The Spirit Of Christmas

Disclaimer: I don't own Doctor Who, that all belongs to the BBC.

A/N: Part 1 of my 6 part story. Obviously it's Christmas themed, and I hope it dosn't get too confusing. I wrote this back in Oct. and I haven't looked at it since, except for a quick read through. Anyway enjoy!


Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Let your heart be light
From now on,
our troubles will be out of sight

It was the night before Christmas at the Tyler home. Each member was working hard to dress the house to perfection for tonight's Christmas party. Aromas of sweet cinnamon and Christmas cheer filled the air as they baked and decorated to the sounds of Bing Crosby. Rose hummed along, placing glass orbs and candy canes on the massive tree. She could hear her parents laughing while they made final preparations in the kitchen. A small smile crept across her face, but was easily contradicted as the ornaments reflected a quiet sadness in her eyes.

"Oh sweetheart the tree looks beautiful." Jackie Tyler said gaping at the tree. It was pretty grand. It stood proud at a height of twelve feet, making every object in the room cower. Lights winked and a lone angel with bright blue eyes stood at the lofty top. Rose had just finished placing multitudes of colorful orbs on the trees sturdy limbs.

"Thanks mum." Rose replied taking a step back from her work. "I'm going to get changed now. I'll be down before the first guest I promise."

xXxXx

"Christmastime," The Doctor mused to himself, "It never ceases to amaze me how much trouble humans go to for this holiday."

The Doctor once again found himself walking through the bustling streets of New York City during the busy holiday. Parents were being dragged by their children to see Santa Claus for last minute wishes and husbands were running to the jewelry store before closing time. Normally the Doctor found the jolly atmosphere to be a nice change to his usual day to day life. But this time it was different. This time the harsh realities that were normally clouded by holiday cheer bore a blinding light into his eyes. He saw the small children's demands as selfish instead of cute. There were people around the world who only have the clothes on their backs and those children only ask for maybe an extra pair of socks. He found the carols obnoxious and the decorations obscene and pointless. As he observed the couples ice skating in Rockefeller center, his thoughts grew sad and bitter.

"Christmas," The Doctor thought, "The one day a year when everyone is nice to each other. Is it impossible for humans to live peacefully for more than one day?"

He knew this was a bit irrational, but it wasn't completely false either. He sighed as he resigned himself to the nearest bench. Snowflakes began to fall, which only helped ensue the merry atmosphere. It was only then that he noticed the small girl next to him. She was wearing a blue corduroy coat and white mittens. Her wheat colored hair drooped over her shoulders as snowflakes gathered. Her sad blue eyes were focused on her feet as she swung them back and forth. She could have been more than six.

"Er, excuse me but are you alright?" The Doctor asked

"Yeah I guess so. I just can't seem to find my Christmas spirit." The little girl sighed.

"Oh, I'm sorry."

"It runs away sometimes."

The Doctor found this a bit odd. It was as though her Christmas spirit was another being.

"Well I better get started, its Christmas Eve you know."

"Mind if I join you?"

"No, I could use some help." The little girl took the Doctors hand as she led him to their first destination.

xXxXx

Firelight flickered in Roses eyes as she sipped her champagne. The instrumental versions of her favorite holiday classics gave off a light atmosphere to the rather successful party. She turned to see her parents chatting with friends and colleagues. All smiles. A wave of emotion cascaded down on here. She remembered the last Christmas when she was truly happy; it had been so long ago. She did however move on with her life. She had a good job and family and friends who loved her. But a large part of her was missing. It was obvious to anyone she conversed, even went out with.

"Rose are you alright?" Jacked asked coming towards her, "You don't look well sweetheart."

"I'm fine mum; I just remembered I left something at the office. I'll be back." Rose replied.

"Cant it wait till later?"

"No I should probably get it now." Rose grabbed her coat and slipped out unbeknownst to all guest. Snow began to fall as she pulled her coat tighter, avoiding Jack Frosts embrace.

Meanwhile the party was in full swing and the guests were being summoned to the dinning hall where large amounts of turkey, potatoes, and cranberry sauce were being served. No one had realized the angel topper had suddenly disappeared.