#we also exchanged great late christmas gifts!

[batnbreakfast]

A day spent with @tebarambles : A visit to a pop-up art gallery in a defunct department store, a walk around city centre, a rooftop with a view, and dinner at my favourite burger restaurant. It was good to see you in person, friend - until next time!

[neverendingford]

.

[starryeyedjanai]

words that are hard to swallow

rated: teen | @steddieholidaydrabbles prompt: christmas tags: modern au, christmas gifts, birthday gifts, accidental come ons read on ao3

Steve doesn't know what to get for Eddie for Christmas so he finds an Etsy shop that does custom candles where you can choose the scent and the message on the candle.

Steve puts in the order note that he’s getting this for someone that probably likes woodsy scents and that the message can be the seller’s choice.

He doesn't look at it before wrapping it because it gets to him a day late in the mail, on Christmas Eve when everyone is exchanging gifts, and he barely has time to wrap it before he leaves to meet everyone for dinner.

Everyone exchanges gifts around the tree after dinner and Eddie pauses for a really long moment when he gets to Steve's gift and it makes him nervous.

Does he not like the scent? A candle seemed like a generic gift that anyone would like, but maybe Eddie is particular about his scents.

A minute passes and then Eddie leans over to say, “We should probably talk later,” before putting the candle back in its box.

Steve follows Eddie to his place after dinner, wondering the entire time if he somehow mortally offended him and when they get inside, he asks, “Did you not like it?”

Eddie says, “I mean, it was a weird time to give that to me, don't you think?”

Steve is confused. A weird time to give him a candle?

Eddie sees his confusion and says, “You have no idea what it says, do you?”

Steve shakes his head. “I told the Etsy shop to surprise me.”

Eddie laughs. “Oh, you’ll be surprised alright.”

He takes the candle out of the box and turns it around.

It reads Light me when you want a BJ.

Steve is obviously mortified.

When he goes back to it later, the Etsy listing was apparently for “Candles for Him, Husband, Boyfriend, 18+ Messages.” He thought it meant there were over 18 messages to choose from.

He sighs and vows to pay closer attention to the listing next time.

—

The next time he needs a gift for Eddie is his birthday and he really does mean to pick his gift up earlier because he’s known for a while what he wanted to get him. But he lost track of time and then suddenly Eddie’s sending him a reminder about his birthday dinner and Steve still hasn't gotten the gift.

He heads to Target hoping and praying the Lego set Eddie mentioned a few months ago is in stock.

He finds it, luckily, and heads to the card aisle, but he’s pressed for time, so he just grabs one in the birthday section and hopes the message doesn't have anything age specific in it.

The cashier rings him up and places the card face down on the envelope, asking if he wants it in the bag.

He says no and asks if she has a pen because he doesn't have one in his car.

He grabs the pen from her and writes Hope you have a great birthday! on the inside, shoving it into the envelope and into the bag before taking his credit card out of the reader.

He rushes out of the store and is only a few minutes late to dinner.

He tells Eddie he’ll give him his gift at his apartment since he forgot to get a gift bag, so he meets Eddie at his apartment afterwards and brings the Target bag inside.

Eddie is appropriately surprised and happy, wrapping Steve up in a hug when he sees what’s inside the bag.

“You wanna help me put this together?” Eddie asks, and Steve says yes because that’s also part of why he wanted to give it to Eddie here.

They start putting together the set, the Bomber Starfighter, and it takes hours to get even halfway through, so they call it a night and agree to finish it tomorrow.

When Steve shows up a few hours before his shift the next day to finish it, Eddie opens the door with an envelope in his hand—his card must have fallen to the bottom of the bag when they took the Lego set out.

“So I don't know if this was a ‘haha remember the weird candle I accidentally bought’ thing or a come on, but I nearly choked on my coffee this morning when I found this,” Eddie says, letting Steve inside.

“Oh fuck, what does it say?” Steve asks, cringing.

Eddie turns and looks at him. “No fucking way this was an accident. I’d buy that it was a gag card, but there’s no way you picked this up by accident.”

“I was running late and didn't have time to read through the cards in Target. I just went with one that looked plain and simple,” he says.

Eddie hands him the card.

On the front, it says I LOVE YOU FOR YOUR PERSONALITY, BUT THAT D*CK IS A REALLY NICE BONUS.

“Jesus christ,” Steve says. “Why did Target even have this card?”

Eddie snorts. “Either the universe is trying to tell us something or you have supremely bad luck, my friend.”

Steve looks at him and hesitantly says, “Maybe it’s both?”

Eddie looks taken aback. “Yeah?” he asks with a shy smile.

Steve runs a hand through his hair. “I dunno. I was… thinking about it after the last time, with the candle.”

“Thinking about…?” Eddie trails off, looking at Steve's lips, his eyes going dark.

Steve nods, biting his lip.

Eddie takes a step closer and says, “I don't know if you realized, but I lit that candle last night before you got here. It was burning while we were building the Lego set.”

Steve's breath comes a little bit quicker. “I didn't notice that, no.”

“Do you want me to light it again?” Eddie whispers and Steve doesn't even have to think about it before he nods.

They don't end up getting around to building the rest of the Lego set that day.

[breelandwalker]

Cold Moon - December 26, 2023

Bundle up, witches! It's time for the Cold Moon!

Cold Moon

The Cold Moon is the name given to the full moon which occurs in the month of December, particularly appropriate this year as the full moon will occur late in the month, smack in the middle of the bleak midwinter.

This will be another month when the moon appears full for two nights in a row, so we'll have a full moon for Christmastime, with peak illumination on Dec 26th at 7:33pm EST. (A perfect aesthetic for those who are fans of the classic poem "A Visit From St Nicholas" aka "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Personally, I'm holding out hope that we'll have the snowy conditions to match, though it's a long shot.)

Like most full moon names, the Cold Moon takes its' moniker from an English translation of a traditional name used by one or more North American indigenous groups. There are a number of indigenous names that reference the wintry conditions when this moon occurs, including Snow Moon (Haida, Cherokee), Winter Moon (Tunica-Biloxi), Hoar Frost Moon (Cree), and Long Night Moon (Mohican). More evocative names include Frost Exploding Trees Moon (Cree) and Moon of the Popping Trees (Oglala), both of which refer to a phenomenon which occurs during extreme cold, when the sap inside a tree freezes and the expanding pressure causes portions of the bark or even entire limbs to "pop" with loud cracking sounds that can be heard for miles.

Other names for the December moon include Yule Moon (Norse origins), Oak Moon (Celtic origins), and Bitter Moon (Chinese origins).

What Does It Mean For Witches?

The year is winding down. It's time to wrap up our projects and put aside what we haven't finished or no longer need. Rather than berating ourselves for the things we didn't finish or didn't accomplish, this is a time to give ourselves some grace and celebrate our successes and triumphs and the things we DID accomplish.

With only one page left on the calendar, many of us are already looking ahead to the new year, making plans and setting goals. This is a good time to brainstorm and engage in a bit of broad-view planning. Sketch out the things you'd like to see or do or try in the new year. Give voice to your dreams and start thinking of ways to make them happen.

The Cold Moon also falls soon after the winter solstice this year (Dec 21), which could be a boon for anyone looking to time their seasonal rituals in optimal fashion. A working could be begun on the solstice and built up to culminate on the night of the Cold Moon, just before the start of a new calendar year.

What Witchy Things Can We Do?

Have a small supper gathering with friends or family (holiday themed or not, it's up to you) to share joys and fellowship and enjoy good food and drink. Make wishes together for the new year. (Wish jars can be done individually or as an informal group ritual. Sharing wishes anonymously can be a fun party game.) A "White Elephant" gift exchange with inexpensive or homemade witchy goods for your circle could be fun too!

Make a wish jar for the new year on the winter solstice and put it out to charge under the Cold Moon. Cleanse any of your tools or crystals or accoutrements that you use moonlight for one more time this year.

This is the perfect time for divinations and goalsetting for the coming year. Pull out your favorite divination tools and your 2024 planner and sketch out the coming year. You can also try candle wax divination with holiday candles, if that's something that interests you.

Also, save those seasonal bayberry candles for future use! They're great for debt repayment and money-drawing spells.

If you need some ideas for a fun family activity, you can feed the birds for good luck, either with scattered birdseed or pinecone birdfeeders. String dried fruit slices, cinnamon sticks, pinecones, holly leaves and berries, and other seasonal faves to make garlands. Stick apples or oranges or clementines full of cloves in pretty patterns to make pomanders.

Use those fibre arts skills to create a special piece to keep your home warm and safe and well-supplied until spring. It doesn't have to be anything big - a simple weaving or single square will do. Crochet or cut out snowflakes for your home decor. If you want to get fancy, pick up a ball of cotton warp thread and look for old doily patterns - they look great as hoop weavings hung on the wall (or make a witch web in winter colors).

Make one more batch of moonwater to carry you through to the new year. If it happens to snow or freeze where you live, you can save clean snow or icicles for special (non-drinkable) elemental water, which can be a fun base for moonwater as well.

And speaking of elements, make sure to remember in all your seasonal decorating that fire safety is paramount. Be careful with your candles, warmers, light strings, plugs, extension cords, and cables. DO NOT "daisy chain" your extension cords or power strips. Never leave candles or wax warmers or simmer pots unattended, and turn off your holiday lights before bedtime. Safety first, witches!

Thanks for joining me for this exploration of full moon magic. See you next year!

Happy Cold Moon, witches! 🌕🧊

Further Reading:

Additional Lunar Calendar posts

Moon Rise Calculator - The Old Farmer's Almanac.

Cold Moon: Full Moon in December 2023, The Old Farmer's Almanac.

Full Moon December 2023: Illuminating the Cold Moon's Spiritual Meaning, The Peculiar Brunette.

How Do Trees Survive The Winter?, National Forest Foundation.

How to Make Pomander Balls, The Old Farmer's Almanac.

Fun Kid's Activity: Winter Pinecone Bird Feeder, Audubon Southwest.

Everyday Moon Magic: Spells & Rituals for Abundant Living, Dorothy Morrison, Llewellyn Publications, 2004.

(If you’re enjoying my content, please feel free to drop a little something in the tip jar or check out my published works on Amazon or in the Willow Wings Witch Shop. 😊)

[bisexual-horror-fan]

Do-Over-December 11th. Billy Loomis X Stu Macher X FEM! AFAB! Reader. Candy Cane. Poly!Ghostface. "Candied Glass."

Hello, hello, hello! We are back on track and tryna stick to it! Poly!Ghostface Christmas fuckery! I hope you all enjoy this and missed this as much as I have! Onwards with re-doing Kinky December! Not much else to say but let's goooo-

---

Rating. Explict. Length. 2.7K (Old Length. 2.4K.) Warnings. Light Holiday Fluff. Masturbation. Sex Toys. Dirty Talk. Exhibitionism. Light Tempature Play. Impatiant Boys. Cunnilingus. Dirty Pictures.

