A/N: Behold, the third and final installment of this Christmas confection is here for you to read! I have to admit that it was very hard to write, but I am fairly pleased with the results. And before you indulge yourselves, I just have to say thanks for the support you've given me in this story. I am amazed by the statistics Little Christmas boasts, and it's all because of you dedicated HxB fans, and other devoted readers. God bless you all and enjoy!
Chapter 3 : Turtledoves
"No, this won't do!" Botan hissed, rummaging through her wardrobe for something that suited the occasion coming up in just a little less than a half hour. What she had in mind to wear she didn't have unfortunately. To her dismay, the dress she had envisioned belonged to someone else, seeing it a short time ago at another fancy party. But the ferry girl was at a loss, only her typical kimonos and casual attire stretching the length of her closet, and she growled, being reminded of the one person she was going to such extremes for this holiday. "And to think I'm doing this to impress him! Unthinkable!"
"Impress who?" the soft monotone of her partner, Ayame said from the doorway.
Botan whipped around to meet the dark eyes of Koenma's prized assistant, and sighed in relief that her privacy hadn't been disturbed by anyone else. "Oh hey, Ayame!" she greeted the other woman with a wave, taking note of the dismal expression on Ayame's face. "What's wrong? You look sad... Did Koenma not get you anything for Christmas?"
Ayame turned her eyes down slightly, afraid to break this discouraging news to the cheerful deity before her. "No, it's not that. There's been an unexpected death, and... Koenma needs you to - "
"No way!" Botan shouted immediately, holding up her arms to emphasize her outcry. "I have somewhere I have to be tonight, and I can't miss it! It's important."
"I understand that, but this is a matter that Koenma requests only of you." the dark-haired woman replied sadly, trying to plead Koenma's case as best she could, but to no avail.
The ferry girl growled irritably and folded her arms. "Why can't he send someone else? It's Christmas, for goodness sake!"
"Botan, that's not the attitude you're famous for, and it's bad that you should display it around the holiday." Koenma spoke up, boasting his teenage features proudly before his two favorite ferry girls. "Just take the case. It shouldn't be very long. When you're done, then you can go to Shiori's party."
"...But Koenma, sir!" Botan tried to fight back, being shushed by his hand that he had held up for her silence.
"The more time you waste arguing, the less time you'll have to get to the party before you miss it." Koenma spoke wisely, watching Botan's angered expression become fuelled by rage. Not a pleasant sight...
"Grr, fine! Give me the bloody case file!" she snarled, snatching the folder he held at his side. Briefly looking at it, she stomped to her balcony, and called for her oar before glaring back at the pair in her doorway. "Some Christmas this has turned out to be!" And then she floated away, her grumblings becoming faint with the coming soft winds of winter.
Koenma sighed and led Ayame out of the room, closing the door behind him as his assistant spoke. "Koenma, don't you think it was wrong to give her an assignment on Christmas night? She's been looking forward to this all year."
He looped his arm around hers and smiled sincerely down at his accomplice for the Christmas evening. "I gave her this case for a specific reason, and she'll see soon enough."
"What do you mean?" Ayame asked, edging herself closer to his tall frame.
"Botan thinks she's in love, but she won't know for certain until she meets someone that has known it for themselves, and I'm not fit to give advice on the matter, anyway." Koenma replied, still smiling down at his date, dressed for an occasion she had rarely attended in the past.
Ayame's grin was small as she spoke. "I think you are doing rather well, actually." The two chuckled softly, as they proceeded down the hall and to the banquet chamber, being greeted by other co-workers and well-known names. The Christmas spirit was indeed in Reikai, and was quickly fading from the heart of the woman who loved it the most out of all of them.
M-e-a-n-w-h-i-l-e
"Ooo, the nerve of that conniving little snake! I'll get him when this night's over!" she continued to mumble angrily, whipping through clouds like they weren't even there, and ignoring the chilling cold that absently stung her arms. Botan was so furious she didn't know what to think anymore, let alone let her mind drift back to her latest interest. So her suspicions were correct - she wasn't in love at all, and it was just her hormones playing cruel tricks on her. Besides, like Hiei would be the affectionate type, anyway. Her ideal partner for life would be much more considerate than he could ever hope to be, and she also had higher standards, too.
For the first time since her outburst of rage, Botan giggled - Hiei would have to have a growth spurt first before she would reconsider him for a mate.
Her spirit seemed to soften after her small fit of laughter faded, and her speed slowed considerably, relaxing her into bringing out the case folder again. She looked over the name carefully, reading the information given on the subject, and there seemed to be little to his record. Akio Mazaki, age: eighty-five, last registered condition: hospitalized due to heart trouble. Botan sighed. Why did she have to handle such a small and simple case about an elderly man, something even a trainee could accomplish? She just figured that Koenma was using this to get back at her for playing hooky for the past few days. Likely excuse for the little toddler...
Floating down to a hospital window, ignoring the colorful multi-colored lights that adorned the patient's room, Botan peered inside with disdained interest. There, on the bed, lay the elderly man she was called to take back to Reikai, his face wrinkled and shrivelled by the passing of time, and his hair a pure, snow white. At his bedside were a pair of adults, most likely in their fifties or younger. She figured these people to be his closest relatives. Perhaps his children?
Passing through the window with ease, she walked to his side, touching his cheek with a little more care upon seeing the crying man and woman on the other side of the bed. Granted, she had been through this type of thing many, many times before, and was able to block out the sadness, but the fact that such a sad event occurred on Christmas made her even more sympathetic. Whispering something in a foreign tone, she called forth his spirit and smiled warmly at him. "Don't be afraid, Akio. I am Botan, your guide to the River Styx."
He greeted her with a cheerful smile, looking back at his now empty body, the heart monitor long-since disconnected by his nurse. "I never thought that this is what people meant by having an out of body experience!" he chuckled, making Botan do the same.
While slowly regaining her chipper attitude that she was famous for, Botan replied. "Indeed. Everyone I guide to the other side says something similar." As their chuckles subsided, she let her gaze wander back to the man and woman still kneeling at Akio's bedside, the female mourning out loud for his passing. "Are they your children?" she asked.
Akio nodded and walked over to touch the woman, to console her through her tears, but to his surprise, his hand passed directly through her shoulder. Withdrawing from his advance, he spoke. "Yes, my twin son and daughter. They were the only children my wife, Akira and I were blessed with, and blessings they are, indeed."
