ah, you know… uhm, I’ve seen things here and there…” He lied sheepishly, dismissing your question as quickly as possible. “Let’s get started, or we’ll be here until midnight.”

As you rolled the second and third sections, Changbin sneaked glances at you, trying to gauge your reaction. He knew you had your heart set on a snowman, and he was determined to make it happen. With each roll of snow, the two of you exchanged laughter and banter. The clearing echoed with the joy of creating something magical out of the winter landscape. As the snowman's form took shape, Changbin's enthusiasm became infectious, and soon you found yourself fully immersed in the whimsy of the moment. But as you went to top the snowman off with the head, you felt a sudden hit of snow on your back. Turning to see what it was, you saw your boyfriend standing behind you, staring out into nothing and glancing at you occasionally.

“Bin… was that you?” You questioned. Changbin feigned innocence, trying to suppress a mischievous grin.

"Me? No, it must have been a giant snowflake that fell off a branch or something." You raised an eyebrow, unconvinced.

"Uh-huh, a giant snowflake with impeccable aim… Say, if I turn around will another ‘snowflake’ get me?" Changbin's eyes twinkled with mischief as he considered your question.

"Well, you never know. Snowflakes can be quite unpredictable." With a playful smile, you turned around again, fully expecting another surprise attack. And right on cue, a snowball landed on your shoulder. You laughed, spinning back to face Changbin, who was now trying to stifle his laughter.

"I see how it is," you teased, scooping up some snow and forming a retaliatory snowball. Before he could even say anything, the cold impact had already hit him, smack-bang in the face. Changbin's eyes widened in mock surprise as the snowball hit its mark, leaving a dusting of snow on his face. You burst into laughter, revelling in the playful exchange of snow projectiles.

"Oh, you're asking for it now!" Changbin declared, wiping the snow off his face with a grin. He swiftly gathered more snow in his hands. You, sensing the impending snow assault, tried to dodge, but Changbin's aim was surprisingly accurate. Another snowball hit you on the arm, and a delightful mixture of laughter and playful shouts filled the air as the impromptu snowball fight continued. The clearing transformed into a winter battlefield, with the snowman standing witness to the skirmish. Changbin, with a mischievous glint in his eyes, took cover behind the snowman you had just built. You, undeterred by Changbin's strategic move, gathered more snow and prepared for a sneak attack. As you approached the snowman, Changbin peeked out from behind its snowy form, ready to defend his makeshift fortress. With a quick, well-aimed throw, you launched a snowball directly at Changbin, hitting him square on the chest. He let out a mock yelp, stumbling backward but quickly regaining his composure.

The snowball fight continued, escalating in intensity as both of you engaged in a flurry of snow projectiles. The snowman, with its carrot nose and stylish accessories, stood in the midst of the winter chaos like a silent spectator. Eventually, both of you found yourselves lying in the snow, breathless and covered in a light dusting of snow. The evening sun had dipped below the horizon, casting the clearing in a tranquil twilight glow.

Changbin extended a hand towards you, his eyes sparkling with mirth. "Truce?" You took his hand, and the two of you stood up, sharing a moment of laughter and camaraderie. The snowman, though slightly misshapen from the collateral snowball hits, stood as a symbol of the unexpected joy found in the simplest of moments.

"Maybe our snowman got caught in the crossfire," you remarked, surveying the snowy aftermath.

Changbin chuckled, brushing off some snow from your shoulder. "Well, it adds character. Our snowman has a story now." You chuckled, studying the snowman. Though it was far from what you envisioned it to look like, you didn’t mind.

“Yeah. Also, thanks for this, Binnie. I love you.”

Hyunjin

The cosy warmth of home enveloped you and Hyunjin as the festive season descended upon your shared space. You and Hyunjin had decided to turn ornament making into a small, Christmas date, spreading the vibrant chaos of ribbons, sequins, and paint across your living room. The air was filled with the scent of pine and the soft melody of holiday tunes that played in the background, creating the perfect ambiance for a day of shared creativity. As the two of you settled on the living room floor, surrounded by an array of colourful ribbons, glittering sequins, and jars filled with every hue imaginable, the possibilities seemed endless. Hyunjin's nimble fingers held the brush tight as it glided over the surface of the ornaments, transforming them into miniature works of art. Meanwhile, you struggled to match his finesse, attempting to channel your inner artist. Each stroke of his brush transformed the plain baubles into miniature works of art, dazzling with intricate details.