---

It’s mid-December and the holiday break is about to be upon the college campus you attended. It was your first winter break with your boyfriends Billy and Stu, you had gotten together with them last spring and things had honestly been going pretty good.

Okay, okay, better than pretty good, it’s been amazing. Billy and Stu had already been together prior to you coming into the picture. You all started off as friends, and you’d developed a serious crush on them, but you didn’t do anything about it, scared to make any kind of move because they were already with each other.

It had all the hallmarks of an all consuming crush, musing and daydreaming about what could be, desperate to spend any time you could with them. Said extreme longing was not helped by the fact that they returned those lingering looks and fleeting touches that had you questioning if they were into you too, but you pushed those feelings down. 

You seriously tried not to look too deeply into it when they were nice, like when Stu offered to buy your textbook for a class you needed. You had protested, but Stu gave you a shrug and a wink as he pulled his wallet out of his back pocket, saying, “Don’t worry about it.”

Or when Billy remembered your coffee order and brought you one to your shared class one morning when he knew you had a rough late night the day before trying to finish an essay. It went on like that for a couple of months but one night after a party, the three of you were hanging out in their apartment, all still kinda drunk and sitting around, a quiet moment broken when Stu spoke up, “You know we are into polyamory right?”

And just like that, the rest was history. You started dating them, and it had been pretty fucking great thus far. With the break about to kick off it meant some time apart, you’d met them at school and were from a different town than them, you all have plans to return to your respective families for the holidays. 

You wished you three could have spent it together, but it wasn’t possible with how far away your hometown was away from theirs. So instead, the three of you were having a small celebration, to do your gift exchange before the real holidays hit.

You three had all night to spend together, and so far you had watched a couple of movies, had some dinner and were currently deep in opening gifts. You were college students and set a budget but Stu, with all of his parent's money at his disposal, he totally went over the limit to spoil Billy and you. Mostly you because Billy had already had the talk numerous times throughout their friendship/relationship to quote- “Fucking knock it off, man.”

So Stu still did spoil him, but not as much as he used to. 

Spoiling you was new and exciting and fun. He loved how flustered you got, unused to such attention. He had gotten you a new coat you had been looking at but deemed too expensive previously you were going to stick it out, but Stu said fuck that, it’s winter, you deserve a good coat. Stu also got you the newest book in a series you enjoyed, and some new headphones and a few other things. Billy had gotten you one of those giant three wick candles in one of your favourite scents and a sweater that he admitted Stu helped pick out, but he bought. 

You loved all of it. 

You had pulled the sweater on and were just thinking about getting the dessert you had made for the three of you to share when Stu pulled out another gift, and you rolled your eyes as you chided him, tone flat, “Stu. Another?”

“Last one! I promise!” He said, holding one hand up as the other held onto the gift. Billy looked over and smirked, pointing at the package as he asked, “Oh, that’s it, isn’t it?”

Stu’s smile widened, and he wiggled his eyebrows in that way that made you snicker as he replied to Billy, “You know it!”

He handed you the package, and you placed it in your lap as you inquired, “Billy in on this one?”

“To be fair, I was in on all of them.” Of course, they conspired against you, but to be fair, you did the exact same thing, telling Billy what you got for Stu and vice versa. You just wanted to make sure you didn’t get the same thing and make sure your gifts were good enough. 

“Why am I not surprised?” You finally set to open the present, tearing at the paper apart, letting the shreds fall onto the hardwood floor with the rest, the torn wrapping was about ankle deep around the couch where the three of you were sitting. 

You opened the box and couldn’t help but laugh. “Are you serious?”

See, you had wanted something like this. You had never owned any sex toys previously and had expressed interest in getting some now that you were out of your parent's house and away at college you wouldn’t have to worry about them finding them, and you had the privacy and space to use them comfortably. It was a very thoughtful gift, but you weren’t expecting this to be what he went with. 

You reached into the box and lifted out the toy and held it up. It is a glass dildo, smooth and weighty and in the shape of a candy cane, and striped like one to boot. Billy was laughing a little behind his hand, and Stu managed to hold back his laughter, but only barely. Stu hit Billy on the leg, and he nodded once before clearing his throat and putting on a more serious look as he asked, tone surprisingly even, “What, you don’t like it, baby?”

They shared a look, and you smirked and turned it over in your hands, and Stu said, “Yeah. It’s appropriate, don’t you think?”

You nodded with your lips pursed and looked Stu in the eyes as you said in your own serious tone, “I’ll give you this much, Stu.” You pointed at him with the end of the dildo as you finished your thought, “-It’s very festive.”

That did it, and the three of you broke down laughing. You laughed too much and too long, but when you all stopped you were in the middle of your boys, throwing an arm around each of their shoulders and hugging them, “Thank you for the gifts, boys. I love them.”

The rest of the night continued on, the boys loved their gifts just as much, dessert was shared, and you all talked about what your plans over the holidays were. You were going to miss them so much, and they were going to miss you too, but you were still planning on spending the night tonight, then going off back home tomorrow. 

You ended up in bed with them, of course. Two weeks apart would be bad enough as it was, you needed to try and get your fill of them tonight. You were sitting on Billy’s lap, his back was to the headboard of the bed, and you were currently in deep and lost making out with him, his hands roaming on your clothed form. You felt the mattress dip behind you, feeling Stu get onto the bed, one of his hands on your hip and his other hand coming up to cup your cheek, “Got started without me?”

And with a hum you pulled back breaking the kiss with Billy and reached back, fingers finding Stu’s short hair and looking up at him,“You were taking so long, it’s not my fault Billy has no patience.” 

Billy rolled his eyes, the action is playful, head tilting back as he says, “C’mon, you see her man, how am I supposed to have her in bed and not do something.”

Stu’s hand under your chin and tilting your head up at a more aggressive angle, “Very true, impossible to resist.” 

Then he was pulling you into a kiss of his own, you kissed him back easily and Billy had leaned forward now, his mouth on your neck and fuck this was the best. Three of you taking turns and hands all over each other, it always heated up so quickly. Sometimes it was hard to keep track of whose hands or mouth were where, but you weren’t about to complain about getting so much attention when it felt this good. 

Fingers started to explore further and breathing was picking up. It felt way too hot for your sweater soon and Billy was helping you take it off and threw it aside, and you started to help him with his shirt, Stu was still pressed to you, and he whispered in your ear, “We got a little something in mind for you baby.”

Stu’s hands were pulling your shirt up, and you let him help you take it off, his hands were on your breasts, groping at you through your bra and you hummed questioningly,

“Mmmhmm?” You hummed questioningly, and he said, “Yeah, somethin’ we want to see you do.”

You were already so turned on that you were down for basically anything, “What is it?”

A look shared between the two of them, and they knew by how you responded that you were in the right mood to be open with them. Stu wrapped his arms around your waist and lifted you up a few inches, you let him and assisted, standing up on your knees as Billy took to removing your skirt. Then you were just in your panties and Stu had removed your bra as Billy moved out of the way, and you were put in his place, leaning against the pillows and headboard. Stu had his hands behind his back and after a moment he showed you what he was holding and-

It was that same present as before, you snickered and asked as your gaze ran over the glass candy cane in his hand, and you deadpanned,“Seriously?”

Billy ran his fingers through his hair before moving closer and leaning over you, one of Stu’s hands lands on your thigh, spreading your legs and Billy, much closer to you now, was looking into your eyes as he said, “Seriously. We think it’d be hot to watch you use it on yourself for us.”

Just like that, you were in. You would do just about anything for either of them solo, but having both of them wanting something from you? No way could you say no. 

You nodded once and the toy was placed in your hand and the boys backed off a bit, getting comfortable on the end of the bed, and you settled in. You weren’t sure how to start, you hadn’t used toys before at all, let alone one made of glass. It seemed sturdy, good quality, you turn it over in your hand as you looked at them and bit your bottom lip, they were watching you. As the thought and the situation fully washed over you, this was hot, you were much more into this idea than you thought. You’d done a lot with them, but certainly had not done a dedicated time masturbating in front of them. This was something special, it could be another gift of sorts, a new experience, new memories foraged with them.

Why not put on a show?

You started simply, pressing the toy to your damp panties and sliding it up and down, a slow tease for them and you. Sliding up and down, more pressure, focusing on your clit a bit more with each pass, and it was starting to feel pretty good, hips tilting up more into the cool sensation of the toy. 

All too soon you wanted more, and your fingers hooked in the crotch of your panties, you pulled them aside, bringing the toy down and touching it to your soaked flesh. You weren’t expecting it to be so cold, you shivered a little. 

“That good?” Stu inquired, brows raised and Billy was smirking, arm thrown around Stu’s shoulders, and he asked teasingly, “Yeah? You’re shaking already.”

“ ‘M fine, it’s just cold.” It’s a half lie as you slide the toy up and down a few more times before finally dipping inside yourself and oh-

Oh, fuck.

You didn’t expect that at all.

How good the difference in temperature felt. You were burning hot and the toy being so cold gave such a unique sensation, you slide the toy in as far as it would go, holding onto the hooked end with one hand. It slid in so easily. Another thing you didn’t plan on was how little lube it needed, the glass was so smooth, no ridges, it glides in and out with very minimal effort. 

It was unrelenting as you clenched on it, no give to it at all, that was something you weren’t used to either. Okay you got it, from just a minute of pushing it in and pulling it back out, thrusting back and forth experimentally you understood the appeal. You wouldn’t need to play this up much at all, it felt good, damn good. 

You vocalized it, soft moans crossing your lips, head falling back onto the pillows as you played, thighs spreading wider, you tilted the toy and brushed that spot inside just right and gasped. 

“Ah! Oh, fuc- that’s good.”

You needed your underwear gone, toy leaving you for only a moment, holding it in one hand you arched your hips and the other hand slid down and set to removing your panties, you pulled them off and with a coy smile you tossed them to the boys. Stu caught them, both looked very amused and seemed to be enjoying the show immensely. 

You’d be lying if you said you weren’t enjoying it yourself, ass touching back down on the sheets you slipped the toy back in and resumed a steady pace, eyes rolling back as you did, my God this was fun. Having them watch you, doing this so close to them, finding pleasure in yourself and them enjoying every second of seeing you get off. 

A hand met your ankle, and you looked down to see Billy getting between your legs, “Apparently cold is good.”

Apparently he was still impatient.