"Twins? You must be very proud of them!" Botan chirped, her subconcious mind recalling the only set of twins she knew personally. She wondered how they were faring at the party...
"Yes, my son's a doctor, and my daughter teaches at the university. Both have children of their own, whom I love just as dearly. Only person I ever loved more was my wife." he replied, looking on affectionately at his beloved children, now all grown up and trying to deal with this unfortunate loss.
Botan nodded and gestured to the window, offering him her hand to hop on her oar. By her assuring glance, he carefully sat himself on the wooden object, and looked one last time at his son and daughter, waving at them as the deity whisked them away into the nighttime sky. While they floated, Botan proceeded to inquire on the one woman he loved so shamelessly. "So what was your wife like? Did she have a gentle spirit like you, too?"
"My beloved was the most unselfish person to ever grace this Earth, always giving without expecting anything in return. How I loved her..." he said dreamily, smiling as he shut his eyes.
'His beloved? Aww, that's so sweet...' the deity's mind said thoughtfully, finding the man's heartfelt joy towards his wife a wonderful thing to experience. "How long were you married?"
He chuckled and looked at the ferry girl with a wide smile. "Now if I told you that, you'd know how old I was, young lady!"
Botan laughed and pointed a finger at her heart. "Your secret's safe with me, Akio!"
When his chuckles quelled into soft nothings, he replied in a loving manner meant to emphasize his devotion to his deceased wife. "Sixty-two wonderful years devoted to my beloved, and I would have gladly gone another sixty-two with her at my side. Never a day went by when I didn't tell her I loved her, and the same went for her. Our relationship was strong, and I like to think it still is. Hey, do you think you can arrange for us to be placed in the same area so that I can be with her again?"
The deity bore a cocky smile, one that meant she was up to something sneaky. "Oh, I may be able to pull a few strings." Winking, she let him continue to reminisce for the remainder of the trip.
"I remember when I first started courting her. Ooo, she hated me at first! You see, when we were in highschool, I used to trip her in the hallways on purpose, and make fun of her for her 'clumsiness'. But, as fate would have it, I was more so the clown when my mother set me and Akira up for a blind date." Akio said with a raspy laugh, his old age still a prominent feature, despite being dead. Botan giggled, too and urged him on. "You should have seen her face when I showed up on her doorstep, holding flowers for her, and not knowing that she was my date. I never would have thought that after a night of so much arguing and bitterness that I would eventually end up asking her to marry me just five years later. True love works that way."
Botan looked over at him, her expression seeming lost and yet, curious. How could this old man hold the secret to true love, and have such horrible relations with his wife before their marriage? It didn't seem like a plausible story, but nevertheless, her curiosity urged her to delve deeper. "How so?"
Akio grinned knowingly, and patted the ferry girl on the shoulder, assuring her that she wasn't as hopeless as she thought she was. "True love is the love that blossoms from an extreme hate and resentment. I made fun of my wife in her youth, and when she had her chance, she showed her hatred for me by smacking the daylights out of me! Eventually, we grew to respect one another, and that respect, as you no doubt guessed, grew into like."
"And... like grew to love?" Botan said hesitantly, the older man nodded his head in confirmation.
"It still amazes me to the day that the one's we have failed to love the most, turn out to be the one's that love us the most. Affection from afar, and I can see it all in your eyes, my dear."
She raised an eyebrow, and smiled nervously. "Oh, come now, what do you mean? You couldn't possibly suggest that I'm... in love with someone I hate!"
"It's so obvious that it's written all over your face. How much do you hate him?" he said with a laugh, causing Botan to do the same.
Shifting their direction on the oar just slightly to compensate for the slowing wind, the deity smirked and contemplated her words before replying. "Well, he's always called me a foolish ferry girl... makes fun of me when I act ditsy... I guess you could say I hate him enough to smack him." Akio laughed loudly, highly amused by her reply, Botan meanwhile putting her free hand on her hip defensively. "Well, it's the truth!"
"Oh, I know, I know, my dear. It's just so funny!" he chuckled, almost falling off the oar he was gaffawing so hard. "That's love if I've ever seen it!"
Botan raised her eyebrow again, curious what he could mean by that. If she didn't know any better, she'd think that Akio was a cousin of the Kuwabara's, noting the comical tone he boasted, like Shizuru. "What do you mean?"
"He's doing it to get your attention, you silly girl! He loves you like crazy and just wants you to know he does." Akio replied joyfully, showing his happiness in his beaming grin.
The ferry girl blushed an insane shade of pink, and turned her face away, her heart beginning that skipping pattern from the day before again. So now two people agreed that Hiei was madly in love with her, but could two people agree that she was madly in love with him...? "Tell me, Akio... do you think my annoyance for his character is proof enough that I love him, or do I need more?"
That grin refused to leave his wrinkly face as he replied. "It's a clear sign that you do love him, but he doesn't know it yet. You need to show him for yourself how you feel!"
Botan was now smiling just as wide as her accomplice. "Would smacking him do the trick?"
The two chuckled again, both amused greatly by the other's company. "It might, but I think you should try a more affectionate approach. After all, it is Christmas. Think you can find any mistletoe before the night's over?"
She blushed an even deeper shade of crimson by his proposal, even though it made perfect sense to her. A kiss on Christmas night would be the ideal way to show her love for the fire youkai, but she smirked, knowing that she didn't require a holiday symbol to do so. "I don't think I'll be needing any mistletoe, but it can be my back-up plan!"
"Excellent!" Akio chirped merrily, the deity more than grateful for his timely advice and words of comfort. Yes, her emotions were a complex mess of clockwork and impulsive actions, but now it all began to sink in and make sense. When you're in love, you're angry when you can't see the object of your desire, and thus your demeanor shows this clear and present fact without shame. It was no wonder that Akio knew she was in love, besides the signs to show that Hiei showed the same affection towards her. No doubt her glare had been stern, and her tone cold, but the elderly man saw those as perfect replicas of what she felt deep within her heart. To hide it now would not only be foolish, but it would be heart-breaking, and even though Hiei could easily mask his emotions, she refused to dampen his spirits further.
"Oh dear! We've got to hurry!" she squeaked, cranking up the speed on her oar and surging forward. Akio let out a surprised laugh and clung to her around the waist for fear of falling down onto the city below.
"What's the rush?" he chuckled.
Botan dodged a massive cloud and replied. "There's a party tonight with my friends, and he's supposed to be there. If I don't hurry, he'll leave without giving me a chance to tell him how I feel!"
