Requested by pseudocitrus ~

Prompt: Xmas Gift — Touka/Sasaki (counts as Touken?! if not then just "Touken") — something involving a Christmas date~ Lots of Christmas puns (if Sasaki)~ Maybe mistletoe?! (≧▽≦)


In hindsight, Touka knew that this would happen; hell, she should even bet her entire allowance and walk away with a fortune but that doesn't mean she's not allowed to feel frustrated three hours into their date.

They have already bought most of the necessary stuff needed for the Christmas party at :re and settled for a small break at one of the homely cafes nearby Hinami recommended to her. The interior was dimly lighted with candles placed around strategically to provide enough lighting and a warm glow to its customers. If Touka didn't know better, she would have said the owner is totally selling the whole romantic setting for couples.

Placing the various bags beside her as Haise slips into the opposite bench of their booth, Touka listens to the pretty waitress mention their Special of the Day and promotions, the chef's recommendations and so on and so forth. She decides on the promotional set; gingerbread man and a cup of black coffee while Haise orders a chicken pie and an espresso.

Their order soon arrives to their delight. The presentation scores full marks and the coffee smells heavenly. The moment the waitress walks away, Haise stares at the condiments placed at the side of their table with a hungry glint in his eyes, a familiar action that makes warning bells and klaxons start going off in Touka's mind.

"You know, there's so many spices here," Haise picks up the pepper and gives it a little shake, "it's Season's Greetings!"

Touka gives a hopeless laugh at his nth pun of the day and bites viciously into the poor gingerbread man.

They soon leave after finishing their light meal and Haise pays the bill, not forgetting to tip the friendly waitress generously. The mall is getting crowded as more people throng in for a lazy dinner. What took them five minutes to go up now takes thirty torturous minutes to reach the first floor.

"We should have taken the lift."

"Awww, Touka, this is one way to lift up your spirit for Christmas." Haise exclaims with a smile too wide for her taste.

Touka prays for someone or something to give her strength.

The first floor is absolutely brimming with people with a Christmas event going on at the atrium - there's a Santa Claus sitting on his throne for picture-taking and also fulfilling wishes - forcing the couple to squeeze their way through to the entrance.

Finally emerging, they stumble a little from the sudden availability of personal space and fresh air.

"Wow, I was getting a little Claustrophobic in there."

It's probably the best course of action to not punch him and knock him out cold since he is carrying the heavy bottles but Touka is sorely tempted to.

The ride back is silent, much to Touka's happiness. Unloading the bags and opening the back door of :re, Touka holds the door open to allow Haise in. Quickly placing the bag full of glass bottles by the table near them, he stretches his muscles quickly, releasing a sigh of contentment when he hears the satisfying pop in his neck. Opening his eyes, Haise spots something he likes.

"Touka!"

"What?" She looks at him but notices his finger pointing upwards and looks up. "Oh."

Haise sneaks an arm around her waist and pulls her in for a traditional kiss but it stops short when Touka placed a manicured finger - courtesy of Hinami - between their lips.

"Wha-"

"Your punishment for the day." She delivers to him on a silver platter and smiles evilly when his face of elation turns to one of a kicked puppy.