You nodded once, a harder thrust, and you moaned again, Billy’s hand slid up your leg and over your thigh and his hand nudged yours. You got the hint, moving your hand away, he leaned in close, his tongue ran over your clit and that your back arched. The cold glass, his hot breath and even hotter mouth around your straining clit, it was so much to handle. He had been paying good attention, he angled the toy just right to hit that sweet spot, and you were unable to stop the loud moan that left your mouth. 

Stu had moved up to be closer to you again, and he was kissing you and one of his hands was on your breasts and teasing one of your nipples and oh my God. You might have been laughing when you first opened up that present and laid your eyes on that toy, but you sure as shit weren’t laughing now. 

The rest of the night was amazing and needed. The three of you, all entangled together, soaking up every second you could because you knew that you wouldn’t have the chance for a while. 

You packed the toy and brought it home, you might have had a round or two on your own and sent the boys a few pictures. 

The one of you in your Christmas sweater and a skirt flipped up, wet pussy on display, face down ass up for the camera while you had one hand sliding the toy in and the fingers of your other on your clit was Billy’s personal favourite. The one you snapped with you in your family living room, late at night after everyone else had gone to bed, in just a robe, fully opened, exposing your naked body, lights from the tree as you laid on the floor in front of it dancing over your body as you used that same toy was Stu’s favourite. 

Only one problem was that now you can’t look at candy canes without getting a bit wet and wanting to squirm while missing your boys. 

Christmas can’t come all the time but thanks to that lovely little gift you certainly were.

[odinsonslut]

4 am

⊹ genre: angst, fluff ending

⊹ pairing: george weasley x reader (implied female)

⊹ themes: slight enemies to lovers, slight friends to lovers???

⊹ summary: following the abrupt ending of your friendship, George, the instigator of the breakup, continues to treat you with carelessness and disregard. You’re pushed to the point of retaliation, leading to a cruel confrontation. George attempts to redeem his character and finally express his feelings.

⊹ warnings: swearing, kind of a heated suggestive make-out, a mean george.

⊹ word count: 2.1k

⊹ a/n: I haven’t written since, like, 2018. PLEASE, please treat me gently. I know I tend to overuse the same phrases within a story. I also suck at writing summaries. I promise there’s more to it than described 🫶🏽🫶🏽

It was 4 am when I jolted awake, still wading off the reminiscent agitation from a dream involving a sinking ship and a niffler from what I could remember. Hermione’s lamp was on its dimmest setting right next to where she had fallen asleep, book in hand, a muggle book I had gifted her since I rarely saw her reading for pleasure since we entered our fifth year. 

I turned her bedside lamp off on my way out, hoping the elves were up preparing breakfast. I’d befriended Winky and often spent time with her over butter cookies in the kitchens when I had trouble sleeping. Her addiction was steadily improving without the burden of her previous master.

I made my way to the common room, contemplating walking all the way down to the kitchens, when I heard a thudding pair of footsteps down the stairs. It was George. It was too late to act like id never looked up; we had already made eye contact. Our usual routine was to avoid an acknowledgement of any form. Things hadn’t been the same since he’d rejected my invite to the yule ball last year, though that wasn’t why our friendship had fallen through.

“He’s got you sneaking out at night now too?” 

I was taken aback. The last time we’d ever spoken was the reluctant exchange of Merry Christmas’ due to Molly’s prodding at the burrow. The ‘he’ George was referring to was the date you ended up with at the ball, Draco, the reason George had cut you off completely that night.

“Tell Angelina she’s welcome to join us when she grows tired of faking it with you.” 

I was furious. Why does he get to decide your friendship is over? Why does he get to be mad about your relationship after rejecting you? Why is the standing of our relationship always dictated by how he feels and what he wants? And why should I continue acting civilly towards him?

I picked a book off the shelf and bumped his shoulder as I passed him, deciding to return to bed. I had lost my appetite.

-

I’d practically sprinted to the great hall for dinner after a two-hour-long class of potions. Since your breakup, being partnered up with Draco for the next year was a little awkward. Keeping the DA a secret and him being on the inquisitorial squad just caused too many issues that couldn’t be resolved on top of the Gryffindor-Slytherin debacle. He was the sweetest boy, and being apart still hadn’t affected how he treated you at all: softly, politely. It was comforting knowing he’d always have a soft spot for you, but getting to the point of friendship would take a little longer.

I sat between Hermione and George, across from Harry, getting subtle looks from my friends. I was tired of walking on eggshells around George, waiting for him to dictate how our interactions go or tailoring my behaviour for his comfort. This was his problem, not mine. 

“Get yourself somewhere else to sit. This seat is spoken for”, he spoke immediately. 

I refused to react defensively. Instead, I picked an eclair off his plate and took a bite. 

Harry avoided looking at us at all, shovelling meat pie into his mouth. Hermione didn’t employ the same faux indifference, staring directly at us. George shifted a bit farther away from me and continued eating, similarly refusing to give me a reaction. 

“Where is Angelina? Last I saw, she was off ‘practising’ with Marcus Finch”, I prodded, refusing to concede

“Your desperation for me is becoming pitiful to witness; it’s pathetic. Keep her name out of your mouth; you’d think it’d be exhausted with what all you spend your time doing with it.” 

You finally got the rise out of him you were looking for, you pushed him to a breaking point, but it wasn’t the satisfying victory you imagined. It hurt.

I kept my gaze downcast, lightly placed the remainder of the unfinished eclair back onto George’s plate and left the hall. I spent the night on a couch in the room of requirement, unwilling to accept Hermione’s comfort quite yet.

-

“What on earth is going on with you two?”  Hermione was lying on my bed beside me, our hands loosely intertwined. She’d spent all Saturday morning with me, avoiding the topic of George completely till now. 

I sighed

I knew it would be an inevitable discussion, but a part of me wished I could avoid it into in-existence. “It was embarrassing, Mione. I think we’re truly done with each other, and I honestly feel okay with the thought of that. I know I pushed him, but hearing those words was jarring. It felt like a completely different person than who I thought was still in there. It’s the lighthearted and slightly sarcastic tone in which he said it that made it hurt. I feel foolish.”

“Nothing you put him through warranted that response, honestly? It sounded more like a projection to me. You were dignified in accepting his rejection, and he cut you off for going with someone else?”

“There is absolutely no sense in trying to decipher why the Weasley boys act the way they do. I’ve still never gotten a sound explanation as to what exactly Ron was on that night, either. I mean, it’s obvious he was jealous but-

“Yeah, jealous he wasn’t Victor’s date for the night”, She cut me off.

“oh my god, whatever happened to the Krum-themed anal plug Fred had custom-made Ron for Christmas third year?”

-

Opening my eyes felt like such an effort; my head felt like pounding out of its skull in an unfamiliar bed in the boys’ dormitory. I recognised the burgundy hand-knitted sweater with a large W embroidered on it. My heart leapt into my throat for a split second. I had worried I’d somehow managed to break into George’s room for a confrontation. 

He had been on my mind a lot lately. It had been about two months since the incident, and since we last spoke, and lately, he and Fred have been all everyone can talk about with the success of their prototypes and antics that seemed to have tightened in frequency the more decrees imposed by Umbridge.

I was rushing to get my things together when he walked in. I paused in place, petrified.

“You were careless last night. I don’t know when you became this person, but you’ve got to stop letting Malfoy ruin you. Muggle narcotics are dangerous.”

Just hearing his voice chastising me yet again pulled at me internally. 

“I’m begging you to stop saying anything to me at all if they’re going to come out like that; I will genuinely beg because I just can’t take this from you anymore, George.”

He looked unamused 

“When did you become so weak? Malfoy broken you down so badly that all you know how to do is make yourself small and beg?”

I’d had just about enough. I threw George against the wall yelling at him to shut the fuck up, haphazardly punching him wherever I could land any, the frustration that had built up for months finally meeting its outlet. Save from shielding his face, George stood there and took it till I was done.

“Draco and I broke up over two months ago. He’s a good friend, he does help me get what I use, but he makes sure I’m safe and alive whenever I’m using” I finally broke the silence, and we sank to sit on the floor across from each other.

“I know, he told me last night. He was carrying you outside the common room, yelling at the fat lady to let him in to put you to bed. He told me you’d broken up and that you remained friends. He also said you were developing a problem and needed me back.”

“I don’t need Malfoy speaking for me, and having you around would actualise my supposed ‘problem’. Why am I in your clothes in your bed?”

“When I opened the door for Malfoy, you asked me to stay with you. You told me you just wanted one night of being us again, so I gave you clothes to change into, put you to bed in my room, and slept on the couch in the common room.”

I stood up to leave without acknowledging his response, relieved nothing else had happened. 

“I don’t know that it’ll change anything for you, but I’ve felt sorry for treating you the way I did for a really long time. I figured you’d finally found peace with the situation and avoided trying to resolve things for that reason. At least, that was the excuse I forced myself to believe. I didn’t realise I was really just afraid of confrontation and rejection. Not generally, just with you. You were right about Angelina, too, apparently, she’s been shacking up with Finch since Christmas,” He continued 

“None of that means anything to me. For as long as you got to decide to do whatever you wanted with my feelings, all I wanted was to get past this. This doesn’t mean anything to me after what you’ve done with the importance I trusted you enough to hold to you. I’m well within my right to decline your apology. And it isn’t even to spite you for your selfish decisions. You were right. I am truly happy without you. You don’t mean anything to me anymore.” I spoke with my back towards him and walked out and back to my dorm immediately after.

-

George had spent the last three weeks trying to earn back a spot in your life as the friend he once was to you. He’d done everything you hoped he would for the longest time, and it felt empowering to ignore his advances and put your pride first. But the more time you reluctantly spent with the old George, the harder it was to stop your previous feelings from resurfacing.

This particular morning, if you could even classify 4 am as the morning, George had snuck into your dorm with Harry’s cloak in hand. You only agreed to leave with him because he promised you a visit to Winky. After devouring an entire gooseberry pie between you, George suggested a walk by the lake. It was tempting, especially after seeing how he interacted with Winky, as normally as he does everyone else, without judgement. But you pushed yourself to decline and returned to the common room together.

You spotted professor Snape on your way up, seemingly aggravated by Peeves, omitting a chuckle from George as he watched Snape flail around, attempting to curse the ghost.

“Who’s there?” He sneered

I immediately lifted my hand to cover George’s mouth as we scooted closer together under the cloak. We kept our eyes locked as we tried to remain still. His eyes dipped to my lips at the same time he lifted my palm off of his. Tangling his left hand into my hair, he used his right to guide my waist back till we hit the wall and kept me in his hold, his lips moving closer to mine with every breath he took

“What’re you doing?” I asked softly enough for just the two of us to hear

He looked into my eyes as he finally connected his lips with mine, our eyes fluttering shut after the initial kiss as we melted into it. He teased my tongue with him as he hoisted me up to his level, wrapping my legs around his waist. The build-up of tension escaped us with every rough feverish kiss. His kisses moved to my neck as he began guiding my hips against his, perfectly lining me up against him. I could barely keep myself composed.