"Ohh! Well, by all means! Let me drive!"
"Aiee! I don't think so - ack!" Before Botan had a chance to stop him, they were stopped suddenly by another ferry girl who had met them in the air. "Hinageshi! What are you doing up here?"
The redheaded girl giggled and waved, holding tight to her oar with her other hand. "Koenma sent me to finish your assignment so that you could make it to the party in time."
"Oh, are you sure? Aren't you missing the banquet?" Botan asked, helping Akio transfer himself from her oar to Hinageshi's.
Hinageshi shook her head in the negative and helped Akio adjust himself to her oar, since it's shape was slightly different than the other's sleek and new design. "Nah, I don't mind missing it. All they do is just stand around and talk. I'd rather be out meeting new people like Akio here!" she said happily, Akio's arms now around her slim waist for safety. "Oh! And you need to go back to your room real quick. Ayame said she had something for you."
Curious of what the dark-haired ferry girl could have given her, Botan nodded and bade farewell to her new friend and fellow co-worker. "Thank you for the advice, Akio! Merry Christmas!"
"And a happy new year to you, Botan! Best of luck!" he replied, waving her off as she sky-rocketed off back to Reikai, a glowing smile stretching across her face, though inside her heart fluttered with nervousness.
More gittery than a bug, Botan nearly crashed back onto her balcony, rushing inside her room and began to frantically look around the area for whatever it was Ayame had left for her. There was nothing in the kitchen, no sign of a new decoration for the sitting room, and she couldn't smell anything different, until she reached her bedroom. On the bed was the darling deep blue evening gown the deity had fawned over at the last party she and Ayame had attended, and the clever assistant had assumed that when Botan was fretting over a proper dress for the Christmas evening, she decided to let her best friend borrow it.
Now more chipper and excited than a little boy in a candy store, Botan quickly slipped the dress on, and began to fiddle with her hair in the bathroom. Glancing briefly at the time, she let out an impatient whine and continued to hurry with her holiday preparations. The party had started already, and Hiei's patience was already growing thin.
Could she make it in time?
C-o-n-c-u-r-r-e-n-t-l-y
"Miss Shiori, these cookies are delicious!" Kazuma said with a moan, emphasizing his statement. "You'll have to give Shizuru the recipe, since I don't think she'll be able to figure it out by herself." Shizuru clocked him good for that one.
Yusuke, meanwhile was happily chewing on his piece of apple pie, still warm since the precious mother had baked it that afternoon for them all to share. "Nah, this pie's way better! Keiko could probably make it on her own, because I know not to ask for recipes anymore." he laughed, Keiko doing the same, then her stare quickly narrowed.
"And what's that supposed to mean?" she hissed, her brown eyes beginning to flare a familiar orange. "Are you trying to tell me I'm incompetant when it comes to cooking, or are you just saying you're too much of an idiot to ask for a recipe?"
Shrinking back slightly and offering his fiancee' a bite of his warm confection, he replied. "Th-that I'm an idiot..."
Keiko smiled and swallowed her bite of pie, kissing Yusuke's cheek in the affirmative. "That sounds better. Mmm, that pie is delcious, Miss Shiori!"
After handing Yukina and Shizuru each a new glass of cider, Shiori grinned and nodded her head in thanks. "It's a recipe my mother gave me many, many years ago. Shuichi's managed to bake it once, though I have to admit that the attempt was unsuccessful." she giggled, her son's face reddening out of embarassment.
"It's umm... a very detailed recipe, I can assure you. Besides, my expertise has never been in the kitchen." he said cooly in his defense, assuring the other guests that he wasn't as embarassed as earlier suspected.
"Right, sure, so I'll just let you use the microwave when you move in and marry Shizuru, then." Kazuma laughed, the kitsune's expression growing redder by the statement, and Shizuru seemed to pale. "What? ...Oh! You are going to get married? Cool! Then I can have a brother!"
While Kurama tried desperately to regain control of the conversation, Hiei was sitting on the windowsill in a typical manner, and stared out into the black night. He hadn't even sensed the ferry girl, much less caught a glimpse of her, and his heart was sinking in a hurry. How silly of him to prepare so much for a night in which his wildest dreams would only be shattered by the person he least expected to do such. Yes, he would still play for the others, but his mind would be elsewhere, and his heart would be gone. There was no point in enjoying himself tonight, so he settled for sulking by the window, his gaze boring into a blinking blue light bulb across the street.
"...Like I said, Kuwabara, we've only been dating for a few months. We want to take our time." Kurama said, trying to calm the carrot-top down. He didn't want his Christmas plans ruined so soon...
"Well, when you get a date set, you let me know, all right? I don't want to miss my favorite sister's wedding!" Kazuma continued to laugh boisterously, receiving Yukina's joyful giggles from beside his sister. "You'll go with me as my date, right Yukina?"
The Ice Child nodded and smiled. "Of course, Kazuma. I would love to go." she replied, looking over at the only person not joining in the conversation yet. "Hiei, you'll go right? After all, you're Shuichi's best friend."
"Hn, I suppose so." he mumbled, directing his attention away from the blue light, since it reminded him too much of Botan's light azure strands. The red lights were much more interesting to stare into now...
Shizuru stood up from her seat and walked over to Hiei, leaning down to glare firmly at him, though holding a proud smirk on her face. "Hey Shorty, either you start being social, or I'm going to withdraw your wedding invitation."
"Oh, why does everyone keep insisting on the wedding? I'm going to ask her tonight - !" Kurama yelled furiously, immediately catching himself and throwing a hand over his mouth when Shizuru looked over her shoulder at his embarassed expression. "I-I mean... umm..." Not having enough time to think of a clever response, he dropped to one knee rather clumsily and stared nervously at the brunette woman in front of him. "Well, this didn't go exactly as I had planned for it to, but... Shizuru, will you do me the honor of letting me be your husband?"
Kazuma jumped right in, not giving Shizuru a chance to take in the moment. "Of course she does! How could she refuse? Hurry up and answer, Shizuru, then we can start planning for the wedding reception!"
Shizuru glared over at her younger brother, forcing the young man to sit down in fear of the rage that burned in her eyes. Now having the peace and quiet like she wanted, she returned her gaze back to the still kneeling kitsune beneath her and smiled, reaching out her long fingers to sift through his red locks. "Yes, and it would be my honor to be your wife." she said softly, still bearing the gentle grin he loved to see.