On the other hand, you were on a mission to unlock your inner artist, determined to create something that would stand alongside Hyunjin's masterpieces without looking too out of place. The room, filled with the soft sound of the gentle crackling of the fireplace, became a sanctuary for creativity. Your fingers clung over the brushes, and you experimented with different colour combinations, attempting to capture the magic that seemed to flow effortlessly from Hyunjin's hands. Except they just didn’t work out like you had hoped they would. Each stroke on the ornament felt like a battle against your own artistic inhibitions. The colours didn't blend seamlessly, and the patterns you attempted to create looked more like chaotic swirls than intentional designs. As you struggled to make sense of the colours on your palette, a playful frustration built up within you. The ornaments on the table showcased a stark contrast — Hyunjin's intricate designs and your attempts that seemed to be a kaleidoscope gone astray. A teasing smile played on Hyunjin's lips as he glanced over at your creation. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, he reached over and gently poked your side, making you jump. You had only then noticed how far his bauble had progressed.

“Ugh, yours looks so good.”

"Not my fault my hands have been blessed and yours haven't," he quipped, his voice dripping with playful arrogance. You rolled your eyes, unable to suppress a chuckle.

"Oh please, Mr. Picasso," you retorted, poking him back. "I'm just getting started. My masterpiece is a work in progress." Hyunjin continued to work on his ornament, a smirk playing on his face. He held up his creation for you to see—a dazzling bauble adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colours. It only needed a few touch ups and it would be perfect.

"Admit it, mine's better," he declared, the teasing tone in his voice undeniable. You sighed in mock defeat, feigning a pout.

"Fine, fine. Your ornament is a masterpiece, a true work of art. Mine is just… this." Hyunjin wanted to continue his cocky act, but when he sensed a bit of genuine sadness in your tone. He saw how you glanced between the two baubles with a glum look in your eyes, though you just continued to smile.

“Jagi, it’s okay if yours doesn’t turn out the way you want it to.” Hyunjin set aside his nearly finished ornament, his playful demeanour giving way to a more comforting one. He could sense your genuine frustration and didn't want the day to be overshadowed by a sense of disappointment. With a gentle touch, he nudged you affectionately.

"Hey, it's not about who creates the 'better' ornament. We're here to enjoy the process together and create memories," he reassured, his voice softening. "Besides, art is subjective, and your creation is unique in its own way." Your eyes met his, and you couldn't help but smile at the sincerity in his gaze. Hyunjin always had a way of making you feel seen and valued. After a few minutes of concentrated effort, you held up your creation, a satisfied glint in your eye.

"What do you think now?" you asked, presenting your bauble, which now boasted a unique charm. Hyunjin smiled widely, reaching over to hold it himself.

“See, it turned out great!” he said, handing it back to you after careful observation. Your eyes lit up with a mix of surprise and gratitude as you took the ornament back into your hands. Hyunjin's words and supportive gesture melted away the lingering doubts, and a genuine sense of accomplishment washed over you. Maybe it wasn't a mirror image of Hyunjin's masterpiece, but it held a charm and personality that was distinctly yours.

"I guess it does have its own unique vibe," you admitted, a genuine smile replacing the mock defeat on your face. The room, now filled with a harmonious blend of creativity and shared laughter, seemed to sparkle with the magic of the season.

“Let’s go hang them on the tree, I don’t want to wait until they dry!” Hyunjin's suggestion sparked a renewed excitement, and you both gathered your creations, ready to add your unique touch to the Christmas tree. The ornaments, still slightly wet with paint, reflected the vibrant colours of your shared experience. As you approached the tree, its branches adorned with twinkling lights and a mix of cherished ornaments from previous years. Hyunjin joined you, and together you carefully hung the ornaments on the tree, finding the perfect spots for each one. As you stepped back to admire your handiwork, the ornaments seemed to tell a story of a day filled with laughter, love, and the shared spirit of the holiday season. Hyunjin's arm found its way around your waist, and you both stood there, basking in the glow of the decorated tree. The room, now transformed into a festive haven, echoed with the soft crackling of the fireplace and the distant sound of carolers spreading cheer in the neighbourhood.