“It’s unfortunate, the 50-point deduction limit per student” My blood ran cold at the sound of Snape’s voice. George immediately dropped me to the ground, where I landed on Harry’s discarded cloak. George squeezed my hand in comfort, signalling he’d take care of things.

He took a breath and stepped toward Snape. “I drugged her, Sir; she’s completely innocent.”

“God, you’re an idiot”, I thumped him on the back of his head.

We sniggered, trailing a few steps behind Snape as we were escorted back to our dormitories, not too fussed about detention every week till the end of the term.

End

✩ I DO NOT CONSENT TO HAVE ANY OF MY WRITING POSTED ON ANY EXTERNAL WEBSITES ✩

[sunnyy3d]

All I Want for Christmas is You|

Thomas Thorne x Reader

A/N: I wrote this incredibly late (like I’m posting it at 12:30 Christmas morning) so I hope you enjoy it, and it doesn’t suck… I also had to try and post this at least three different times, so that’s great. Anyways, merry Christmas! Requests open!

"Wake up, it is Christmas!" Thomas gently shakes me awake. I open my eyes to see his bright smile above me. I love waking up beside him every morning, even if we are dead. "Oh, I cannot wait for you to see your gift," he states as he ushers me out of the bed. Thankfully, I am already fully dressed, so I can go straight to the family room where everyone will be waiting.

Usually, I dread the upcoming holidays. There's not much that you can do as a ghost. There's no Christmas dinner, gifts, Christmas crackers, or anything of the sort. The most you can do is participate in one of Pat's games or talks. But that all changed when Allison showed up. She helped us start to enjoy Christmas again. Before Allison, the ghosts and I would just hand out and play some of Pat's games. And then after, Thomas and I would do something special together.

Because of Allison, we've been able to do much more for Christmas. Allison can help with gifts, and we can do more traditions than just Pat's made-up games. I mean, no hate to Pat, but after so many years, you just yearn for more.

This year, I've asked Allison to hang up some mistletoe that I can go under with Thomas. It may seem small and insignificant, but Thomas has always loved the mistletoe tradition and has been begging Allison to put some up around the house.

Before we reach the family room, I let Thomas know I plan to give him his gift in private. His eyebrows raise in shock, and he lets out a tiny "oh." I laugh as he clearly interprets my words in his own way, but don't correct him as we've already reached the family room.

After everyone has exchanged their gifts, I finally get to open Thomas'. Well, Allison gets to. At this moment, Thomas tells me that he actually wrote a poem that he will recite to me.

Thomas starts his poem with great emotion, "I don't want a lot for Christmas. There is just one thing I need. I don't care about the presents underneath the Christmas tree. I just want you for my own, more than you can ever know. Make my wish come true; all I want for Christmas is you."

My smile falters as I recognize his poem from somewhere else. This isn't the first time this has happened, and I know that Thomas will be devastated when he finds out that he has given me a plagiarized piece.

Luckily, I don't need to be the one to break it to him, as Allison has already started. "Thomas, that's 'All I Want for Christmas is You,' by Mariah Carrey..." Mike starts laughing but quickly stops when Allison glares at him. He can't see me, but I am also glaring at him. Thomas will already be upset; there is no need to make it worse.

Thomas is quick to break down. "Oh no! I have done it again. Please send my most sincere apologies to Mrs. Carrey. I did not mean to steal her beautiful work. My dear, I am so so sorry. I did not intentionally give you stolen work, I swear!" he sobs.

"Oh, Thomas, dear, it is okay! You did not mean to. I promise that I don't see you any differently now. You are still a great poet. It happens to the best." I pull him into my arms, shushing him and rubbing his back. "Here, why don't we go get your gift," I whisper.

I stand and dust my clothes off, even though I know nothing is on them. I hold out my hand as an offer to help Thomas up. He gladly takes in, and I pull him up. Now standing, I start to lead him to the mistletoe. I asked Allison to place the mistletoe at an arbor near the lake. Thomas and I love to sit and watch the waves together, so I thought it would be the perfect place to give him his gift.

When we finally reach the arbor, I lead him directly under it. I smile at him as I take both of his hands in mine. His eyebrows scrunch in confusion, and I only look up, prompting him to do the same. Noticing the mistletoe, he looks down at me with a huge smile.

I nod at him, encouraging him to follow the tradition. Quickly, he lets go of one of my hands, instead cupping my cheek with it. His lips crash onto mine. He passionately kisses me like he has been dying to.

He breaks from the kiss after a minute but still holds my face. "Thank you. You know that I have been begging Allison to put some up. And I truly am sorry about the poem. I shall write you another poem-original this time- in order to correctly express my love for you,” he promises with a tight lipped smile.

“It's okay, my love. It's the thought that counts. I would love anything you give me, especially if it is another kiss," I reassure him. His smile widens, but I don't get to look at it for long as he quickly pulls me back into a passionate kiss.

[bri-cheeses]

Merry Christmas Eve!! I know that it’s late, but for me, it’s still Christmas Eve. Although I do suppose that we’ve only got about 10 minutes until it’s Christmas. Anyways, I wanted to show you guys something!

For context, in my house, it’s tradition for the kids to buy gifts for every family member. Then we exchange gifts on the night of Christmas Eve. All that to say that this year, my twin sister gave me a wonderful, lovely, amazing present that I feel like you guys will appreciate.

Here it is!!

She gave me Rosekiller earrings!! She’s the only one who knows about my obsession with the Marauders (and the only one who knows about this account!) and she went out and found this specific pair because she knew how happy it would make me! Do you guys like it?

Merry Christmas, everyone, I hope you have great days 🤗

(Oh also I’ve got a special post planned for tomorrow, so be on the lookout for it!)

[dailytwice]

Welcome to DAILYTWICE’s Secret Santa 2023 ♡

We’re so glad to announce our SECRET SANTA EVENT for this year, although a little bit late. We hope everyone is having a great year so far, and we think it’s the perfect time to start celebrating that the holidays are coming soon, so let’s have fun together! Also, we expect that many of you can join us with this perfect opportunity to meet someone new or simply to bring joy to our little once community on tumblr dot com. 

❆ What is Secret Santa?

A fun way to exchange a gift that will be posted around Christmas. You’ll get someone assigned randomly and by being someone else’s Secret Santa you can send them anonymous messages to get to know them better (if you want to) and interact with them before revealing yourself and posting your gift!

❆ Rules

Like TWICE

Be able to do: gifs, edits, gfxs, icons, headers, wallpapers, moodboards, playlists, psds, fanart, fanvideos or whatever you want (it’s your choice!) to gift to someone else.

Reblog this post to spread the word!

Fill out this application

When posting your creation, make sure you use #dailytwice and tag (@) the person you’re giving the gift to.

IMPORTANT: don’t reveal yourself to the person you’re giving the gift to until the day you post your creation!

❆ Important dates

December 1st: last day to send your application.

We will send you the @ of the person you’re giving the gift to before December 4th so you’ll have like 3 weeks to make your creation!

December 24th - December 31st: your gift can be posted.

[michellemisfit]

⛄️❄️ Weekly Tag Wednesday, on a Thursday ❄️⛄️

Kindly tagged by @mikhailoisbaby @metalheadmickey @mickeysgaymom @lingy910y @sleepyfacetoughguy @crestfallercanyon @creepkinginc @mybrainismelted @energievie @deedala @jrooc

It's Festivus for the rest of us so grab your Chanukah bush, your mistletoe, your pagan ritual or whatever brings you joy and come gather round the fire 🪵 and celebrate your pocket friends 🤶🏻

❄️ Favourite nickname you’ve ever been given:

Any film or TV set I’ve ever wrangled animals on I’ve been dubbed ‘Rabbit Girl’ or ‘Alpaca Lady’ or whatever other animal I’ve got with me that day, and it makes me laugh. I’m also quite fond of school kids calling me ‘Farmer Michelle’. It’s cute. Otherwise it’s just the usual. Myska. Mys. Myskalump.

Oh! Oh oh oh!!! Ruth’s brother calls me his Swisster, and it’s the CUTEST THING!!!! 🥰🇨🇭

❄️ Where are you located? London, UK

❄️ What season is it where you are now? 🥶

❄️ Favourite tradition this time of year: I love baking and decorating cookies and giving them to people. I also love giving and especially wrapping presents. I’ve made my own wrapping paper for the last few Christmases and birthdays, and it makes wrapping extra fun!!

I just like doing things that make other people happy 😊

❄️ Favourite holiday food: Leftovers Casserole. It’s literally what it says in the tin, so turkey meat, any left over roast veg and potatoes, caramelised garlic carrots, Brussels, and stuffing all put in the oven to heat through and let the top go crispy, and then you eat it with gravy. Yum yum.

❄️ Mulled wine, eggnog or hot apple cider? Mulled cider all the way!! We basically have a large pot of mulled wine and a large pot of mulled cider on the go for all of December lol

❄️ Turkey, Ham or Nut Roast (Or Tofurkey?)?

I have always wanted to make a nut roast and never have!!! 😭 We do turkey on Christmas Day and Honey Glazed Ham on “House Christmas”. They’re both awesome.

❄️ Would you rather spend the December holidays in: A cabin in the woods surrounded by snow, or a house on the beach with sun and sand?

Cabin!!!!

❄️ Are you pro-snow or anti-snow?

Pro. Farming is tough in winter, but it’s still pretty beautiful. Even if my fingers fall off.

❄️ Have you ever built a snowman? Of course! I also built a snow dog with Poppy one year.

❄️ Skiing or Snowboarding? I used to be a pretty decent skier. I’ve snowboarded twice and could not get on board with the concept. Just like I am great on roller skates and suck on a skate board 🤷🏽‍♂️ Also? All of my best scars and bloodiest injury stories are winter sport related!

❄️ Do you decorate for the holidays? Have you met me??

No neighbourhood ivy is save this time of year!

❄️ Favourite holiday movie? I’m not too big on movies generally, but we often watch A Knights Tale at Christmas, so probably that?

❄️ Favourite holiday fanfic? One of the things I adore about fandom at Christmas is things like Christmas Gift Exchanges and people writing Christmas spin offs for their popular fics, or amazing people like @sam-loves-seb doing a whole 12 Days of Christmas!!! Which I cannot wait to have time off to binge my way through to get in the Christmas spirit!!! 🥰

❄️ If you were to star in a Hallmark movie, who would be your love interest? Where would it take place?

Bradley James! Once and Future Love of my Life.

I would be hired to supply the animals for his latest movie, which would have some cringeworthy puntastic title like ‘You’ve Goat to Be Kidding Me’ or ‘Only With Ewe’.

