A/N: Hey! Good news, I'm on winter break, so hopefully it won't take so long to get the next chapter going. You guys will get an extended holiday as this is part one of a Shepherd Christmas lol. I hope you enjoy. As always, your reviews are amazing and heartwarming. Thank you for them and to all my reviewers! Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas.
Also, I must say, I love when certain parts right themselves and that happened a couple times this chapter lol!
Chapter 35:
December 6, 2014. One month, Lexie is one month old today. Meredith and Derek stare down at the wriggly baby in between them. They are laying in bed enjoying the few minutes with Lexie before Zola and Bailey decide to start the day. "I can't believe it's been one month." Meredith says in wonder, gasping and smiling when Lexie turns towards her mama's voice. Lexie let's out several soft "ahh's" as if she's answering back as Meredith gets closer into her line of vision.
"I know, it seems like yesterday we were trying to name her." Derek replies, stroking Lexie's cheek. Her little legs kick and arms flail in response to Derek's touch. "Come here, angel." Derek lifts her into his arms. "You are just too precious, ya know that?" He says in a goofy baby voice. Meredith giggles as she watches Lexie stare up at him, trying to smile.
"She's gonna smile soon, look Der."
"I see, I really hope she has yours." He gives Meredith his signature smile and pushes back some hair behind her ear.
"No, I want it to be yours." Meredith leans into him and places a hand on his chest.
"Yours, Mer, it's so gorgeous and lights my whole world when I see it. My whole day gets even better when I see it." Derek now cups her cheek and kisses her lips softly.
"Derek." She moans, blushing.
"It's true, right, Lexie? Mama's smile is wonderful and makes us happy." He coos down at Lexie who gurgles in response, raising her little fist. Just then, there's a knock on the door followed by Carolyn and two eager kids.
"Good morning, I tried to hold them off, but they were too eager." Carolyn apologizes.
"It's okay, ma. We're all excited." Derek laughs as Zola scrambles into the bed.
"It's tree day! It's tree day!" Zola adds, wrapping her arms around Derek's neck. "Come on, daddy!"
"Yeah, mama! Let's go!" Says Bailey, tugging on Meredith's sleeve.
"I know, you guys are excited to go get a Christmas tree." Meredith kisses a squirming Bailey.
"An to get pancakes, mama!" Bailey claps his hands.
"Yes, buddy, first we will go get pancakes and then we will go get our tree." Derek replies as he watches Zola kiss Lexie. "Let's get up and go get ready." The kids jump out of bed and hurry to their room.
"I'll get them ready, Derek. You did it yesterday." Meredith adds.
"Hmm, okay, Lex and I will have some more daddy, daughter time." He tickles her belly.
"Ok, love you." Meredith says as she gets out of bed. Derek returns the sentiment followed by a lingering kiss. She takes Zola and Bailey into their bathroom to brush teeth.
"I wa a bi un!" Zola chatters with her mouth full of toothpaste.
"Gots to put lots of pwetty lights." Adds Bailey, staring up at Meredith.
"We do!" Meredith agrees as she engages them in a conversation about what color lights and ornaments they want. "Zo, remember your back teeth." She intervenes when she sees Zola scrubbing in one area only.
"All clean!" Bailey shows Meredith once he rinses.
"Me too!" Points Zola. "Time to get pancakes now?"
"You're still in your jammies, Zo!" Meredith giggles at the excitement as she points at Zola's red and green pajamas that say "Let it snow!" Above a snowman and the words "Merry and bright" underneath.
"Oh!" Zola clasps her hand on her mouth as she laughs with Meredith. They head into the bedroom where they have a nice view of the outdoors.
"Look, guys! It snowed!" Meredith points out the window. Sure enough, there is a light blanket of snow on the ground.
"Wow! That means we gotta get really bundled!" Zola exclaims. Meredith agrees as she picks out a nice, warm sweater and thermal for Zola. It's dark green with a light green Christmas tree. She gets Zola into some felt sweatpants and warm boots. Then, she runs to Bailey's room and grabs a red sweater with Mickey next to a Christmas tree wearing a Santa hat. She also grabs some pants and a thermal undershirt. Once they are done getting dressed, Meredith heads into her room to get herself ready.
"Hey!" Derek says, tying up his boots and standing. He's dressed in a dark green sweater and jeans, looking perfect for chopping down a tree.
Meredith eyes him appreciatively, "kids are ready. They can barely contain themselves." She giggles as their arms wrap around each other.
"Yeah, I remember being that excited when we would do this." Derek shakes his head.
"I'd better get ready then." She replies.
"We'll be waiting." Derek gives her one last peck, taking the opportunity to kiss her. Meredith quickly gets ready, putting on her own warm, fluffy sweater and thick pants. Once she is done in the bathroom, she smiles down at a sleeping Lexie. Derek had dressed her in a thick, fuzzy red sleeper that covered her feet. On it was a little, white snowman in the snow. Meredith loved how it brought out her dark hair.
"Don't you look beautiful!" Meredith says softly as she lifts Lexie and wraps her in a blanket. She kisses her head before they head to meet the rest of them. "Ready to go?" She asks when she sees Derek and Carolyn having coffee at the counter.
"Yes, we are." Derek immediately grasps onto her waist and leans into her ear. "You look beautiful, Meredith." He whispers. She smiles in thanks before nuzzling her nose into his neck.
"Bailey, Zola, time to go!" Carolyn says after watching Derek with Meredith. She slips on her gray pea coat before helping Zola into her pink pea coat, scarf and hat. Meredith gets Lexie bundled into her fuzzy coat, managing not to wake her in the process.
"Wow, third times the charm I guess, third kid and I can get a coat on without waking them." Meredith giggles as Lexie snuggles back into her arms, once Meredith picks her up again.
"Oh yes, those kinds of things get easier with each child. By the time Amelia came around I could feed, change and get her to nap while keeping Derek and Mark from destroying the house, Lizzie blasted her music and I cooked dinner." Carolyn explains as they head to the car. As she listens, Meredith helps buckle Zola in before stepping into their long avoided mini van. Meredith had avoided getting one for so long, but she gave in shortly before Lexie was born when she saw how squished three car seats looked in one car. Derek takes his seat up front with Meredith next to him and they begin driving.
"Okay, gang! We're off!" He smiles from Meredith to the rear view mirror where he can see the kids and his mom.
"Pancakes! Pancakes!" Bailey cheered.
