No one could believe how fast the seasons changed, and the holidays quickly swapped from one to another. It felt like just yesterday it was Thanksgiving, and the family was sitting down together enjoying the lovely meal Klaus had prepared; then suddenly it was already Christmas Eve, and snow was falling, blanketing the world in a crisp layer of white.

Klaus's health depleted again after Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, that uncomfortable sensation of fluttering moths in his chest soon morphed to feeling like a frenzied flock of birds were berating themselves within his heart, trying to burst free from their cage within his chest. It wasn't until early December that a health scare related to his chest pain caused them to bring Klaus to the hospital to have it addressed.

As it turned out, the painful flutter in his chest was caused by a new cancerous lesion that formed on his heart. This news was devastating, to say the least. Dr. Thomas informed the family that this lesion was a huge blow to his health, and significantly could lessen his timeline. With his heart health now compromised, Klaus could have merely a few weeks left to live. It shattered everyone's hearts to hear this news. They couldn't bear the idea of ever losing Klaus; and now it was terrifying to realize just how soon they may need to say their final goodbyes.

Currently, Klaus was resting against Dave's chest in their bed. He was wrapped beneath several layers of blankets, and yet still his body was plagued by deep seeded chills. His teeth were chattering harshly within his skull, tendons bulging from his jaw whenever he tried to clench it shut - needless to say, his features clearly displayed his discomfort. Klaus was so incredibly weak anymore; he could barely breathe without the assistance of his oxygen tank, and he'd developed a low grade fever days ago that he just couldn't quite kick. Klaus had been steadily losing his strength for quite some time since the start of his illness, but it seemed as though all of a sudden he was so much more frail, and sickly; each day frightened Dave and the rest of their family that it might just be Klaus's last.

"Baby, we should bring you downstairs for a bit, warm you up by the fire." Dave was cradling Klaus's severely trembling form, he couldn't believe how badly he was shaking.

"N-no - I can't, baby. I'm too tired. P-please, just let me rest." He whispered tiredly through his chattering teeth. Dave intertwined his fingers within Klaus's, the shock from the chill on his skin against his own nearly startled him.

"Your hands are like ice, darlin." Dave rubbed his palms over Klaus's hands, in hopes that the friction would warm the icicles that were his extremities. Klaus groaned when the painful flutter in his chest flared again. He clenched his eyes closed and nuzzled impossibly closer against his love's side.

Dave's face fell at how miserable and uncomfortable his darling was, he wrapped the five blankets on the bed as tightly as he could around his shuddering figure while wrapping his strong arms around him, tightening their embrace. He rubbed his palms up and down his arms to try to warm him, but Klaus just continued to shiver. It was cold outside, what with it being December, but the interior of the academy was rather warm, Dave worried it wasn't the cold at all making Klaus so sickly, but rather his fever.

"I know you're tired, darlin, but you need to warm up." Dave raised himself out of the bed, earning a pitiful groan of protest from Klaus when he pulled his listless body into his arms. Klaus was wrapped up snugly in the blankets, cradled against Dave's chest as they descended the staircase into the living room. He had his eyes closed, and his forehead pressed against the nook of his fiancé's neck when they made it down into the somehow much warmer area downstairs.

It wasn't just the heat of the fireplace making this space warmer, though. Dave and Klaus's siblings planned a special surprise for Klaus today. They'd worked diligently all morning to set this up for Klaus while he attempted to rest upstairs. Dave had been wanting to do this for quite some time, but Klaus was just so weak. After the news of his cancer spreading to his heart, however, and the continued declining of his health, Dave knew he couldn't wait a moment longer.

"Baby, open your eyes." A pitiful moan escaped Klaus's lips before his eyes fluttered and opened into slits. His eyebrows furrowed as he blinked his eyes a few times to focus his blurred vision, before his eyes finally widened in awe and amazement.

"Baby..." Klaus's lips quivered as a tear slid down his hollowed cheek.

