Aaron woke Christmas morning to find his mom laying in bed, her arms wrapped around his dad's stomach, both things he'd both prayed and asked Santa for. "Mommy!" He yelled so loud that both Jack and Kate jumped.
"Merry Christmas, Baby!" Aaron jumped on the bed; Kate caught him midair and pulled him against her as she kissed his cheeks. Jack marveled at her ability to do so. He'd never seen a better mother than Kate and he knew that wasn't because of any bias. She was born to be a mother and he was grateful to be Aaron's father so he could get a front row view.
"Presents!" Aaron screamed, running into the living room and sliding across the floor to the base of the tree. Kate watched Aaron reaching for present after present, stacking his in a pile and tossing his parents' gifts aside.
Jack pulled Kate by the waist and kissed the top of her head when they were next to each other. Kate gave Jack a questioning glance. "We're doing a good job." Jack made sure Aaron wasn't paying attention and spoke quieter, "when she talked about adoption, this is what she wanted for him, Kate. We've respected her wishes and he's a terrific kid."
"He really is," Kate whispered. She didn't look at Jack but he knew the sniffle that meant she was trying not to cry. Kate smiled as she watched Aaron, his face colorfully illuminated by the lights on the Christmas tree. Kate thought for a moment, finalizing her decision before she spoke. "It might be a nice tradition to come here every year."
Jack turned his attention to her, wide eyed. "Do you mean that? Even when we find someone else?"
"It's beautiful here. And I could decorate the cabin, we'd have the smell of breakfast throughout the house. I actually bought you a Christmas gift."
"I thought you were mad at me?" He teased.
"You save lives; I have to grade you on a curve." The two shared a smile, both their eyes twinkling as the lights hit them.
"Before that, I have a gift for you."
"I really think you should op—"
"Please? For me? Open mine first?" He looked so desperate that she had no choice but to nod in agreement. He pulled out a small box, the size for a pair of earrings.
"Jack," Kate gasped as she opened it. Inside was a ring with a beautiful emerald.
"It's a promise ring. I promise I'll do better. I promise I'll respect whatever—"
"Open your gift," Kate whispered making a soft hmph sound as she handed him a box the same size.
Jack opened it, his eyes narrowing. "Kate, I don't—"
"Yes, you do."
"Are you…do you…"
"Ask again," she said softly.
"Will you marry me?" He breathed, still in shock.
"Yeah," Kate nodded, unable to hide her wide smile. "I want to marry you, Jack."
The end.