"What kind are you gonna get?" Meredith asks him as they walk inside and sit down about twenty minutes later. It's a small, family sized diner where the warm interior is welcoming from the coldness outdoors. It has windows all around offering views of the bay and the Seattle skyline.
Bailey looks at his kids menu. "Umm…" He ponders momentarily. "I want the snowman pancakes!"
"Oh! Me too! With strawberry sauce!" Squeals Zola.
"Okay, you guys can." Smiles Meredith.
"Do you guys come here often?" Carolyn asks once their orders have been taken.
Meredith slips her arms around Derek, leaning into his chest. "No, we don't usually get a chance to come out for breakfast. If we go to dinner it's either pizza or the ferryboat restaurant."
"The last few years have been kinda crazy." Derek mentions. "But, I am so excited to be continuing this tradition. I've been waiting since we started building the house."
"You did this every year when you were a kid?" Meredith asks.
"Yep, we even drove out to the country to get a tree." Derek explains. We would all go get pancakes for breakfast and then get a tree. "The trailer was too small to keep a tree and at the house something always seemed to be happening so we would just go to a tree farm for time." Meredith listens raptly as Derek lights up talking about his childhood. She notices how he looks like a kid on Christmas morning as he tells stories about cutting a tree down with his dad until the food comes. Meredith kisses his cheek, unable to resist because of the look of happiness on his face before turning to her pancakes.
"Mama! Daddy, look at our pancakes!" Zola points, showing them the snowman shaped pancakes. There was whipped cream tracing the outline with a frosting hat, chocolate chip eyes, nose and mouth. On the plate was also some eggs and fruit.
"Woah! Those look delicious." Meredith points out before noticing hers. She had a stack with whipped cream as well, drizzled with syrup. "Oh, these are great!" She moans happily, licking her lips.
"They really are, mama!" Bailey agrees.
"How are your healthy ones, Der?" Meredith smirks as he leans down to check on Lexie, snoring away in her car seat.
"Delicious, wanna try?"
"Nope!" She grins, sticking more pancake and whipped cream in her mouth. "Wanna try mine?"
"Nope. There's only one time I like to eat whipped cream." He whispers only for Meredith to hear. She blushes and swats at his chest as the nuzzle together. They all finish their breakfast and they soon pile back into the car. Once they are all buckled, Derek grasps Meredith's hand and turns back to the kids and Carolyn. "Before we can go, we need one thing!" He smiles widely.
"What, daddy?" Bailey asks.
"Santa?" Suggests Zola.
"A chopper to cut the tree?" Bailey wonders.
"An axe? Nope, I packed it already." Derek laughs. He looks towards the radio and flips a few switches and Bing Crosby's "It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas" comes on and fills the car. "Christmas music!" He smiles, filling Meredith with so much love and warmth seeing him like this. She giggles as he drives back towards the woods. They drive through the forest, past the trailer and past their house until they get to an open area. "We have to walk a little here." They get out and bundle Lexie up more and Derek helps strap her to Meredith's chest. "Ok, Bails, this is gonna be a special daddy and buddy event ok?" He kneels down to the boy's level. Bailey gets a million dollar smile on his face at the thought of just having something with his dad.
"Okay, daddy!" He exclaims, turning to Meredith. "Mama! Daddy says cuttin' the tree is gonna be just me and him!" Bailey informs, grabbing Meredith's hand.
"Wow, sweetie! That's very special." She smiles.
"Zola, you get to pick the star or angel that goes on top every year, okay?" Derek suggests.
"Wow, okay!" She says in awe.
"What about Lexie, Der?" Meredith whispers as Zola hugs his legs.
"She will pick the first ornament to go on the tree and she will be my helper with the nativity set."
"The what?" Meredith wonders.
"You know, those glass figures of Mary and Joseph that were always on the table by the tree at the old house? Izzie always put them out and then left them with us when she moved." He reminds.
"Oh! That?! Sounds good."
"Come on, daddy! An eager Bailey calls. He has already started up the snowy path and Zola hurries up behind. The adults smile and begin walking behind. Meredith carrying Lexie and Derek holding the axe while Carolyn pulls the wagon for the tree.
Zola and Bailey lead the way, their mittened hands clasped to each other's. "Frosty the snowman was a very happy soul!" Zola starts singing as she stomps through the snow.
"With a corn-ob pipe and a…" Bailey adds.
"It's corn-COB pipe, Bailey." Corrects Zola with a giggle.
"Oh, ok. With a corn cob pipe and a button nose…"
"And two eyes made out of coal!" Zola finishes. As they keep walking they keep singing. Moving from Frosty to Jingle Bells and back to Frosty. Meredith makes sure to video their sweet singing, stealing admiring glances with Derek. She giggles as she sends the video to Alex, Amy and Callie, knowing that they will enjoy it.
"Look at that!" Derek points as Bailey pretends to dance around like Frosty.
"They are quite the pair." Carolyn smiles as she walks along side her son.
"I know, we got so lucky." Meredith shakes her head as she feels her youngest stir. She looks down and sees the baby staring up at her.
"Oh, hello Lexie." Derek coos when he follows Meredith's gaze. "Just in time! I hate to break up the singing, but we have reached our spot." He brushes a piece of hair back under Lexie's hat.
"Bailey, Zola, we're here." Meredith calls.
They stop short and turn. "Yay!" Bailey cheers. "Where's our tree?" He looks around at the towering pine trees around him.
"Let's see." Derek takes both kids hands and walks to the first tree. They examine each, looking for missing branches, unwanted spaces and a good height.
"We gotta have lots of branches so we can put many balls that are pretty colors." Zola demands.
"I want it tall like the tree by the docks." Says Bailey.
"Yeah! That one is so cool!" Comments Zola.
"We will get a big one, we need one that is 12 feet." Derek says as he examines one. "How does this one look, Bailey?" He pats one with dark green pine needles and thick branches that fan out in every possible direction. It smells strongly of pine and has a fine dusting of snow all over.
"I like!" Bailey affirms, hands on his waist.
"Me too!" Zola nods.
"What do you think, Meredith?" Derek walks to Mer and wraps his arm around her waist.
"Looks good to me, as long as I can lay underneath and watch the lights." She leans into Derek and kisses his neck.
"Hmm, okay then!" He squeezes her close and kisses her head. "Bailey, ready for your first task as tree helper?" Bailey nods as he runs to Derek. "Okay, you're job is to make sure our girls stay far enough away from the tree while I cut it down."
"You got it, daddy!" He nods and turns to Meredith. "Mama, Nana, let's go stand over there." He points before pulling them away from the tree path. He checks with Derek for approval before moving Zola.