Forgive my lateness and likely double tagging. Work has been a lot in the run up to Christmas. If you’ve already done this please tag me so I can read yours, and if not then this is your invitation to be fashionably late, just like me! @suzy-queued @heymacy @heymrspatel @callivich @faejilly @greentealycheejelly @rutherinahobbit @depressedstressedlemonzest @look-i-love-u @crossmydna @too-schoolforcool @darlingian @rereadanon @lupeloto @gardenerian @sam-loves-seb @francesrose3 @bawlbrayker @vintagelacerosette

[kazumist]

hi!!

could i ask for 9 with albedo please?

congrats on 1k :D

prompt: exchanging gifts for the first time

note: artist!reader since i couldn't really think of anything else ;; i only got to finish this draft now since writer's block suddenly came crushing during mid-july i'm sorry anon T_________T

1k milestone event: closed!

giving or thinking of a gift for albedo can be quite tough sometimes.

he seems to like everything; he isn’t picky about what he wants and what he doesn’t like (well, minus the fact that he really likes desserts; maybe that would be a good little celebratory gift?). so his birthday or christmas season can be a bit of a pain with him being like this.

but since this is your first year anniversary, you wanted it to be a bit special to commemorate the event—the only problem is how?

gifting him a sketchbook would be nice, and maybe you could fill it with some core memories that the two of you share with each other, like that one time you two stayed up baking a cake for klee and ended up chasing around each other in the kitchen at one in the morning. or you could also draw some significant things in your relationship, like a drawing of the two of you at the huge tree by windrise since that was a place you two would relax a lot.

you decided to go with that idea since it was pretty cute and reminiscing about the drawings with albedo would be a nice little way to spend time together on your anniversary. with only two weeks left before your anniversary, you had to act fast.

-

you barely managed to finish the gift in time.

and thank the archons above that they showed mercy on you because you were sure to be late.

it’s not like you wanted to have some art block. it was the last thing you wanted! you only had one page left to fill in the sketchbook when you ran out of ideas. good thing you managed to clutch it, though—you didn’t even want to think about what the possibilities of not finishing it could lead to.

you had to meet up with albedo later today since you decided to eat out as a small celebration. 

-

when your meetup rolled around, it was soon time to hand over your gift to him.

“‘bedo, happy anniversary,” you said, handing over the neatly wrapped sketchbook. he thanked you for it and gave his gift for you as well, and when you both opened the gifts—well, it was safe to say that it was great that you didn’t actually give the same thing.

in both of your hands now was the sketchbook of the same brand; the difference was that albedo’s had finished drawings of your memories together, while the one he gave you had half finished drawings. albedo thought of a similar idea, but he only drew half of it and left it for you to finish to form the memory.

“it appears that we had similar ideas in mind,” he chuckles.

“it seems so. happy anniversary, ‘bedo. thank you.”

“happy anniversary as well.”

[taiyaki-translations]

Murmurs of Flourishing Blossoms - 3

Season: Winter Characters: Kaoru, Mika, Tatsumi, Midori, Izumi, Leo, Shu Translator: taiyaki-translations

Midori: Things are finally back to normal… I’m glad Anzu-san was there to support me. Otherwise, I would have already died…

Mika: Sorry, this was all ‘cause I was bein’ an idiot. I don’t even know how I ended up leavin’ the group~

Izumi: Hah, this guy’s the real idiot. Running off without a smartphone and getting himself lost, I don’t know how he even managed it.

Leo: What~ Everyone found us in the end, didn't they!? Idiot, idiot, Sena’s the idiot!

Kaoru: Haha, everyone must be hungry, right? Let’s hurry up and meet with Itsuki-kun. 

Hm? The person sitting across from Itsuki-kun… Isn’t that the client? Oh, it looks like they’re having a great time talking.

Mika: Ngah?! Oshi-san knew the client from before?

Shu: Honestly, I should be the one who’s surprised, Kagehira. Aside from the fact that you suddenly came here, I can’t believe a photographer I met in Paris brought in ES idols from Japan. 

It’s true that many photographers prefer models with the same cultural background as themselves because it’s easier to understand each other, but this is too much of a coincidence.

Tatsumi: Actually, I was curious about what happened when the client met Kaoru-san. I heard it was an interesting story?

Kaoru: Huh? Didn’t Anzu-chan tell you? 

You didn’t tell anyone because I was also involved  and you didn't know if I was okay with everyone hearing about it? 

Haha, you’re always thinking of the idols first. Then I’ll share that story with everyone now ♪

So, one night, not long after Christmas…

Kaoru: Oh, they haven’t removed the Christmas decorations yet. I wasn’t able to spend Christmas with Anzu-chan this year, but at least we are able to enjoy the snowy scenery together. 

“If you hadn’t accompanied me home, I might not have seen such a beautiful night view, so thank you”? You’re busy preparing for StarFes, there’s no need to thank me. 

They’ll probably redecorate this place for New Year’s soon. Actually, I prefer Christmas to New Year’s…

I ended up spending this Christmas at Starmony Dorms with everyone. There was a Christmas party where everyone exchanged gifts, and Hibiki-kun prepared a huge, beautiful Christmas tree that was pretty impressive ♪ (1)

Anzu-chan has been busy with SS Committee work, so I was hoping you could take some time off during Christmas, but as soon as it passed, you went right back to work. As expected of you~ 

Still, I have to nag you at least a little bit. No matter how busy you are at the end of the year, it’s not safe to work this late? 

(Come to think of it, the temperature is lower than during the day. Anzu-chan is a girl, so she must be more afraid of the cold…?)

Looks like it's gotten cold all of a sudden. Anzu-chan, please sit on this bench and rest for a while. I’ll buy a warm drink from the vending machine over there—

Hey, I’m back~ You didn’t wait long, did you? 

Here you go, hot chocolate. If you don’t want to drink it, use it to warm up your hands.

Kaoru: Girls are beautiful flowers that must be looked after carefully. Anzu-chan, take care of yourself too ♪

“Do you remember when we first met?” At that time, I said to Anzu-chan, “a beautiful flower has bloomed in Yumenosaki Academy”…? Haha, now that I think about it, I feel embarrassed. (2)

Oh, it suddenly started snowing. I’m glad we both brought umbrellas. Let’s head back quickly.

(Really, why am I tongue-tied all of a sudden? I was definitely able to talk properly earlier…!)

(Is it because we are done discussing work? I need to stay alert and respond properly~ Should we continue talking about the past? If I think about the details, I might be able to shift my focus.)

Huh? “Do you think this will be the last snow of the year”? Ah, time really flies. A whole year has passed in the blink of an eye.

A lot has happened this year. Last year around this time, I hadn’t even graduated from Yumenosaki yet, but now Anzu-chan is close to graduation. 

I remember last year’s StarFes MV was being filmed at a restaurant near the school. Anzu-chan even dragged Rei-kun’s coffin over, right? (3)

“It’s actually quite a useful means of transportation”? Haha, that’s why you brought Ritsu-kun to the site in that coffin too when we were filming at the ice rink? ♪ (4)

But next time something like that happens, ask us for help—

Uwah, who’s this person that suddenly popped out? That surprised me~ 

Huh? You want me… to be your model?

Kaoru: That’s roughly how it happened. To be honest, both Anzu-chan and I were surprised at the time~

Tatsumi: I see. After that, the client found out that Anzu-san is a producer and asked her to recommend some other idols, so Mika-san, Midori-san and I were also invited. 

I’m really happy that the producer thought of us when she was told to find idols who have a “gentle and soft” image ♪

Mika: Nnah, how did Oshi-san get to know this photographer?

Shu: As you may have suspected, this photographer is an impatient person who doesn’t make plans and just does whatever that comes to their mind. Well, I can’t say it’s a bad trait for an artist, but—

Leo: That’s right, that’s right! You have to catch the inspiration when it comes! Wahaha, Shu knows me well ☆

Shu: Hm, I didn’t mean to praise you. 

Anyway, isn’t there a big exhibition opening in Paris? They asked to take your pictures for that exhibition. 

Of course, I also didn’t want to miss this opportunity to showcase my own works. However, they already made a reservation for the exhibition hall that I had my eye on, so we coordinated the use of the space and gradually became friends. 

After choosing you as their models, they said they would hold their exhibition in the rose garden, and gave me the space they had reserved. I offered to help make the costumes so as not to be indebted to them. 

Mika: Eh?! Oshi-san is helpin’ us make our costumes? 

I’m so excited…! I’m really looking forward t’ collaboratin’ with Oshi-san…!

Translation Notes: 1. Referring to the story HOT WINTER. 2. From Kaoru's Sub Story 1 3. Referring to the story Holiday Party. 4. Referring to the story Dance on Ice.

Previous | Directory | Next

[marina41trench]

Yotsuba Tamaki - PTT Xmas RabbitChat [1/5] - Christmas Arrange

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

Tsumugi: Thank you for your work, Tamaki-san!

There’s new work for you!

Tsumugi:

Tamaki: Ooh~ is it a fun thing?

Tsumugi: Yes! It’s a really fun thing!

Tsumugi: An Xmas arrangement of “PARTY TIME TOGETHER” is going to be made!

Tamaki: That’s great!

Tamaki: So it’s XPTT

Tamaki:

Tsumugi: XPTT?

Tsumugi:

Tamaki: It’s Xmas Party Time Together, right?

Tsumugi: I see!

Tsumugi: Ah, but the full word of “Xmas” is “Christmas”…! (1)

Tamaki: Gotcha

Tsumugi:

Tamaki: Me and Rikkun were listening to it a lot lately

Tamaki: He said he’s looking forward to ChriPa

Tsumugi: Because it fits best to play during a party!

Tamaki:

Tsumugi:

Tsumugi: Actually, it’s not just an arrangement, but there’s also a PV!

Tsumugi: The setting is that you were sucked into a world of toys while you were looking at a shopping window.

Tamaki: Huuh

Tamaki: Is that fun? Or scary?

Tsumugi: It’s fun!

Tamaki: Phew

Tamaki: The other day Mikki and Yama-san watched a movie where a toy was hunting

Tamaki: It’s holding a chainsaw and chasing people. It’s really scary

Tamaki:

Tsumugi: W-Well, it really is scary…! ><

Tamaki: Looks like Sou-chan recommended it to them

Tamaki: But why do they have to watch that scary thing in the living room

Tamaki:

Tamaki: They also watched it in pitch black

Tsumugi: I wonder if they wanted to simulate the ambiance of horror…

Tamaki: They don’t have to do that!

Tamaki:

Tsumugi: Please be at ease! The PV will have you and the toys sing, dance, and do fun things together…!

Tsumugi: You’re going to play with the toys on a carousel in your individual scene!

