#why's he gotta look like a jolly little elf

[columboscreens]

[marvelfansince08love]

A Christmas Gift

Word Count: 4K

Pairing: Cordelia Goode x Ally Mayfair-Richards x Reader 

Warning: Smut 18+ (a little filthy, you’ve been warned) 

Enjoy my loves! Merry Christmas to you all, Mwah x

This is how I picture Cordelia’s dress later in the fic (may have gotten carried away so I’ll just go hide in a corner lmao)

Tagging a few of my loves💛 : @waitingfortheendtocome @natasha-danvers @mssallymckenna @grilledcheeseandguavajelly @pearplate @r0an0ke @coconutlipss @minavenable @venablemayfairgoode @versonstar @veteranwerewolf95 @fandom-nsfw-things @saucy-sapphic @creepingwolfberry @nyx-aira @witchxaf @duchessfics @billiedeansbottom

A Christmas Gift 

The smell of freshly baked cookies and coffee travels from the kitchen as you take in the Christmas morning. Smiling softly as you pass the living room, presents stacked high around the tree that stands tall in the corner of the room ready for a certain well behaved boy; who continues to sleep peacefully unaware that the big guy in red has been and gone. Wrapping your arms around yourself, your smile turns into a huge grin when you take in the scene before you. Ally stands by the coffee machine as she pours coffee into her mug humming quietly to the well known Christmas song that plays from the speaker, Cordelia sways softly to the beat of the joyous tune placing the cookies onto the plate at the kitchen table. Leaning against the doorframe you bask in the image before you, grinning ridiculously when you take in their red and white pyjamas that match your own. Oz had insisted that this year you all wore matching pyjamas on Christmas day and you were not to change out of them all day, Ally had put her foot down about that last part. 

Cordelia notices your presence first, gazing over at you with her chocolate brown eyes so full of love as her lip twitches into a soft grin. You move away from the doorframe, tiptoeing quietly over to your blonde wife, pressing a kiss to her hair as you whisper into her ear, eyeing Ally who continues to tidy around the counter area still unaware of your presence with her back turned as the music blares from the speaker next to her. 

“Merry Christmas, my love.” Cordelia leans into you, a soft smile appearing on her lips. Her gaze meets yours as you nod over to your brunette wife, winking playful at the blonde as her eyes sparkle with mischief. Moving away from the witch, you move quietly over to Ally wrapping your arms around her waist holding her flushed against you, feeling her tense for a brief moment before relaxing into your familiar embrace. Propping your chin onto her shoulder, you turn slightly to press a delicate kiss to her exposed neck. 

“Merry Christmas, beautiful.” You whisper close to her ear. She turns in your arms holding onto your shoulders as she pecks your lips, smiling widely against your mouth. 

“Merry Christmas, sleepyhead.” She teases, before turning back around and grabbing the freshly brewed coffee and the herbal tea, brushing past you playfully she places the tea in front of the blonde who sits at the kitchen table. She kisses the brunette in thanks, brown eyes locked onto brown for a moment a feeling of warm contentedness flows through the room as you watch the pair, your heart full at the sight. You are interrupted by the sound of loud thudding as smaller feet sprint down the stairs, making you share a knowing look with the two matching their grins. Oz sprints straight into the kitchen, his eyes bursting with excitement as his thick blonde hair sticks out in all directions, glasses slightly crooked perched on his nose. 

“He’s been, he’s been!!” He exclaims, grinning from ear to ear. Ally moves forward first wrapping her arms around his shoulders, kissing the top of his blonde curls. 

“Wanna see what he’s left you?” She mutters into his hair making the boy nod excitedly before sprinting off in the direction that matters most. You smile into your mug basking in the smell of coffee early in the morning, as Ally races after the boy. Cordelia glances over to you a mischievous glint within her brown eyes as she saunters over towards you, eyeing her form you watch on in apprehension. The blonde witch flushes herself up against your side as she takes your mug grimacing slightly at the strong coffee smell, placing it onto the counter next to her. Her lips brush along your cheek before resting close to your ear. 

“I hope you enjoy your present, my love. I have to say it fits perfectly.” She purrs, before leaving a wet trail of kisses along your neck. Within a blink of an eye the blonde saunters off following the departed footsteps of your other wife and son. You gape for a moment, your brain trying to process her words as if you imagined them before shaking yourself out of your dirty thoughts and sprinting after your family. 

‘God I love Christmas,’ You thought wistfully, coffee long forgotten. 

***

You were never one for Christmas holidays, the idea of a big jolly fella in a red Santa suit delivering presents always seemed so ridiculous to you but as you sit curled up into the corner of the sofa with the comfortable weight of your excited son snuggled close to your side, you are thankful to have a new, more positive perspective on the day. With the wrapping paper now removed from the living room; per Ally’s request and presents neatly piled in the corner of the room, you all sit cozied up around the big TV, watching as the tall giant dressed in an elf’s costume runs around New York looking for his dad. Cordelia glances over to you from above Oz’s mob of blonde curls and winks smiling softly as she pulls Ally closer to her on her other side. The peaceful atmosphere is quickly ruined by the horrible sound of your cell phone, groaning as you gently remove the tired boy that is slumped against you, who automatically curls into Cordelia making your heart ache at the disruption. Grabbing the irritable phone from the table, you quickly answer the person who is intruding on your family time. Ready to give them a piece of your mind, you pause after hearing the sound of sobbing coming through the other end. 

“Katie?” You ask, frowning at her heart wrenching sobs. You feel Ally and Cordelia’s gaze on you as you remove yourself from the living room, confusion evident within their matching brown eyes. 

“Y/N, I- I’m so sorry f- for calling you. Oh my god why did I-i call you, it’s fine I can sort it,” Katie stutters between her sobs, scolding herself. Quickly moving into the hallway and away from tiny prying ears, you try to calm her. 

“Katie, dear. I need you to breathe for me so you can tell me what’s wrong, okay?” You instruct softly, you jump slightly at the light touch on your shoulder. Turning to see a frowning Ally who eyes up the phone in your hand, she mouths ‘is she okay?’. You nod reassuring her, squeezing her hand before turning my attention back to my business partner.  You hear her take a deep breath in before rushing out a very in depth story about how the business deal with Harrison and Co has fallen through and how she’s tried her best to regain their attention, even amending certain demands  on the contract but with no such luck. 

“Y/N, I am so sorry. I really tried to get them back on our side but..” 

“They want to talk to me.” You state, knowing exactly where she was going with this phone call the moment you picked up the phone. Your eyes lock with Ally’s as you watch her bite her lip, her eyes full of understanding but you know by the slight dip of her brows that she’s disappointed. Sighing tiredly you continue your conversation with Katie. 

“Are they there now?”

“Yes, they would like to discuss with you new terms. Again I’m really sorry Y/N.” She apologises, sounding like she is on the verge of tears again. You reassure her and tell her that you will be there within the hour. Ending the phone call makes you huff in frustration, the only thing helping you relax is the soft touch of your wife’s hands that cradle your face, her thumb stroking calming strokes against your cheekbones. 

“Baby I’m really sorry-” Ally shushes you softly, pecking your lips in reassurance understanding the importance of this deal. 

“You gotta do what you gotta do, baby. We’ll be here with some hot cocoa when you get back annnd my parents are excited to have Oz tonight,” She trails off suggestively, biting down on her lower lip with a quirked dark eyebrow. You match her grin, kissing her hard, appreciating her understanding nature. Wrapping your arm around her waist you pull her close and slowly make your way back into the living room, feeling your shoulders tense slightly when you see your two favourite blondes singing softly along with Jovie and Buddy. Cordelia glances over to you both noticing your tense posture and sadden eyes, due to her distraction from her duet with Oz the boy turns around curiously looking at you and Ally with his big brown eyes. 

“You okay, Mama?” He asks, his innocent voice making you melt at his concern. Moving away from Ally you round the sofa and crotch in front of the boy. 

“You remember that big business deal Mama and Aunt Katie were working on?” He nods along, remembering the many nights you and Katie would work rather late into the night, stacks of paper scattered around the kitchen table. “Well it seems the boys we were working with no longer want to and they are being a little greedy and wanting more… candy from us,” 

“That’s very greedy Mama,” He adds, agreeing with your analogy. You grin softly and you see the soft glint in Cordelia and Ally’s eyes as they sit either side of him. Brushing his messy mop of hair from his eyes you continue. 

“Yes, very greedy Ozzy. So, because the boys are being greedy, Mama needs to go and ask if the boys would like to play nice since it’s Christmas and all... I’m sorry Oz but I promise tomorrow I’ll pick you up from Grandma and Grandpa’s house and we can go down to Milton Hill and go sledging!” You promise watching as his eyes light with glee at the prospect. He sticks out his pinkie finger to you making you smile softly before proceeding to lock your larger pinkie with his sealing the deal. 

“Deal Mama! Can we ask if Jackson can come?!” He asks, his voice becoming louder with the excitement. You nod vigorously basking in his excitement and slightly relieved that you have such an understanding family. Luckily this is the first and will definitely be the last time you miss out on Christmas for work - deal or not. Reaching up to place a kiss on the crown of his head, you move over to your blonde lover, conflict still evident in your eyes, she gently grips your clothing and pulls you closer, your nose brushing softly against hers as she presses a delicate kiss to your lips. 

“Hurry up home, my love.” She whispers gently against your lips as you pull away, flustered by the intensity of her brown eyes as she eyes you lovingly. Clearing your throat you nod stumbling to your feet, as Oz giggles into Ally’s side at his blonde mothers mischief, you quickly press a gentle kiss to Ally’s temple on your way past, heading for your shared room to change. 

Once changed and with more kisses given you head out into the cold quiet afternoon ready to get your deal finalised and sealed, determined to get back to your wives before nightfall. Stepping into the car you glance briefly through the gap of the living room curtain taking in your family who are still in their matching pyjamas, wanting nothing more than to be snuggled amongst them. 

***

Stepping back through into your warm toasty home you sigh, finally relaxing. Placing the cold bottle of champagne onto the side table, you remove your coat and gloves shaking the small remanence of snow. Frowning at the quietness, you remove your boots and head for the living room taking the cold champagne bottle with you. You stop abruptly by the open door frame staring openly at your senator wife, who is currently lounged lazily over the single armchair, her legs hanging over the arm of the chair, her skin glowing a light orange from the burning fireplace beside her. A lovely shade of Christmas green lingerie on display for your eyes only, with a book in her hand she peeks over her page to take you in through hooded eyes before her eyes land on the loosely gripped bottle. 

“They accepted?!” She asks, her voice laced with excitement placing her book onto the small table stand next to her. She slowly gets up from her position and saunters over to you agonizingly slow as you both drink each other in. Your eyes darken the closer she gets, seeing how well the bra fits her breasts making them look exceptional against her chest. The contrast between the green material and her skin are undeniably pleasing, her dark brown hair that frames perfectly around her face tying up the view in front of you perfectly. Licking your lips hungrily you finally find your voice and reply. 

“They did, I thought we could celebrate.” You inform, tightening your hold around the neck of the bottle. She nods only half listening to you as she skims her fingers up your arm and towards your neck where she laces her fingers around your neck  keeping a tight hold of you actively pulling you closer to her. Brushing her lips across yours, she allows her tongue to leave a wet trail against your dry lips warming them from the bitter cold outside, you gasp at the warm touch. 

“Let me go and grab the champagne glasses, I’ll be right back. Don’t move,” She husks against your lips before sauntering away from you giving you a great view of her ass as she sways purposely. Fighting back a groan, you scan the room for any traces of your other wife knowing that the crafty witch wouldn’t be too far away from all the fun. 

“Delia is sorting out your Christmas gift, Oz left with my parents about half an hour ago,” Ally answers my non-vocal question, watching as a knowing glint shines bright in her dark eyes. You squint at the innocent expression that she gives you, knowing there’s more to her words. She chuckles lowly while taking a hold of your hand, transferring the bottle into her other arm, holding the three glasses in her hand. Your eyes darken further as you watch the curve of her ass with every step she takes leading you up the stairs. Ally stops by your shared bedroom door turning to wink at you before letting go of your hand.  

“Wait right here.” She demands, before sneaking into the bedroom shutting the door closed, leaving you no time to peek into the room that holds your Christmas gift. Not a moment later Ally comes back out, slightly breathless as you take in her blown dark pupils with a dirty grin she asks you the most important question. 

“Are you ready for your Christmas present?” She entices, coming to stand behind you placing her one hand over your eyes as the other pushes open the door, guiding you into the room you bite your lip in anticipation as you await for the darkness to unfold from your eyes so you can take in your surprise. Soft hands disappear from your eyes allowing you to open them at Ally’s soft instruction. 

Your eyes widen with lust as you take in the sight before you. Lying lazily on the bed with her back against the headboard, long blonde locks trail down over her covered breasts, is Cordelia. A short red bow tied teddy lingerie dress fits snugly around her body, the end brushing barely over the tops of her thighs as she grins straight at the pair of you, slowly bending both her knees spreading them apart given you a glimpse of her matching panties she beckons you forward with the crook of her finger. 

“Merry Christmas, Baby. Why don’t you go and unwrap your present?” Ally drawls into your ear, tracing the shell of your ear with her tongue making you shiver on the spot. You answer by removing your work clothes as quick as possible watching as Cordelia bites her lip in amusement at your enthusiasm. 

Now dressed down to only your underwear, you feel Cordelia’s heavy gaze drop to your breasts licking her lips hungrily. Before you advance forward you quickly turn and pull Ally flush against your body hearing her gasp at the sudden new position enjoying the feeling of your skin against hers, pressing a hard kiss to her lips you quickly pull back, eyeing her appreciatively. 

“As long as I get to ravish both my presents tonight,” You comment, a roguish grin appearing on your face. 

Ally giggles at your teasing demeanour before nodding biting her lip. Pressing a kiss to her neck, you turn back around and focus on your blonde wife. Keeping your eyes locked with hers you move forward slowly, taking her in from head to toe. Crawling onto your Queen sized bed you settle yourself in between her legs, placing your hands above either side of her head holding tight to the headboard. Bending down slightly you take her lips with your own in a delicate, slow kiss. Hearing her hum in satisfaction you deepened the kiss, bringing one hand down to grab hold of her breast, squeezing gently making her gasp. Her sudden gasp allows you to brush your tongue gently over hers, tangling them together as you continue to kiss sloppily. Pulling away slightly you look over your shoulder to see your brunette wife stalking around the bed, her eyes never leaving your entangled forms, you remove the hand that has found its place on Cordelia’s breast to entice her to join you. Her eyes brighten at the invitation, joining you both on the bed she lies on her side flushed against Cordelia as the blonde reaches over to capture the senators lips, the feeling of arousal settles low in your stomach at the sight beneath you. 