"I think our tree has never looked better," Hyunjin remarked, his eyes sparkling with appreciation. You nodded in agreement, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction in the simple yet meaningful act of decorating together.

“I think you’re right. Merry Christmas, Jinnie.”

Jisung

“Pass me the green one. No, the other green one. No, the other, other green one.”

You sighed, walking over to where he stood on the couch, attempting to decorate the highest part of the tree and passed him the other, other green bauble.

“Are you sure you don’t need any help, Sungie? You look like you’re struggling.” you teased, walking over to get a closer look at your boyfriend and his hard work.

Jisung turned to look at you with a grin, “Well, it’s not my fault I’m vertically challenged. Gimme that shiny red one, would you?”

You joined in the festive activity, passing him more ornaments as he continued to decorate. But as the two of you talked and teased, neither managed to keep track of exactly how much was going onto the tree. After a while, you couldn't help but notice that it was practically overflowing with decorations.

"Y’know, I think that's enough ornaments," you suggested, eyeing the now heavily adorned tree.

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Jagi, be real. You can never have too many decorations. It’s Christmas anyways so let me have my fun, you party pooper."

You raised an eyebrow and laughed at his enthusiasm, "If you say so. But let's at least save some space for the star. It's the crowning glory, after all." You continued to hand him ornament after ornament, and he happily added them all to the festive explosion that was happening on the tree.

Jisung, fueled by holiday spirit and a mischievous twinkle in his eye, decided to take things up a notch. "What if we add some tinsel? The more, the merrier, right?" he suggested, reaching for a box of shimmering silver strands.

You watched as he generously draped the tinsel over the branches, creating a dazzling cascade that almost looked like a waterfall of silver. "You really have a talent for turning a simple tree into a masterpiece," you admitted, genuinely impressed by his festive fervour, but also a little concerned with how this tree was ever going to hold all of this up.

“Now… the star. Can I put it on this year?” He asked, an intense sense of holiday spirit emanating from him. You grinned, realising that the tree had already taken on a life of its own with the multitude of decorations. "Sure, go ahead. Just promise me you won't tip the whole thing over in the process."

Jisung laughed, nodding in agreement. He carefully retrieved the shining star topper from the box, his eyes gleaming with excitement. As he reached up to crown the tree, you couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and joy in the air.

“Almost there… oh shi-”

“Jisung-!”

It was as if time slowed down as you saw the sight before you. There was nothing you could do to stop it. You watched in horror as your boyfriend toppled forward, hands covering his chest whilst pushing against the tree. You felt so many emotions in the span of 5 seconds, and could only stand and stare back at the now tinsel covered Jisung on the floor.

“Uhm… oops..!”

You burst into laughter, unable to contain it any longer, with Jisung following suit, still tangled in the tinsel with a sheepish grin on his face. The once majestic Christmas tree now lay on its side, a glorious mess of ornaments, tinsel, and lights scattered around the room.

“Well, that’s one way to make the holidays memorable,” you said between fits of laughter, kneeling down to help him up. He chuckled, brushing off the tinsel from his clothes.

“I guess I got a bit carried away with the decorating. Next time, we should probably use less ornaments.” You both worked together to upright the tree, and despite its slightly lopsided appearance, it still radiated the charm of a tree that had witnessed a unique holiday mishap.

“Maybe we should start a new tradition,” Jisung suggested, looking at the chaotic masterpiece. “The Great Christmas Tree Tumble” You couldn’t help but laugh at the idea.

“Sure, why not? It’s funny seeing you fall like that anyways."