"Nice work, Bailey. Now, I want you to stand over here." He points to a side of the tree that is away from the swinging of the axe and away from the path of falling. Derek rubs his hands together before lifting the heavy axe he had placed to the side earlier.
"Be careful, Derek." Meredith calls as she feeds Lexie her bottle she brought along.
"Yes, watch yourself." Carolyn adds. Derek nods and sucks in a breath as he lifts the axe. He swings hard and begins chipping away.
"Woah!" Zola says, her eyes growing wide as she watches the tall tree shake from the chopping. She sinks closer to Carolyn with each sound of the metal on the wood.
"Watch out!" Derek calls as he swings one final time and the tree crashes to the ground. He goes over and lifts Bailey after dropping the tool from his hand. Bailey wraps his arms tightly around Derek's neck, resting his head on his shoulder as he watches. "There's our tree buddy. We did it, thank you for helping." Derek whispers in a soothing tone before he kisses his head. He squeezes him tight, holding his whole body from head to legs into him, cuddling.
"This is a beautiful tree, Derek." Meredith says as she walks with Zola up to him and Bailey. She gazes at it, wondering how they were going to get the large and long tree back home.
Almost as if reading her mind, Derek smiles and says, "let's get that wagon over here and get this tree back to the car." Meredith nods and her eyes shimmer as she notices how sweaty her husband is from cutting the tree despite being 20 degrees outside. She feels tingling run up her spine as she brushes some hair out of his eyes.
"Okay." She nods and watches Derek lift the tree in two lifts onto the long wagon with rails tall enough to hold the tree steady. "I'll help you pull." Meredith offers once it's secure.
"We got our Christmas Tree! It's perfect!" Zola squeals as they walk to the car. "Santa gonna bring us lots and lots a gifts."
"And he's gonna fly with his Reindeer!" Bailey chimes.
"We gotta make cookies!" Zola bounces in sheer delight.
"Eat lots of candy canes!" Bailey jumps. He had his first one last year and instantly they became one of his favorites.
"I wanna build a snowman!"
"Me too, Zola!" Bailey adds.
"Wow, they are so excited." Meredith says to Derek as they walk behind the kids and Carolyn.
"They sure are, this is gonna be the best Christmas yet." Derek agrees. They reach their car and somehow Derek manages to tie the tree up and get it up on the roof. He sighs in content once it's secure and turns to Meredith with a smile. His hands travel from the side of her stomach around her waist, leaning in closer as Meredith gets an equally large smile. Derek hums into her ear happily as she runs her fingers through the curls at the bottom of his neck. His warm, woodsy scent fills her to the brim as they cuddle as close as they can with Lexie between them. Derek strokes her cheek while kissing her neck and then slowly kisses her bright pink lips.
"Oh!" She breathes as they pull away, smiling. Derek roams her body with his eyes, forcing himself to look away and begin helping her get Lexie into the car where the other three already sat.
"Let's get this tree home." Derek begins as he starts the car. More music fills the car and this time "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" fills the car. The kids happily sing along as they watch the surroundings out the window. When they get home, they all get the car inside while Derek and Meredith get the tree inside and set up into the tree stand. They select a spot next to the window between the front door and fireplace.
"This is a perfect spot, Derek." Carolyn notes.
"I figured it would be great for hot chocolate and burning a fire." Explains Derek wiping his hands. Every year when he was a kid, after they decorated the tree, his sisters and him would cuddle with their parents. They would watch a Christmas movie, drink cocoa and light a fire.
"I bet that's what you had in mind when you built the house." Carolyn adds, knowingly. "It's so wonderful to see you this happy, dear." She grins at him, rubbing his arm, watching as he stares at Meredith and the kids. The last time she believes she has seen him like this was maybe his high school graduation. Yes, med school and becoming an intern, but something was always missing then.
"Come eat, Der!" Mer calls. She had quickly thrown together some sandwiches to recharge before tackling the decorating.
"Mm, alright. Let's plan." He sits and pulls Zola into his lap and then grabbing his food. Meredith looks at him, unsure. Usually when it came to decorating, the last couple years they would do simple for the kids. Back at the house, Meredith did a little of the tree, but Derek would do most along with April, Lexie and initially Izzie.
"Where are our decorations?" She asks, wiping Bailey's chin.
"Attic. I figured we could get them down in a few minutes since Lexie is napping." Meredith nods in agreement.
"What are some other things you did while decorating? She asks when they get the kids settled and head upstairs.
"Well, we listen to music, I was thinking the kids could make some ornaments. I know they have some from daycare already. Tonight though, we have to have hot chocolate and watch a Christmas movie." He peeks at Meredith as they start moving boxes looking for their decorations. "Is there any movie you haven't seen?"
"I've seen all of them. That's all there was to do on Christmas for me, Derek."
"I bet you thought they were all cheesy." He jokes, trying to take away the frown on her face.
"I sure did." She rewards him with a small giggle. "That's kind of bound to happen when you're sitting alone watching even dysfunctional families all happy and getting along."
"Maybe watching with us will change your thoughts." Derek lifts a large green bin and places towards the exit. Meredith agrees that since most other previously believed cheesy items were now not cheesy, her opinion on Christmas movies would also change.
"I hope so." She wistfully replies. They silently place more boxes near the exit to bring downstairs when Derek stops Meredith. He has a goofy grin on that tells Meredith he's planning something.
"You hear that, Mer?
She gapes and looks around. "Hear what?"
"Exactly." His voice is deep as he guides her against the wall. He cups her cheeks and let's his hands trace lower on her body, his eyes following their path.
"Oh! Now I do." Meredith places her hands on his chest, moving up to his shoulders. "We still have two weeks, Derek."
"I know, doesn't mean we can't have fun." He laughs as he kisses her hard, causing her to moan and run her fingers through his hair. "Meredith." He praises with reverence as he holds her against him, cradling her face while kissing deeply. Her hands roam his strong body while his trace her curves. They kiss with such eagerness and excitement. She slips her fingers into the hem of his pants.
"I can't wait for it to be two weeks." Meredith moans as Derek now sucks on her neck, leaving a mark.
"Me neither! Still have Amy and mom lined up and ready."
"You better, Derek!" She murmurs as she throws her head back and presses her body flush against his.