You move away briefly while they continue to make out, straddling Cordelia’s hip you finger the loose bowtie that keeps her breast hidden. Gently pulling at the material you watch satisfied as the bow becomes undone in front of you, revealing the swell of her breasts and perky nipples. Cordelia gasps as the cold hits her exposed chest, pulling away from Ally in the process who eyes her wife's’ breasts. With a similar thought process, you and Ally dive straight for the blondes chest taking a nipple into your mouth each and sucking delicately at the sensitive nub. Cordelia moans loudly into the lightly dimmed room, her hands instantly finding their place on top of your heads, keeping you both close as you lick and suck at the aroused nub. 

“Mmm, yes just like that.” She breathed, allowing her head to lean back against the headboard as she fidgets under you. 

You both continue to tease at the blondes chest watching as her breathing becomes more erratic, your hand skims down the side of her toned body feeling the material against your fingertips before reaching soft skin under the teddy dress. Removing yourself from her waist you settle in between her legs, your stomach pressed against her core making her rock against you harshly needing some friction as her arousal builds. You latch back onto her nipple as Ally moves to suck gently on Cordelia’s neck, her thumb brushing over the sensitive nub. Removing your mouth from her breast, you slither south pushing the material up towards her breast exposing her stomach. Placing wet kisses along her stomach you move closer to her wet spot, already smelling her arousal. Hovering close against her most needed spot you brush your nose gently against the offensive material before moving to focus on her inner thigh, nibbling softly at the skin before reaching for the panties sliding them along her toned legs wanting rid of the pair. You groan at the sight before you as you take in her already glistening pussy as she whimpers. 

“Baby, please. I need you.” She whines, before latching her lips onto Ally's, taking the brunette's bottom lip in between her teeth pulling a groan out of Ally. Satisfied with her pleads, you brush lightly over her slit with your tongue feeling her hips thrust upwards seeking firmer pressure. 

Pressing your tongue harder against her wet pussy, you continue to pleasure her with firm strokes of your tongue, collecting her arousal before latching onto her clit. You feel a second pair of legs next to you begin to fidget as Ally waits patiently for your attention. Moving your mouth away briefly, you grasp at Ally’s ankle gaining the brunettes’ attention from Cordelia’s lips. She eyes you, her gaze slightly hazy from her pleasure. 

“Lie next to Delia, baby. I told you I want to ravish both my presents tonight.” You husk, your words breathless as you eye her hungrily. Obediently, she lies comfortably next to Cordelia opening her legs slightly to allow you access. You moan at the dark wet patch against her green panties, tapping at her ankle she lifts her hips allowing you to remove her panties. Now settled, you reattach your mouth around Cordelia’s clit, as your thumb rubs firm circles over Ally’s clit watching as she withers above you. You continue to tease them with your mouth and fingers feeling them both thrust against you as they seek for more friction. Moving your thumb from Ally’s sensitive clit and your mouth from Delia’s you sit back leaning on your heels as you look down at the pair, bringing your fingers that are covered with Ally’s arousal to your lips making a show of wrapping your tongue that’s covered in Cordelia’s wet mess around your fingers watching as the pair follow your movements with their dark eyes. Placing your hands on top of Ally’s knees you gently pull her legs further apart before diving for her wet pussy, watching through hooded eyes as she throws her head back and arches her back at the touch. Cordelia whimpers at the site of her two loves, she goes to place her finger against her throbbing clit but you gently slap the hand away and take over her needs sliding your finger in between her lips, collecting her juices teasing her entrance before entering her  as your tongue continues to twirl around Ally’s throbbing clit. 

You feel your own pussy throb at the sight of your wives both coming undone by you, withering and pleading for release as you continue to pleasure them until they tighten around you feeling them clench and pulse around your tongue and fingers. Moans and groans grow louder the closer they reach their orgasm, glistening bodies coming undone before you. They both relax almost simultaneously as they allow their orgasm to wash over them. Your eyes sparkle with lust and love as you watch them catch their breaths, Cordelia’s lovely new red teddy dress crumbled and flimsy against her form. Placing one leg in between their open ones, you lean forward hovering over the pair as they look at you with hooded dark eyes. 

“Champagne?” You ask, licking at your lips hunger still evident in your eyes. They match your gaze and grin. Before they answer you squeal loudly as you feel yourself be removed from above them, Ally wraps her arm around your waist swapping your position from above them to lying against the soft mattress, your wives faces above you as they remove the remaining pieces of their clothing. 

“Drink can wait, we want to celebrate Christmas properly,” Ally's sultry voice sends shivers down your spine as you wiggle in anticipation. 

“Well then, Merry Christmas to me,” You mutter to yourself, grinning from ear to ear feeling grateful for these two goddesses that brighten your life. Christmas may have been a ridiculous holiday in the past for you but it’s true meaning has since changed since meeting these two wonderful women and your sweet blonde boy who is the beautiful mix of them both. With no more words spoken you allow the pair to worship you into the early hour, enjoying their soft touches.

[charliejrogers]

Klaus (2019) Review & Analysis

I remember recently discussing with my fiancée how, though there have undoubtedly been a number of Christmas movies released in the last twenty years, none have really risen to the level of a “classic” – something you would want to watch every year as part of a tradition. It’s true I have not seen it, but still something tells me that 2008’s Reese Witherspoon vehicle Four Christmases is not on anyone’s annual watchlist… nor 2017’s Mel Gibson-infested Daddy’s Home 2. We concluded that the last “classic” was 2003’s Elf. And, while Christmas movies don’t have to mention Jesus or religion obviously, please don’t try to tell me that Frozen is a Christmas movie… it’s not! In some ways, given how secular things are, I began to wonder if there even was a market for holiday family fun movies, but of course, I’m an idiot because you can just make a whole movie about Santa Claus. Move over, Jesus, we gotta talk about the reason for the season!

Klaus released last holiday season on Netflix and at least in Chicago I saw billboards for it everywhere. Netflix went all in on promoting this as the next big Christmas movie and had some moderate success; they even grabbed an Oscar nom for best animated picture. Unlike most animated films these days, Klaus was made by neither DreamWorks nor Disney, and it shows. It lacks the refined polish of a Disney/Pixar feature, but also has a heart unlike a DreamWorks picture. The animation style can be best described as a hybrid of 2D and 3D (yet not quite 2.5D). At times the character models look like classic hand-drawn 2D models set within a mostly computer-generated 3D environment. But at other times, they look more 3D. It’s confusing to describe, and inconsistent to watch. It often felt like I was watching a compromise between a studio that wanted a distinct animation style but didn’t have the budget to fully realize it. Still, more often the not it’s a pretty movie.

More than the raw visuals, the movie has a fantastic sense of atmosphere… perhaps even too much at the beginning. Klaus is, in one sense, the story about how a lonely woodsman becomes the legendary Santa Claus, but for such a jolly premise, much of the film is shrouded in shadows and dominated by an oppressive, cold, snowy bleakness. In retrospect, this makes sense as the true triumph of Santa and “Christmas spirit” can only be best appreciated when it brings light to the darkest of places and times. Still, upon first viewing, I was quite surprised and shocked by the dark atmosphere and downright violent imagery on display at the beginning of the film, so much so that I was wondering if this really was a Christmas movie!

The darkness stems from the fact that our woodsman Klaus lives deep within the forest on a far north island, far far from the closest village which is a town called Smeerensberg and is famous for its never ending feuding and wickedness. It’s a genuine Nineveh of the North so it seems. The town’s feud centers around two rivalling clans (the film’s equivalent of the Hatfields & McCoys) and every villager belongs to one clan or the other. The two families’ feuds go back longer than anyone can remember (cave paintings exist that depict their feud), implying an original sin of sorts with the town being more born from hatred than spawning it. Hatred is so foundational that it infects every part of society. Unwilling to allow children to interact with the rival clans in classrooms, children just don’t go to school. Instead, they roam the streets playing pranks on old people and stabbing snowmen with carrots.

For the most part, Klaus lives his life separate from and unbothered by these unruly residents of Smeerensberg. What breaks his solitude is the arrival of a new post officer to Smeerensberg. More than a trivial side character, this post officer, Jesper Johansson, is surprisingly the main character of this movie all about the origins of Santa Claus.

Much like the residents of Smeerensberg, we the audience come to the film with a primary misunderstanding, much of what makes Santa famous today (the home invasion via chimney, the responding to letters, the reindeer-pulled sleigh) were the creative inventions of a spoiler-brat-turned-postman. So despite this movie being about the origins of Santa Claus, being a Christmas movie, you should have guessed that this will be some variant on Dickens’ classic tale. Jesper isn’t a classic Scrooge in that he doesn’t abhor Christmas, but he is self-absorbed, materialistic, and all-around not a great guy. He’s the spoiled son of a successful postal worker who controls a postal empire that looks more like an army. (The true fantasy of this movie has nothing do with sleigh bells and stocking stuffers… it’s the idea that the post office is a well-organized, well-respected, successful enterprise.) Anyways, recognizing his own son’s worthlessness, Jesper’s father decides to whip him into shape, ship him off to the God-forsaken land of Smeerensberg with an ultimatum: Jesper must process 6,000 letters from the town of Smeerensberg in a year or else be cut off from his father’s wealth. The problem? With how ugly the feud is in Smeerensberg, no one needs to write a letter to express their feelings when a cold snowball to the face (or worse) will get the point across quite clearly.

So now with the spoiled postal heir longing for silk sheets as he tries to survive out in the cold boonies, the movie gets a hint of the Emperor’s New Groove flavor… sans llama. It is only by sheer “chance” (we’ll get to that) that when Jesper visits the woodsman in a last ditch effort to find one person on the island who wants to send a letter, a piece of paper falls out of Jesper’s bag as he flees in horror of the woodsman (we’ll get to that).  This piece of paper contains a drawing that a little boy made of himself locked in a high tower looking sad. In a very humorous scene, we had seen Jesper accidentally stumble across this drawing and then unsuccessfully try to scam the boy into giving him money so that Jesper could “mail” it back to him, rather than just give it back. Regardless, recognizing the little boy’s suffering, the woodsman decides to do something about it and enlists Jesper’s help. Luckily for the children of Smeerensberg, the woodsman has a barn full of toys. Yes, “a barn full of toys” is as creepy as that sounds and the films uses that creepiness to full effect when Jesper first meets the woodsman. The large, imposing, hooded, axe-bearing woodsman is far from the jolly fellow we know he is destined to become. He’s downright scary and given how violent the town of Smeerensberg is (Jesper almost dies when he first arrives because he’s tricked into ringing the war bell which sends the whole town into violent frenzy), we and Jesper are not wrong to assume the woodsman holds only ill-intentions. Essentially, the first meeting with the woodsman is supposed to be something akin to the reveal of the Beast in 1991’s Beauty & the Beast, a film so scary it sent my then two-year-old sister running out of theater in tears. Ultimately, I can’t speak for the mind of a child, but the tension for me here is certainly lessened by the fact that… well… we know the woodsman is Santa Claus. So even though Jesper is scared shitless and flees after meeting the woodsman, we know that there will be more to their story.

Still, even if not necessarily scary, the film does successfully shroud the woodsman in mystery, and his backstory is slowly and beautifully revealed throughout the film. I won’t spoil it here, but the script does a fantastic job of contextualizing the woodman’s stoic and aloof nature and explaining why that barn is so full of toys. The explanations come naturally and speak to a real human pain that I was not expecting from this film. In terms of emotion, the woodsman’s backstory almost reaches the opening montage to Up. ALMOST, I said, so put down the pitchforks!

So Jesper and the woodsman team up to deliver a present to that first child from the drawing. Or more accurately, the woodsman throws Jesper down a chimney to deliver a present while the woodsman looks on. The ensuing scene when the boy opens his present brought tears to my eyes. The woodsman (and we with him) watching the pure joy of a child receiving a present is truly nostalgic in its most literal sense. It hurts to see such joy, remembering that at one time you too could feel such joy from a hunk of plastic, and knowing you will never feel that way again. It’s a joy that few films outside of A Christmas Story with its the red rider BB gun really nail. Anyways, the little boy sees the woodsman through the window and finds his original drawing of himself locked in the tower which the woodsman leaves behind by accident. He surmises that the postman had devliered his drawing to the woodsman, and the woodsman responded with a present.

After that… well the rumor spreads wildly of the mysterious woodsman who comes down chimneys at night to give presents to children in response to letters. Now, the once dormant post office becomes a bustling hub of activity as children from all over flock to send letters to this Mr. Klaus. Kids even beg to go to school so that they can learn to write in order to get presents (much to the dismay of the disilliusioned teacher who long ago gave up on her dreams of teaching in a town where no child goes to school and had turned to being a fishmonger in order to pay the bills and one day afford to leave the town for good).

Gradually the children, who seemingly had no toys prior to Klaus and Jesper’s escapades, now joyously play together, regardless of which clan they belong to. Initially this upsets their parents greatly, but in the end it’s hard to really hate the parents of your children’s friends. The film promotes an age-appropriate and inspiring, if fanciful and naïve, notion that all the world’s problems would be solved if we all thought like children. As by spreading joy throughout the town, Jesper and Klaus inadvertently make the town a better place to live. It’s the theme of the film (not that they’re subtle about it): one act of good-will always begets another (or something like that). Still, all this doesn’t please the village elders, who abhor the change from the town’s hateful origins. They will ultimately serve as villains trying to put an end to all this gift-giving business.

Of course, there’s another villain of sorts, as well. Despite all the good he’s doing, Jesper is ultimately still motivated mostly by the notion of getting back to his old cushioned life. He is essentially using Klaus and preying on his kindness in order to launch himself back to a life of selfishness. It’s here the story feels most Dickensian, particularly in a scene where the school teacher (now love interest) acts functionally the same to the ghost of Christmas present and takes Jesper to the city center to see for himself the love and joy that he has helped bring to the world. But, still his desires to go home are strong, and, of course, he keeps them a secret. So between Jesper’s inner conflict about where he belongs in life and the external conflict of the community trying to fight back against a change in its culture, the film naturally comes to climax when the two conflicts meet and Jesper must confront both challenges at once.