The entire living room - floor to ceiling - was encapsulated in the warm glow of Christmas lights. The tall cathedral ceilings had ethereal curtains of lights draped across, creating a beautifully warm glowing canopy. The furniture had been rearranged to clear space for the beautiful ceremony to take place, and in the center of the room stood an archway that was also bathed in the beautifully lit ambient lighting. There stood a Christmas tree behind the altar; tall and proudly wrapped in ribbon and shimmering ornaments. Poinsettias pathed the path leading from the staircase to the altar. The scene looked like something out of a movie; or a fairytale—it was beautiful.

Klaus peered around the room to each of his siblings, Ben included, as well as his mother, all with a brilliant smile upon their beautiful features. Dave closed the gap between the altar and themselves, hugging Klaus closer to himself and nuzzling their foreheads together.

"You did all of this - for me?" Klaus asked breathily, a subtle smile tugging the corners of his wobbly lips. Dave smiled and nodded before burying his lips against Klaus's curls.

"We all did, baby. This—this is for you. I hope you're ready to say 'I do'." Tears freely fell from Klaus's beautiful green eyes as a strained heartfelt giggle burst from his chest. "Are you ready to become my husband, darlin?" Klaus's shoulders quaked with each breathy sob.

Klaus never thought he'd see this day, never dreamed he would ever make it to their wedding. He thought for sure he would pass long before they ever got the chance to walk down the aisle together. He was so unbelievably grateful, so happy for the wonderful people in his life making this beautiful moment a possibility for him.

"I've never been more ready for anything in my entire life." Dave smiled against his love's lips, leaving a gentle kiss there, before slowly easing Klaus onto his feet. He was very weak, his legs unsteady; but Dave's gentle supportive arms never faltered, never left his weary frame, and Dave never left his side. Slowly but steadily they made their way to the altar, hands clasped tightly together, and faces bright with love for one another, and cheer.

Allison, with Luther's assistance worked secretly to become an ordained minister specifically for this occasion. She stood before the two lovers and led them through their journey to finally becoming one.

"We are gathered here today to celebrate with our beautiful brother Klaus, and his perfect match in this world David as they proclaim their never ending love and commitment to one another. We are gathered to rejoice, with and for them, in the new life they now embark upon together." She smiled lovingly to the couple, each with fresh tears in their proud eyes.

"Klaus and Dave, the relationship you enter into today must be grounded in the strength of your love, and the power of your faith in each other. To make your relationship succeed, it will take unending love. It will take trust, to know in your hearts that you truly want what is best for one another, and to learn and grow together. It will take faith, to go forward together without knowing what the future holds. If you both come freely, and understand the responsibility and work involved to make your relationship thrive, and are committed to each other, please take each other by the hands and reply 'we do.'"

The two men grasped firmly onto each other's hands as their gazes met.

"We do." They spoke together, as one. Allison smiled proudly before continuing.

"Klaus, repeat after me: David, you are my best friend and everlasting companion. You have brought me the truest happiness I have ever known. I take joy today in committing my life to yours."

Klaus repeated the vows; his voice was shaky, but he had never spoken more proudly. He couldn't believe he was finally able to say these words to the love of his life.

He couldn't believe he was able to get this chance...

"Now place the ring on his hand and repeat after me... with this ring, I promise to stand with you as we share this life, and the next, and cherish the memories we make together."

Klaus repeated the words as Diego handed him the ring. He let out a breathy laugh once he slipped the wedding band onto Dave's finger. He rubbed his thumb fondly over the cool metal band, cherishing the moment between them as tears fell from his eyes.

Dave repeated the same vows as Klaus had, only Klaus had dropped too much weight and the ring no longer fit his frail finger, so he slipped it over his neck alongside his dog tags; which he'd looped the ring onto its chain. Klaus wrapped his delicate fingers around the chain, squeezing the ring tightly in his grip as he closed his eyes and basked in the memory of the feeling of what it once felt like when it adorned his finger.

Dave gently cupped his love's cheek, smoothing away his tears with his thumb as Klaus opened his eyes and looked at Dave with a brilliant smile, draping his hand over his love's. He couldn't piece together the words to describe his feelings in this moment. He was just so incredibly happy, so in love with this man before him. And so grateful for this opportunity.