Derek pulls back breathlessly, panting. His eyes are deep blue now. "Oh, I do!" He takes both of his hands and brushes her hair back before pulling her into a hug. Meredith smiles in excitement as they bask in their comfort. Eventually, they pull apart and begin bringing down the boxes. The kids eyes go wide when they see all the boxes filled with ornaments.
"Look at all the pretty red and silver ones!" Zola points as she picks up a red ball and a sparkly, silver star.
"I like this one!" Bailey states as he holds a silver dove.
"Yeah, well I get to pick the first one, right daddy?" Zola says, bossiness evident in her voice.
"Yes, Zola. But don't speak to your brother that way." Derek answers back sternly. The little girl looks down and continues looking.
"Oh, this is adorable." Carolyn pulls out a pink ornament. It's a glass stocking with sparkles on the top, it says "baby's first Christmas." On the bottom.
"Oh! Zola's first ornament. I remember that day." Meredith recollects, taking it into her hand.
"Me too! We filled up our carts so much that day. This one is still perfect." Derek reminisces.
"Mmhmm." Agrees Meredith. "Here's Bailey's." She holds out a blue ornament, this time a bottle shape with the same words. Both have their birthdate on them.
"That was a fun day too, we gotta get one for Lex, now." Suggests Derek.
"We will, Der. When we go shopping we will be sure to pick one." Replies Meredith. As if on cue, Lexie begins screaming. "I'll get her." She says, heading to get the baby.
"Okay, let's wait til mama gets back before we start, okay?" Derek nods to Zola and Bailey. The kids agree and continue to rummage through the bin. He watches them in their Christmas tree gear go through through each colorful ball and ooh and ahh over each. When Meredith comes back out, he sits on the couch and takes Lexie in his arms. "Hi, angel!" He coos at her. She looks so festive in her red one piece with green Christmas trees on the mini pockets. Lexie gurgles back as she follows the sound of her daddy.
"Ok, I'm ready for her, Derek." Meredith motions for her once she's set up for breastfeeding. He helps position Lexie under the blanket and stands. "Okay, it's time for the lights!" Between him, Bailey and Zola it is decided that the tree should have white and red lights. The kids take turns holding the strands of lights as Derek wraps it around the tree. Meredith watches with interest from the couch as the kids laugh and giggle while helping Derek.
"Okay, Zo, you ready for the first ornament?" Derek asks after admiring the now light adorned tree.
"I want this one!" She holds up a gold ornament that was smooth and a twisty shape.
"That's perfect, Zo." He smiles as he surprises her by scooping her quickly into his arms. Zola giggles as Derek holds her towards the tree and guides her in placing the ornament. Meredith and Carolyn sit on the couch and watch as Zola steadily places the glass piece on one of the branches. Her mouth formed into a proud smile.
"I did it, daddy!" She squeals as Derek pulls her into a cradling position into his chest. He kisses her and shares a look with Meredith.
"My turn!" Bailey jumps up and down. He's holding the silver dove in his hand. Derek scoops him up and gently holds him so he can put it high up on the tree.
"Now, me!" Zola tugs at Derek.
"Actually, it's Lexie's turn." Derek pokes her nose playfully as he walks over to Meredith. "You ready to put your first ornament on the tree, sweetie?" He coos as he picks up the baby. Then, he gives her a soft teddy bear and holds her hand as if she is actually placing it on the tree. "Good girl, angel." Derek bounces her happily.
"Now what, Derek?" Asks Meredith as she stands, putting her arm around Zola.
"Now we put on the music and Zola and Bailey can put the ornaments where they can reach and us adults will put the rest." He places Lexie in her bouncy seat so she can see what's happening and then switches on the radio. The kids gladly begin singing along to Jingle Bells as it plays loudly around the room. Meredith, Derek and Carolyn place different gold, red, silver and green balls around the tree. There's snow now falling outside as they finish decorating the tree.
"It looks amazing!" Meredith exclaims as they step back and look once all the balls and different shaped ornaments are placed. Derek wraps his arms around her from behind and agrees.
"I want to put an angel up top, daddy." Signals Zola, holding up a glass angel. It's wearing a while gown with long, flowing brown hair that is parted by large, gold angel wings. It's blue eyes are wide and it has a faint smile upon its lips.
"Okay, ZoZo. Come here!" Derek picks her up and together they climb up the ladder which is thankfully not very far. Zola grips the angel protectively as she reaches forward and places it on the highest branch.
"Kinda ironic that "Oh Christmas Tree" is playing now." Meredith giggles, "you did great Zola!" She reaches out to Zola so Derek can climb down.
"Thanks, mama! What's next?" She asks while hugging Meredith. They proceed to spend the rest of the afternoon decorating. Meredith and Zola place different versions of Santa all around the living room. Zola loves setting up the bright colored Santa that is holding a list of good girls and boys on the table near the window.
"I bet you're on that list, Zo." Carolyn chuckles as she watches her granddaughter.
"Oh, I know I am, Nana!" She giggles. Then, she helps Meredith and Bailey put Christmas gel clings all over the windows from Reindeer to snowflakes to words saying "Merry Christmas." Meredith places light up Santa's, whimsical Santa's and a big, glass Santa with a sack of toys on the fireplace. Derek and Lexie set up the manager on another table by the kitchen. This year it was more of Derek pretending Lexie was agreeing with all of his suggestions. Carolyn and Bailey put wreaths on the doors, light up mini Christmas trees, pillows on the couch with different holiday designs and jingle bells and trinkets in the kids rooms and around the living room. Lastly, Derek hung some holly around the doors and placed a large, red, Christmas themed centerpiece on the dining room table. All the while of decorating, the kids sang every song that came on, they were especially enjoying "Silent Night" and "Jingle Bell Rock." Derek even joined in with singing "Mistletoe and Holly" paired with a little dance. Meredith laughs as she remembers the last time Derek danced like that, he even ended it the same way. Swaying with Meredith in his arms as he kisses her neck. Carolyn was utterly surprised to find tears forming at the sight. When they were finished, their house looked magical yet elegant. Meredith thought they even did better than Izzie, which Derek tried really hard to explain to Carolyn in between laughs.
"Okay guys, we have one more thing to do before we settle down for dinner." Derek looks at the kids with a glint in his eyes.
"What, daddy?" Asks Bailey.
"One second." He walks over to the cabinet and pulls out a white shopping bag. "I got you guys a surprise when I went grocery shopping the other day." He pulls out two prebuilt gingerbread house kits as the kids jump with excitement.
"Those look like so much fun!" Bailey shrieks.
"Good idea, Derek." Meredith smiles as she watches before picking up a now awake Lexie. "Can we wait until Lex eats?"