What I’ve realized in writing this review … is that I am very impressed by the plot’s complexity and depth. The film weaves together at least three solid story arcs (Jesper’s coming-of-age/Scrooge-like-change-of-heart, Smeerenberg’s bubbling kindness revolution, and the woodsman’s aged hero who finds redemption and purpose after so many years alone). That all three feel fully supported and without any bloat is a testament to its absolutely solid writing, and for a kid’s film no less! Furthermore, the “origin” story genre can sometimes fall flat as it can just feel like the writers are writing more Wikipedia entries, explaining how every little aspect came to be more than just telling a good story. I call it the Han Solo trap. As for Klaus, the little tidbits about why Klaus uses reindeer and not horses, who the “elves” who work his workshop are, always clever and grow organically from the plot.

Plus, despite my opening doubts regarding whether the dark tone really fit a “Christmas” movie, the film very capably captures the joys of the Christmas season. Like Christians think about Jesus, Klaus/Jesper bring a world of light into a world of darkness. The film teaches about the importance of creating a loving community, of being selfless, and most importantly of respecting the spiritual aspect of the season. Even if this is a decidedly capitalistic/entrepreneurial movie, the film is not without a spiritual side. The previously mentioned “chance” of the woodsman seeing that initial drawing of the boy locked in the tower is no chance at all. Instead, throughout the film we see that the woodsman is “haunted” in a sense by a ghostly wind that points him in the path of righteousness. The film has its own explanation for what the force behind the wind is, but it is not too far of a stretch to point out the similarities between the wind and the Christian idea of the guiding Holy Spirit. Now, I’m not going to sit here and tell you that the woodsman represents God the Father and Jesper God the Son, (or is Klaus more the Christ figure?) because I think this movie is decidedly not Christian, but more I just want to highlight that I enjoyed that the film allowed for the presence of spirituality, which moves this film from the realm of secular kindness to one that recognizes the power and presence of some spiritual goodness, aligning with how many think of the “Christmas spirit.”

Now, let’s be clear, this is a fun, family classic, but it’s not a perfect film. In fact, I downright disliked the first twenty to thirty minutes, for the aforementioned tonal reasons, but also because I really disliked Jason Schwartzmann’s voice acting in the lead role of Jesper. My dislike lessened with the introduction of the woodsman, but it never went away fully. I can’t help but think this movie would be better with a different actor voicing Jesper. Everyone else does an adequate job with the voice work. J.K. Simmons as Klaus takes on an almost Batman-like stoic gruffness, and Rashida Jones as the teacher and love interest is just fine. And, again, I never really fell in love with the art style and it sometimes distracted me, and I found the soundtrack, particularly the main song to be rather lame and too much “of its time” than the typically timeless, more Broadway productions that Disney/Pixar put out. Still, director Sergio Pablos has done something I did not think possible. He and his team created a *new* Christmas classic, one that I’m sure will be played on an annual basis in many households across the world.

***1/4 (Three and a fourth stars out of four)

[holidaywishes]

Santa’s Pretend?

  Requested: 🙅‍♀️

  Summary: It’s Christmas time and the mall is packed. You take your daughter to the mall and Buck tags along because he wants in on the pictures.

  Warning: Some fluff, but really just Buck with kids and saying Santa isn’t real.

  Author’s Note: I saw this GIF set the other day of Buck + Kids and the last made me want to write a little thing about Buck saying Santa isn’t real to a kid and the mom trying to fix it.  GIF NOT MINE! Don’t @ me.

  masterlist

  the other masterlist

xx

  Christmas was a major event for the entire month of December around your house. Your parents had made sure it would be that way when you were growing up and the traditions just kind of.. stuck when you had your daughter. She loved Christmas just as much as you did and she made sure to make as big of a deal of it as your parents did every year; often over-exaggerating certain details to her friends. But the last two Christmases had been difficult, after the divorce, and you could tell that your daughter was feeling the stress of it all.

  “You ready for pictures?” you said enthusiastically to your daughter, who sat waiting for you on the couch while Miracle on 34th Street played on the screen.

  “We’re going to see Santa!” she exclaimed

  “And..” you started when there was a knock on the door, “Buck’s coming along for the day!”

  “Hey kiddo!” He greeted your daughter when you opened the door, outstretching his arms to catch her in a hug

  “BUCK!” she yelled out when she saw him, giggling when he picked her up.

  “Do we have a game plan?” He asked your daughter, mocking a serious tone and raising his eyebrow at her

  “We go in, stand in line, get the picture with Santa and then go skating!” She answered

  “Wha-?” you gasped, laughing at your daughters response, “Miranda! Who said anything about skating? Buck and I might have some things to do today you know...”

  “Skating won’t take long. Please!” your daughter whined and Evan joined her

  “Pleeeaaaseeeee!” You rolled your eyes at them before finally giving in

  “Fine. But only because it’s Christmas...” When the three of you got to the mall, Miranda immediately ran to line up to see Santa while you and Buck slowly followed behind her

  “Thank you,” you said to Evan, holding his hand while you waited in line, “I know this isn’t exactly how you wanted to spend your day off”

  “Are you kidding?” he countered with a smile, “I’d spend all of my days off like this. With you and Miranda.” You cuddled up next to him as the line moved slowly and kid after kid had their turn to tell Santa what they wanted for Christmas; you and Evan watch as Miranda got more excited with every step she took.

  “We’ll be back in five minutes everyone!” the Elf-Clad volunteer said from the makeshift North Pole, “Santa’s gotta recharge with some Hot Chocolate! Stay put and we’ll see you soon!”

  “What?!” A man yelled from the front of the line, “we’ve been waiting here for three hours and now that we’re at the front of the line you’re walking away?”

  “Sir, please,” the volunteer said calmly, “Santa needs a break. I understand that the wait has been long but his break will be quick. Believe me, he’ll be back in a Jiffy!” You and Evan smiled at each other at the young Elf’s attempt at staying positive

  “I don’t give a rats ass!” he yelled, leading you to cover Miranda’s ears before the man said anything worse, “if he knew he was going to get so tired so fast maybe there should’ve been a maximum for this line up. To prevent all of us wasting our god damn time while he sits in the back and gets drunk!”

  “YEAH!” the people in the lineup reinforced the mans points but you just looked around anxiously

  “I mean why should we let a drunk guy in a costume talk to our kids in the first place?! Have them sit on his lap?!”

  “YEAH!” The crowd repeated

  “I’ve got shit to do today and I don’t want to waste another three hours waiting for Jolly ‘Ol St, Nck to come back just as drunk as when he left!”

  “Mommy?” Miranda asked you, turning to face you, “what’s going on?”

  “Nothing sweetheart,” you answered, “a man is just upset that Santa went on a break.”

  “Santa went away?”

  “He was thirsty so he went to get some Hot Chocolate!”

  “Are we going to see him?!” Miranda asked, panic starting in her voice

  “Of course, baby,” you said, brushing her hair behind her ear, “we just have to wait a little bit longer.”

  “THERE’S KIDS HERE WHO WANT TO SEE SANTA!” A lady from behind you yelled, presumably after listening to the conversation between you and your daughter

  “Miss please” Evan started

  “Santa will be back soon and all the children will be able to see him before the day is done!” The volunteer repeated

  “LET THE KIDS SEE SANTA!“

  “Miss” You and Evan tried to calm the lady down before things got too out of control

  “BRING BACK SANTA!” She chanted and it wasn’t long before the entire line was chanting along with her

  “BRING BACK SANTA! BRING BACK SANTA! BRING BACK SANTA! BRING BACK SANTA!”

  “IF YOU DON’T BRING HIM BACK,” you heard the man at the front shout, “I’LL GO BACK THERE AND BRING HIM OUT MYSELF!”

  “BRING BACK SANTA! BRING BACK SANTA!”

  “Mommy!” Miranda’s voice was trembling with fear and you kept her close to you

  “Evan maybe we should go,” you whispered, “I don’t like this.”

  “Yeah, maybe you’re right.” He agreed but not before the angry man stormed behind the curtain and brought out the Mall Santa who let out a string of curse words leaving all the parents desperately trying to cover their children’s ears

  “Santa said bad words!” Miranda stated before Evan picked her up and the three of you left the line and made your way to the skating rink

  “Miranda,” Evan started, kneeling in front of your daughter to try to explain, “I know you heard Santa say some bad words but you don’t have to worry about that okay?”

  “Why not?” Miranda asked and you listened intently, furrowing your brow as you were unsure of what he was going to say

  “Because that wasn’t really Santa!”

  “What?!” Miranda exclaimed and you hastily shook your head as your eyes grew wider at his confession, hoping he’d notice you

  “No see. That guy was just pretending to be Santa!”

  “EVAN!” You yelled in a whisper to him to get him to look at you

  “Santa’s pretend?!” Miranda started to cry, “Mommy! Why is Buck saying that Santa isn’t real?!“ You knelt down in front of her, glaring at Evan before looking your daughter in her eyes

  “Let’s go get some Hot Chocolate okay?”

xx

  When you got home, Evan lingered outside the door not wanting to overstep his bounds.

  “Come in, Evan...” You smiled and he obliged

  “So...” Miranda started, climbing up on the couch, “Santa’s not real?”

  “I shou--” Evan began but you stopped him by putting a finger in front of his lips, smiling at him before shaking your head.

  “Do you remember when I first told you the story of Santa Claus?” You asked and she nodded as Evan slowly sat on the adjacent couch, “Did you ever have any questions about how any of it was possible? Even when I told you it was magic?”

  “I guess...” she replied

  “Well here’s the truth. There isn’t one Santa. The Santa at the mall was one of many Santa's”

  “So Santa is pretend..? How do the presents get under the tree and in the stockings?”

  “Well.. Mommy does that.” Her eyes fell to the floor, “your grandparents did that for me and their parents did that for them and so on. That alone doesn’t make us Santa.”

  “I don’t understand” she admitted and you smiled

  “There is magic in Christmas. In the things that you cannot see and can only feel and believe in. Santa is that magic for so many of us, even if he’s not a real person. We’re all Santa. We keep Santa alive so that the magic and the spirit of Christmas can live on in you and me and Evan and Chris and Eddie and Bobby and Daddy and everyone we know and love. Daddy and I taught you to believe in Santa so you could believe in yourself too. In your ability to be kind and loving and gentle and jolly and hopeful and giving and strong and happy. So, no, there’s no one Santa and they don’t live at the North Pole. Santa lives in our hearts. I’m Santa, Buck is Santa and you will be too. We’re all apart of this wonderful, magical secret as long as we keep the spirit alive. Does that make sense?”

  “I think so.” She said as you leaned in to hug her tightly, “so like. We’re part of a secret club but we can’t tell anyone?”

  “Yeah. Kind of.” She smiled at you, “I love you sweetheart.”

  “I love you, too, Mommy,” she jumped off the couch and started to run to her bedroom to get ready for bed, “I love you too Buck!”

  “Love you kiddo!” He turned to you and smiled before dropping his head to the floor

  “Hey” you laughed

  “I’m sorry” he responded

  “Don’t be. I think it’s good that we were able to talk about it. I mean, sure, maybe I would’ve liked it to happen differently but we were bound to have the conversation eventually.”

  “You were great though” he smiled

  “Trust me, I’ve been googling this stuff for years for fear that this day would come,” you confessed, “I found all these speeches on Pinterest. Thank Goodness for Pinterest.” You and Evan both laughed before you heard Miranda call out for him to tuck her in and you were left alone, realizing you know had to tell your ex that your daughter knew the truth about Santa.

[madpanda75]

“Santa Surprise” Part of the Hostage Series

A little holiday story featuring my Barba family for @thefanficfaerie​‘s Christmas OTP challenge. There’s domestic fluffiness mixed with a hint of smut. ❤️

Prompt 16: Santa

Slightly NSFW (Santa kink, anyone??)

Rafael finished wiping down the counters after dinner when something odd struck him. It was quiet—too quiet. You offered to host the SVU holiday party and were currently out shopping with Liv, leaving Rafael alone with a five year old and two toddlers. Creeping into the living room where his children were, he expected total chaos, but instead was greeted with a picture perfect moment.

There was Mila sitting in front of the fireplace flanked by her two siblings while she showed them her pop-up book of The Night Before Christmas. “On Christmas Eve, Santa Claus comes down the chimney and then he leaves you presents under the tree,” she explained, pointing to the fat, jolly man dressed in red. “But if you’re bad, then you get coal.”

“No one is going to get coal this year,” Rafael said. “Santa just texted me and he said you all have been very good.”

Mila gasped and looked up at her father in awe. “Papi, you know Santa!”

“Of course I do,” he replied and picked up Rory and Ben, kissing them both on the cheek. “Ok, my little reindeer. Bath and bedtime."

Ben giggled and pointed to Rafael. “Santa!”

Rafael shook his head. “No, I’m not Santa. I’m Papi.”

“No, you Santa,” Ben replied.

“Santa!” Rory chimed in, grabbing at her father’s beard.

Rafael let out an exasperated sigh. Ever since he had decided to grow a beard that winter, the twins had taken to calling him Santa. It was beginning to get old. He walked up the stairs, balancing the twins in his arms with Mila following close behind.

“Papi, is Santa going to be at the Christmas party?” Mila asked while Rafael was wrangling Rory and Ben into the bathtub.

“Maybe, but remember muñequita, Santa is very busy this time of year. He may not be able to make it,” Rafael replied. Just then Rory escaped from the bathtub and ran down the hall, screaming and leaving a soapy trail.

“Oh God, we have a runaway. Rory, come back!” Rafael got up and chased after the naked toddler.

Mila grabbed the rubber ducky from the sink and handed it to her little brother. “Looks like someone is getting coal in their stocking,” she said in a sing-song voice, making Ben laugh.

*****

Rafael was utterly exhausted by the time you came home. After getting Rory back in the tub, Ben decided to make a run for it, escaping down the hallway. Once the twins were finally bathed and put to bed, Rafael then had to negotiate bedtime with Mila. He sang. He danced. He read stories. He was beginning to feel like a one man show on Broadway.

Staring at his reflection in the bathroom mirror, Rafael tilted his head from side to side, noticing the grey that streaked his hair and beard before looking down at his soft belly. No wonder the twins kept calling him Santa.

With a sigh, he shut off the bathroom lights and walked into the bedroom where you were waiting. Taking one look at your poor husband, you held out your arms to him. Rafael collapsed onto the bed and into your warm embrace.

“Rough night?” You asked.

“Mmhmm.” He nodded, his head practically buried in your chest.

You softly laughed, having experienced bedtime with Mila and the twins when Rafael was working late. “Thanks for watching them. I really appreciate it. There was no way I could’ve gone shopping with those three running around the store.”

