A gift, a promise and a snowstorm -A Christmas story

Chapter 1

Zorro took Victoria in his arms and kissed her tenderly. It was one of the few moments they were uninterrupted, with the soldiers out on maneuver and the alcalde on a trip to San Pedro. Soon he had to leave again and Zorro hated the thought. This was going on too long already and there was no hope the situation was going to change soon. His dearest wish was to marry Victoria and have a a family with her. Christmas was nearing and the prospect of another year without her at his side made for a bleak outlook. This year had to be different!

"I want this Christmas to be special," he whispered, holding her tight. "I can't stand this waiting anymore."

"Neither can I," Victoria clung to him. "But what can we do?" She looked at him desperately.

"I don't know, I have to think about it." Zorro stroked her back, enjoying having her warm and tempting body in his arms. "I don't want to leave you and the time we have together is always too short. I want you to be my wife and have you sleep in my arms." Zorro kissed her passionately and was met with an equal response from Victoria.

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A week later Zorro waited for her in her room when she walked up the stairs to go to bed.

"Zorro!" Victoria registered the movement of his cape as he stepped out of the shadows.

"Querida," he drew her into is arms. "I know it's still a few days until Christmas, but I have a gift for you."

"A gift for me? And you want to give it to me before Christmas?" Victoria asked excited. "What is it?"

As Zorro pointed to the bed, she noticed a large bundle wrapped in cloth. Unable to hide her curiosity, she opened it.

"It's a dress," she whispered surprised as she unfolded it and held the dark red cloth against her body.

"Do you like it?" he asked.

"It's beautiful!" she whispered. "I never had something like it before. Why did you give it to me now instead of waiting for Christmas?"

"I want this Christmas be special for us," he caressed her face tenderly. "Will you wear it at the Christmas party to dance with me?"

"You'll come to the Christmas party? And you'll dance with me?" Victoria beamed at him. "This will be the most wonderful Christmas I ever had!" She leaped into his arms to kiss him. "I can't wait for Christmas."

"I can't wait either," he smiled happily, but suddenly he turned serious again. "There's one more thing, Victoria."

"What is it? What's the catch?" she asked afraid.

"I don't know yet if I will come as myself or wearing the mask, but I'll be there and dance with you," he assured her.

"Oh," she said, not liking the idea that she might not recognize him. "How will I find you? Or will you tell me who you are?"

"I'll find you! The most beautiful woman in the pueblo! Will you grant me that dance?" he whispered.

"As many dances as you want, Zorro. I want us to be together!"

"I want that too. I'll be there, Querida. I promise." After another long kiss he climbed out through the window again and she heard him ride away.

Victoria sat down on the bed, holding the dress to her chest. This Christmas would be wonderful!

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