"Of course, Mer. I have to get the frosting ready anyway."
"Can I feed her, mama?" Bailey looks up at her with bright blue eyes.
"Sure, sweetie." Unable to resist, Meredith replies. She grabs a bottle from the fridge while Carolyn sits the little boy on the couch. "Here, bud. Watch her head." She instructs.
"Hi, Lexie!" Bailey calls, smiling at his sister. Lexie gurgles and looks towards the sound. Her little arm goes up and swats at Bailey. "No hit, Lex." He says trying to sound stern.
"She's not hitting, Bails, she's waving." Giggles Meredith.
"Oh, okay. Here's your food then." He takes the bottle the best he can in his tiny hands and places it at Lexie's lips. Bailey chats little kid chat all the while feeding her.
"This reminds me of Derek and Amy." Carolyn mentions as Meredith takes picture after picture. Just then, Bailey bends down and kisses Lexie on her warm baby cheek.
Meredith immediately takes a picture, capturing the moment. "I see it now, that is all Derek." She admires.
"Plus, you got it on film. You don't know how many times I wish I had one of those moments in a picture." Carolyn giggles.
"You don't?"
"Nope, usually Amelia would swat her hand up right away, knocking Derek or she would cry. A few times one of the other girls would block the shot." Laughs Carolyn along with Meredith.
"Mama, she's done!" Bailey says moments later.
"I'll get her, Meredith. You go build a gingerbread house." She smiles at her daughter in law. Meredith takes Bailey into the kitchen where Zola and Derek are waiting.
"All set?" Meredith wonders as Derek and Zola nod.
"Zola wants this one, we can each help a kid." Derek explains.
"Help me, mama!" Bailey says as he pulls on her shirt. She agrees and helps Bailey pick out candies, gumdrops, mini candy canes and m and m's to go on his house. As she pipes thick icing along the roof allowing Bailey to randomly place two purple gumdrops and a mini handful of hard candies on it, her phone buzzes.
"It's Alex." She tells Derek. He looks at her in curiosity. "I sent him a video of the kids singing earlier. He just says how cute they are and… Oh! Seriously?!" Meredith rolls her eyes, annoyed.
"What?" Wonders Derek as his mom walks over as well.
"Cristina is leaving tonight. She told him today."
"Isn't that the girl that you are very close with and who was dating that sweet Owen?" Questions Carolyn.
"Was close with Ma and please don't call our chief of surgery sweet." Derek swallows hard and closes his eyes.
"Well, he is, I had such a delightful time at those two dinners I had with him and Amelia." Carolyn reassures.
Derek holds back a laugh before turning to Meredith. He kisses her softly, letting his lips linger on her forehead. "You okay, Mer?"
She sighs before nodding. "Yeah, we haven't been close in a while." Meredith is cut off by Zola before she has anymore time to wallow.
"Daddy, mama look at my house!" Zola points at her gingerbread house that has a roof covered in white icing with some dripping down like icicles. She had placed green, blue, red and yellow candies all over, even attempting to put gumdrops haphazardly on the crease of the roof. Two candy cane sticks sat next to the door and a pathway of candy went from the door outwards along the plastic pathway. On the side, Zola had placed two m and m's by the window and another at the back of the house.
"Wow! Great job!" Meredith hugs her in praise. "I love it." Zola smiles at the praise that Meredith gives and that Derek adds as well.
"Mine is done too!" Bailey points out. His roof has some splattered candy all over and the plastic tray was covered in frosting with gumdrops clumped into groups. "Everything melted!" He explains. "That a chimney." Bailey points to a little candy cane stick laying slanted on the top of the roof.
"Beautiful job!" Meredith hugs and kisses him as well. "Now, who's hungry?" The kids giggle with excitement at the mention of ordering pizza. While they wait, they clean up the kitchen and set their crafts on the counter. "Why don't we get in our pajamas now?" She suggests when the last pan is put away. The kids agree and hurry with Meredith to get their Christmas pajamas on so they are ready for the movie after dinner. Derek sits with Lexie and Carolyn enjoying the decorations. They are watching Lexie in her sleep when the doorbell rings.
"That's quick, I wasn't expecting the pizza for another 20 minutes." He wonders as he and Lexie walk to the door. "Let's go see, Lex." Derek looks at the peacefully sleeping baby in his arms as he opens the door. When he looks up he is shocked.
"Oh… Hey, is Mer home?" Cristina stumbles. She's standing in her brown leather jacket, looking apprehensive.
"Yeah, um, one second. Come in, Cristina." Derek says, feeling odd having to say that to her. "Meredith!" He turns and calls her. Lexie whimpers at the noise in her sleep and Derek instantly soothes her.
"Come on guys, go ahead and ask daddy." Meredith walks Zola and Bailey out, both dressed in their red and white "Dear Santa, I can explain!" Pajamas. "Yes, Derek?" She says as she is enthralled with watching the kids run up to him.
"Um, you have a visitor." He looks towards Cristina in between the kids asking if they can set up the movie before they eat so it will be ready for them. Meredith looks up in shock.
"Cristina?!" She exclaims. "Not that I mind, but what are you doing here?" Meredith guides her back to the doorway while Derek leads the kids away for privacy towards Carolyn.
"Well, I figured Alex told you and I was just gonna go… But then I realized that it would be so stupid if I just left. I wanted to at least say goodbye."
"Wow, thanks Cristina. That's… Um a great opportunity you have." Meredith says awkwardly. They look at each other, not knowing what to say.
"Mama! We gonna watch Rudolph AND Santa Claus is Coming to Town!" Bailey runs to Meredith. She looks up and meets Derek's eyes. He winks at her telling her that it's okay and that he sent Bailey over on purpose.
"We are?!" She says with exuberance as she cups his little cheeks. He nods, jumping up and down. Meredith cuddles him close, holding his back against her legs. "You wanna stay for pizza at least, Cristina?" Meredith asks with a newfound strength.
"Ya, Auntie 'Tina!" Bailey cheers.
"Oh…I can't, my flight is in three hours." She says evenly. Meredith nods in understanding. "Well, I guess I'll see ya around. Congratulations on the baby, Mer. She looks just like Shepherd, hair and all." They share a smile and laugh as Cristina turns to leave.
"Bye, Cristina, thanks for coming by, good luck." Meredith waves to her as she exits. "Come on, buddy, let's go sit!" She coos at Bailey.
"That was shocking!" Derek says as Meredith collapses next to him.