“Anytime,” Rafael replied, his voice muffled against your skin.

You ran your fingers through his hair, massaging his scalp. A groan escaped Rafael’s lips as his body began to relax. He nuzzled against your chest making you giggle and squirm. “Your beard tickles.”

Rafael raised his head and saw the red mark he had made on your sensitive skin. “Sorry,” he sheepishly said.

“Don’t be. I love it,” you purred.

“You do?”

You smirked and stroked his scuff. “You look so sexy with a beard. It drives me crazy.”

Rafael wiggled his eyebrows suggestively. “Good to know,” he whispered and pushed up your flimsy silk nightgown, exposing more of your bare flesh. He lay open-mouth kisses on your stomach, dragging his tongue across your skin while spreading your thighs with his large hands.

You bit back a moan and tried to focus, knowing that if he kept this up you would forget all about what you had planned to ask him all evening. “So Liv and I were talking,” you abruptly said.

“Uh-oh, never a good sign,” Rafael murmured against you.

“And we were thinking what if you dressed up as Santa for the holiday party?”

Rafael stopped and met your gaze. “Santa? Really? I don’t know,” he groaned. “The squad would never let me live it down. I already dress up for Halloween, now I gotta be Santa too?”

“Everyone would love it! Besides don’t pretend you don’t love dressing up for Halloween every year.” You sat up and playfully narrowed your eyes. “I see how excited you get when we pick our family costumes.”

You had him there. Over the years, Rafael had grown to love Halloween. Being married to you, it was hard not to be. This past Halloween you were characters from Alice in Wonderland. You dressed up as the Red Queen. Rafael was the White Rabbit. Mila was Alice, and Rory and Ben were Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum. It was becoming a sweet family tradition.

“Fine, I’ll think about it,” he said and gently pushed you back down onto the bed before going back to his previous task of leaving a trail of kisses down your body.

“Liv and I found a really nice Santa suit,” you said.

“Mmmhmm,” Rafael mumbled while nibbling on your inner thigh. You gasped and arched your hips towards him.

Rafael was playing dirty, trying to distract you from your mission. But your husband underestimated you. You were determined to get him to play Santa. “The guy at the store is keeping it on hold for us. I have to let him know tomorrow if we’re going to take it,” you continued. “We thought you could dress up and pass out treats to the kids.”

Rafael huffed out a breath. “Mi amor, can we talk about this later. I’m a little preoccupied at the moment,” he said, gesturing to your open legs.

“I just think it would add such a great touch to our party and the kids are so excited for Santa this year. Mila even made him an invitation.” You scrambled out from under Rafael and grabbed Mila’s invitation from the top of the dresser, handing it over to him.

The invitation was a picture Mila had drawn of herself and the twins with Santa. The little five year old even signed her name along with a few scribbles in red and green crayon which he suspected were Rory and Ben’s signatures. The drawing tugged at his heart strings. He felt like the Grinch whose heart grew three sizes. If he could be a Lewis Carroll character for his family, he could certainly be good ol’ Saint Nick.

“You promise it’s not some cheesy polyester suit?” Rafael asked.

“Actually I think it’s a cotton-poly blend. A light breathable fabric.”

Rafael gave you a warning look. “Y/N.”

“I’m just kidding. It’s a nice suit. Way better than any Santa costume you’d find at the mall.”

“Alright,” he conceded and set Mila’s invitation on the nightstand. “I’ll be Santa.”

You squealed with excitement and wrapped your arms around Rafael. “You are the most incredible husband and father. Have I ever told you that?”

“You have, but it doesn’t hurt to say it again,” he teased and planted a searing hot kiss to your lips. “Now that we got all that sorted,” he purred, kissing down the gentle slope of your neck. “May I please—” His mouth moved lower, kissing the swells of your breasts. “Continue what I was doing earlier.” He pulled your nightgown off and kissed a path from your right hip to your left hip.

You softly moaned, your eyes slipping close. “Whatever you say, Santa,” you breathed with a hint of a smile on your lips.

Rafael’s eyes darkened. In an instant, he had you flipped onto your back. “Oh you’re asking for it now, cariño.”

*****

It was the night of the party. Rafael and Sonny stood outside on the front stoop. When you stopped by the store to pick up the Santa outfit, you spied a beautiful lime green and red elf costume. It even came with pointy shoes. You rented the outfit and miraculously had managed to talk Sonny into being an elf. “I still don’t see why you get to be Santa,” he grumbled. “Whoever heard of a 6 foot elf.”

Rafael rolled his eyes. He was beginning to sweat within the red jumpsuit. His face itched and he silently cursed himself for not shaving before placing the fake white beard on top of his real beard. “For the last time, it’s my house and Y/N asked me to be Santa.”

“I’m just sayin’ I’m always Santa at the Carisi house.”

Rafael gave Sonny a dead-pan stare before knocking on the door.

“I got it,” he heard Fin say. Fin opened the door to see Rafael and Sonny dressed in their Christmas regalia and took out his phone to snap a picture. “I got my Christmas gift right here,” he laughed.

Rafael and Sonny walked past a still laughing Fin and into the house. “Hey everyone! Look who’s here,” you announced when you saw your husband and partner.

“Santa!” All the kids exclaimed and ran towards Rafael and Sonny. Rafael smiled and said hello to everyone in his best booming Santa voice. He had to admit seeing the children’s faces light up with joy made it worth dressing up in a ridiculous costume.

“Ok, kids. Santa is going to sit by the Christmas tree. You can each go see him and get a treat from his elf.” You looked back and winked at Rafael and Sonny.

Rafael sat down in a big armchair while the kids lined up. Fin’s grandson, Jaden, was first. He wanted Transformers.

When Noah asked for a puppy. Rafael glanced up to see Liv vehemently shaking her head at her son’s request. “Uhhh….you may need to ask the Easter Bunny for that one,” he told the little boy.

As soon as Amanda place Billie and Jesse on Rafael’s lap, they screamed and cried. Amanda laughed and took a few pictures. “They’ll love these pics when they’re older,” she teased.

It was Mila’s turn after that. With a shy smile, she hopped up on Rafael, then the inquisition started. The little girl was relentless, asking question after question.

“Santa, did you bring Rudolph with you tonight?” She sweetly asked.

Just as Rafael was about to answer Sonny interjected. “He’s back at the North Pole,” he said with a mouthful of cookies. “Santa only takes Rudolph with him when the weather is bad.”

“Oh, ok. What about the fireplace? What do kids do when they don’t have fireplaces. Do you still give them gifts?” Mila looked up at Rafael with big green innocent eyes.

“Well….I��you know fireplaces…” Rafael’s voice trailed off, trying to come up with a plausible answer.

“I know what Santa does. He uses Christmas magic,” Sonny answered before chugging a glass of milk.

“Actually my elves also freelance as chimney contractors,” Rafael replied, not wanting Sonny to outshine him. After all, he was Santa.

Sonny snorted a laugh. “Really, Santa? Chimney contractors.”

Rafael glared at Sonny and flicked a bell dangling from his hat. “Why don’t you go and pass out the candy to the kids.”

“Tough gig,” Sonny mumbled and went to pass out treats.

You watched Mila’s interaction with Rafael and had to bite your lip to keep from laughing. She was definitely her father’s daughter. “Baby, why don’t you tell Santa what you want for Christmas,” you said, deciding to save your husband from Mila’s line of questioning.

When Mila was finished, you brought over the twins. Rory and Ben held hands and warily eyed the man in red. “This must be Rory and Ben.” Rafael picked up the twins and set them on his lap. “What would you two like for Christmas?”

Rory smiled and pointed at him. “Papi!”

“No, Rory. I’m Santa,” Rafael said with a nervous laugh. “Unbelievable,” he thought to himself. The first time in weeks the twins call him Papi and its when he’s in a Santa costume.

Ben shook his head and giggled. “No, you Papi!” The tiny toddler yanked off Rafael’s fake white beard in front of everyone.

There was a collective gasp in the living room. You and Rafael locked eyes. His panic-stricken expression matched your own. “Papi? You’re Santa?!” Mila exclaimed.

All the children began to cry, asking their parents if Santa was real. It was amazing how in the blink of an eye, your party turned into a total disaster.

“Remind me again why we decided to do this?” Rafael shouted to you above the pandemonium.

It took a while, but the adults were finally able to calm everyone down and tell the children that there was indeed a real Santa. With some quick thinking on your part, you explained that Santa and Rafael were friends and Santa sometimes asked Rafael to help out when he couldn’t attend parties due to prior engagements. Rafael agreed, saying it was a little job he had on the side during the holidays.

The older children were a little skeptical of your story, but after bribing them with a few more chocolates and some additional questions from Mila, they seemed to be appeased and the party went off without a hitch.

*****

Later on that evening, you checked on Mila and the twins. They had passed out as soon as the party was over. You walked back to your bedroom, expecting Rafael to be fast asleep only to find him sitting in a chair in your bedroom with a mischievous grin on his face. He was shirtless, wearing only the red pants and suspenders along with the Santa hat, having forgone the fake white beard and red jacket.

A tingle shot straight to your core. You never had a Santa kink...until now. “Santa, what are you still doing in here?”

“Well, I was about to leave, but then I realized I never asked you what you wanted for Christmas,” Rafael said.

“Give me one second.” You held up your finger and ran to your dresser.

Rafael spied a flash of red when you pulled something out of your drawer before you made a beeline to the bathroom. He twiddled his thumbs and whistled a Christmas song while patiently waiting for you.

Just then he heard a crash coming from the bathroom. “Ow, fuck!” You muttered.

“Everything ok in there?”

“Yep,” you called out, slightly out of breath. “Be right out.” A minute later, you opened the door dressed in a sheer red lace baby doll teddy lined with white faux fur and a matching red lace thong.

Rafael audibly gulped, drinking you in from head to toe, all the blood in his body pooling in his groin.

“Well, what do you think.” You blushed and slowly twirled to show off the lingerie before sauntering over to Rafael.

“I love it, he softly groaned and ran his large hands up your thighs and around to your backside, giving your ass a firm squeeze. “Wait, you didn’t get this while out shopping with Liv, did you?”

“No,” you giggled. “I picked this up a while ago. Finally thought of an opportunity to use it.”

Rafael looked up at you, his green eyes half-hooded with lust. “Why don’t you come sit on Santa’s lap,” he purred and patted his knee.

You straddled his lap and ran your fingers through the smattering of hair across his chest, playfully snapping one of his red suspender straps. “I have to tell you, Santa. I’ve been really naughty this year,” you softly said, grinding against his growing erection.

“Well let’s see what we can do about getting you back on the nice list,” Rafael growled, kissing down the slope of your neck. You gasped and dug your nails into his biceps, feeling his scruff scratch against your soft skin. Rafael smirked, nibbling and sucking until a bruise formed right above your clavicle. Inhaling deeply, he could smell the Christmas cookie body spray you had spritzed on earlier. You smelled good enough to eat.

It may have been a crazy chaotic evening, but one thing was for sure—playing Santa certainly had its perks.

@glimmerglittergirl​ @southern-magnolia​ @sweetcannolicarisi​ @delia26​ @obfuscateyummy​ @sass-and-suspenders​ @eclecticminded​ @thatesqcrush​ @katmstanton​ @amirightcounsellor​ @beltzboys2015-blog​ @letty-o​ @sonnysdoll​ @lyssa1385​ @sweetsummertime99​ @burningsorr0ws​ @gibbs274​ @izzythefanfreak​ @riodallas​ @babypink224221​ @livxrafa​ @esparza-army​ @obsessionprofessional​ @ottosuricato​ @melsquared79​ @dreila03​ @frenchiefoxy​ @tropes-and-tales​ @thecraziestcrayon​ @goodluckfindingone​

[imaginexmeintheuniverse]

Your Friendly Neighborhood Helper

12DOCOTP Day 2: Character A works as a Santa’s helper. Character B has a small sibling/child. + Character A is desperate to find a particular item (book/toy/etc.) as a present for someone, but it’s been sold out everywhere. Character B helps.

Pairing: Peter Parker x Fem!Reader

A/N: I switched up the characters for this prompt a little wherein the reader has a small sibling and is desperate to find a particular item, and our sweet bean works as Santa's helper (how freaking adorable would that be) and helps the reader find said item!

*Y/S/N: your sister's name

❄ ❊  ❄  ❊  ❄  ❊

"Next!" An elf leads the way for you and your little sister to go see Santa Claus.

Waiting in a line of screaming kids for over an hour, only to see mall Santa for two minutes isn't exactly how you wanted to spend your Saturday morning, but you do love your little sister, so here you are.

Walking  your sister up to Santa's throne, you help her get up on this lap, and back away to be out of the picture. You stand behind the elf who takes the pictures, unable to see his face that's pressed up against the camera to look through the view finder. Something about him looks very familiar.

You watch your sister with a smile, remembering how excited you were when you were her age and your parents took you to see the big jolly man. She's beaming at the man as he asks her what she wants for Christmas and whispers her answer into his ear as though it's a secret, but you already know what she wants. You already looked everywhere but couldn't find the one toy she wanted.

"Y/N, are you okay?" You're more than a little creeped out by a stranger knowing your name, until you actually look at the person and realize it's one of your classmates.

"Oh, hey Peter," You look him up and down, taking in his embarrassing, but adorable elf outfit. "I didn't know you worked here."

"Yeah," he says sheepishly, tugging at the large bow around his neck and hoping you can't see the blush spreading on his cheeks. "I'm taking pictures for a little extra money to help out with the holiday shopping." You nod, and glance over to your giggling sister. Peter can't help but notice that you're a little off. "Really though, is everything okay?"

"Uh, yeah—" You hesitate for a second, unsure about whether or not you should bore him with your worries. "Just some holiday stress— I don't want to bother you with the details—"

"You're not bothering me," He toggles with the camera before looking up and giving you a warm smile. You're not close with Peter, only making occasional eye-contact during lectures, and casual conversations during labs here and there.

"Well, it's just that my sister really wants this toy for Christmas— it's the only thing she's been asking for, but it's the most popular toy of the season and it's way sold out."

"What's the toy?"

"This Spider-Man action figure— she has all the Avengers figures— but there's this new Spider-Man suit and he's her favorite hero, so she really wants it, and I can't find it anywhere—"

"I can help you."

"Huh?" You stop your nervous rambling, unsure whether or not you heard him correctly. "But it's sold out— and I've checked everywhere in New York!"

"I know a few store owners here in the mall," His smile is contagious, and looking back at where your sister sits, happily clutching the small toy Santa Claus handed her.