Felix

'Twas the night before Christmas, and the scent of freshly baked cookies filled Felix's cosy kitchen. The warmth of the oven embraced the room, and the holiday spirit danced in the air. He had invited you to come and join him in this festive tradition. As the two friends gathered ingredients and prepared the cookie dough, laughter echoed through the kitchen. Felix wore a festive apron adorned with gingerbread men and candy canes, while you sported an equally cheerful one with reindeers. Together, you created a magical atmosphere, blending the excitement of Christmas with the joy of friendship. You two had been friends for ages and have spent countless Christmases together. The dough was rolled out, and soon the kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of sugar and spice. Felix handed you a cookie cutter shaped like a snowflake, and together you cut out dozens of delicate, wintry shapes.

The anticipation of enjoying these sweet treats added an extra sprinkle of happiness to your holiday celebration. Especially since it had been some time since they’ve had some alone time. While the cookies baked, Felix prepared a variety of colourful frostings in vibrant hues of red, green, and white. The kitchen table transformed into a decorating station, with bowls of sprinkles, chocolate chips, and other delightful toppings waiting to adorn the freshly baked cookies. Once the cookies had cooled, the two of you dove into the artistic process of frosting and decorating. The cookies became miniature canvases, and together you created edible masterpieces. Felix's skilled hands guided your own in creating intricate designs, turning each cookie into a unique work of art. At one point, he had accidentally swiped his frosting cover hand across your face, leaving a trail of red and green along your nose and cheek. You blinked in surprise, and then burst into laughter. Felix, unable to resist the infectious joy, followed suit and ended up getting some on his own face.

As the night unfolded, both of you completed your festive cookie decorating. The kitchen sparkled with the glow of holiday lights, and a plate full of beautifully decorated cookies stood as a testament to your withstanding friendship. The two of you dug into the beautifully crafted cookies, and simply sat down and talked.

“That was so much fun! I don’t know why I don’t join your baking sessions more often.” You said, taking a bite out of another cookie. How many you had eaten, you weren’t sure, but you were definitely sure that they were amazing.

“I can text you next time. We can make brownies or something!” You nodded, savouring the sweetness of both the cookies and the moment. The warmth of the kitchen and the glow of friendship surrounded you, creating a bubble of joy that seemed to transcend time. The holidays had a magical way of bringing people together, and in that cosy kitchen, the magic was palpable.

“So… anything new in your life that you haven’t told me yet?”

“Ah well, my boyfriend broke up with me like, a month ago? But yeah, spending Christmas alone this year, haha…” Felix's expression softened, and he reached out to give your hand a reassuring squeeze.

"I had no idea, I'm so sorry to hear that. But hey, you're not alone tonight. You're here with me, and we've got a kitchen full of cookies to lift our spirits.” You managed a small smile, appreciating the comfort in Felix's words. What you didn’t know is that Felix was planning as you spoke. He didn’t want to admit it but he was somewhat glad that you had gotten rid of that guy.

"Thanks, Felix. It's just a bit weird navigating the holiday season solo."

“It doesn’t have to be solo. You can spend it with me”

You look up at him and there is a glint of something in his eye, something you can’t quite put your finger on.

“You know what I mean, Lix. Spending Christmas with someone is great, but I wanna spend it with that someone.” You explain. You appreciated his effort though. He was always someone you could rely on to make your day better.

“I know. And I’m saying, I can be that someone.” He says plainly. You look for any signs of trickery but he seems so genuine in his words. Looking back down, you fidget with your fingers, trying to figure out what he was playing at.

“If you’re doing this out of pity, there’s no need. I’m fine, I promise Lixie.”

“It’s not out of pity. I’m saying this because I love you. More than just a friend.” Your head shoots back up in an instant. What did he say?

He loves you? He loves you? He loves you?

“I invited you to make cookies because I want to spend time with you. I didn’t accidentally get frosting on your nose. I wanted a reason to hold you close. Even if it was just cleaning it off, I was happy. Because you were happy just doing something with me. And I want to keep doing things with you, because it makes me happy. And I just-” Before he could continue, you cut him off by cupping his cheek and placing a swift kiss to his forehead. He looked at you in shock, but his eyes were shining brighter than ever before.