Grateful for her delicate response, Kurama took the small diamond ring from his pocket, slipped it onto her finger and gingerly kissed her hand before standing back up to look directly at her. "This is the start of something wonderful for us, Shizuru. I promise to take care of you for the rest of my days." Shizuru nodded tearfully, briefly admiring the ring that sparkled on her finger, when Kurama spoke again. "Kazuma, I would like to personally request your permission to marry your sister. Do you have any objections?"
When the others all gave him each a certain look, the younger brother composed himself and replied in a sincere manner. "No, I don't have a problem with it. Shizuru deserves to be happy, and I know you can give her that. Congratulations, you two!" he beamed, standing up to hug the proud couple, then backed away when he noticed that Yusuke was holding something familiar above the two lovebirds. "Uh oh..."
"What is it, Kazuma?" Shizuru asked, looking up, then blushed instantly, Kurama doing the same. "Uh oh's right..."
Kurama glanced nervously at his mother who was ready with a camera, and the other girls were all waiting patiently for the cute moment in the making. Swallowing away his gitters and blocking out all the eyes that were staring at him, Kurama reached forward and kissed his bride-to-be, fingers sinking into her cinnamon colored tresses, and keeping her close in an embrace meant to emphasize his love for her. Applause errupted around the duo once the kiss broke, Kurama and Shizuru both sighing and smiling in joy for this accidental, yet happy occasion.
By this time, Shiori had already snapped two pictures of the Christmas kiss, and was preparing to take another when a dismal thought came to mind. "If only Botan was here to see this. She'd be so thrilled to see the two of you together."
Everyone nodded and agreed to Shiori's statement, except Hiei, who continued to stare out the frosty window, all the multi-colored lights blurring due to his intense gazing. He had ignored all the giggling and commotion behind him, but knew what had occurred. So his best friend and Shizuru were about to joined together in a ningen wedding ritual? 'Wonderful...' he thought sarcastically, rolling his eyes for the 'fantastic' news. Like he cared, anyway. Love was for the foolish and pitiful-minded. Not for someone like him...
But as fate would have it, he had been struck hard by the nagging need for a lifelong companion. He hated to know that he had to be dependant on someone else's affection now, but the more he attempted to ignore it, the harsher the mental and emotional pain would become.
Why him? Why him of all people to fall for the perky, cheerful, ditsy, ...beautiful ferry girl? Maybe it wasn't so much the fact that he was in love that bothered him, it was knowing that he had fallen for Botan, again - of all people! How in heaven's name were they a compatible match? A light-hearted ferry girl and a ruthless criminal of the recent past? They were complete and total opposites, but... was that perhaps why he was drawn to her the most of all? A sensible person would have suspected he and Mukuro to be the ideal pair, but were they too much alike to be together? That was possible, and besides, he had a deep and profound respect for his lady lord. In a way, it didn't seem right for the heir to love his master.
So again, his thoughts went back to the charming deity, reminding himself that there was still time for her to show up. He figured that if she wasn't there by the time he played for everyone, then he would leave, expecting her to not arrive in time for any of the Yule-tide cheer. Botan was a busy woman, being a ferrier of souls, but... why tonight of all nights for her to be distracted by something else? He now began to resent her occupation, his futuristic mind drifting ahead and to a mated life with the deity. She would be gone so much, taking souls here and there, meanwhile, he would still be training under the watchful eye of his lady lord. Could a relationship between them last, much less work? It seemed a little unlikely, but something inside him flickered with determination to at least try. After all, she was just what he needed to brighten his spirits after a long, hard day, and likewise, he would try to do the same for her... Emphasis on try.
"I think it's time for presents, everyone! Kazuma, would you mind helping me pass these around?" Shiori announced to her guests from over by the glittering tree in the den. The clever woman had managed to sneak over there while the others were congratulating her son and his fiancee' in the sitting room.
"Sure thing, Miss Shiori!" he replied, stacking a few of the presents in his arms and reading each name carefully. "How come Urameshi gets two?" he hissed, narrowing his eyes down at the two crimson packages at the bottom of his first pile.
"Because I'm just special, that's why!" Yusuke laughed, sticking his tongue out at the taller man, one of his gifts being thrown in his face, shushing him in an instant.
As the presents continued to be passed around the room, Kurama made his way over to Hiei with a package wrapped in bright, shiny blue paper. Hiei looked at it curiously, then back at his friend. "From you?" he said monotonously.
Kurama nodded his head in the affirmative. "Mother's given you so much recently that I thought I owed you something special as well. Merry Christmas, my friend." Kurama said with a familiar smile, Hiei barely managing to do the same. The fire youkai nodded meekly and allowed his friend to return to the other guests, waiting for the cue in which they could open their gifts. But it still didn't feel right that Botan wasn't here to partake in the holiday cheer, or the warmth of the fire in the den, and the delightful scent of the mesmerizing cranberry candles glowing around the room. All he wanted now was for her to come walking through the door, large shopping bags of the presents she had bought for everyone in hand, and that heart-warming smile on her face...
Ding-dong!
Everyone looked up, including Hiei, and all eyes focused on the door, silence making its presence known when the doorbell rang again. Shiori finally reacted to the familiar sound and hurried into the foyer, being pleasantly surprised by their missing guest. Opening the door wide, she greeted the ferry girl with an ecstatic embrace. "Botan, you came! Oh, I'm so happy to see you!"
The girls all cheered and flocked to the entryway, greeting their bubbly friend with various bits of chatter, questions, and compliments about her hair, taking the heavy bags from her to set by the tree. "I love your hair!" Keiko twittered, gawking at the new style the deity boasted cheerily. Her long light blue curls were not in their typical ponytail, but were now draped behind her back, sparkling with the delicious scent of a wintery fragrance.
"Thanks, Keiko! I thought I'd try something new." Botan replied, grateful that everyone had assisted her in toting her gifts inside and out of the cold. While they were sorting through the various packages to pass around, she had slipped off her white coat, red scarf and gloves to reveal the evening dress she had become so fond of. The midnight blue material fit perfectly around her slender frame, a couple inches of the dress dragging on the floor since Ayame was slightly taller than her, but the deity didn't mind. She just supposed it made the dress look even more elegant.
Elegant indeed - Hiei couldn't tear his eyes away for anything. Why, oh why did she have to be so attractive? The thin straps barely covered any of her shoulders, her pale skin a perfect compliment to the deep blue color of her dress. Every curve was defined perfectly, but not boasting anything too proudly, either. She looked like she had fallen from Heaven, which wasn't too far from the truth.