"Really?" You ask him, offering a cop out, because you don't want to drag him into your holiday mess.

"Y-Yeah, a close friend of mine actually," He bends down, focuses the camera, and presses down on the shutter. "Say cheese!" The camera clicks and flashes a few times, and you can't help smiling at the sight of how overjoyed your sister looks. "I get off in a couple hours, can you meet me back here?"

"Sure," Your little sister hops off Santa's lap and runs over to you— practically tackling you with a hug, and show you the little penguin plushie. Taking her hand, you turn back to Peter before heading off. "Say thank you to Santa's helper for the lovely picture, Y/S/N."

"Thank you," She beams at him as he hands her the picture.

"Thanks, Peter," You tell him, mostly thankful and surprised at how reassuring he is. You're not sure what it is, but something about being around Peter has always made you feel safe; like everything's going to be all right.

"I'll see you later," he calls after you as your sister drags you away to see the elf village.

"Hey, Y/N," You sister tugs at your sleeve to get your attention. "How do you know Santa's helper?"

 ❄  ❄  ❄

You brought your sister back home, and your back at the mall now, two hours later, waiting for Peter just like he told you. You're browsing on your phone, looking at online stores for any hope of finding your sister's present, but none of the options seem promising. All fakes with a ridiculous flaw, or the real thing but it won't arrive until after New Year's.

"You ready to go?" You turn around to see Peter standing behind you, tucking the rest of his elf outfit into his backpack before slinging it over his shoulder.

"Yep," you answer, standing from the bench and slipping your phone in your pocket.

"Come with me." He starts walking in one direction, and you follow closely behind him. "We got one hour before stores close." You nod like you're accepting a top secret mission, and the two of you speed up your pace.

The first store he brings you to ends up being a dead end, and the second, yet another disappointment. The third store gives you a little hope, only to be let down again.

"Come on, Tony, you gotta have something," Peter pleads with him. He leans in close and whispers to him so you can't hear him say, "I'm trying to help out this girl I really like."

"Sorry, Parker, I'm all out until boxing day."

"Thanks anyways," You thank the man and walk out of the store dejected. Peter seems to be all out of ideas, which isn't comforting, but you do really appreciate all the effort he put into helping you out.

"Thanks, Peter, but I think she'll just have to wait this time around." He opens his mouth to answer, but then closes it, instead pulling out his phone and writing a message at the speed of light. Your gloomy expression soon turns into a confused one as you wonder what he could be rushing so hard for.

"I've got one more thing I can try," He says, grinning excitedly at you.

 ❄  ❄  ❄

"Hey— Y/N, h-hi!"

"Ned?" You turn to Peter, totally confused as to why he's brought you to his best friend's house.

"Hey Ned," Peter greets him, and Ned lets the two of you inside. The two have you sit on the couch before heading off to Ned's room, leaving you there, still confused.

"Dude! You didn't tell me Y/N was with you!" Ned bursts out immediately after the door closes and Peter hushes him, hoping you didn't hear.

"That's why I need that new release!"

"But I just got it!" Ned whines, grabbing the figure that's still in its box.

"Please!" Peter pleads, still trying to get Ned to calm down. "I can get you another one— Y/N's sister is a big Spider-Man fan and this could be my shot—"

"Say no more," Ned hands him the box, knowing how long Peter's been crushing on the girl from chemistry. "But I also want the new Captain America that comes out in the New Year."

"You got it! Thanks, Ned."

You leave Ned's as soon as you came, saying your goodbyes, and when you get to the subway station, Peter pulls a box out of his backpack, smiling.

"Peter, you're the best!" you exclaim, tackling him with a hug. He chuckles as he stumbles backwards a little and bringing an arm around your waist to steady himself. "I-I don't know how to thank you! This is amazing."

"It's nothing," He shrugs, but his rosy cheeks indicating otherwise. "It's not a big deal."

"This is a huge deal! Please, tell me how I can repay you."

"Y-You don't have to repay me—"

"I was actually thinking I could return the favour," A warmth creeps its way up your cheeks as you swallow your nerves. "Maybe with a movie Friday night?"

"Y-Yeah, that'd be- I-I'd like that."

"Great, I'll see you at school Monday," You say before turning towards your subway direction, and then something stops you. It could be how your heart rate just spiked way up, or the feeling of a thousand butterflies in your stomach, but something urges you to look back. You turn back and see Peter still standing where you left him, doing what looks like a happy dance of sorts, and watch him with amusement until he notices you. He instantly freezes and turns beet-red.

Closing back up the small distance you created between you and him, you march up to him grinning. You let out a small laugh at his perplexed expression before  placing your hands on either one of his shoulders, and planting one on him. Keeping it short and sweet, you pull back before he can even get over the initial shock. "Thank you, Peter."

And with that, you walk off to your train, leaving an adorable, blushing Peter feeling like he's walking on air.

[stardusttkachuk-main]

Night In

Title: Night In

Pairing: Sam x Reader

Characters: Sam, Dean, Reader, OFC (L)

Word Count: 670

Warnings: mild talk of periods, crap fic because I suck

Prompt: The Year Without A Santa Claus

Summary: Y/N, Sam, Dean and Dean’s girlfriend (L) all spend a night watching one of the oddest Christmas movies out there. After leaving, Sam suggests a little movie night of their own.

A/N: Okay, so this is a very rushed drabble but the fic I had planned for today just did not want to be written and I didn’t want to leave y’all without a fic. I will be posting two fics tomorrow to make up for this rushed job. So there will be 26 fics this Christmas, just deal with it.

This is Day 22 of 25 Days of Christmas. Check out the full masterlist here!

The holly jolly tune of “The Year Without A Santa Claus” rang through the speakers in Dean’s room. He sat on the edge of the bed, his girlfriend sitting right next to him. You planted yourself between your best friend and Sam, leaning into Sam’s shoulder.

“This is the best idea we’ve ever had,” you said, turning to your best friend and she nodded in agreement.

“Especially… now,” L laughed, watching as Dean scrunched up his nose.

“It’s still weird that you two are synced together, you know.”

“Actually, it’s totally normal,” you corrected. “When you get to be that close with another girl, things mesh.”

“At least you both know when it’s coming,” your best friend teased, elbowing Dean in the side.

“We know when to stay away,” Sam laughed. “Stay far, far away and huddle together and brace ourselves for what’s about to come.”

“This movie always used to freak me out,” Dean’s girlfriend commented. “It’s the way their bodies move. I don’t like it.”

“I only really like it for the Heat and Snow Miser song,” you giggled, biting into a dark chocolate bar. Sam opened his mouth, leaning over to sneak a bit. “Hey!”

“I bought it. I deserve a bite,” he said around a mouthful. You rolled your eyes. It was too hard to be mad at him, or even pretend to be mad at him.

“How weird would it be if Santa was real and there was a Christmas without him? I mean, there’s no way he’d never be sick. Do you think he’d just push through?” Dean had a lot of questions about the movie. Your best friend was asleep, her head resting on Dean’s thigh and his hands stroking through her hair. You were starting to get drowsy, but still awake enough to hold a conversation.

“There’s gotta be a backup, ya know? Or some sort of magic there that allows Santa health for one night a year,” you answered.

“Man, I’d like that magic spell or whatever,” he laughed.

“Be careful what you wish for,” Sam commented. “You know our job. Some sneaky witch could be listening in right now.”

“Unless it’s whatsername from Oz is back, I don’t think we have any witches living in the bunker,” Dean explained. “This place is pretty well warded, I think we’re good.”

L stirred in Dean’s lap. Sam smiled, taking your hand. “I think it’s time we hit the hay too,” he smiled, pulling you from bed.

“Thanks for the movie night, Dean,” You hummed. “See you in the morning.”

“You owe me breakfast,” he reminded. You sighed, remembering your little deal. Movie night in his room if you and L cooked breakfast in the morning.

“Yeah, you tell L that when she wakes up.”

Sam walked you down the hall. He did this silly thing where he’d wrap his arms around your waist, and waddle with you, wanting to stay as close as possible. Sometimes he’d rest his head on your shoulder or the top of your head, and other times he’d just keep it still and looking straight on. It was cute and he was warm, and the pressure on your cramping stomach made the period pains a little more bearable.

This time, as he walked, he snuggled his face into your neck, placing light little kisses there. “I love you, Y/N,” he whispered, opening the door to your shared room and without letting you drift too far, walking in with you.

“I love you too, Sam,” you told him, tipping your head to the side so his lips would meet yours.

“You tired?” He asked, finally letting go of you so you could change into more comfortable pajamas.

“Sort of. Why?”

“I was thinking we could watch another movie in here. One that doesn’t have creepy stop-motion animation.”

“Like?”

“Elf?” Sam suggested. You nodded, crawling under the covers. You only made it to the narwhal telling Buddy he hopes he finds his dad, before falling fast asleep.

Forever Tags: @iwantthedean @a-fan-fighting-for-equality @smoothdogsgirl @jayankles@faegal04 @feelmyroarrrr @27bmm @maddieburcham1 @melonshino @sayukoi@impalaimagining @riversong-sam @atc74 @goldenolaf25 @plaidstiel-wormstache@thegrouchiestunicorn @thebitterbookeater @growningupgeek @sandle44 @rda1989@weasleywinchester @fightmenegan @itsmyeffingstory @angelblazon @mrswhozeewhatsis@meeshw777 @jotink78 @poukothenerd @mogaruke @devilgirlsarah @queencflair @hexparker@ruprecht0420 @summer-binging-spn @holychuckitsthewinchesters @super100012 @jerk-bitch-and-an-angel @supernatural-jackles @taste-of-dean @casownsmyass @danradislife@holyfuckloueh @hsjolie @winchester-negan @emoryhemsworth @i-am-enough-always@samisimportant @brooke-supernatural16 @there-must-be-a-lock @greys-anatomy839@babytheimpalaimagines @obsessivecompulsivespn @superapplepie @esoltis280@mirandaaustin93

Sam Tags: @wildfirewinchester @thing-you-do-with-that-thing @katie-the-writer@lenawiinchester @bambinovak @lavieenlex @legend-o-zelda @20secspnfam4@barbedwireandbubblegum @lipstickandwhiskey @bemyqueenofdarkness @waiting4thedoctor@snarkpunsandsarcasm @itssierramcquade @xinyourdreamsx @blue-heaven-winchestergirl83@alwaysbummedout @born-to-be-his-baby88

25 Days of Christmas Tags: @alex-zeppelin @imagineplotfulcharacters @alwaysbummedout

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[awintersrose]

Comfort and Joy

Pairing: Jiraiya/Tsunade/Orochimaru

Rating: General

A little bit of silly holiday sweetness and fun. Modern AU.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of you <3

“Just hear those sleigh bells ring-a-ling ting-ting-ting-a-ling too! Come on it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with youuuuu!” Jiraiya belts, sweeping the wooden floors with gusto, the bell at the end of his hat jingling with every movement. It’s a little more than an hour until their Christmas party, and he is practically channeling Santa Claus.

Orochimaru wanders out of the master bedroom grimacing.

“Is that horrible noise really necessary? Or those?” he asks, pointing at the hat with its attached bells, jingling every time Jiraiya moves.

“So sorry to disturb you, my dear Grinch, but some of us happen to like being festive this time of year.” Jiraiya sticks out his tongue and finishes his task. “And don’t worry, the rest of my outfit will be even more jingly-jangly...as will yours.”

“Not a chance. I’m already dressed,” Orochimaru flicks his hair back, dressed from head to toe in shades of violet and blue.

Not festive whatsoever.

“You’ve got to be kidding me?!” Tsunade exclaims from their bedroom.

Jiraiya smirks and arranges the bottles of alcohol on the bar, and begins setting up the snacks and treats on the table. Looks like Tsunade has found his little surprise.

“I’m not wearing this.” She saunters out, waving the sexy Mrs. Claus outfit in his face.

“Oh, come on, Hime! I got it just for you, see? It draws lovely attention to every gorgeous part of you and since I’m to be Bad Santa, I need my loves -- that’s you two -- to play along.”

“Tsuna-chan, it would look rather fetching,” Orochimaru grins, picturing the skimpy red costume drawn over her generous curves.

“That’s only because you haven’t seen what he came up with for you. I will give you a hint - it involves curly toed boots and red and green striped tights.”

“Never happening.”

“Then don’t encourage him with mine.”

“Yours would fit the aesthetic much better.”

“Come on, you two,” Jiraiya cajoles, “How can I be Santa without my lady and sexy elf lover? Someone else would have to sit on my lap, and that’s no fun.”

“How about you nix the costuming and just enjoy a civilized holiday gathering with the rest of us?” Orochimaru asks, rolling his eyes.

“Because the whole point of a Christmas party is the theme and the *Celebration*. Gotta deck the halls and get jolly! Besides that, you know very well that any party full of drunk soldiers is going to be anything but civilized. The last big party involved outdoor games and bets, and one of Sensei’s nephews being carried home half conscious, with his underwear on his head.”

“We did not host that party,” Orochimaru asserts.

“You really think our peers won’t get rowdy? Methinks thou dost protest too much, my pretty love…” Jiraiya teases, poking the end of Oro’s nose. “I was only kidding when I called you the Grinch, but man, why do you hate Christmas so much?”

“I don’t hate it. I hate the irrationality it brings. And this legend of Santa Claus is nothing but a way to trick little children into being good all year for fear that they may not receive presents, which their parents will give them anyway. Also remember, my family doesn’t observe these traditions as more than a bit of pop culture frivolity, or have you forgotten? We’re Taoist.”

“No, you know very well I didn’t forget… you were just never this much of a grump about the holidays before,” Jiraiya sighs, giving up on his hope of getting Orochimaru into that sexy elf costume any time soon. “Well, it’s going to be a great party anyways. And the Christmas music stays, so don’t you dare touch that radio.”

“Fine.”

“And what’s your excuse, Hime?” Jiraiya raises an eyebrow at Tsunade.

“Me? I plan on drinking well tonight and...this skimpy thing is not sturdy enough to rely on during the festivities. Last thing I need is a wardrobe malfunction,” she teases.

“But it would be so much fun!”

“You would say that, wouldn’t you?”

In the end, the party is a rollicking good time, full of close friends and a few family members all making merry late into the night. Jiraiya stubbornly wears his intended costume, and entertains everyone as expected. Tsunade agrees to compromise on wearing the hat from her costume, and even Orochimaru manages to have a good time.