Tsumugi:

Tsumugi:

Tamaki: Really?

Tamaki: I’ll ride on a carousel?

Tsumugi: Yes! They’ll prepare a set of it!

Tsumugi:

Tamaki: Awesome!

Tamaki: It’s like an amusement park!

Tamaki:

Tamaki: What ‘bout roller coaster?

Tsumugi: It’s difficult to have roller coasters, but I’ll inquire for other stuff like trains to emulate a world of toys!

Tamaki: There’s trains too?!

Tamaki: I wanna film nooow!

Tamaki:

Tsumugi: I’m happy you said that!

They’re preparing for it steadily, so please look forward to it!

Tamaki:

Tamaki: Christmas is really great!

Tamaki: There’s a King Pudding fresh cream special too

Tamaki: I also eat a lot of good food during ChriPa

Tamaki: Isn’t that the best?

Tamaki:

Tsumugi:

Tsumugi: I’ve also received an invitation, so I’m going to cook!

Do you have any requests?

Tamaki: Party-ish meat!

Tamaki: That one where the meat is red inside when you cut it thinly

Tsumugi: So it’s roast beef! Leave it to me!

Tsumugi:

Tamaki: Yeah! That one!

Tamaki:

Tamaki: We’re going to play lots of games  too

Tsumugi: You’re going to exchange a gift with someone!

Tamaki: Yeah

Tamaki: I got Iorin

Tamaki: What do you think it is?

Tsumugi: You already bought it…!

Tamaki: You’re spot on

Tamaki:

Tamaki: It’s something that’ll make him happy

Tsumugi: If that’s the case, I might know it!

Tsumugi:

Tsumugi: Is it a mechanical pencil?

Tamaki:

Tsumugi:

Tsumugi: He told me his favorite mechanical pencil broke, so I was thinking if that was it ><

Tamaki: Ugh

Tamaki: I remembered something terrible

Tsumugi: What is it?

Tamaki: We have term-end exams before the ChriPa

Tamaki:

Tamaki:

Tsumugi: It’s certainly that time of the season…!

Tamaki: Why do we have it before Christmas

Tamaki: Can I ask Santa-san to remove term-end exams

Tamaki:

Tsumugi: I’m sure you can pass the exam! I’ll cheer for you!

Tsumugi:

Tamaki:

-

1 - The original dialogue is that Tamaki abbreviated it as “KPTT” which means “Khristmas Party Time Together”. Tsumugi corrected him that the first letter of “Christmas” is “C”.

Thank you Rena for the suggestion!

PS: This part alone has 28 emojis in total.

[hsfan94]

Christmas Prank

An: I ran out of time to make this as great as I wanted but I hope you like it. Merry Christmas lovies!

Y/n had been wanting to pull a prank on Harry for a while. It all started when he got her good on his birthday this year.

“Happy birthday, Harry!” She sang as she skipped into their bedroom with fresh chocolate chip pancakes for him.

“It’s not a very happy one, Y/n,” he said.

“What do you mean, my love? You just woke up?”

“We need to talk.”

“What?” She started to panic. She set his food down next to him. “What’s going on? Are you okay?”

“I just don’t think I want you to be my girlfriend anymore.” He sat up and took a sip of the coffee she brought him. He seemed so unbothered.

She had no idea where this was coming from.

“What, why? Since when?” She felt her heart drop.

“I don’t know. I’m just kind of tired of calling you my girlfriend.”

He leaned over and opened his bedside drawer. She couldn’t focus on his movements though as her whole world was falling apart.

“Harry, where is this coming from? Did I do something wrong? I love you, I can't live without you.”

She started sobbing and that caused him to pull her to the bed next to him. She could feel something in his hand on her back but she couldn’t open her eyes.

“Lovie, I’m so sorry. I shouldn’t have listened to Niall.”

Now she was really confused.

“Huh?” She pulled back from where her head had been buried in his neck to look at him. He was pouting at her.

“He said this would be a funny way to do it and it would catch you off guard.”

He pulled his arm from behind her back, revealing the object in his hand to be a small black velvet box.

“Oh.” She saw where this was going and although she was livid, she was also speechless.

“All I want for my birthday is for you to agree to be my wife, although now I think I’ve ruined my chance.”

He opened it up to reveal the most beautiful ring ever.

“I’d love to be your wife. I’m so glad you don’t want to break up.” She kissed him. “However, this was horribly mean of you so I don’t know when, I don’t know how but I will get you back.”

He smiled and put the ring on her finger.

Despite being so excited to officially be the future Mrs. Styles, she still owed her fiancé some payback.

Harry was on tour until the 13th so he asked her to do the shopping for him and that was his mistake. He gave her a great idea. Y/n bought real presents, the ones Harry had on his list, as well as gag presents for Anne and Gemma. She had called them a couple weeks ago when she was out shopping to let them in on it and get their help. They were excited to be a part of her plan. She had everything wrapped up and in the car ready for their drive to Holmes Chapel and he was none the wiser.

Now, everyone (Anne, Darren, Gemma, Michael, Harry and Y/n) was sat around the living room about to exchange gifts and Y/n was practically buzzing in her seat.

“Baby, do you want to give your mum and sister theirs first?” She leaned her head back to look at her fiancé.

She had been sitting on the floor with Harry on the couch behind her with his legs on either side of her shoulders. Her head was resting on his knee as she peeked up at him.

“Sure. Will you hand them to them?”

She nodded and practically jumped up to give the gifts to her in-laws. She winked at them as she handed them their gifts.

“Harry picked these out for you guys.” She couldn’t contain her smile.

She sat back down, this time on Harry’s late so she could look at his reaction up close.

Anne went first, slowly pulling the tissue out of her bag. Before showing the family what it was she gasped in excitement for dramatic effect.

“You picked this out, Harry? How did you know I’ve always wanted one?”

“I sure did. And you talk about it all the time.”

Y/n snickered and Anne took that as her cue to keep going. She pulled out an intricately laced black teddy. Y/n looked at Harry because his grip on her leg had tightened. His eyes were blown wide and his cheeks were starting to pink.

“I love it. Thank you both very much.”

“I- I-“ He stumbled on words.

It was priceless, Y/n thought.

“Gemma, you go next,” she said. Her arms, which were draped around her fiancé, pulled him closer in an attempt to seem unbothered.

“Darling, what happened to what was on the list?” Harry finally whispered in her ear.

“I’m afraid I don’t know what you mean.” She looked at him and brushed his hair back. Then, she turned to her future sister-in-law and said, “go on Gem.”

Gemma didn’t drag it out as her mother did. In fact she took a completely different approach overall. Pulling out a red laced teddy she looked at her brother with a horrified expression.

“Harry! How do you think these are appropriate gifts for your family?”

“I- I don’t. I don’t know what’s happening.” He looked at Y/n as if waiting for an explanation.

“Please darling, you and I both know that’s not true. You made the list and I did the shopping.”

Was this gaslighting? Maybe she was taking it too far but she was getting a kick out of it.

His mouth opened and closed a few times, pure shock on his face. He looked around the room a few times.

After Y/n felt she’d had enough she busted out laughing. Anne and Gemma followed her.

“Baby, I’m sorry. But I never got over your proposal so I wanted to get you back. The real presents are still under the tree.” She pulled him close and kissed the side of his head.

“You should have seen your face, Harry,” Gemma said, a huge smile on her face.

“What? You guys were all in on this?” Harry was shaking his head and rubbing his eyes as if it was some kind of dream.

“Sorry, love but your missus called me and Gem a few weeks ago and told us about how she wanted to get you back and the idea seemed really fun. You seriously owe her a new proposal.”

Harry seemed to have gotten over it as his hands snaked around Y/n’s waist and pulled her close.

“You’re so mean.” It was mumbled into her neck but everyone heard.

“So are you.” She laughed. “That’s why we fit.”

He pulled his face from her neck and smiled.

“I guess I do owe you a do over.”

He gave her a soft quick peck on the lips.

“Alright enough. You guys can open your real gifts now. Thank you for playing along.”

The rest of the day was spent opening gifts, drinking hot chocolate and talking about what happened this year and what’s to come in the new year and Y/n was sure she’d never been happier.

[banannabethchase]

Good Boys Get Gifts - also on AO3

~

Nick's visiting Claudio and all he wants is to get railed out of his mind. Claudio appears to be…otherwise distracted. Or is he?

~

Sarah prompted me the dialogue exchange: "“Sure hope Santa slips something in my chimney tonight." ”That’s not how the song goes.”" And I ran with it. Also for December prompt challenge day 26: Boredom! Enjoy this unrepentant filth.

~

Nick sighs as he watches Claudio make eggs. He’s chattering away about wrestling and Mox. Nick wants to focus a little better, but Claudio’s shirtless and he’s distracted.

“Thanks,” Nick says, taking his plate from Claudio. “Looks great.”

“I added a hint of milk to the eggs.” Claudio winks as they sit at the bar counter. “I find it makes the eggs fluffier.”

Nick nods and continues to eat. He’d gotten in late last night, a red-eye from California he told Matt was a solo vacation, so this is the first time they’ve really gotten to see each other.

Claudio looks good, big and strong from all his C2 training. Nick wants to climb him like a tree.

“I suppose there’s not much open today,” Claudio says, like he’s unaware that all Nick wants to do is get bent over and wrecked into oblivion. “I have a documentary you may enjoy, would you like to do that?”

“Sure,” Nick says. Maybe it’s an opportunity to get Claudio to fuck him on the couch or something.

It’s not.

It’s two hours.

Two hours of a nature documentary that, while fun or whatever, is making Nick’s day far less sexually fueled than he’d hoped.

“I’m going to get some water,” Nick announces, and he very intentionally puts his hand on Claudio’s thigh to push himself up. Claudio barely reacts.

Time to pull out the big guns.

Nick stretches. “Hot in here,” he muses. He pulls off his shirt and drapes it on the back of one of the bar chairs. He makes a show of cracking his muscles, making little sounds to make sure Claudio’s paying attention.

“Nick,” Claudio says, “you’re making it hard to focus on the movie.”

“Good,” Nick fires back. He walks to the counter and sighs. “I’ve been an awful good boy,” Nick says, leaning on the counter. It’s a little obvious, but Nick’s sick of beating around the bush. “Sure hope Santa slips something in my chimney tonight. He’ll have time since it’s the day after Christmas.”

Claudio finally turns to him. With a tiny smile on his face, he says, “Nicholas, that’s not how the song goes.”

Nick snorts. “Don’t I know it.” He sighs, turning so his ass is stuck out, just a little. Okay, a lot. He sighs.

“Is this an attempt at seduction?”

Nick looks over his shoulder to see Claudio’s mildly bemused expression locked on him. “Is it working?”