"Klaus and Dave, today you have stood before your family and declared your intent to commit your eternal lives to each other in marriage. Your road to this moment has not always been smooth, but you have continued to fight for one another. I hope you will never forget the fight and perseverance it has taken to get to this moment. And I hope you will never forget the love and joy you feel today, because these are the values that will keep your marriage and your eternal bond to one another strong." Klaus's strength was quickly dissipating, his knees became wobbly so Dave wrapped his arms around his waist and pulled him close. Klaus wrapped his arms around Dave's neck, nuzzling his cheek against his chest, feeling his heartbeat against his flushed skin.

"And so, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you two bonded together for all of eternity. You may now kiss the love of your life." Klaus smiled into Dave's kiss, their first kiss as a married couple.

They'd done it.

He never thought this would happen, and yet here they were. Married, bonded for eternity - just as their vows had proclaimed.

Their family cheered, throwing amaryllis petals to the air in celebration of their union as one. Dave buried his lips against Klaus's temple as he held Klaus tightly against himself, gently rocking him side to side as they shared their first dance as a married couple. Both men smiled, exchanging laughter and love as they savored this beautifully magical moment together.

"I love you, Dave." Klaus whispered against his chest. He meant it, with each syllable, each letter, and with each breath that he took. He truly loved this man. Dave cupped his cheek in his palm and pressed his lips against Klaus's.

"I love you, Klaus. My darling husband, I love you so much." Klaus laughed breathily at Dave's words and his smile widened, spreading across his weary features as more tears slipped down his sunken cheeks.

He was so incredibly happy, so proud and yet he couldn't help but feel torn at this moment...

He finally had everything he'd ever dreamed of; someone to have, and to hold, and to love and be loved so unwaveringly by. He was just so happy, and yet so heartbroken.

He didn't want to lose this, never wanted to have to leave or to say goodbye. He wasn't ready, he never truly would be. He didn't want to go, didn't want to die. Dave sensed his emotions and pulled him close, whispering soothing words of love and encouragement into his ear while he pressed his lips to his skin. They stayed there, slowly swaying and absorbing this moment for quite some time until Luther approached the married couple, laying his steady hands on each of their backs.

"Sorry to interrupt, but there's another surprise waiting for you, Klaus." Klaus straightened as Dave smiled at him. With Luther leading the way, Dave helped Klaus make his way towards the front door. Before they exited, he wrapped him in a thick winter coat before once again layering blankets over his weakened frame.

"Where are we going?" Klaus asked tiredly. Dave simply smiled. He took his hands into his own as he kissed his forehead.

"You'll see."

Diego and Five flanked the front doors pulling them open to allow the newly married couple to step outside into the cold winter night. Klaus's eyes widened in amazement at what was waiting for them in the street.

A carriage drawn by two beautiful white horses stood parked. The carriage was stunning; white and gold with Christmas lights and garland hung around, it was a covered carriage so that the two men would be shielded from the harsh weather. The two horses were adorned in jingle bells, and wreaths, and reindeer antlers upon their heads. Klaus giggled softly as Dave escorted him towards the beautiful animals.

"They're gorgeous baby, can I pet them?" Klaus asked softly as his giant green eyes met his husband's eagerly. Dave smiled, kissing his husband's exuberant face.

"I think they'd be offended if you didn't."

Klaus cautiously raised his shaky hand to one of the horses faces, gently running his slender fingertips over the animals fuzzy cheek. He slowly moved his hand from its cheek to its nose, delicately massaging the soft baby hairs over its flared nostrils. The horse softly nuzzled it's muzzle deeper into Klaus's touch, earning a breathy giggle from the sickly man.

"That's Comet, he likes you!" Said the coachman of the carriage. He bundled his coat closer to himself as he dug through his pockets before tossing something to Dave. Dave caught the object within his extended hand; it was a candy cane.