The party ends a couple of hours before dawn, and the three hosts agree to save most of the cleanup for the next morning. Orochimaru picks up at least one bag of trash and takes it outside, slipping something into his pocket that one of their friends had left behind.When he returns, Jiraiya and Tsunade have gone to settle down in the bedroom they all share. As Orochimaru goes to join them on the bed, he leans over and withdraws the item in his pocket, lifting it overhead.

“Oh dear, it appears we’re all caught under a sprig of mistletoe. I believe certain traditions are required.” He grins mischievously.

Jiraiya purses his lips. “I thought such things were only pop culture frivolity.”

“A blessing is a blessing, and according to you, anyone caught under the mistletoe during Christmas must observe this. Are you going to break the tradition?”

“Ha! As if I have to be asked twice…” Jiraiya tugs him close within a breath, kissing him, long and sweet, leaving Orochimaru breathless when his lover releases him.

“My turn.” Tsunade kisses him happily, if not a bit hungrily, and his golden eyes are darkened with a clear bit of lust when they are through.

“I believe I can think of another, better use for those outfits, Raiya-kun.”

For the Sannin, it is a very merry Christmas, and a truly good night.

[theresnosafeharbor4myships]

I received the prompt “mistletoe.” Hope you enjoy this one. (also on 9L)

Mistletoed

Michonne had come up with the idea for the Christmas party, but they’d decided to host it at Carol’s—quite possibly the worst idea Carol had ever agreed to. Not only had Michonne become a grumpy Christmas elf, what with her decorating requirements, must-have food list, and jolly music selection, but her constant badgering nearly had Carol climbing the walls.

Carol had helped scrounge for the holly and tinsel and baubles and ornaments for the big tree they’d asked Rick and Carl to cut down, the garland and lights, sweet-smelling candles, and other Christmas accoutrements, and nearly every house in Alexandria had contributed. Carol had graciously taken control of the menu, fulfilling her promise to ensure all items would make an appearance, regardless of how many substitutions it took to make it happen. She’d even assisted Michonne with the playlist, arranging the songs just so in order to keep the atmosphere jolly and bright.

Throughout it all, she’d kept her cool, letting Michonne freak and flip out over every minute detail. But now, with everything set and tinsel hung and carols playing and drinks bubbling, Carol could absolutely not stand another second of her friend’s company. And all because of one twig of mistletoe.

Just as they’d headed for the stairs to go get dressed, Carl had come blasting into the house, excitedly dangling the festive branch in front of him. “Look what I found!”

He’d proudly held it out to Michonne, who’d hugged and thanked him, then shooed him out of the house to go get cleaned up in time for the party.

And that’s when it started.

“Make sure you stand under the mistletoe, and I’ll send Daryl your way,” Michonne teased cheekily as she hung the vine above the front door.

Carol smiled indulgently, never letting her guard slip, and shook her head. But the thought of Daryl kissing her under the mistletoe—passionately, deep, soft, and sensuous—settled in her mind, making her hot with hopes of what would never be. A dream if she’d ever had one.

Michonne teased her as they climbed the stairs but, due to years of practice, she ignored the jibes.

She’d never admitted to anyone her feelings for Daryl—though she knew she writ it fantastically large whenever he came around. And she thought the same of was true of him. She didn’t have to wonder where Michonne got the idea from: they were homing beacons for one another and lit up like spotlights in a black hole when in each others’ orbit.

Still, neither Michonne nor anyone else had never mentioned it or badgered them about it, but the woman was on a roll tonight, and Carol ducked into her room to get dressed, thankful for a reprieve from Michonne’s good-natured, if annoying, jokes.

Carol had donned the sleeveless black dress she’d found and checked herself in the mirror, making sure the plunging, surspliced bodice covered the ladies properly. Faux pearl-drop diamond earrings and a delicate necklace completed the simple but elegant look she sought, and she applied a swipe of lipstick to her mouth before heading downstairs.

She’d made a final round of the house to ensure everything sat in its place and started receiving guests before Michonne waltzed down the stairs looking like a movie star in her skin-tight, powder blue halter dress.

The party had gone well from there—mostly. The guests, a few whose names Carol couldn’t remember, danced and talked and laughed and played games and drank and sang and had a merry time. It seemed all of Alexandria had turned out for the party—but why shouldn’t they? The community was small enough, and they all deserved what happiness they could grasp, especially her family who spent the majority of their time protecting and pilfering supplies for the place.

But she hadn’t seen Daryl until about a half hour ago. She would’ve noticed his arrival on any given day, but she felt especially attuned to him tonight, thanks in no small part to Michonne’s teasing and her own fantasies of making out with him under the mistletoe, standing pressed against the wall of his muscular chest, his strong arms wrapped around her, and his hair in her hands, the crowd of onlookers staring, with jaws dropped, at them finally getting down to it be damned.  

And damn Michonne for tempting the usually repressed idea into the forefront of her brain when she least needed it. Every time she passed by, she’d whisper some jolly little trifle in Carol’s ear. “Mistletoe kisses will make you a missus” and “It’s time to mistle his toes” and “What happens under the mistletoe, stays under the mistletoe” and “Use the mistletoe to start being naughty, and save Santa the trip.” She hadn’t let up all night. One more prod about the damn plant and she’d shove the prickly parts where the sun didn’t shine.

Daryl had stayed on the perimeter of the room, engaging in small talk with whoever stood around, but he hadn’t gone near the dancing. Somehow they hadn’t crossed paths yet, and she wondered briefly if he was avoiding her on purpose, though she couldn’t fathom why.

No, more likely it had to do with her hosting duties. She’d had to clean up after the kids, who’d smashed food into the carpet and spilled drinks on the kitchen floor, keep the ice bowl full and the drinks coming from the fridge, and even wash some silverware when they’d run out.

Overall though, she’d had fun, mingling with her friends and strangers, singing along with some of her favorite Christmas tunes, downing a couple of glasses of wine, and even snagging a quick dance with Carl as Rick and Michonne cheered them on.

But her heart sunk in her chest as people started to leave and she still hadn’t had a chance to talk to Daryl. She’d followed him with her gaze all night, admiring his broad shoulders, toned arms, and tapered waist in a black Henley. He kept his hair, overgrown but not shaggy, out of his eyes, and she’d noticed he’d dropped his guard a bit, enjoying a beer and some chuckles with their family.

She loved this side of him: the easy-going, pleasant, unwounded man at ease. She didn’t often see him like that, though he allowed her that view more than most others.

He’d caught her eye a time or two and given her that lazy half-smile of his and nodded but hadn’t tracked her down. Some hunter, she thought only slightly amused.

The house had nearly emptied out, and she started to clean up the mess left behind.

“Oh, Carol, can you help me?”

She turned to the foyer where Mrs. Parker stood holding her squirming, 9-month old son Jason, who refused to let her bundle him up.

Carol set down the cups she’d gathered and took the baby’s puffy jacket from Mrs. Parker, holding it up as the woman stuffed her baby’s arms inside. She zipped the jacket up for her and chucked Jason under the chin as they left, sending them off with a quick wave before closing the door behind them.

She turned back to the room, ready to clean, and stopped at the wall of man in front of her.

“Hi,” she chirped a little too enthusiastically, feeling nervous now that Daryl stood in front of her after nursing daydreams of kissing him all night.

“Hey. You done good…party was fun.”

“Yeah? You had a good time?”

“’Course. Wanted to talk to you, but I saw how busy everyone kept you.”

“Hosting duties,” she shrugged it off, wondering why she felt so childish. She’d harbored feelings for this man for years now, and she’d never felt like a bumbling fool in front of him before. It was that cursed—

“Aw, you two are standing under the mistletoe!” Michonne gushed just as the realization occurred to Carol.

Carol closed her eyes briefly when Daryl looked above them to see the hanging plant.

“You gotta kiss.”

Carol sent a glare to Michonne that she hoped conveyed a vehement ‘shut up!’ as Daryl looked down at the ground and shuffled his feet.

“It’s tradition.”

“It’s okay,” Carol started to brush off the suggestion, not wanting Daryl to feel like he had to kiss her. She’d rather live with only dreams of what it would feel like than to have those dreams replaced by the reality of becoming a charity case.  

“And Christmas,” Michonne urged. “Come on, it’s not a big deal. I’ll come over there and stand under it with you, Daryl.”

“Nah,” Daryl brushed her off with an accompanying wave of his hand. “You got Rick for that.”

He set his gaze on Carol, and she peered up at him, his face tinged pink. Her heart thundered wildly at the intensity of the moment, and the room suddenly felt like an inferno.

He swallowed hard. “Is it alright?” he mumbled, anticipation and fear evident in his voice.

Her knees nearly gave out as he asked for permission to kiss her. Permission. No man had ever…

“Yes,” she answered on a breath, goosebumps already racing down her arms.

It was really going to happen. He was going to kiss her. And not just kiss her: he’d asked to kiss her. Gentle but unsure, strong but afraid, the only man she could ever remember making her feel so hot and bothered and attractive without ever having touched her had just asked if he could kiss her.

She willed herself not to tear up.

She drank in his piercing eyes, the nervousness on his face, the column of his neck, the breadth of his shoulders. She thought her heart would beat a rhythm right out of her chest at the pregnant moment, wondering if he’d go through with it or not.

Finally, he drew close to her, his eyes on hers until they dipped down briefly to her mouth, and she couldn’t help licking her lips in anticipation. She swallowed hard at the flash of lust she saw in his eyes.

He gazed at her, and then time both sped up and froze as he leaned toward her, his eyes once again dropping to her lips before they slid shut.

Her eyes closed just as his lips softly, hesitantly pressed against hers, and she thought she must be dreaming. Heat emanated from the wall of his body in front of her. He moved his lips, and she followed suit, finding a tentative rhythm that sent chills up her spine and heat to her core.

He moved just a fraction away from her to whisper her name against her lips before he kissed her again, deeply and more intense this time. His left arm snaked around her, pulling her slowly into him until she stood flush against him, and he set his right hand against the wall at her back to hold himself up.

Carol’s hands splayed across his back, both feeling the muscles she’d spent so much time staring at and holding him to her,as he awakened sensations throughout her body she’d thought long-dead. She heard a moan, and she realized it had come from her when he responded with his own.

Daryl moved into her, and she felt the wall at her back, glad to have something other than her weak knees to support her. He pulled away only far enough to stare into her eyes, and she saw the same look of heat and wonder that she knew covered her face. She nodded, a small smile playing at her lips. One side of his mouth tilted up in response before he hungrily kissed her again, causing her to gasp before she greedily settled into his kiss.

Michonne stared gaping at her friends, wrapped up in each other, making out for all the world like they were alone.  

“Wow, I’m impressed,” she stated, both surprised and amused.

They didn’t hear her.

“Well….I suppose I’ll…just be heading out then…” she explained, the smirk receding from her face as she realized they had no intention of stopping. “I’m just…gonna…” She pointed unnecessarily at the back door, retreating from the lovebirds.

She saw Carol’s hand move out of the corner of her eye, but before she could determine if she waved or flipped her the bird, her hands were back in Daryl’s hair.

Michonne made a hasty retreat, shutting off the lights as she went, a devilish smile on her face at having instigated the best gift those two would receive in a lifetime: each other.

[recentanimenews]

FEATURE: Five Wild Times Santa Decided To Show Up In Anime

  It’s the end of the year which means it’s time to crank up the holiday music, put up some decorations, and watch a bunch of holiday-themed anime. It’s not often that the big guy will take time away from all his busy tasks up in the North Pole to grace us in a series. Oftentimes, you’ll just see a character dress up as Santa with the red suit and maybe a fake beard. What we’ve got here is the real deal, the head honcho, the guy who wants to make sure you’ve been nice rather than naughty. So, let’s check out some of the fun times where an anime included a fun Grandfather Frost cameo.

  Persona 4 The Golden Animation

    This episode in particular is wild in a multitude of other ways, but it is notable for Chie watching a movie where Santa is a martial artist. Considering Saint Nick has one day every year to prepare for, he’s gotta find something else to do in the other 364. Why not become skilled in a fighting discipline and challenge other folks in your downtime? Of course, that also means this version of Santa might become a little more hardcore than you’re used to when he promises to “dye this snowy tundra red with your blood.” 

  Hayate The Combat Butler!

    It’s not often a series premieres and shows you Santa right off the bat, especially when this version of Santa is rather blunt and kind of a jerk. Poor Hayate learns why he doesn’t get presents from Saint Nick, because as Santa tells him, he’s poor and needs to work for what he wants. That’s a tad harsh, especially considering the ol' jolly one is supposed to bring kids hope and joy! It’s probably for the best then that later in the episode, Hayate punches this Santa’s lights out with a solid right hand.

  Gintama

    It should come as no surprise that a show like Gintama would utilize Santa at some point — it’s also very much like Gintama to have three episodes feature Santa. We’ve got Kris Kringle and a human version of a reindeer in one episode, a majority of the characters dressing up as Santa in another, and of course, Santa casually wielding an axe in the third. It’s a very eclectic mix and an extremely wide range of what kind of Santa you might think of, which I’m sure means that someone out there has an annual holiday tradition of a Gintama Santa triple feature. As they should.

  The Big O

    You’ve got to be wary of sketchy looking Santas. Especially when they act all weird, walk on the railings of a bridge, and give you a funky jewel that turns out to be the key in a plot of eco-terrorism. So, there’s your word of warning, be careful of any Santa that gives you a very nice looking jewel. That goes double if you’re a struggling musician who just wants to do the right thing and buy a gift for someone. Also as an aside, I really wasn’t expecting when making this list to have basically half the list made up of bad Santas, but somehow here we are. Anime really has it out for the big guy from the North Pole it seems. 

  Sailor Moon S The Movie

  Image via Viz

  This is easily the most iconic moment featuring Santa on this list and arguably, in anime. While we immediately learn afterward that this Kris Kringle is Tuxedo Mask in disguise, it doesn’t change the fact that he pulls off a very good Mr. Claus. He nails the look and makes you think it’s just a regular old Santa, right before he rips off the entire costume like it’s a basketball warmup jacket and pants and reveals his true identity. I think this brief scene also brings up some questions like: Why does Tuxedo Mask have this elaborate Santa costume? Does he have backups in case he rips one off the wrong way? Where exactly did he get that sleigh with a blimp attached to it? Did he have to go as elaborate and extra just to unveil his ruse only a few seconds later? Okay, the answer to that last one is yes, absolutely yes. If there’s ever a scene to truly define having a Happy Holiday and a Happy New Year, it’s this one.