"What was that all about, dear?" Joins Carolyn.
"That was Cristina. We haven't been on the same page lately. Me, her and Alex used to be so close."
"Meredith and her especially." Derek laughs. "They were inseparable."
"Well, what happened?" Pushes Carolyn.
"We just drifted apart and now she's leaving." Explains Meredith freely as she snuggles with Derek and tickles Lexie's foot.
"Oh, I'm sorry, dear." Carolyn reaches and pats her leg.
"Don't be, mom." Meredith smiles up at Derek while he kisses her head. Just then they hear the doorbell ring. The kids jot up as quick as they can. Carolyn insists on buying so she stands and goes to get the pizza. Bailey and Zola come back over to the coffee table, their plates each containing vegetable pizza and a cheesy garlic roll. Carolyn carries three plates and hands two to Meredith.
"Guess I have to put her down?" Derek pouts.
"Unless you want me to eat your pizza." Meredith giggles as he moves to situate Lexie in the swing next to him. Once dinner is finished, Derek and Meredith make some hot chocolate, popcorn and bring over some candy canes.
"You have to try hot chocolate with marshmallows, Mer." Derek mentions as he grabs the remote.
"Oh, I have Der." She giggles as she rests her head in the crook of his neck, his arm wrapped around her protectively.
"Start the movie, daddy!" Bailey shouts as he sits bundled in blankets. His cocoa is next to him while Zola sits with hers on the other side. They each have a big, red and white candy cane in their mouth.
"Okay, okay." Derek laughs as he presses play. He brings the hand holding the remote down, dropping it and coming back to cup and stroke Meredith's cheek. "I love you." He murmurs softly to Meredith and covers them with a red and green knitted blanket.
"I love you too, Derek." She squeezes his arms lovingly as they turn and watch the movie. The kids sing along with Burl Ives as he sings about Rudolph and his reindeer games.
"That was cute." Meredith comments as the credits roll. "I like how it went through the whole song." She plays with the buttons on Derek's shirt under the blanket occasionally teasing him by slipping a finger underneath the waistband of his pants and rubbing. He smirks as he takes a sip of his drink and cradles her head into his chest. He then adds to the teasing by tickling slightly, letting his fingers slide over the side of her chest.
"Look! It's Santa!" Bailey claps at the beginning of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town." He recites the words to the song as Zola giggles along and crunches on the end of her candy cane. The glistening snow continues to fall outside, making the warmth from the fireplace feel so much more pronounced.
"I always thought the animations in these movies were so funny." Mentions Meredith.
"Yeah, they're unique." Derek comments. The movie continues with the kids sipping their cocoa and the adults cuddling until the very end. That night the kids went to sleep easy, begging for a reading of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Ever since Meredith had brought that book home the kids have begged her to read it over and over. She happily obliged, reading until they barely had their eyes open. Once asleep, she goes back into her room where she is welcomed by Derek feeding Lexie.
"I need my baby." Meredith says as she sits next to Derek and holds out her arms. He reluctantly gives Lexie to her to burp. Derek enjoys watching Meredith keep her eyes trained on Lexie proudly. Her eyes filled with a sparkle as she kisses her dark hair and brushes the curls back. Once Lexie is happily asleep, they immediately are drawn together as they lay in bed. Derek stroking Meredith's hair with such tenderness until she falls asleep. Lulled by his strokes and scent.
MDMDMDMDMDMDMDMDMDMDMDMDMDMD
"So, Zola, what are you going to ask Santa for today?" Carolyn asks as Bailey and Zola sit at the counter eating breakfast one week later.
"I want the Paw Patroller and the Pup Lookout!" Bailey beats Zola.
Carolyn gives him a stern look before responding, "oh, really?" She smiles as he nods proudly.
"I want the Cinderella Royal Celebration Fairytale Castle play set and a Princess Jasmine and Pocahontas dolly." Zola says definitively.
"Oh you do?" Says Meredith coming up behind her and hugging.
"Yeah, mama! What's Lexie gonna ask for?" She refers to her sister who is happily sucking her fingers in Meredith's arms.
"Hmm, I don't know, what should she ask for?"
"A dolly?" Suggests Zola.
"Uhh, a new Mickey Mouse?" Wonders Bailey.
"Oh, because hers somehow mysteriously ended up ripped?" Meredith giggles as Bailey looks sheepish.
"When we gonna go, mama?" Bailey changes the topic.
"After daddy gets out of the shower and dressed." She scoots into her chair and takes the food Carolyn offers.
"Oh!" He moans, "hope he hurries!"
"Hey, no pouting!" Meredith tickles him with a free hand as he squirms away. It's not long after that Derek comes into the living room all dressed and ready.
"Daddy! You're all ready, we can go see Santa!" Bailey cheers while running to Derek.
"I am, Mer, how about you get the girls ready and I'll get Bails?" He looks over.
"Sounds good, I hope Lex doesn't spit up on her dress."
"It would make sense for this to be the first time she does that." Jokes Derek.
"Don't say that, Derek!" She swats playfully.
"What can I do?" Carolyn asks as she dries a dish.
"Maybe get the diaper bag ready?" Answers Derek. She nods, happy to help. Derek takes Bailey and gets him dressed in his navy pants and red, plaid dress shirt. Over it, he places a red sweater vest that has a cartoon Rudolph in the center. "You look so handsome!" Derek compliments looking as Bailey seems so much older in his big boy outfit.
"Can we spike my hair?!" Bailey eagerly asks. Derek smirks and gets some gel to run through his hair.
In Zola's room, Meredith pulls out a red, velvet dress with a plaid bow tie. Zola admires herself in the mirror after her navy tights and shoes are on as well. "We need your sweater, sweetie." Meredith tells her, showing a sparkly, navy cardigan. "Then I'll do your hair." Once Zola is completely ready, it's Lexie's turn. Meredith smiles as she places red tights over her diaper followed by a navy onesie that says "My 1st Christmas". Last is a red, plaid skirt. "You look so beautiful, sweetie." Meredith coos as she places a little headband in her hair. She places a kiss on Lexie's cheek before taking her and Zola to meet the others.
"My princesses look gorgeous!" Derek boasts as he sees them.
"Thanks, daddy! We gots to be so pretty for Santa!"
"Bailey, you look perfect!" Meredith says in awe as she sees her little boy. He smiles and runs to give her a hug. "Okay, who's ready to see Santa?"