“Can I…?” You whispered and he nodded eagerly. You leaned in and so did he, and the two of you met in the middle for an electrifying kiss. You held on tightly to his cheek and his hand found its way to your waist, pulling you closer. The two of you pulled away, and smiled widely at each other.

“Well… I- uh, I-I didn’t know you felt that way too and can I just say-” He starts but you stop him with a small kiss to his nose.

“No need for explanations. Are you still willing to spend Christmas with me?”

“Of course! Are you?”

“I think I made that kind of obvious… but yeah. I am.”

Seungmin

Seungmin leaned back into the plush cushions of the couch, feeling the cool night air seeping in through the slightly open window. The soft glow of the moon spilled into the room, casting a gentle ambiance that wrapped around the two figures sitting there. The air was filled with the comforting scent of hot chocolate, steam rising from the mugs cradled in their hands.

His dearest jagi, the love of his life, you, who he hadn't spent quality time with in ages, sat across from him. Seungmin took a sip of his hot chocolate, the warmth spreading through him, chasing away the chill of the night.

The two of you found yourselves wrapped in the cosy embrace of blankets on the couch, the dim light casting a soft glow around the room. The night outside was nice and cold, but within the confines of your shared space, a warmth enveloped you. The air was filled with the rich aroma of hot chocolate, the mugs cradled in your hands adding an extra layer of comfort.

Seungmin leaned back, his eyes reflecting the gentle flicker of the candlelight. The atmosphere was serene, a stark contrast to the bustling world outside your haven. The silence was almost tangible, broken only by the occasional crackling of the fireplace and the subtle sounds of the night.

“How have you been lately?”

“Almost 3 months, and that’s what you’re asking?”

You looked into Seungmin's eyes, the flickering candlelight casting a soft glow on his features matching the aura of the room. Yet a warm smile played on your lips as you considered his question. The quiet intimacy of the moment made it easy to open up.

"I've been okay," you replied, the sincerity evident in your voice. "Life's been busy, as always, but being here with you like this makes everything feel just right. How about you, Min? How's everything on your end?" Seungmin's gaze softened as he listened, and he reached over to gently intertwine his fingers with yours.

"It's been hectic, but right now? Everything feels perfect. I've missed these quiet times with you. It's like a breath of fresh air." He chuckled softly, the sound resonating in the cosy space around you.

"I've missed it too, Minnie. I’ve missed you. These moments really remind me of what’s important." Seungmin's smile widened at your words, and he squeezed your hand affectionately. The warmth of the moment seemed to intensify as you exchanged these heartfelt words. The glow of the moon and the soft light from the candles painted a romantic backdrop to your connection.

"I've missed you too, jagi," Seungmin confessed, his eyes never leaving yours. "These moments make me realise how precious our time together is.”

You nodded in agreement, a shared understanding passing between you. The outside world, with all its chaos and demands, felt like a distant memory in the cocoon of your shared space. As the night deepened, the two of you continued to enjoy the quietude, the only soundtrack being the crackling of the fireplace and the occasional distant hum of the city. After a good while, Seungmin gently stood up, breaking the physical connection but not the emotional one. He walked over to the window, drawing the curtains closed to shut out the rest of the world. Returning to the couch, he opened the drawer of the side table and reached inside for a small box. His usual, enchanting smile playing on his lips, he handed it to you. The anticipation in his eyes hinted at a surprise he had planned for this evening. You opened the box to find a delicate necklace, a pendant shaped like a crescent moon. Its silver surface shimmered in the soft light, reflecting the glow of the candles. It was like nothing you've ever seen.

“For me?” You whispered, fighting back the smile and the tears that began to form.

“For you.” He breathed. Seungmin took the necklace from the box and, with a tender expression, gently fastened it around your neck. The cool metal rested against your skin, a symbol of the quiet moments shared under the moonlight. He leaned in, placing a soft kiss on your forehead and then another on your lips, sealing the moment with a touch of affection.

“Your Christmas present. Since I won’t be here. Sorry about that by the way.” You smiled at the sincerity of his words, the necklace feeling like a tangible promise against your skin.

"It's perfect, Minnie. And don't apologise; I understand. We'll make up for it when you're back."