Claudio sighs stepping up behind Nicholas. “A bit, yes.” He’s close enough to touch Nick, but he doesn’t.

“Then I don’t see the problem.” Nick waits, bent over. Maybe Claudio will fuck him right here.

“The problem is that you’re a liar,” Claudio says, brushing hair off the back of Nick’s neck.

“Am not!” Nick turns around to find Claudio right up against him. “How am I a liar?” He pauses. “Okay, I know I lied to Matt about being on vacation instead of coming to your place, but…” He flutters his eyelashes. “I can’t imagine you’re too upset about that.”

Claudio’s laugh is low, a little dark. “That is not the lie I am referring to, darling.” He leans in, pressing a surprisingly chaste kiss to Nick’s lips. “You said you have been a good boy,” Claudio murmurs. “You and I both know that isn’t true.”

Nick fights the full body shiver threatening to take him out by the knees. “It isn’t?”

Claudio’s grin goes a little sharkish. “You’re lying again, pretending you don’t know,” he says. He steps back. “I’m not sure if you deserve to get any gift. Perhaps we should finish that movie and go for a walk in the snow.”

Nick can’t stop his jaw from dropping. “Oh, eff that,” Nick says, and he starts trailing after Claudio as he walks away. “I didn’t fly out here to get cock blocked.”

In a flash, Claudio’s shoved him up against the wall, a forearm across Nick’s chest. “Such a mouth,” he murmurs, and Nick’s pretty sure his knees could collapse under him and he’d still be held up. “Get in the bedroom, Nicholas. Clean your dirty mouth up a bit.” He steps back and Nick almost slips to the floor. “Maybe you can earn back the title of being a good boy.”

Nick tries not to look so eager – Claudio’s usually doesn’t lean into this angle, doesn’t like getting mean or demanding every time. But today. Today, Nick thinks he may be getting a different kind of gift this year, and he is over the moon.

Claudio closes the door behind Nick and Nick leaps into the shower after stripping so quickly he trips over his socks. Claudio’s bathroom smells like woodsy mint, masculine and enticing. He tries to clean as fast as he can and steals as much of Claudio’s soap as he can. He wants as much of Claudio on him as he can get.

“Did I offer you my soap?” Claudio asks. He steps into the shower behind Nick, stark naked. Nick licks his lips when he gets an eyeful of Claudio’s hard cock. “Not the way to be a good boy, stealing, is it?”

Nick grins at him, leaning against the wall. The tile’s been warmed by the steam and water, but he thinks Claudio’s hands would be better. “Oh, no,” Nick sighs. “Maybe you’ll have to punish me.”

Claudio laughs. “You would like that, wouldn’t you?”

“I’d like your dick somewhere on or inside me, yeah,” Nick says. He turns around, shoving his ass back toward Claudio. He waits. The only thing touching him is the wall and the water. “No?”

Claudio sighs, and it’s weird enough that Nick has to look behind him to make sure something’s not going horribly wrong. “What?”

“Just thinking about how I’m going to destroy this beautiful ass.”

He drops to his knees. Before Nick can brace himself, Claudio’s got a cheek in either hand and is spreading him. He starts with biting kisses along Nick’s skin, away from where he wants him. Nick squirms.

“Ah, you’re understanding now, love,” Claudio says, “this is the punishment.” He leans in, the lightest whisper of a lick against Nick’s hole. “I’m going to make you wait.”

Nick whines. “Okay,” he says. “Just – more, please.”

“A please!” Claudio says. “Wow. Apparently all I need for you to try to be a good boy is to work you up all morning.”

“Work me – what?”

Claudio laughs, pressing a kiss to one of Nick’s ass cheeks before sucking a bruise into it. Nick’ll feel that for days. “Did you really think,” Claudio says, pausing to lick a hot stripe against Nick’s hole, “that I was unaware of your attempts during the movie?” He licks again, more firmly this time, more intentional. His tongue teases at the ring of muscle, and Nick relaxes, desperate to take anything of Claudio into himself. “A hand on my thigh, leaning over me to turn up the volume.” Nick gasps as he feels Claudio’s tongue enter him. It’s good, so effing good, but not enough. He fights the urge to press back against Claudio’s face, not wanting to lose the feeling. Claudio’s tongue slips out but it’s quickly replaced with the tip of a slick finger, tracing around then plunging in.

Nick moans.

“Exactly,” Claudio murmurs. “We both knew exactly what you were doing, darling.” He pulls his finger out and replaces it with his tongue again, and Nick can’t help but cry out.

“Claudio,” he pants, “god, please. I need more.”

When Claudio laughs against him, Nick keens. “Please.”

Claudio pulls back and pushes a finger back in, working it quickly, finding little resistance. “There you go,” he murmurs. From the shifting angle, Nick can tell he’s standing now. “There’s my good boy.”

“Holy – Claudio.” Nick shoves himself back onto Claudio’s fingers. “More.”

“Oh, more fingers?” Claudio asks. “I suppose you may have earned that.”

“Your – your cock,” Nick pleads. It’s so good, so exactly what he wants, that he sort of wants Claudio to refuse him.

“Not so quickly,” Claudio says. He leans in and bites at Nick’s earlobe. “I’m not certain you’ve earned it yet.”

Nick whines. “What do – how do I –” He forgets how to speak, how to ask, how to move. “I want it.”

“I can tell you want it,” Claudio says, and it’s barely even relief when he adds another finger. Just another reminder that Nick’s still not full of his cock. “You aren’t asking nicely, though. Good boys would be sweeter about it.”

Nick exhales so slowly his heads spins. “Claudio,” he pants, “I’ll be so good. I – I’ll take your cock so well, you’ll see.” He slows his twisting hips. “See?” he says. “Look, I’m waiting.”

Claudio lets out a low whistle. “Look at you,” he murmurs. There’s a click. Nick won’t be annoying about it. He won’t ask. “Listening. Waiting.” The slick sound can only be Claudio getting his cock ready, and Nick is blind with the need for it. He reaches up and turns the showerhead away, leaving him just this much colder. “And so smart, too.” There’s a kiss at the base of his neck. “I think you’ve earned it, darling.”

“Thank you,” Nick whines. “Oh, god, please.”

He feels the blunt head of Claudio’s cock catch at his hole. “Are you certain?”

“Yes, I’m – Claudio, come the eff on!”

Claudio freezes. “That doesn’t sound like how a good boy would speak.”

“Sorry,” Nick says, shaking his head. “Sorry, Claudio, please.” He tosses a look over his shoulder, blinking stray drops of water from his eyes. “Please?”

“There we go,” Claudio says, and Nick almost falls over with how good it feels for Claudio to sink into him. “You feel incredible.”

“Same – you,” Nick chokes out. “Not to be a bitch, but can you eff me now?”

Claudio laughs, circling his hips a little before pulling out and slowly sliding back in. It’s almost enough, Nick thinks. But he wants to get obliterated. Not romanced. “That was almost sweet,” Claudio sighs. “You’ll get there.”

“What if I don’t want sweet?” Nick says. “You said you were gonna punish me, right? Rail me so good I can’t walk normal for a week. That’d be a good punishment.”

“Yes, but you would like that.”

Nick shrugs. “Funishment. Whatever.”

Claudio laughs so hard Nick can feel it. “I’m beginning to find myself quite enamored of our time together, Nicholas, but I think it’s about time I do as you ask.” He pulls back and shoves into Nick so hard Nick almost loses his grip on the wall. “What was it you said? Rail you?”

“Exactly,” Nick hisses.

At this point, it’s all he can do to press against the wall and stay standing. Claudio goes at him like an animal, bruising grip on his hip and a hand on the back of Nick’s neck.

“Good boys take it so pretty,” Claudio snarls. “Should make some of these bruises bigger. Maybe scratch my name into your back with my nails.”

“All good by me,” Nick gasps. “Jesus – Claudio, harder.”

“Insatiable,” Claudio says, but it sounds almost like a compliment.

Claudio’s grunting, fingers digging in harder, as he picks up the pace. “Nick,” he says, urgency in his voice the first time Nick’s heard it. “Darling, I –”

“Come in me,” Nick demands. “Come so deep I feel it for days.”

With a roar, Claudio shoves himself into Nick. Nick can feel it, hot and wet and filling him. He shivers, only getting harder.

Claudio mutters something in a language Nick doesn’t speak as he rolls his hips and slowly pulls out.

Nick leans off the wall and reaches for his dick, but Claudio slaps his hand away and drops to his knees.

“Turn around,” Claudio insists, “I’ll clean you better than the shower could.”

Nick whines and does as he’s told, leaning over. Claudio’s tongue is fire against his skin, a few fingers shoved into Nick.

“Can I touch myself?” Nick pleads. “Claudio, please?”

He’s answered by a hand wrapping around him to grab at his dick. That’s all it takes – Nick comes with a shout, covering the wall and losing feeling in his legs. Claudio’s still going at him when he comes back to focus.

“Claudio,” he whimpers. “Too much. Please.”

Gently, carefully, Claudio moves his mouth away and removes his fingers. “How are you, darling?” he asks. “Okay?”

“Okay?!” Nick exclaims. He turns to Claudio, still a bit dizzy. “That was incredible. Holy – I never want to leave this shower.”

“Running up my water bill and you’ve hardly been here a day,” Claudio chuckles. He pulls Nick in and kisses him, sweet and gentle. Nick can taste himself on Claudio lips and moans. “Careful now. Don’t get me started again.”

“Tomorrow,” Nick mumbles, less of a kiss than a rest of his mouth against Claudio’s. He yawns. “Now I’m tired.”

“I’m sure you are,” Claudio says. “A red eye, and you only slept a few hours.”

Nick falls against Claudio’s chest and feels strong arms wrap around his back. “You might have to carry me to the bedroom.”

“Perhaps at a later time, when we’re not all wet and slippery.”

“Who’s fault is that?” Nick asks against Claudio’s skin. He yelps when he feels a finger press against a bruise on his ass.

“Careful now,” Claudio says again, warning tone threatening to get Nick hard again, “only good boys get seconds.”

~

Mini playlist:

A Nonsense Christmas - Sabrina Carpenter

Bad Things - Jace Everett

Lick U Clean - Kidneythieves

Beg for It - Iggy Azalea, MO

[incendio22]

FOR THE HOPE OF IT ALL

Pt 2 Chapter 24: A Hogwarts Christmas

Sebastian's POV

As I wake up on Christmas Day, I feel like a little kid again. Next to my bed I have four carefully wrapped Christmas gifts and I'm so excited to give them away. I prepared one for the people I care about at Hogwarts. One for Y/n, Anne, Ominis and Imelda. It felt weird getting a present for Imelda as we were never really that close, but we had spent some time together lately and it really is in my interest to care about her as she is Y/n's best friend and Ominis' girlfriend. They got back together a week ago. This resulted in Ominis, who usually kept things to himself, talked about her constantly. It was getting a bit annoying at this point, but given how much he's heard me talk about Y/n it's only fair that I listen to him. I get out of bed, put on a knitted sweater and head down to the common room.

