One by one, stars began to dot the dark, empty, black sky. Everyone sat on rugs or towels, enjoying the lovely night with friends and family. The countdown was just about to begin, however, Jodie was already staring up at the sky, remembering everything that had happened this year. He wondered how the rest of the year would have went if he hadn't met Reo…The thought made him shiver.
Out in the distance, the sound of paws moving could be heard. Jodie turned only to be attacked by an excited, happy Reo. Cayosin was behind him, rolling his eyes in amusement.
"Hey Jojo! We're here!"
Jodie smiled back, happy to celebrate with puffballs he could call his family.
"Great! Just in time to; the fireworks are about to go off."
Reo curled up next to his lover, softly purring. He unsheathed a claw, poking the latter in the side with it.
"You alright, Jojo? You seem…distraught."
Jodie immediately shook his head, stroking the latter's messy, black hair. "I'm just thinking back to all the events that happened this year. Meetin' you, Cayosin joining us, you movin' in…" His gaze drifted back to the sky, Reo's doing the same.
"Kinda hard to believe all that happened within a few months!"
Reo nodded, showing his agreement. "I wonder what's gonna happen next year. I already have something in mind…but I-"
Everyone's attention was directed at the sky, hearts pounding, excitement building. An announcer started the countdown, starting from 10.
Jodie's heart began to beat rapidly and returned his attention to Reo. "But what? Hurry, before the countdown's up!"
9!
Reo wasn't paying attention until the latter nudged him. "Huh? Oh! I have a New Year's wish, but only you can grant it to me."
The latter stared at him, puzzled.
A wish only I can grant?
8!
"I'm no genie, but what is that wish?"
7!
Reo slightly blushed, scratching the back of his head. He stared at Jodie, there gazes locked together.
6!
"I need to make sure you're alright with it first. That's why I need you to grant that wish."
5!
Jodie's heart began beating faster and faster, his curiosity converting itself into fear. Why was Reo stalling? Was it a bad wish? Would it make a huge change for next year?
4!
Regardless, Jodie wouldn't let Reo down. He put a nub around Reo's back, nodding his head.
"Whatever that wish is, I promise…I promise I'll grant it!"
Reo smiled, closing his eyes. "My wish…"
He loved to pause for a silly, dramatic event, especially since there was a countdown going on.
3!
"Since Cayosin has grown more independent…"
Cayosin glanced at the two, hearing his name. He was indeed much older now and was rarely at home with the lovers nowadays.
2!
"…Is to have another child with you…"
Jodie's eyes were filled with surprise. It wasn't about having another child, but that fact that Reo wanted another child.
"Then let's have another child Reo! If that's what ya want…then I'll grant your wish!"
1!
"HAPPY NEW YEAR'S!" Everyone chanted.
Fireworks wasted no time setting off into the dark, empty sky, filling it with vibrant neon colors for a few moments. Poppers were released, balloons floating off to fly into the sky, confetti falling down like rain drops, friends and family hugging or shaking hands, couples kissing, yes, everyone was happily celebrating.
Jodie and Reo were already in a warm embrace with each other, locked in a deep kiss. Cayosin awkwardly looked away, directing his attention back to the colorful sky. After an hour of cheering and celebrating, the other puffballs began to bid their farewells, packed up, and headed home to sleep for the new year.
Jodie carried sleepy Cayosin in his arms, walking next to his lover. Even though Reo's wish was definitely not a hard one to grant, he was determined to not let him down, to be a better parent, to help out with the new child more.
"What gender are ya wanting, Reo? And what are ya gonna name it?"
Reo snorted, rolling his eyes.
"Jodie, we haven't even done you know what yet! We can't jump to conclusions until the time comes."
Jodie awkwardly smiled, "Yeah…I'm just, y'know, excited! It's a great way to start this new year."
Reo rolled his eyes again. "Well, I told you my wish. What's yours?" He asked, his eyes glittering with curiosity.
Jodie stopped to turn and smile at him.
"I've already got my wish granted Reo, and it's all thanks to you."