Jeongin

“Is it too late to back out now?”

“Yep. Do you have the skewers?”

“Yessir. Marshmallows, chocolate and crackers?”

“Yeah, let me open the marshmallow bag first though.”

Leaning against the kitchen counter, you watched as Jeongin fumbled with the scissors, trying to open the jumbo marshmallow packet he had bought. You tried to convince him that there was no need for that many, but he insisted. To be honest, you weren’t even sure this was even going to work.

It all started when the two of you decided to book a holiday house for Christmas. The two of you have gone past many Christmases together, but was the first one that you guys would be spending as a couple and he wanted to make it special. What better way to do that than a private getaway? It was a nice place and it had a fireplace perfect for making s’mores. You were especially excited about that, you hadn’t roasted marshmallows in such a long time, let alone had a s’more. So you spent much time planning and organising everything you were going to do during your time away together. You had even gone as far to decide which restaurants to eat in advance. And all that was left to do was book the place. And that’s what Jeongin did… except it was for the year after, and he ended up being far more disappointed in himself than the lack of a holiday. It was his responsibility after all.

But nevermind that, that’s all in the past. Fast forward a few days from the big little mishap and here you were now. Jeongin had taken notice of how upset you were over not being able to go on holiday, especially about not being able to roast any marshmallows over the fireplace, so being the thoughtful boyfriend he was, he went and bought all the needed items. But neither of you had a fireplace, so being the geniuses that you were, the two of you decided to use his kitchen stove. As Jeongin continued to struggle with the marshmallow bag, you couldn't help but chuckle at the sight.

"Need some help there?" you teased, reaching over to take the scissors from him. He pouted playfully. "I got this, just watch." With determination, he managed to open the bag, and you both shared a laugh.

"Alright, let the s'mores-making commence!" you declared, grabbing the skewers and handing one to Jeongin. The kitchen was filled with excitement as you prepared for your makeshift s'mores adventure.

As you both sat around the stove, skewering marshmallows and holding them over the flame, you couldn't help but appreciate the effort Jeongin had put into making this Christmas special. The aroma of melting marshmallows filled the air, creating a cosy atmosphere.

"So, how do we do this again?" Jeongin asked, looking at the array of ingredients on the counter.

"It's simple," you explained, "roast the marshmallow to whichever gooeyness level you want, then sandwich it between a piece of chocolate and graham crackers. Voila! S'mores."

Jeongin grinned, adorable dimples showing and eager to get started. The two of you took turns roasting marshmallows and assembling your s'mores. And honestly? This night was probably better than any other Christmas holiday. All thanks to the man currently roasting marshmallows over his kitchen stovetop.

“I’m done making mine. Let’s taste them, yeah?”

“Same time, okay? 3, 2, 1…”

As you both took a bite simultaneously, an unexpected combination of flavours assaulted your taste buds. The marshmallow, instead of being perfectly gooey, had an odd rubbery texture and tasted of gas, the chocolate was overly bitter, and the graham cracker had an unusual, cardboard-like crunch. You scrunched up your nose in disgust and glanced over to Jeongin who wasn’t having too great of a time either.

“Uhm… Innie? What does yours taste like..?” You asked and Jeongin grimaced, trying to find the right words.

"It's like a weird mix of burnt rubber and bitter disappointment. Definitely not the s'mores experience I was hoping for."

You couldn't help but burst into laughter, and he joined in, realising the hilarity of the situation. The kitchen, once filled with the sweet aroma of anticipation, now held a peculiar blend of burnt marshmallow and failed expectations.

"Well, at least we tried," you said between laughs, wiping away a stray tear. "Maybe we should just go grab some s’mores ice-cream from the convenience store. It’s not that late"

“Yeah, good idea. I’ll pay. Least I could do after messing up twice.”

“It’s okay, jagiya. At least we’re together.”

taglist: @jinnie-ret @kai-lee08 @beesspacedotorg

leisel's note: ty everyone for an amazing 2023 and i hope to see all of you (and maybe more) in 2024!! i've had an amazing time getting to know you all and am so grateful for all your support!! i'll try my best to keep putting out writings for you!!

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