"Those are his favorite, just be careful, he's been known to be greedy and try to eat it before the wrappers have been removed!" The coachman laughed. Dave smiled as he unwrapped the candy cane before handing the red and white swirled candy to his husband. Klaus wrapped his fingers around the sugary treat and held it up to Comet's mouth. His hand shook with fatigue, but Dave cupped his palms around Klaus's hands to steady them. Klaus's lips tugged into a smile of appreciation. Comet wrapped his lips around the candy, slurping it into his mouth with a gentle touch. His whiskers tickled Klaus's palms causing him to exhale a laugh through his nose.

"He's so gentle, babe. Is this what BJ was like?" Dave couldn't hide his smile at Klaus's inquiry, he couldn't believe he remembered the story of his horse.

"Sure was, baby. He was just like this." Dave patted his hand against the animal's thick neck, admiring the dapples on the animal's coat.

"Is he a Percheron?" Dave asked the coachman, who nodded in response.

"Sure is. Comet here is full Percheron, while his lady friend there Vixen is a Percheron cross." Dave smiled when the man tossed him another candy cane. He unwrapped it and once again helped Klaus feed it to the horse; this time to Vixen, who also was gentle as can be. They stood there admiring the animals before Klaus's body began to tremble once again.

"Let's get you onto the carriage now, darlin. It's freezing out here, and there's no time to waste, I have a special night planned for you." Klaus could only nod tiredly as Dave led him to the side of the carriage. The coachman opened the door, and Dave hoisted Klaus into his arms before climbing into the carriage, situating themselves both beside one another on the tufted upholstered bench seat. It was warm inside, a small space heater placed within the quaint cabin to circulate warmth throughout. The seats were comfortable; thick red velvet cushions that Klaus immediately sunk into with a content sigh. Dave wrapped his arm around his husband, pulling him closer to allow him to snuggle against his side. Klaus hummed happily, a delicate smile tugging at his gaunt features as he wrapped his trembling arms around Dave's body, resting his tired head against his shoulder. The coachman smiled as he handed Dave a thick plush fleece blanket, which Dave gratefully accepted, before draping it over Klaus's frigid frame. The coachman ensured both men were comfortable before closing the door, and returning to his seat to commandeer the carriage, taking the two men on their special adventure.

Klaus was so comfortable; the warmth from Dave's body, paired with the fuzzy blanket wrapped around him, and the beautiful ambience surrounding the two men left him with a warm fuzzy feeling inside. The melodic sounds of the shod hooves of the horses dancing upon the pavement, mixed with the jingling of their bells was a soothing tone, practically lulling him to sleep.

"This is so nice, babe. Thank you." He whispered against Dave's chest, his eyes beginning to droop as his exhaustion took over. Dave smiled, kissing his temple as he rubbed soothing circles into his fading husband's back.

"You haven't seen anything yet, darlin. Look, open your eyes—" Klaus's eyes fluttered before opening wide.

They were going through a park that was completely decked out in a show of Christmas lights—brilliant light displays adorned every tree, and every pole. There were glowing reindeer, and polar bears, and stars. Giant glowing Christmas trees, and snowflakes. It was a literal winter wonderland, a spectacular sight to see. Dave's smile widened as he watched Klaus's face light up with childlike wonder. He looked so young, so carefree, so beautiful. It warmed his heart to see his love so happy.

They rode through the park from start to finish, even circling around again to see them once more, but it was starting to get late, so they decided it was best to begin their journey back home to the academy. Klaus was smiling ear to ear the entire time, admiring the lights and the incredibly thoughtful act, but his energy had depleted quite some time ago, and he could barely keep his eyes open any longer.

When they arrived home Klaus's strength was all but gone, he was far too weak to stand. Dave scooped him into his arms, thanking the coachman as he carried Klaus to the front of the carriage to pet the horses goodbye, before bringing his love inside for the night. When he closed the academy doors behind them, the beautiful sound of Christmas carols took both men by surprise. They looked into each other's eyes and exchanged a tired smile and a nod before entering the living room once more.