  It’s not always holly, jolly times when it comes to Santa showing up in anime. Sometimes he’s a jerk, sometimes he’s a demon, sometimes he wants to fight people, but oftentimes, it’s the same head elf you learned about when you were growing up. So, if you're in search for some holiday cheer, give these episodes a chance.

  What are some of your favorite random Santa cameos in anime? Let us know down in the comments below!

      Jared Clemons is a writer and podcaster for Seasonal Anime Checkup and author of One Shining Moment: A Critical Analysis of Love Live! Sunshine!!. He can be found on Twitter @ragbag.

  Do you love writing? Do you love anime? If you have an idea for a features story, pitch it to Crunchyroll Features!

By: Jared Clemons

[peter-pan-hoe]

Junior pt2

 Junior had changed a lot since becoming a crew emmber of the Jolly roger. Killian has become like a brother to her and the men have become her family. As she has no memeory of who she was she doesn't have anyone to hold her reputation for and so she is a little on the wild side.

Warnings: swearing, very light girl on girl smut(just some heated smoochies in an alley)

Pairing: Killian x adopted sibling!reader, unnamed woman from the bar x reader ;)

Sorry for any mistakes it was kinda rushed.

tags at the bottom.

Part 1

MASTERLIST

  “Junior!’ Killian’s voice rang up to me where I sat in the eagles nest atop the Jolly Roger.

  “What?” I called down.

  “We’ve been docked for an hour,” he leant casually against the ramp rail. “I found a nice dress shop you’d like,”

I glared at him as I climbed down the roped ladder.

  “Ha, ha, very funny,” I said sarcastically.

I punched him in the arm as I walked past him and down the ramp.

  “Seriously though,” he said walking after me. “I did find a decent pub we could get ale and a hot meal from. Or at least a warm meal,”

  “You had me at ‘ale’” I chuckled.

  “Now I know you’ve learned to handle yourself the years you’ve been with us,” he gave me his Big Brother look. “But no going off on your own,”

I opened my mouth to speak but he cut me off.

  “And that mean without a Jolly Roger crew member,” he said sternly, knowing what I was going to argue. “Not the company of some gross man you find in the bar,”

  “Sure thing KJ,” I looped my arm through his and dragged him along. “Thanks for not calling me a whore this time, brother,”

I did as told and didn’t leave the bar with some gross strange man. Instead I left with a beautiful strange woman.

I winked at Killian as I lead this woman by the hand out the door of the pub.

I dragged her round the corner into the alley by the pub and pushed her against the wall with my hands on her shoulders and my hips against her own, one of my legs pressed hard between her thighs.

   "you sure know what you're doing," she moaned as I attatched my mouth to her neck and sucked hard, smiling at the purple mark I left just bellow her ear.

   "Thanks," I sighed back. "I've had practice,"

   "How old are you?" she asked btween kisses as her hands ran through my hair.

   "Not sure," I said back before kissing her mouth roughly. "My memory only goes back like 5 years,"

   "That's so sad," she pulled away and looked at me with pity.

I got a little frustrated. "Not really," I grumbled. "If I don't remember my life before now it's probably because it sucked. All the memories I do have are great,"

I moved in closer and looked at her for permission. when she smiled a attacked her neck once again.

I didn't actually get to take her anywhere to finish off our little daliance.

I had her pinned against the alley wall when killian came round the corner, picked me up and threw me over his shoulder.

   “Sorry to interupt,” he smiled at the girl I was with.

(i didn’t get her name ¯\_(ツ)_/¯)

   “Junior we’ve gotta go,” He spun round and began walking back out to the street.

   “Why?” I grumbled, resting my chin in my hand with my elbow on his back.

i waved goodbye to the girl with a wink and she just looked at me so confused.

   “Just some issues playing cards,” I could hear a smirk in Killian's voice.

Suddenly the street was lit up by light pouring out the open pub door.

   “HEY!” A group of men started piling out of the pub in attempts to get to Killian.

He put me and we both ran.

   "What kind of issues in cards caused this you little shit?!" I screamed at Killian as we ran through the street to the docks.

   "Doesn't matter now does it?" he shouted back.

We managed to hide from the townies and make it back to the Jolly Roger with no further incidents.

   “You idiot!” I whack Killian in the arm as I yelled at him. “What did you do? Did you cheat? Did you steal something?”

   “Ow,” He grumbled. “And yes, yes. I did both of those things,”

He held up a silver necklace with a large dark blue stone in the pendant.

   “I thought you’d like it,” he smiled sheepishly. 

   “You almost got us killed and ruined my night with a beautiful woman for a necklace?” I glared at him. Then I smirked proudly and took the necklace from him. “Thank you,”

   “Go get some rest before we leave again,” he patted my on the head then went up to the quarter deck to go over some charts.

I was woken by shouting on deck.

I threw on my jacket and ran out to see the sky was filled with dark clouds and the men were struggling to keep the sails still in the devilish winds.

   "Killian!?" I shouted over the noise.

   "Over here!" he was standing by the helm desperately trying to steer the ship.

   "What the hell happened?" I yelled once reaching his side. "Where are we?"

   "The seas here are controlled by a magic user," he explained.

   "What?" I looked at him in disbelief. "What kind of sorcerer has this kind of power?"

   "Peter Pan," he scowel when he said the name.

He'd mentioned the name before. The ageless demon boy who killed Killian's brother Liam.

   "We're in the Never Seas," I said.

Killian nodded. "I didn't mean to bring us here. I think it was some kind of trap,"

   "Trap?" I repeated. "For who?"

   "Either for me or for you," he looked at me sadly.

   "For me?" I raised my eyebrows. "Why me?"

   "I saw the boy's Shadow watching you a few weeks ago," he continued. "I think Pan wants you for something,"

I felt a sudden wave of nausea. Something I'd never experienced while at sea. Only a few times when drinking heavily.

   "What could he want from me?" I asked, suddenly very afraid.

   "I dunno sweetheart," Killian put his hand reasurringly on my shoulder. "I promise I won't let him hurt you,"

   "how are we going to leave?" I cried.

   "I don't know," He was about to speak again when something pulled me up from the ship so fast I barely had time to react.

   "Junior!" Killian screamed.

I looked at the thing carrying me and saw a faceless shadow. Faceless save for the piercing white eyes that bore into me.

I thought I would be more afraid.

I should've been screaming in fear.

But something about this shadow seemed familiar.

   "Do I know you?" I said cautiously as the Jolly roger became tof ar away to see.

   "You' have known me for a long time," the shadows voice echoed in my head.

It began to descend and I looked down to see an island that also felt familier. Like I'd lived here for a time. Like home.

   "Neverland," I breathed as the shadow put me down.

I was going to asked why I knew this place and why he said I'd known him but he didn't stay. He simply flew away and vanished over the tree tops.

Well shit. I thi=ought. Killian will come for me eventually. Might as well wait.

I turned to face the ocean where I could barely make out the Jolly roger on the horizon. A tiny grey spek in the distance.

at the rate the winds are blowing I don't think they'll get here until tomorrow. And if that Pan person is delaying them.

I began walking along the shore line back and forth thinking of what to do if I ran into any of Pan's forces while alone here.

There was some rustling in the bushes behind me and I reached for my scabbard at my hip. My blood ran cold when I remembered I'd left it in my quarters on the ship.

   "Unnarmed?" a voice called and a boy with the face of an elf stepped through the shrubbery.

He was attractive for someone who live on an uncivilised ilsand.

His face and clothes had a thin layer of dirt but it only added to his looks.

There was another boy behind him.

Taller, hooded. He had a jagged scar running from above his left eye to the opisite side of his mouth.

He too was very attractive.

   "who are you then?" I put my hand on my hip, honestly unafraid.

   "I'm Peter," the elf-boy smiled. "Peter Pan,"

   "Ah yes," I smiled. "The one who killed my friends brother,"

Pan's face screwed up a little as if this was an event he'd forgotten.

   "I've killed many people so your friend shouldn't feel special," Pan said plainly, his eyebrows raised.

The hooded boy's face suddnely changed, like he'd remembered or realised osmething.

He stepped forward and took of his hood, looking at me with a strange expression. like he wasn't sure what he was looking at was real.

Pan looked at him with confusion. "Felix what's the matter?"

   "I know you," Felix spoke.

   "You do?" Pan and I said in unison.

   "Y/N?"

tags:

@dina3s

**If you want to be tagged in anything or everything shoot me a msg or ask**

[halloweenfor]