"Where have you been all night? We were getting worried that you weren't coming." Yukina asked, assisting Kazuma in passing out the ferry girl's additional gifts.
Botan sighed and took the seat Kurama had offered for her, conveniently right where Hiei could continue to stare at her relentlessly. "Koenma gave me a last minute assignment to take care of, since everyone else was busy with the banquet and all. I didn't mind too much, though. Akio's company was just enough to keep me in a good mood!"
"Glad to hear that, Botan." Kurama said with a smile, handing her a green package that was topped off with a silvery bow. "This is from Mother and myself. I hope you like it."
"Aww, Kurama!" she squealed, hugging the kitsune before he could run away from her. He blushed and accepted the embrace, then returned to distributing the other gifts, everyone's piles growing considerably by the second. Botan looked over at Hiei, who snapped his eyes back to the wrapped box in his lap. She knew he had been staring at her, but subdued the giggle for his sake until she took in his holiday appearance. Was that... a new outfit? Her eyes wanted to pop out of their sockets she was so amazed, the loose black material glowing in the candlelight, and the blue phoenix was the ideal way to bring out the faint pink shade of his cheeks. Needless to say he looked...
"All right! We're done!" Kazuma beamed happily, sitting next to his Ice Princess who was waiting patiently for the cue to begin unwrapping her various gifts. "Let's open 'em up!"
The instant the words were said, nearly everyone eagerly went to tearing away the paper on their packages, some shrieking joyously for their surprises, and others looking confused by what they were given. The most peculiar gift of the night was probably the chia pet Yusuke had given Kurama, the kitsune trying to be as polite as possible and graciously set it aside, inwardly hoping to forget it and pretend it wasn't there. Yukina, meanwhile was thrilled to receive the teardrop sapphire necklace from Botan, unable to find precise words to express her gratitude. But the deity was satisfied enough to assist the Ice Child in slipping it around her neck, the gem falling next to her heart and glistening quaintly in the dancing candlelight.
"It makes you look even more beautiful, Yukina!" Kazuma said with near squeal, overjoyed to see the picturesque silver chain match Yukina's frame so perfectly.
Yukina giggled and thanked them properly. "Thank you so much, Botan. It's lovely."
The deity was pleased and replied with a familiar smile. "No problem, Yukina. I saw you staring at it the other day and just had to get it for you!"
While other thank yous and giggles were exchanged, Botan let her gaze drift back to Hiei again, this time seeing him tear patiently at the paper of his last gift from Kurama. She bit her lip, trusting to hope that he hadn't noticed she hadn't gotten him anything, but she had her own plans for a Christmas present...
"What is it?" Hiei asked bluntly from across the room, Botan in the middle of the conversation, glancing back and forth nervously.
Kurama looked up from his gifts and replied. "It's a keepsake box, Hiei. You can put your special items in it to make sure they're safe when you're away."
The fire youkai stared at it for a few moments, curious of why his friend assumed he needed such a thing. Perhaps he knew of the bond he had with Shiori now? That was possible, since Kurama had walked in on them yesterday before the practice session, but how could he have known about the gift Hiei had gotten for Shiori? Botan didn't say anything, did she? He glanced her way, and she quickly averted her eyes back to unwrapping her presents, trying look distracted, but continued to listen intently.
"Thank you..." Hiei whispered, barely audible above the other chatter, but it was good enough for Kurama, and the kitsune nodded affirmatively.
After Shiori opened the last gift, which was the teddy bear Botan had purchased for her, the mother was on her way to the kitchen to fetch them all some holiday cookies, when she squealed excitedly. "Oh look everybody! It's snowing!"
Instantly, everyone rushed to the den window, looking out to indeed see the frosty wonderland that was shaping outside, snowflakes dancing in the light wind and landing on the crisp blanket beneath the shrouded stars. The window panes were beginning to fog up with their warm breath that pushed up against the glass, Yusuke drawing a quick smiley face with a Santa hat on it before the fog disappeared. Keiko grinned and smacked his shoulder slightly, but sighed in delight of seeing the snow fall so freely outside.
"Hey, why don't we all go out for a bit?" Shizuru suggested.
"That sounds great! Lemme get my coat!" Yusuke beamed in return, running to the coatrack and snatching both his and Keiko's coats. Kazuma and Kurama meanwhile did the same for their accomplices, Kurama also helping his mother slip her jacket on. "Coming with us, Hiei?"
His red eyes dulled a little by the request and he looked away, mumbling something like a "no thanks" under his breath. Shrugging, Yusuke opened the door and bade the ladies to walk out first, Keiko snatching his hat off his head to give him incentive to chase her down like last year. Shiori was the last to exit, giving Hiei a knowing glance before she ran out. "Play for us when we come back in?" she whispered. He gave a small nod and heard the door close, soon after noticing that Botan hadn't gone out with the rest of them.
"Didn't feel like going out?" he asked softly, making her heart jump. Again with that gentle tone...
She shook her head and gathered up the ripped paper to dispose of, wadding some pieces up and tossing them into the bag on the other end of the room. "Score! Two points for the home team!" she cheered, doing something of a dance in the middle of the room. Hiei smirked from his perch on the windowsill and watched her with great amusement, the tiny flames of the candles making her dress sparkle even more. He blushed when her twirling's ceased and she looked at him with a pleased smile, loving how embarassed he looked when she was in control of his emotions. "So, did you bring Shiori's gift?"
He nodded slowly and pulled the white ornament out of his pocket, looking over it for the hundredth time since he got it yesterday. Down deep he hoped that this would be the most sincere of gestures he had ever made, and that Shiori would understand the implications he meant by giving her such a small, and yet meaningful gift. Though a small and seemingly insignificant turtledove it appeared to be, it secretly represented what he felt for the mother he never had. Having her love forever would be the best gift he could receive, besides Botan's affection as well.
Botan... He looked around, just then remembering that it was just the two of them alone in the house, everyone else outside enjoying the falling snow. Biting his lip and fighting away the gitters, he stood up and spoke. "Come with me." he whispered, gesturing for her to follow him. Curious of his interesting behavior, Botan complied and followed him to the den, marvelling at the twinkling lights on the tree from up close, and smiling at all the ornaments that hung from the branches. She reached out to touch a glass rose when Hiei's quiet voice again portruded the brief silence. "This is my Christmas gift to you."