"Me!" Comes a chorus of kids voices. They are all bundled carefully into coats and hats and bustled into the cars as Meredith and Derek plan on staying to shop once pictures are done. Once they get to the mall they are thrust into the madness of Christmas shopping.
"Stay close, Zo." Meredith holds onto Zola's hand and carries Lexie while Derek grasps onto Bailey. Carolyn walks along next to them in case an extra hand is needed.
"I'm gonna tell Santa everything I want! I'm gonna tell him that we will leave cookies for him too." Informs Bailey.
"I'll tell him what Lexie wants!" Zola looks up at Meredith smiling at her. Just then they arrive at the entrance.
"Santa's Magical Palace." Meredith reads. There is a long, red carpet with green rope decorated in thick green garland and gold, red and silver ornaments leading a path to a huge snow dome and beyond that Meredith can see a white background with a brown chair where she assumed Santa sat. There were loads of kids waiting with their parents waiting to see the jolly man.
"There lots and lots of kids here! We're never gonna see Santa!" Bailey pouts.
"We will buddy, it may take a bit but we will." Derek scoops him into his arms and gives him a tight hug. He fixes Bailey's hair and sways him back and forth. His heart breaks at the sad look that is identical to Meredith's on his face.
"Look Bailey, you guys get to play in fake snow while you wait." Points Carolyn. Sure enough, now that they can see the dome properly, they can see white and light blue lights with fake snow and kids running around while parents wait in line.
"Wow!" Zola squeals. "Can we play?"
"I can take them." Carolyn offers looking at Meredith and Derek.
Derek shrugs. "Sure, we'll wait here in line." So, Carolyn takes the kids ahead while Derek and Meredith stay behind with Lexie. "You ready to meet Santa?" Derek giggles as Lexie "ahh's" in response. He wraps Meredith in his arms as they wait. They stay in close proximity as they continue to wait in line and eventually they are inside the big snow dome.
"Wow!" Meredith breathes as she stares at the fake falling snow against the bright blue lights. There are hologram snowflakes floating all over. Zola and Bailey are running around in the snow.
"Mama, daddy! I am making a snow angel!" Exclaims Zola.
"Great job sweetie." Derek smiles as he watches her move her arms and legs.
"And it's not even cold like when we did it outside!" She giggles.
"I can make a snowball!" Shows Bailey. Derek takes out his phone and takes pictures as they play. The fun they were having made the wait go that much quicker and before they knew it, it was their turn. Santa's spot consisted of a bright background of his workshop behind a big, brown, throne like chair. There were candy cane poles and fake reindeer around Santa and elf workers. Shiny Christmas lights hung all around and a giant Christmas tree stood next to where Santa sat.
"Okay, you ready guys?" Meredith asks.
"Yes, mama!" Zola jumps eagerly as she watches another little boy sit on Santa's lap with interest.
"We're next, Zo!" Bailey squeals. Sure enough, Santa gives the little boy a hug and sends him with an elf. He looks at Zola and Bailey and gives a large, jolly smile through his thick, white beard. Meredith takes Bailey and leads him up to Santa. As Derek lifts him onto his lap, Bailey gets suddenly star struck. He stares curiously at him as Meredith hands Lexie to Santa. When Meredith and Derek step back, Santa springs into his magical action, pulling Bailey out of his shell. He tickles them, pats their heads and listens intently as the kids very seriously tell him their wishes. Meredith and Derek look at each other, eyebrows raised as they listen. The lead elf directs the kids for a picture with Santa as they look at the camera, Santa holds Zola with one arm on one leg and Bailey on the other. Lexie carefully in his free arm. He bounces Lexie while she is managing to get her fingers further into her mouth. She makes a face that Meredith and Derek have never seen her make. As Santa and the kids look at the camera, Lexie spits up all over her clothes and Bailey who was right next to her just as the camera flashes.
"Crap!" Meredith mumbles for only Derek to hear, closing her eyes. Derek's eyes go wide in shock and Carolyn covers her mouth to hide her laughter. Meredith and Derek rush to the kids, and after apologizing profusely to Santa, lift a crying Bailey, shocked Zola and a whining Lexie off his lap. Santa insists on no worries and still hands each of the kids a candy cane and one more hug before they exit the palace area.
"Mama! I'm all dirty!" Bailey cries, pulling at his vest. They find the nearest bench where Meredith sits to try's to calm a now screaming Lexie.
"It's okay, Bails, it's only a little on your vest. We can take it off." Meredith strokes his hair with one hand. His sniffles die down a little as Derek pulls him close and cleans him. Derek kisses his head as he rests his head on Derek's chest, rubbing his tears.
"Lexie messed up the picture." Zola crosses her arms and stomps.
"She didn't mean to, Zo. It was an accident." Derek looks at Meredith with a worried look. "Guess it really does start young. We made it five weeks." He murmurs to Meredith.
"Zo, she made it memorable, one day we will look at this and laugh and laugh." Says Meredith.
"No we won't. Now Santa won't bring us presents."
"What!" Bailey pops up, scared.
"Kids." Carolyn warns. "The only way Santa doesn't bring presents is if you are naughty or pout." She raises her eyebrows, giving a stern look.
"I think Lexie just really likes the taste of her fingers, don't you sweetheart?" Derek croons at Lexie who is hiccuping in Meredith's arms.
"You're okay, Lex." Meredith strokes her hair and kisses her head.
Listening to her grandma, Zola changes her feelings of anger. "She's not sick, is she mama?"
"No, she just learned how to gag herself. Sucking her fingers calms her and she needed that comfort being with someone else."
"Oh, okay. I'm glad you're not sick Lexie." Zola tickles her sister's cheek. Lexie turns her head towards the touch and meets Zola's eyes. As she does this, Zola smiles at her and to Zola's surprise, Lexie smiles back. "Mama! Daddy! Nana! Look!" She screams loud enough for passerby's to look.
"What's wrong, Zo?" Replies Meredith.
"She smiled at me!" Zola tickles her cheek again. "Lexie!" "Lexxxxiee!" She calls, trying to get it again.
"Derek!" Meredith shrieks as Lexie does it again when she looks at Zola.
"Oh my, way to go, Lexie!" Derek beams. He rubs her chest and picks up her little hand.
"I wanna see!" Bailey squirms. "Aww!" He coos as he kneels on Derek, his dirty vest forgotten.
"What a beautiful smile, precious!" Carolyn smiles.