Disney Costumes - Newt Scamander Coat Costume

Theme Halloween Costumes

Winnie the Pooh Costumes

I have visited lairs, burrows and nests across five continents, observed the curious habits of magical beasts in a hundred countries, witnessed their powers, gained their trust and, on occasion, beaten them off with my travelling kettle.”—Newton ScamanderSo you’re a famed Magizoologist and the author of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them! You’ve done pretty well for yourself, considering that you seem to get yourself unwittingly caught up in an endless number of scrapes and schemes!We probably should have known that trouble tends to follow you everywhere, being that you basically got expelled from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (Hufflepuff House, REPRESENT!), though the punishment was never actually enforced thanks to ol’ Dumbledore, who took up for you and protested that you were innocence. Pretty lucky to have some high friends in high places, eh, Newty!? You got your feed wet in the Ministry of Magic by hanging out in the Office for House-Elf Relocation, before you finally accomplished your dream of joining the Beast Division and thus landed a commission to write the best-selling book that would become the standard for magical beast study and knowledge and make you an world famous expert. Good on you, Newt! Who knew that being so fascinated with Hippogriffs as a young chap would take a boy so far? (Probably Dumbledore, tbh)But your adventures aren’t over yet, and in order to get out there and get the magical creature business done, you’ve gotta have the right clothes for the job. And that’s where this Newt Scamander Coat from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them comes in! This officially licensed coat will have you looking dapper with its faux leather trim at the cuffs and pocket flaps, while also being quite practical in its long length and functional double pockets. Now get out there and make some more magical discoveries!|L/XL|Polyester||||2019-07-09 14:18:18.963|instock||EL400021|Theme Halloween Costumes|TV / Movie Costumes|This Newt Scamander Coat from the movie Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them makes a great costume idea for Harry Potter fans.||618480034615|EL400021-L/XL||Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Costumes|||||0|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&atc=1&productID=897228931|||||||https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&mobile=1&productID=897228931||||||||| 897228932|Tina Goldstein Coat Costume|38286|HalloweenCostumes.com|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&productID=897228932|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/41105/1-5/tina-goldstein-coat.jpg|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/41105/1-2/tina-goldstein-coat.jpg|79.99||Fashion|Costumes|This is a Tina Goldstein Coat from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.|S/M|Polyester||||2019-05-17 07:22:45.143|instock||EL400023|Theme Halloween Costumes|TV / Movie Costumes|Dress up as Tina Goldstein in this coat.||618480034592|EL400023-S/M||Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Costumes|||||0|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&atc=1&productID=897228932|||||||https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&mobile=1&productID=897228932||||||||| 897228933|Fantastic Beasts Newt Scamander Costume Vest|38286|HalloweenCostumes.com|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&productID=897228933|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/41718/1-5/fantastic-beasts-newt-scamander-vest.jpg|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/41718/1-2/fantastic-beasts-newt-scamander-vest.jpg|29.99||Fashion|Costumes|Newt Scamander certainly has his hands full. When there’s a Niffler, a Bowtruckle, an Erumpent AND a Demiguise on the loose, you’re not going to have a moment to lose before they start causing a ruckus. He might seem a bit absent minded, but Newt absolutely comes prepared… at least when it comes to his wardrobe! You see, he knows he’s not going to have even one second to think about his clothes, which is why he makes sure to have his fancy vest at hand at all times! Now, you can be prepared just like him!This Newt Scamander vest comes officially licensed from the Harry Potter universe movie, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. It looks just like the one worn by Eddie Redmayne in the film and makes for an outstanding cosplay piece. Unfortunately, it doesn’t help in the capture of loose creatures with magical abilities, so you’re going to have to rely on your own wits for that sort of business!|L/XL|Polyester||||2019-07-09 14:18:18.963|instock||EL400025|Theme Halloween Costumes|TV / Movie Costumes|In this Fantastic Beasts Newt Scamander Vest you will feel like a true magizoologist, wrangling up magical creatures and putting them in your suitcase. Pair this vest with our Newt Scamander coat for an authentic Newt costume.||618480034639|EL400025-L/XL||Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Costumes|||||0|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&atc=1&productID=897228933|||||||https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&mobile=1&productID=897228933||||||||| 897228934|Deluxe Grinch Costume|38286|HalloweenCostumes.com|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&productID=897228934|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/3475/1-5/deluxe-grinch-costume.jpg|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/3475/1-2/deluxe-grinch-costume.jpg|119.99||Fashion|Costumes|Not feeling in the holiday spirit? Have a disdain for eggnog and tinsel? If that sounds like you then you would fit right at home in the cave above Whoville where the Grinch himself resides with his dog Max!Even though his heart grew three sizes, the Grinch is still one of the greatest Christmas curmudgeons of all-time. He may have been a grumpy old green guy, but you have to admit that he was quite creative and charming. Look at those plans to ruin Christmas – they were definitely ambitious! And how he was able to talk to the little Susie Who into going right back up the stairs because he was definitely, totally, the real Santa Claus. He was kind of a genius!If you look up to this kind of behavior, then this Grinch costume is right up your alley! Steal presents from the Whos, take down their stockings, and take the bulbs from the Christmas lights, then meander back up to your mountain where you can be at peace. This costume is perfect for those who just aren’t feeling jolly during the holidays! It comes with a red polyester Santa jacket that has fuzzy white trim at sleeves and the bottom. The bottom of the coat holds its shape with a wire hoop. The costume also includes Grinch gloves with green faux fur and a latex Grinch mask for his signature scowl. And don’t forget the included Santa hat – it will complete the look!|L/XL|Latex||||2019-05-17 07:22:45.143|instock||EL400636|Theme Halloween Costumes|Holiday Costumes|If you’re not in the mood for the holidays this year, then this Deluxe Grinch Costume is perfect for you! Wear this costume for Christmas and Halloween!||618480001570|EL400636-L/XL||Christmas Costumes|How the Grinch Stole Christmas Costumes||||0|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&atc=1&productID=897228934|||||||https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&mobile=1&productID=897228934||||||||| 897228935|Seuss Kids Cat in the Hat Accessory Kit|38286|HalloweenCostumes.com|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&productID=897228935|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/18136/1-5/seuss-kids-cat-in-the-hat-accessory-kit.jpg|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/18136/1-2/seuss-kids-cat-in-the-hat-accessory-kit.jpg|19.99||Fashion|Costumes|Dr. Seuss is one of the most beloved children’s writers of all time. His silly and ridiculous rhyme schemes make learning to read easy and fun. Supposedly, Theodor Geisel (pen name Dr. Seuss) originally wrote The Cat in the Hat in response to poor reading skills in school systems. He wanted to try a different approach than the widely popular Dick and Jane stories.You know the rest. The Cat in the Hat became one of the most successful children’s stories. Children started to enjoy learning to read, and now your little munchkin wants to dress as the Cat in the Hat for Dr. Seuss week. With this Seuss Kids Cat in the Hat Accessory Kit, it will be easy to transform them into the slightly silly Cat. And, thanks to you and Theodor Geisel, they will want to read all the books they can get their hands on.|ST|Polyester||||2019-05-17 07:22:45.143|instock||EL410220|Theme Halloween Costumes|Storybook & Fairytale Costumes|If Dr. Seuss is your child’s main man, then this Seuss Kids Cat in the Hat Accessory Kit ought to put him on cloud nine.||618480635188|EL410220-ST||Dr. Seuss Costumes|Cat in the Hat Costumes||||0|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&atc=1&productID=897228935|||||||https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&mobile=1&productID=897228935||||||||| 897228936|Thing 1 & Thing 2 Kids Costume|38286|HalloweenCostumes.com|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&productID=897228936|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/14891/1-5/thing-1-thing-2-kids-costume.jpg|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/14891/1-2/thing-1-thing-2-kids-costume.jpg|35.99||Fashion|Costumes|What’s the craziest thing that has been delivered to your house? Have you ever gotten a mystery package? Do you know what those few moments before slicing into that packing tapes feel like? Hopefully, you’ve never unwrapped a freshly FedExed box only to unleash pure chaos! Well, that’s exactly what the Cat in the Hat did when he dropped in on Sally and Conrad on that fateful day. That Cat is the kind of fellow who’s always bringing uninvited guests to the party. However, in his defense, it definitely makes things more interesting! Where would this edge of your seat story be without Thing One and Thing Two? They’re even crazier than the Cat himself! Really, who flies kites indoors? How is that even possible? They even abscond with the mom’s new dress! That’s some next level nonsense. And once the nuttiness is released there’s no convincing them to get back into their red shiny box, you’ve got to catch those Things with a butterfly net! The fish wasn’t happy about this maniacal merrymaking but to be honest, we think it sounds like a great rainy afternoon! Your kiddo is sure to have a blast channeling their inner Thing One and Two. The transformation is easy with this colorful and comfortable outfit. The soft suit has a large white patch in the middle with a spot to stick the included One or Two numbers once they’ve decided who they are (two’s in no way lower than one by the way). They’ll feel extra pumped once they put on the electric blue wig. So, it’s up to you. Will you open the box, letting loose Thing One and Thing Two? |S|Polyester||||2019-05-17 07:22:45.143|instock||EL403230|Theme Halloween Costumes|Storybook & Fairytale Costumes|Your little one will be set to cause a some mischief in this Thing 1 & Thing 2 Kids Costume. This outfit is perfect for a Dr. Seuss themed party!||618480005301|EL403230-S||Dr. Seuss Costumes|Cat in the Hat Costumes||||0|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&atc=1&productID=897228936|||||||https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&mobile=1&productID=897228936||||||||| 897228937|Child Cuphead Costume|38286|HalloweenCostumes.com|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&productID=897228937|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/47335/1-5/child-cuphead-costume.jpg|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/47335/1-2/child-cuphead-costume.jpg|34.99||Fashion|Costumes|LIFE IS HARD!Kids sometimes think that their lives are just impossible.  That they’ve got to do so much throughout the day between homework, going to school, picking up their rooms, doing chores.  Man, they think, adults have it so easy!  Of course, they don’t quite see what we have to put up with in order to give them a chance to even think life is tough.  But, even we have to admit that there are some challenges out there that are just bound to make a person sweat! Such is definitely the case for folks who are (un)lucky enough to find themselves in the services of a vintage-style devil.  Especially if that king of the netherworld commands you to head out into the world and fight off dozens of impossibly notorious cartoon baddies all drawn in 1950s art.  Well, anybody who has seen or played any of Cuphead knows just how tough life can truly be!  Fortunately, it’s also a pretty good time…PRODUCT DETAILSAnd, better than all of that is the fact that you can give your kiddo a chance to be Cuphead for real.  Well, kinda.  We don’t expect that they’ll be firing off weird magic bolts, but they can definitely look the part of the now-famous hero with this Cuphead Costume.  This costume combo features the black and red shirt and shorts of our curious little hero as well as giant, oversized, cartoon-crazy gloves.  Finish off the transformation with the Cuphead mask and your kiddo is ready for some cartoonish combat!  TEAM UP FOR THE FUNNow, fighting off worlds of crazy baddies is bound to be a pretty difficult time.  Fortunately, nobody is alone in the world and your little Cuphead has you to help them out.  In fact, maybe you want to help them team up with Mugman, too! |8/10|Polyester||||2019-05-17 07:22:45.143|instock||EL405003|Theme Halloween Costumes|Video Game Costumes|Your kid will be excited this Halloween to become this Cuphead character with this costume for kids from the Video Game Cuphead: Don’t Deal with the Devil.||618480039009|EL405003-8/10|||||||0|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&atc=1&productID=897228937|||||||https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&mobile=1&productID=897228937||||||||| 897228938|Child Mugman Costume|38286|HalloweenCostumes.com|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&productID=897228938|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/47336/1-5/child-mugman-costume.jpg|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/47336/1-2/child-mugman-costume.jpg|34.99||Fashion|Costumes|PLAYER TWO IS BLUE!It is far too common that the second player seems to be the second fiddle, too.  They might not get to do too much.  Perhaps they’ve got to wait on their hands until they see the message that Player One has lost a life and now they can finally try to get through the stage on their own.  However, occasionally, games give us an opportunity to not just play alongside our friends… but to join them in the fun at the same time! That’s the case with Mugman in the crazy cartoon game that has driven us all nuts!  Such a difficult challenge can’t possibly be handled all by someone on their own!  That’s where Cuphead is overjoyed to bring his best buddy, Mugman along.  This little blue mug isn’t sad at all to fight through a series of weird, cartoonish villains that are ready to chuck everything but the kitchen sink at them.  Hold on.  We just saw a kitchen sink come flying out, too! PRODUCT DETAILSHelp your kiddo make sure the world is safe and secure with this Mugman Costume for Kids!  This is a black shirt and blue short combo that might not mean much until it is combined with the crazy, oversized gloves that look like they came right out of a vintage cartoon.  Finish off the transformation with the grinning face and bright blue nose of Mugman with this mask and your kiddo is ready to fire off those magic bullets and save their little soul! BUT DON’T FORGET P1!Just because Mugman can probably save the world doesn’t mean that our beloved little Player Two needs to go it alone.  Join up with Cuphead and make this heroic duo complete!  Just make sure that you keep your eye out for any Devil costumed folks over the holiday.  They might go looking for some real powers! |10/12|Polyester||||2019-05-17 07:22:45.143|instock||EL405008|Theme Halloween Costumes|Video Game Costumes|Join in the adventure of the video game Cuphead: Don’t Deal with the Devil with this Child Mugman Costume that features a Mugman mask, black shirt, blue shorts, and cartoon hands.||618480039061|EL405008-10/12|||||||0|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&atc=1&productID=897228938|||||||https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&mobile=1&productID=897228938||||||||| 897228939|Eeyore Kit|38286|HalloweenCostumes.com|https://www.shareasale.com/m-pr.cfm?merchantID=38286&userID=186078&productID=897228939|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/18227/1-5/eeyore-kit.jpg|https://images.halloweencostumes.com/products/18227/1-2/eeyore-kit.jpg|14.99||Fashion|Costumes|It never hurts to keep looking for sunshine.” Said Eeyore. Sometimes he comes off as a little said, but the truth is he is just tired of always losing his tail. Winnie the Pooh on the other hand never has lost his little fluffy tail. Some days might be harder than others for Eeyore, but he always can count on his friends in the 100 Acre Woods. With the Eeyore Kit you can bring out your inner lovable Winnie the Pooh character. The kit comes with a headband with long gray ears, and a patch of black hair on top. It also has the most important part of Eeyore, his tail. The cute matching tail is stuffed and has a Velcro strap for attaching to your pants. Hang out with Pooh Bear and Piglet for a group costume, or go solo as the adorable donkey.

See Details & Get More Deals at: Best Halloween Costumes 2019 :: Shop

[viralhottopics]

Being Santa is not a job, it’s a calling. Meet the men behind the magic.

Doug Keesey and Rick Rosenthal are known in Arctic circles (and greater Atlanta) as Santa Doug and Santa Rick.

Rick and Doug are two of Georgia’s most popular Santa Clauses, entertaining the young and young at heart at events across the city.

I went looking for the inside scoop on Santa Claus to discover how the “cookies are made” so to speak.

My conversations with these holly, jolly gentlemen revealed some surprising Santa secrets and tricks of the trade. It’s easy to see why kids adore them so much. Here are seven surprising things I learned chatting with two of the men behind the magic:

1. Why become Santa? Holiday cheer is a helluva drug.

“It becomes a calling for a lot of people,” Santa Rick says. “Most people don’t choose to be Santa, Santa chooses them.”

That’s the case for Santa Rick, 64, who’s been Santa for 47 years. He started out with a full black beard under his fake one, but now he relies on the real thing. He’s a trained mediator and arbiter, a skill that comes in handy when kids get a case of the gimmes.

As for Santa Doug, it’s his second season as the Big Guy. He has a soft white beard and loves kids, so he thought he’d give Santa work a try when he retired from his video production business. A friend, who is also a Santa, said, “Why wait?” So, at just past 50 years old, Santa Doug was born.

What keeps them coming back? You don’t find that kind of genuine happiness just anywhere.

“One of the things that really keeps me going is knowing that I’m helping families develop memories that will last for years to come, something that will really be special for them in the future,” Santa Doug says. “That’s not something you get to do every day. What a privilege to be in a position to be that kind of blessing to others!”

2. You don’t know busy until you take a look at Santa’s calendar.

There’s more to being Santa Claus than long shifts at shopping malls. Santa Rick appears year-round as the man himself, helping out with birthday parties, special announcements, and potentially a spring wedding. There are two gigs he won’t take though.

“I will deliver anything but divorce papers and termination papers,” Santa Rick says. “I’m a Santa with a sense of humor, but it’s gotta be in good taste.”

Of course, the holiday season is their busiest time of year. Rick and Doug work parades, private parties, corporate gigs, home visits, fundraisers, schools, and hospitals. Santa Rick doubles as a Santa booking agent and routes nearly 100 local Santas to events across the metro area.

“I get pretty busy, honestly, I think ‘Wow, the schedule is just going to be very difficult, and I don’t know if I have the energy, and I’m tired and wish I could stay home,'” Santa Doug says. “But then I get out there and see that kid that is just awestruck by Santa walking in the door and you think, ‘OK, that’s why I’m here.'”

3. There are schools to learn how to be Santa. But one of them is essentially Harvard.

Anyone can dress like Santa, but truly becoming Santa takes some practice. There are Santa Schools across the country that open their doors to teach people how to bring the big guy to life. Classes include how to dress, how to answer tough questions, how to set up a Santa business, and even how to make simple toys.

The Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in Midland, Michigan, is widely considered the premiere Santa school, boasting a traditional higher education application process and a waiting list.

After mentoring and teaching at Santa Schools, Santa Rick opened his own school, Northern Lights Santa Academy, which held their inaugural session this year. While he’s proud to teach the next generation of Clauses, he hopes they each bring their own unique style to their work.

“Does [attending Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School] make you a good Santa? No, it just means you got a good education,” Santa Rick says. “What makes you the best is you. You have to figure out how to utilize the information … to make you the best Santa you can be.”

4. Santa Claus hears some seriously silly stuff, and sometimes even he can’t keep it together.

Kids are nothing if not honest, so Santa Rick and Santa Doug have heard it all. One child who (definitely already had one at home) asked for a toilet this year. Another hoped the baby his mother was carrying was a boy, and not a girl, prompting surprised faces from everyone in the room who didn’t know his mother was expecting.

“You really do laugh, and it shuts you down, you’re just laughing so hard,” Santa Rick says. “You just get told these hysterical stories.”

5. But Santa is also a kind, loving ear in tough and tender moments too.

For many kids and their families, Christmas isn’t the most wonderful time of the year. Santa Rick and Santa Doug have both heard some emotional requests from kids and the young at heart. Some wish for peace on Earth. Others ask for a relative in the hospital to get well. A mother had a teary encounter with Santa Rick while her son was deployed. And last year, a child asked Santa Doug to help get his parents back together.

“There’s not much you can say, as Santa, to things like that,” Santa Doug says. “All I could do was say, ‘Santa understands. I know how you feel and I’m very sorry, but Santa loves you … and it will be all right.’ I think he just kinda wanted Santa to hear and understand.”

6. Santa would dominate an improv class, as the big guy has to be quick on his feet.

When you’re working with kids, you have to stay ready. That’s why Santa has an answer for everything. Even if a child asks for one thing, Santa knows better than to make any promises. Instead, Santa Rick usually tells the kids: “I’m gonna talk to the elves about that … but did you know the elves are very busy? They make the presents and put them in a box and then they wrap it and sometimes they forget what’s in there. You might end up with a pogo stick.”

What happens if Santa Rick and his Santa buddies go out for lunch and a child sees a half-dozen Santas in one place? Don’t worry, they’ve thought of that too. “We say it’s a Claus family reunion,” he says with a big laugh, clearly nailing the whole, “bowlful of jelly” business.

7. Santa is about more than presents. He’s all about hope.

For kids of all ages, Santa is more than a toymaker, gift-giver, or elf-in-chief. He’s magic personified. He’s a jolly old reminder to never stop believing in the impossible.

“What Santa really does is he inspires hope,” Santa Rick says. “We have to have hope to go on and that’s really what Santa is. He’s a toymaker, but he gives people hope and belief in the best of the best.”

After this year, we could all use a little magic. Between international conflict, a tiring election, and Santa’s own home melting away, there’s a lot to be scared or worried about. But this is the season to hope, dream, and plan. To look ahead to the future with optimism and hope, even in the face of doubt.

No matter your age, background, or faith tradition, it feels good to believe in the impossible. After all, hope is the one thing Santa always delivers.

Read more: http://u.pw/2oIgHBt

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