Right in front of the window facing the Black Lake, Y/n's normal spot, is a massive christmas tree standing tall. It appears to be covered in snow and carefully decorated, giving the common room the exact right amount of Christmas feelings. Y/n's face lights up as she sees me, so does Anne's. I feel my heart getting warmer as I see two of my favourite people looking so incredibly happy. They all have cups of hot chocolate in their hands and Imelda quickly pours another cup and offers it to me.

''Merry Christmas,'' I say to them with a gentle smile.

''Merry Christmas,'' they all respond at the same time.

I sit down on the couch next to Y/n. She's in a knitted burgundy sweater with snowflakes on it, her hair braided into two dutch braids and looks incredibly beautiful. I take a sip of the hot chocolate, it tastes incredible.

''So, I was thinking that we could exchange gifts in the Undercroft later today,'' Anne says in a kind voice.

''That's a great idea,'' Y/n's voice is higher pitched than normal, indicating that she's in a really good mood today.

''I agree,'' Ominis says softly.

''Let's meet there after dinner, shall we?'' Anne asks with a smile. ''I'm spending the day outside, so I'd rather not do it before dinner.''

''Alone?'' Imelda asks with an intrigued voice, her face indicates that she's eager for information.

''No,'' Anne says and looks away, her cheeks flushing. Is she seeing someone?

''Do you have a date?'' I tease her, her eyes light up with joy and she nods carefully.

''With whom?'' Y/n asks quickly.

''Probably Poppy,'' Ominis responds with a cheeky smile and Anne's face is getting more red than before. She nods.

''Oh,'' Y/n says, sounding slightly surprised. ''I love that for you! Tell Poppy I said hi.''

My hand searches for Y/n's and I carefully intertwine our fingers. I squeeze her hand gently and she puts her head on my shoulder. Imelda gives us a smile, then looks at Ominis and Anne.

''I'm going to get ready for the day,'' she says and stands up. ''Anne, I'll see you tonight. Ominis, let's meet in the Great Hall in a bit.''

They all wander off, leaving me and Sebastian alone. She looks at me with sparkling eyes.

''Merry Christmas,'' she says with a big smile.

''Merry Christmas, darling,'' I say to her and kiss her forehead. ''I just assumed we'd spend the day together, but I realize that's not how I want to do it. Y/n, will you spend the day with me?''

Her eyes light up even more, if that's possible. She nods and gives me a big smile.

''Thought you'd never ask,'' she says with a cheeky smile. ''I'm all yours.''

I feel my stomach fluttering as she says that. Something in me tells me that it's time to properly ask her if she wants to be mine again, but I have been scared of moving too fast with her. For her, I'd wait until the end of time. But I'm also getting impatient, I want to call her mine and I want to be hers. Even though it may already be that way, I want to say it out loud.

''That's my girl,'' I say to her and feel my heart beating a bit faster as her cheeks flush.

I meet her outside the castle. She's in a skirt with that same knitted sweater as before, still braids in her hair. She looks so beautiful as she's walking towards me and I feel like the luckiest man in the entire world, getting to spend the day with her. It's such a privilege to even exist at the same time as her, but even more getting to spend my days with her.

''I'm afraid I don't really have anything planned for us,'' I say to her and put my hands together. ''However, I've been wanting to take you to the unicorn den in the forbidden forest.''

''I'd love that,'' she says with a smile on her lips and we start walking.

The sun is warming my face and I have to squeeze my eyes slightly in order to see properly, as the sunshine on the snow makes my eyes hurt slightly. It's an absolutely beautiful day, the air is crisp and cold without being freezing. And there is Christmas spirit in the air. I hope Y/n appreciates the gift I prepared for her, but I'm feeling nervous about giving it to her. Inside of the forest, the sunshine is struggling to shine through the thick trees. It's slightly darker and colder, but it's still beautiful.

As we approach the unicorn den, we watch our steps carefully to not scare them away. There's two fully grown unicorns, one laying down on the ground with a smaller unicorn that cannot be older than a year. I feel Y/n squeezing my hand as we're watching the unicorns. I always found them to be so fascinating and mesmerising. Almost as if they're too pure for this world, as if the world doesn't deserve them. Now that I think about it, that is quite similar to how I feel about her. That the world is too ugly, too foul, for someone like her to exist here.

Y/n accidently steps on a stick, which the unicorns notice. The bigger ones quickly run away, but the small one stays. We stand completely still and the unicorn starts walking towards us, looking curious. Eventually it's standing right in front of us. I have never been this close to a unicorn, so I'm standing completely frozen. Y/n reaches out her hand and the unicorn carefully comes closer, allowing her to pet it. She gives me a surprised smile and encourages me to do the same. I carefully reach my hand out and the unicorn turns to me. I caress it's face, completely taken by the fact that I'm touching a unicorn. Soon, one of the unicorns returns and seems to encourage the younger one to come with them. We stand there and watch the unicorns leave. I'm in shock, but also feeling ecstatic about this entire event.

''That was incredible,'' I say to Y/n under my breath.

''It really was,'' she agrees and looks up at me.

I take her in my arms and kiss her lips carefully. Her lips feel like home and I just can't get enough of them. There are so many things I want to tell her, but for some reason the past is holding me back. The fear of getting hurt, the fear of rejection, the fear that I won't be enough. But I'm quickly struck by a thought that changes the way I see things. Life goes on no matter if you stay behind, stuck in the past, or if you take a chance at the unknown. And I don't want to live in the past, nor in fear, because there's nothing left for me there anymore. I stop walking.

''Y/n,'' I say and watch her as shes stops walking, turning towards me and looks at me.

''Yes?'' she replies in a soft voice.

''I love you. I love you more than anything in this world, I love you more than anyone I ever loved before,'' I say to her as I look into her sparkling eyes. ''I can't stand the thought of being without you and I don't want to live a single day where I don't get to call you mine.''

She tilts her head and smiles at me. Despite her silence, it feels as if I can read her mind.

''Sebastian,'' she says in a low voice. ''I will love you until the stars fall off the sky and I will be yours until the sun no longer shines. I know I had my doubts. But looking at it now, the answer is simple. It's you. It always have been and it always will be.''

''Be mine,'' I plead in a low voice, taking her hands into mine. ''Please, be mine.''

''I already am,'' she says in a soft voice. Her words sound as if angels are whispering in my ear. ''And I always will be.''

We walk back to the castle together, hand in hand. I feel as if the world has blessed me with the best Christmas gift I could ever ask for. There's not a single day during the time I've known her when I didn't love her. I knew right away that there was something about her and I'm eternally grateful that she has given me the privilege of calling her mine.

I am first to arrive in the Undercroft that night. It's not looking too cozy and for a night like this I want things to be perfect. I take out my wand and as I swing it a Christmas tree appears and the walls start filling up with cozy lights and magical plants climbing the walls. Much better than before. Anne is first to arrive. We haven't been as close after what happened, but I'm grateful to at least get to have her in my life. She gasps for air as she enters the room.

''Sebastian!'' she says. ''It's wonderful!''

''Thank you,'' I tell her sincerely. ''How was your day?''

''I had a great time,'' she says, looking down and her cheeks flush. ''Can I tell you something?''

My heart fills with joy as the question slips out of her mouth. I nod ecstatically. Even though it may not be much, this is the first time she has confided in me for over two years.

''I think I like Poppy,'' she says and avoids looking into my eyes.

''That's great, Anne,'' I tell her in a soft voice. ''Poppy really is a fantastic person with the biggest heart. She cares deeply for people.''

Even though I never spoke much to Poppy, I remember when I asked her about Y/n and how she was the first to really question my intentions about making up with her. In that moment I felt attacked, but in hindsight I'm glad to know that Y/n has so many people that care so much for her.

''I know,'' Anne says as a slight smile is curling on her lips. ''I guess we'll see what happens, but I just wanted to share this with someone.''

We're interrupted by Y/n, Ominis and Imelda who enter the Undercroft together. They are laughing and seem to have the time of their lives. Imelda's face lights up as she sees the Christmas tree.

''I didn't even think about decorating,'' she says with a massive smile. ''Y/n! Have you seen?''

''I love it,'' Y/n says with a smile, staring at me.

We all sit down by the tree together, putting the gifts underneath it. It's filled with beautifully wrapped presents in a wide selection of colours in terms of paper as well as ribbons. Ominis gives Imelda a gold bracelet and she looks incredibly happy as she puts it on. I give Anne a book on magic beasts and Anne throws herself over me in joy. Eventually, I turn to face Y/n. She has her hands on the floor, looking excited to see what I'm giving her. She carefully unwraps the paper and looks a bit surprised when she sees a book. She doesn't read very often, but hopefully this is going to catch her attention. The front reads ''How I fell in love with you, written by S. Sallow'' and she looks up with tears in her eyes.

''Thank you,'' she says in a low voice and wrap her arms around me into a gentle hug.

''I hope you'll enjoy it,'' I tell her with a smirk on my face.

''I love it already,'' she says as she opens the book and starts browsing in it, looking up with the biggest smile I have ever seen on her lips.

Imelda gives me some candy, Ominis gives me a neatly polished wand handle and Anne gives me an extremely luxurious quill. I'm unsure how she got the money to buy it, but I'm extremely thankful. Y/n looks secretive as she reaches for the last gift under the tree and hands it over to me. It's a small box with blue wrapping paper and a gold ribbon on it. I carefully unwrap it and I'm shocked to see what's inside. A gorgeous silver watch. She helps me to put it on my wrist and smiles as she sees the result. It's absolutely stunning and it looks beautiful on my wrist.

''Thank you, darling,'' I say to her and kiss her cheek. The others smile at us.

We spend the evening in the Undercroft, laughing and enjoying the Christmas spirit. It really is something absolutely magical about spending an evening like this with the people you care most about. The joy, the laughter and the conversations. As I leave the Undercroft with Y/n I stop us in a doorway, just to look at her. Her hair is falling over her shoulders and she's looking at me with happy eyes. It feels as if my heart is melting when I look at her. Above us a mistletoe is starting to evolve, carefully growing. I put my hand on her face, cupping her cheek with my hand and stroking it with my thumb. The other hand goes in her hair. I lean forward, but before I kiss her I take a good moment to look into her eyes and let the tension build up.

''Merry Christmas, darling,'' I say to her before I gently press my lips on hers. This is the best Christmas I have ever had and I can't wait to spend all other Christmas days with her.

''Merry Christmas, love,'' she says back and kisses me one more time before we head back to the common room.