Without another moment to inquire on his words, Botan was amazed to see him sitting at the piano, and was even more surprised to hear the light notes of the grand instrument ring in her ears. Touched, she walked closer and leaned over the sleek, polished frame, soon after to be mesmerized by the sound of his voice singing lightly as he played. The tune was familiar, an old Christmas song she remembered from years ago. It wasn't a very popular song, yes, but she knew it well enough to know what words he would sing next, which she secretly hoped she'd forget, just so that he could stun her again and again. As if Hiei playing the piano wasn't enough, but the fact that he was singing, and to only her at that, made the moment seem unreal. Was she dreaming, or was this really happening?
"Hiei, I didn't know you could sing..."
"Shhh... Have yourself a merry little Christmas... make the Yule-tide gay..." he shushed her, his fingers dancing over the keys as he continued.
Botan watched him closely, following the precision and care he put into every note, and all without sheet music, she noticed. Since when had he taken an interest in the piano? Hiei was such a secluded person that she never even dreamt of him taking up the instrument, and yet, here he was, performing like a professional. Needless to say, as if his new attire wasn't enough to make her light-hearted, now she could feel her stomach tie itself into several knots, the fluttery emotions consuming her concious mind without hope of mental recovery. She was too enthralled by his actions to put herself in any other mood besides being hopelessly infatuated with the song he played.
Between verses he looked up at her, seeing that entranced expression on her face, signifying that his plan was working splendidly. Now if only she would start singing so that he could stop. But apparently the clever girl held back the temptation to do so, too ecstatic to be hearing him sing it instead. He would have growled, but subdued the urge and went on with the song. "Here we are as in olden days... happy golden days of yore..."
Now this part she knew, her heart fluttering again by the look on his face when he heard her soft soprano tones intertwine with his voice. "Faithful friends who are dear to us... gather near to us once more."
Delighted by the sound of her voice that was so angelic and magical, he gestured for her to sit next to him. Nervously, she complied and took note of the close proximity they shared, her bare shoulders touching his sleeve. The material was so smooth it made her tingle from the inside out, her shivering cueing him to scoot closer so that she would stay warm. He was confused why she was cold, despite the fireplace that was burning softly in the corner, the gentle orange flames seeming to dance in time with the slow beat of his song.
He smiled inwardly, having just then realized what a quaint Christmas visage this was. A couple sitting by the piano, cranberry candles burning around the house, a heart-warming fire glowing in the corner, and the tree twinkling with its picturesque white lights. Each ornament reflected the holiday cheer in their own way, bouncing radiant light off of their glassy shape, or glimmering a brighter color when the light would strike it. The angel atop the tree was still a beautiful representation of the perfection that lived high above the living world, but she wasn't even close to the beauty of the deity next to him. She didn't have the magnificently colored amethyst eyes Botan had. She didn't boast a mane of intriguing light blue hair. And her smile most certainly did not compete with the ferry girl's bewitching grin, one that could light up a room that had been darkened by a thousand crimes and deaths. In essence, Death was more beautiful than an angel...
After soaking in the words she had just sung harmony to, Botan subconciously laid her right hand on his shoulder, and leaned against him to show that she was beyond touched by his actions. A little startled, he smirked and glanced out the window before he would sing the last verse of his Christmas carol, catching a glimpse of the coming snowball fight outside. It looked like it was the girls versus the boys, and no doubt the girls would dominate, since they had both Shizuru and Shiori for players.
Hiei grinned to himself and returned his attention to the keys in front of him, but his mind was still distracted. Was Botan just seeing this as a friendly gesture, or was she understanding what he truly meant by all this? Showing that he loved someone was not an easy task, considering his pride was an issue to still tackle and do away with, but hadn't he already given up such a priority when he first started his lessons? Yes, but this was different. Showing that you loved a woman like a mother was one thing, but gesturing to the woman you never expected to fall for was an obstacle. Botan was indeed an understanding soul, sweet and kind to those she knew, but whether or not she thought him serious was the thought that nagged at him relentlessly. Curse him and his sarcastic ways...
But nevertheless, he urged himself on, determined to do his best and let her know how he felt. Whether or not she laughed or hugged him, it didn't matter. All he wanted now was to finish his song and wait impatiently for her reaction. "Through the years we all will be together... if the fates allow..."
His voice seemed to fade when hers overcame the quiet tenor he had barely allowed to be heard. Though a little frustrated that she had stolen his spotlight, he was soon rewarded by that dazzling smile he had fallen head over heels for, the candlelight flickering about in her eyes to dizzy him forever, all the while maintaining eye contact. "Hang a shining star upon the highest bough..."
Her eyelids slowly drifted shut as she felt him edge closer, the tune drawing to an unfortunate close, but her voice didn't fade away. The tones were still soft, but ever strong, ringing clear in his ears that were beyond pleased to hear her sing so beautifully. Ignoring his racing heartbeat, he harmonized the last words with her before he relinquished his voice for the next few moments.
"So please... have yourself a merry little Christmas now..."
The snowflakes floated down from the heavens, coming to rest on the fluffy white blanket below, some flitting over to land in the hair of those not wearing wintery hats that chilly, but delightful Christmas night. Yukina giggled after managing to connect her small snowball with Kazuma on the other side of the field, her laughter echoing as she ran and tackled him, the other players now barrelling the adorable pair as they continued to enjoy their holiday antics. Shizuru nearly doubled over with laughter after Yukina kissed the carrot-top, her rosey cheeks an ideal expression for the Ice Princess to bear. Muffled applause thanks to the thick, warm gloves everyone wore errupted around the duo, but soon, they all joined in and dove into the sheets of snow, Keiko and Kurama making a pair of snow angels, whereas Shizuru and Yusuke didn't relinquish their need for snowballs.
Shiori grinned happily, spinning in circles under the crystals from Heaven, letting them fall all around her. Nothing could describe her happiness in this moment, her son soon to be married, and her beloved student who was like a son to her was about to confess his feelings for the deity they all held so dearly. The Christmas night was a magical evening, filled with joy and laughter as melting diamonds fell on the crisp ground underneath her feet. To be alive and well thanks to the unselfish acts of her son, Shiori had the chance to experience this wonderful day with those she loved so shamelessly, allowing the holiday spirit to overcome her need for anything else besides her family and friends.
Love was all she wanted for Christmas.