"I am so dead." Meredith groans as Lexie smiles again. Derek looks at her, encouraging her to continue. "It's your smile. Look, the dimples and even the crinkles by the eyes." Meredith bends down to bury her head in his neck as Derek smirks. He knows full well she can't say no to that smile. "It's a beautiful smile for a beautiful girl, but how am I ever gonna say no to that?" Meredith hugs Lexie and kisses her little dimpled cheeks. She pats her back as Lexie rests on her shoulder. When Meredith holds her back down, she smiles at Lexie. "Good girl!" She praises and this time, Lexie smiles at Meredith, just in time for Derek to take a picture.
"Woah! I think this is her peace offering for throwing up during Santa." Derek says in awe.
"She's a genius!" Meredith giggles. "She was apologizing, even though there's nothing to apologize for, sweetness." Meredith kisses her again, unable to resist. She looks between her daughter and Derek who is giving her an identical smile as he watches the two of them.
"What a smart little girl." Carolyn coos as she runs her fingers through her hair. "Why don't I let you with your mama and daddy now while I take Zola and Bailey?" She looks at Derek and Meredith to suggest this as the time to break away for them to shop.
"Hmm, okay. I'll help you get Bailey and Lexie changed before you go, okay?" Derek suggests.
"Okay, let's stop in the restroom first." Carolyn agrees.
"I'll meet you by the food court, Derek." Meredith stands and hands the baby to him.
"Alright, I need some time with my smiling beauty." Derek kisses her cheeks proudly. They head in their opposite directions to continue with their day. As Meredith gets to the food court, she sees a store that will definitely come in handy for Derek. Smirking with an idea she goes inside. She bites her lips in anticipation as she eyes the sparkly, satiny, sheer and lace bras, panties, teddies and other nighttime apparel. It's been five weeks and she is aching for her husband. Sure they have fooled around and that makes them beyond happy. But, Meredith wants just some time with Derek without worrying about a child calling them. Thankfully, her six week checkup is only in three days and they have Carolyn and Amy taking care of the kids for the night. She comes upon a crushed, black velvet slip. Her fingers brush over the material before she lifts it off the rack. She skims the bras and panties and selects a red, strapless plunge bra that is silk with sparkles on the cup and matching panties. They have mesh on the sides holding up the already minimal amount of material. She quickly buys her items and stuffs it in the bottom of the stroller. As she is walking back towards the food court, a familiar arm guides her away from the crowd.
"Hi, Derek." Meredith giggles as Derek holds her with one arm and Lexie with the other. She reaches up and kisses his cheek.
"How's my girl?" She smiles down at Lexie who smiles right back. "I am so proud that you smiled." Meredith adds.
"Zola is ecstatic that she smiled for her. She was still talking about it after I buckled her in her seat." Derek says as they walk with their arms wrapped around each other.
"Oh, I bet!" Meredith laughs. "You know, we have to get them the exact things they asked Santa for, right?"
"Oh, yes." Derek laughs as they wait at the food court burger and salad joint. "So, I figured we could get them a few outfits here and then head to the toy store?"
"Yeah, and I also wanna get Lexie her first ornament." Meredith says, taking a bite of her sandwich.
"We will, right Lex?" He smiles at her and is blown away when Lexie smiles at him, a big, gummy smile with big dimples. "Oh, you beautiful girl!" He coos.
Once they've finished eating, Lexie as well, they head to the Children's Place and Gymboree. "Oh, these are so adorable." Meredith gushes as she looks at matching dresses.
"Oh, look at you." Derek laughs as he watches his previously dark and twisty wife squeal over matching pink dresses.
"Shut up, this is happy, married me." Meredith swats at his chest.
"Not complaining, Meredith." He smiles, picking up a pair of little leggings with a matching shirt. They spend a long time in each store picking out clothes for all three of them while Lexie sleeps in her sling hung across Derek's chest. When they are finally done, they find a store that sells ornaments and other memorabilia.
"So many choices!" Meredith says as she looks at the pink and blue ornaments. There's ones shaped like squares, bells, bottles, pacifiers and even ones with a cartoon baby. "I can't decide."
"It's hard, but we'll find one Meredith." He calms her with a kiss.
"Oh, look, Derek!" Meredith exclaims as something catches her eye. It's shaped like the Cinderella castle with pink lettering against the stainless steel silver. "A princess's first Christmas" it says right in the center.
"It's perfect! There's space to get it engraved too!" He takes one off the shelf and takes it to the front. They get Lexie's name engraved as well as November 2014 before paying and leaving.
"I love it." Meredith says as she looks at it with happiness. "Let's go get more." She giggles, taking Derek's hand as they head to the exit before bundling up and making their way to the car with their purchases.
"Oh! We have to get this!" Derek exclaims once they are shopping in the toy store. It's a kids book of anatomy. "It has all the sections of the brain, the cranial nerves and the functions of the brain layers."
"For Zola maybe." Meredith giggles.
"Look, for Bailey we can get Operation. He's old enough for games. Right?" Derek shrugs.
"I'm sure we can find a younger childlike anatomy book for him."
"Okay." Derek laughs as they continue to shop. They pick out loads of toys, unable to choose. Derek makes Meredith laugh as he insists on playing with all of them. It's getting close to dinner when Derek notices Meredith getting tired. She's leaning against him with a yawn. "Why don't we head home, Meredith. We got most of our gifts, we can come out tomorrow.
"But, we still have two of the nieces, three nephews, Kathleen and Richard to shop for." Meredith moans.
"We have plenty of time, Mer. Come, let's rest." Derek's voice is soothing, allowing her to give in and agree to head home. They head back to the house with Lexie where they find Zola, Bailey and Carolyn who made them a big pot of chicken noodle soup and fresh bread.
"You hid my gift for Meredith, right?" Derek whispers to Carolyn as they carry the dishes into the sink.
"Yes, dear. It's in my room, in the desk."
"Thanks, ma. I'm so glad I found that." He smiles at her. When they had taken the kids to get clean, Derek stopped at a store because he had seen something special for Meredith in the window. Then he gave it to Carolyn to keep safe.
"Derek!" Meredith calls, pulling him away from his thoughts. "The kids want both of us to read tonight." Derek smiles as he goes to join his wife and kids for their nighttime story and when they are done, Meredith and Derek sit with Carolyn and Lexie just enjoying the warmth of the holiday and prepare for the rest of the festivities to come. Derek treasures the amazing look on Meredith's face as they continue to talk about cookie baking, more shopping and seeing the kids faces on Christmas morning. He pulls her in for kiss after kiss, unable to resist as he listens. He can't wait to do this every single year.