Vanya was playing her violin, while Luther joined her, playing the grand piano, the beautiful sound of their music filled the air within the academy.

"Oh, good you're back. How was it?" Allison asked with a brilliant smile. She tucked a curl behind Klaus's ear as he weakly returned her smile.

"It was amazing, beautiful," Klaus stated tiredly, "thank you all for today. Everything was perfect, I couldn't have dreamt of a better way to spend my Christmas or my wedding." He clenched his eyes closed as a tear slid down his cheek, his body trembling against his husband's chest.

"Of course, Klaus. We love you so much, we wanted this day to be something spectacular, you deserved it." A somber laugh escaped his lips as he nodded, burying his chilled face against Dave's neck. Dave tightened his grip on Klaus before making his way towards the couch in the massive living room. It was situated close to the fireplace. He laid himself down on the sofa, adjusting themselves so they were cuddled up against each other in front of the fire to warm Klaus's trembling frame. Five strode over to the couch and draped the two men with a thick quilt as Klaus nuzzled his face closer to Dave's chest, his eyes - heavy with fatigue - finally slipping shut.

"Why don't you get some rest, darlin. It's been a big day." Dave kissed his forehead while he ran his palm up and down Klaus's back. Klaus hummed in response. He was so tired, so incredibly drained from the days events, but he wouldn't change it for the world. This was the most beautiful day of Klaus's entire life. He'd finally been able to take Dave's hand in marriage while being surrounded and supported by everyone he loves most in this world.

It was truly his most perfect moment, and most precious memory. He would be forever grateful for this day.

The old grandfather clock in the main hall rounded to the next hour, the whimsical chime sounding throughout the academy as it reverberated down the many halls.

"It's midnight," Dave whispered, his smile growing as he cupped Klaus's nearly slumbering cheek, earning the sleepy man to open his weary eyes. "Merry Christmas, darlin." He whispered. Klaus's lips tugged into a subtle smile, the lines around his eyes tugging into a smile as well. He was so genuinely happy, and Dave's heart soared at the sight.

"Merry Christmas, Dave. I love you, so - so much." Klaus's eyes closed, a single tear slipping down his sharp cheekbone as he pressed himself impossibly closer into his husbands embrace. Dave held him tightly, peppering his hairline in delicate kisses as the song the siblings were playing shifted to the next track, and Allison started to sing.

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

Klaus's hand weakly fumbled with the chain around his neck. He slipped his wedding band around his slender ring finger - where it belonged before he clenched Dave's shirt within his shaky hands.

"Have yourself a merry little Christmas, Make the Yule-tide gay, From now on, our troubles will be miles away."

He smiled up at Dave; his husband, his tired emerald eyes sparkling with tears illuminated by the fire light.

Tears of joy...

Tears of despair...

"Here we are as in olden days, happy golden days of yore. Faithful friends who are dear to us, gather near to us once more."

Dave pressed his lips to Klaus's forehead, then his nose, and his pout. Klaus's eyes closed as his exhaustion took over, he laid his weary head against Dave, tucking himself beneath his chin as Dave held him closer, his own tears streaking his face.

"Through the years we all will be together, If the Fates allow. Hang a shining star upon the highest bough."

The sound of the music drifted through Dave's ears, melancholic, and yet beautiful as he clutched his husband to his chest. Today was perfect in every sense of the word, almost as perfect as Klaus himself. The only thing he'd ever change would be the reasoning behind the rushed ceremony, the hidden secrets, and hiding such a beautiful moment from his love...

He wished the circumstances behind today had been different. He wished Klaus's health wasn't failing, and he wished the love of his life wasn't fading. Dave saw how with each passing day his love's soul was weakening, the light and life in his eyes dimming.

Dave closed his eyes, pressing his tear stained cheek against Klaus's as he held him close. He never wanted to let him go, never wanted to have to say goodbye. Never wanted to lose this beautiful, perfect, precious, unbelievably kind soul. He would never be ready to lose Klaus.

He would never be ready to say goodbye...

"And have yourself a merry little Christmas now."