As the sparkling diamonds continued to fall from the midnight sky, Botan breathed softly before she allowed Hiei to kiss her for the first time, only the warm aroma of the candles registering in her concious mind. The gentle warmth of his unbandaged hands touched her neck, then progressed down to her shoulders, holding her steady and consuming her with the shocking vibrancy of his deepest feelings long hidden from the ferry girl. Everything seemed to hit her like an oncoming train, not granting her the chance to run and hide from its amazing thrills and pleasures. The sudden emotions impacted her in such a hurry that she couldn't decipher them, but knew that the most prominent sensation was the overwhelming happiness for the timeless moment, now being firmly etched into her memory to keep forever.
But soon all her sensible thoughts raced out the door when she felt one arm snake around her waist and pull her closer, the act too breathtaking to ignore and contemplate fully. Where had Hiei learned to be so affectionate and loving? Unless he had been in a relationship before, which she thought an unlikely possibilty due to his cold nature, she assumed that he had no experience in displaying such affection. Then again, neither did she, so who was she to judge his efforts? Regardless, he moved fluently, mastering the work of art that was her delicate frame as he traced his fingers up and down her arm, while his other hand held her against him. He seemed to be an expert with his methods, kissing her just the right way and not suggesting that he needed more or less from her. It was strange to see him act so gentle and caring, but she welcomed it, and rewarded him accordingly with a breathless smile, one which he mirrored almost perfectly.
"And that was supposed to be my Christmas gift to you, but you beat me to it." Botan said, a slight rasp in her voice as she tried to breathe normally, but to no avail.
Hiei raised an eyebrow, curious of her response. "You mean you... ? How? I don't see..."
She cut him off with her long index finger that pressed against his lips for a moment, shushing his quiet wonderings. "I love you."
"What?"
Botan leaned in closer and looked him directly in the eye, the usual fierce red glow long-since gone, and his eyes shone with a certain brilliance that made her heart melt. "I said that I - !"
"I heard you, but why?" he inquired, trying to confirm his nagging suspicions. If he was going to confess, he wanted to make sure her words were true first.
"Why do I love you?" she replied, now mimicking his former gesture with a quirk of the eyebrow. Hiei nodded and urged the information out of her as his expression began to soften even more. "Because... you look out for me. You put up with me... and I can't stand it when I'm not around you anymore."
A flicker of violet flashed over his crimson orbs for a second, hesitant exuberance in the way he stared at her. He searched his mind for the words he wanted to say, hearing various insults be spat back and forth, which would do no good for the situation. Being sarcastic with her now was not a plausible idea, but he had to say something! In all his years of being a smart aleck and coming back with wise crack comments, he had never truly thought of anything sensible, much less romantic. What was he supposed to say now?
"Hiei?" Botan said softly, watching the confusion and frustration make their presence known on his features. She could tell he was fighting and losing an inner battle, one which she was powerless to intervene in, but held her ground on the sidelines and looked at him lovingly. "Are you okay?"
"Hn, I'm fine." he replied, snatching her by the waist and pulling her into his lap, a familiar smirk forming on his lips. Botan squeaked and wrapped her arms around his neck, shocked at his quirky behavior, and looked down at him nervously, that smirk making her slightly wary, but she smiled in return by what he said next. "Merry Christmas, because I love you too." He took her lips in another kiss, strong, but still so very gentle that Botan didn't think he was truly capable of such a sweet gesture. Nevertheless, he continued to surprise her, holding her for the duration of the time they had alone before the others came back into the house, shaking off the snow they had accumulated outside.
"Brr, it's cold out there!" Yusuke said, helping Keiko slip out of her jacket and winter affects.
"Of course it's cold, you idiot." Hiei spat, still bearing his smirk from over by the piano, Botan now sitting in a chair next to him.
The raven-haired youth looked at Hiei suspiciously, then glanced at his companions. "Is it just me, or does he look happy?"
Kazuma leaned over the piano, then glared firmly at the fire youkai for a few moments, searching his rival of a comrade for answers that came as he smiled. "Yeah, I'd say he does! What are you smiling for, Shorty?"
Resisting the urge to bite back with his own snappy comment, Hiei clenched his teeth and replied. "Because it's time for one of your favorite traditions."
Yukina squeaked and clapped her hands, running over next to the piano, her angelic smile painting her delicate features and making her brother's heart flutter with the rare joy he experienced. "Christmas carols? Oh, how fun!"
Hiei nodded and gestured for everyone to join him at the piano, the other guests eagerly doing so, but were more so eager to see if he really could play. Little did they know that Botan and Shiori had already had the pleasure of hearing him individually, the latter for a much longer period of time. "Any requests?"
Keiko went into deep thought for a moment, then spoke. "Do you know White Christmas? That's one of my favorites, and I think it would be perfect!"
Again, he nodded and recalled the introduction for the old Christmas song, Keiko doing the honors by starting off with her soft alto voice. Yusuke was entranced by the angelic sounds he was hearing, and joined her, Kurama and Shizuru following soon after. It wasn't long before everyone was singing as well, minus Hiei, who meant to keep his dignity for a little while longer, at least until Shiori made him join in.
While the music went on, Kurama meanwhile gathering them all mugs of hot chocolate, Hiei began to play a perkier tune, one which Botan had requested. When he heard her sing once more, he felt compelled to sing, too, his friends all amazed that he had such vocal talent that he had managed to keep hidden all these years. The requests kept on rolling, memories being made in the process, one which included Kazuma admitting he liked Hiei as a friend. Hiei of course only "hn'd" in reply, but appreciated the sincere words, since he felt similarly. The fire youkai knew that one day soon he would have the carrot-top for a brother-in-law, so it was best to start accepting him now, instead of waiting until later. Kazuma wasn't as clumsy anymore, having matured greatly over time, and capturing the heart of his Ice Princess, and Hiei felt that he could trust only Kazuma with his sister's well-being. If anyone deserved Yukina's loving spirit, it was the spirit swordsman she adored.
As the evening drew to a close, the last of the hot chocolate being sipped away by content guests, the snow finally became a light shower outside, granting the others the perfect winter wonderland to walk home in. Though Shiori really didn't want any of her company to leave, she knew that the hour was late, and that they would need time to themselves before the next day. So with a heavy, but still pleasant heart, she and her son bade them all farewell, wishing them a happy new year and a safe trip home in the snow. Hiei and Botan were the last that prepared to leave, but Shiori requested that they stay for a while longer, since Botan had arrived late, and Hiei had been anti-social for so long.
"Hiei, will you help me take these mugs back to the kitchen, please?" she asked sweetly of her favorite student, holding up a tray full of some of the empty mugs left to carry. Hiei nodded in compliance, leaving his prized deity with his sneaky partner, but seemed to pay them no mind as he gathered the last of the cups, following Shiori into the kitchen.
Once he heard small chatter from the kitchen, Kurama looked at Botan with a sincere smile, and spoke. "I wish you both the greatest happiness, Botan. Hiei deserves a lovely young woman like yourself, and I'm sure that you'll be the one to soften his heart."
Botan looked up at the kitsune peculiarly, a little curious why he had said such a thing, especially when it was something of a private affair. However, she had to reconsider the thought that Hiei and Kurama were best friends, thus suggesting that they had a brotherly concern for each other. "What makes you think that Hiei and I are together now?"
His smile quirked itself into a cocky smirk, and he tapped the side of his head with his index finger. "I'm a fox. I know these things."
Meanwhile in the kitchen, as Hiei assisted Shiori in rinsing out the mugs in the sink, he glanced over at her when he saw her smile. "You played so wonderfully, Hiei. You know, I said a prayer for you."
He chuckled softly and replied. "What? Did you think I wouldn't follow through with my plans?"
Shiori shrugged her shoulders and dried off her hands with a hand towel, passing it to Hiei so that he could do the same. "Until Botan showed up, you were so quiet. I was really afraid you wouldn't play at all for everyone, but you did, and I am so very proud of you."
Hiei blushed faintly and stared down at the cabinet below the sink, fingering the object in his pocket as he searched for the appropriate words. "I... was hoping you would be. That's what a son wants to do for his mother..." When she smiled tearfully, he pulled the turtledove out and held it in front of her, letting her gaze on at it for a few moments as he spoke sincerely. "It's a turtledove, meant to symbolize that I will never forget you and what you've taught me."
As a shuddering gasp escaped her, one hand covering her gaping mouth in joyful surprise, she took the small object in her free hand to examine it closer. "Oh, Hiei... this means so much to me."
"Wait, there's more." he stopped her with another chuckle, trying to ignore the tears that were ready to slip over her cheeks as he took the tiny gem out of his pocket to hold between his middle and index fingers. It no longer glowed as a midnight blue, but in the convenient lighting, it looked more like a sapphire, shining brilliantly for the woman he loved unselfishly. "And this is a rare jewel to remind you that I will love you forever as though you were my own mother."
Before she could stop the oncoming flow of tears, the gem fell into her hand and he embraced her fully, holding her close as she cried softly, clutching the two gifts tightly in the grip of her hand. Shiori clung to him gratefully, cradling him against her chest like she did her own son after she recovered from her fatal illness. "I love you, too, Hiei... my dear and precious son. Never forget that I love you."
"I won't." he whispered, pulling away and revealing the matching turtledove that hung on a string around his neck. He managed to smile once more before she hugged him again, the two finally regaining their composure and joining the others in the den. Once there, Shiori immediately found a place for her new ornament, having tucked the precious gem Hiei gave her into her pocket.
Kurama looked on at the intricate little carving with wonder, and proceeded to inquire on the tiny masterpiece. "What's that, Mother?"
Shiori grinned at her son, then at the other couple standing over by the piano. "A gift from Hiei. Isn't it beautiful?"
"It is lovely, indeed." the kitsune replied, glancing back at his now half-brother, smiling familiarly. "Speaking of which, why don't you play one more song, Hiei? You've become a very talented musician lately, I see."
"Well..." Hiei said, slightly embarassed. Now that everyone knew he could play, he figured that they would never let him leave their sights without either playing or singing. He inwardly hoped it would be the former that they would rather hear...
"Please, Hiei? You play so well!" Shiori pleaded.
"Pretty please?" Botan joined in, batting her eyelashes in the manner she knew he couldn't resist, especially now that they were an official couple.
Sighing in defeat, he trudged back over to the piano and sat down, Botan sitting beside him and snuggling up to him for a moment while he contemplated his song of choice. "Shiori, you were the only one not to request a song earlier. Any ideas?"
"Hmm..." she said, contemplatively tapping her foot as she mulled over her decision. Her gaze drifted over to the frosty windowsill, and her grin widened. "How about Let it snow? Fits the scenario, don't you think?" Hiei nodded and began to play, his fingers moving quickly across the keys and dancing to and fro in a manner that proved he had mastered the musical beauty long ago. Botan swayed happily as Kurama and Shiori leaned over the majestic black frame, Hiei gesturing for his adoptive mother to begin singing. "Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful. And since we've no place to go - let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!"
As Hiei continued to play, fingers bouncing carefreely over the keyboard, the snowfall began to increase again, forming another thick white blanket for them to play in later. Botan pointed out the window and giggled, kissing Hiei's cheek before she took the next verse of the song. "Well the fire is slowly dying, and my dear we're still goodbyeing, but as long as you love me so, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!"
Hiei blushed a brilliant shade of crimson, but returned her affectionate gesture with one of his own, pecking her cheek softly while the song went on carefreely. The snow still fell onto the earth below, draping the world in a winter blanket to sleep for the night, and to dream of glad and warm tidings. The mulberry candles that lit the street lamps were blown out one by one, darkening the town to drift into peaceful slumber, and to imagine the next day's wonderful new surprises. Though little children lay asleep in their beds, their dreams of Santa's sleigh already returning, happy parents sat by the fire, drinking hot cider and enjoying the pleasure of each other's company. Their little Christmas had come to a close, but the memories would remain in their hearts to cherish.
A forgotten son had felt the love of a mother, a ferrier of souls had learned to love someone she once hated, and two unlikely individuals had realized the love they had for one another.
In the evergreen tree that stood proudly across the street, a pair of soft, white birds snuggled together, trying to stay warm for the duration the chilly winter evening. One wouldn't leave the other to freeze, for they needed each other to not only survive, but to have a reason to stay. These turtledoves were the very emblem of love for the Christmas season, and if love isn't the meaning of Christmas, then what is?
A/N: And so it ends with a profound question, one which I hope you will take seriously. Christmas is a very important time for me and my family, as recent holiday seasons have been extremely difficult for me especially. I believe firmly in the Christmas story, and in the meaning it gives to all the world. May you all have a very merry little Christmas, my friends. Thanks for reading!
47th Light