Adjusting his tie, Fen exhaled heavily, as he checked his watch. "Where are you?" he muttered to himself.
Fen paced the apartment a few times, the sound of the door made him quickly turn around.
"I know, I'm late," Summer said, smiling when she saw him, "I had so many last minute things to finish at the office before the holiday."
"Which starts right now," Fen said.
"Yes," Summer said, as Fen helped her off with her coat, "Christmas Eve, once again." Admiring his suit, Summer said, "Look how handsome you are." She kissed his cheek and said, "Just let me go change and get ready, so we can go."
Summer proceeded to walk away, but Fen grabbed her hand. "What are you doing?" Summer said, "I have to…"
"Come over here," Fen said.
"We don't want to be late for the party," Summer said.
"Just come here," Fen said, pulling her back towards him.
Noticing a warmth in Fen's eyes, Summer said, "Why are you looking at me like that?"
"Stand right there," Fen said.
"You are up to something," Summer said,
"I have something to say," Fen said, "I know we talked about this before and you weren't ready. Now we've been living together for a while and our time together has been amazing. I am more convinced than ever that we belong together and there is no one I would rather spend my life with."
Taking a ring box, out of his pocket, Fen got down on one knee, and lifted the lid to display a diamond ring. Summer's eyes widened as Fen took hold of her left hand. "I love you, more than you could know," Fen said, "Summer Newman, will you marry me?"
"I don't know where she could be," Tessa said, pacing the apartment.
"Calm down," Austin said, "You only just got back home, she doesn't know you're waiting for her."
"She knows I was leaving Fairview today, what if she went there early to pick me up and finds out I'm not there?" Tessa said, "It will ruin the surprise."
"Stop worrying," Austin said, "It's Christmas Eve, just relax."
"That's easy for you to say," Tessa said, "I will feel much better when she…" Tessa trailed off when they heard the front door opening.
Ushering Tessa into the bathroom, Austin said, "Hide."
Austin flashed Tessa a smile and shut the door as Mariah stepped inside. "Hi," he said.
"What are you doing here?" Mariah said.
"I thought we were having a party, remember?" Austin said.
"I have to pick Tessa up first," Mariah said, "You're early."
"I thought you would have been here by now," Austin said, "Where have you been?"
"Shopping," Mariah said, "I never know, what to buy, however, I think, I lucked out and found nice things for everyone on my list."
"Judging by those bags, I'd say you may be right," Austin said.
"I even got something for you," Mariah said.
"You did?" Austin said.
"Let's say the spirit of the season moved me," Mariah said.
"You didn't have to do that," Austin said, "As it turns out, I have something for you too."
"You what?" Mariah said.
Austin opened the bathroom door, saying," Merry Christmas." Tessa darted into the room.
"Surprise!" Tessa said.
Mariah exclaimed with delight, as she rushed to hug Tessa. "You're home!" she said.
"Yes, I am," Tessa said, "To stay."
"It's finally over?" Mariah said, "You're not going back anymore?"
"Well, there is a once a week check that I will be participating in, but I don't have to stay there anymore," Tessa said, "I can't tell you how happy I am to be able to say that."
"I'm so happy to see you too," Mariah said, "Why didn't you tell me? I would have dropped everything to come and get you."
"I wanted to surprise you," Tessa said, "Besides, I thought your new job would be keeping you busy, so I asked Austin to take me home."
"Thank you for bringing her home safe," Mariah said.
"Of course," Austin said, "Seeing that smile on my sister's face, is all worth it."
"I feel wonderful," Tessa said, "It's amazing how facing your demons, makes them easier to deal with. It's so freeing."
"I know what you mean," Austin said, "I hate to admit it, but my court appointed therapist is giving me some clarity."
"Let's get this party started," Tessa said.
"Yes, drinks for three coming up," Mariah said. She headed to the kitchen, when there was a knock at the door.
Tessa moved towards the door, when Austin said, "Let me. I hope neither of you mind, but I invited someone to join us."
Tessa and Mariah shared a look, as Austin opened the door to reveal Lola. "I'm glad you came," Austin said.
"Thank you for inviting me," Lola said.
"Come on in," Austin said, stepping aside.
"Lola," Tessa said.
"Hi Tessa," Lola said, "It's nice to see you home for the holidays."
"Actually, I'm here to stay," Tessa said.
"I'm surprised to see you here," Mariah said.
"I can leave if you're not comfortable with me," Lola said, "I know I did a bad thing to your friend."
"You don't have to go," Austin said.
"I'm sure it would be okay, if you stay," Tessa said, "Right?"
"I am appalled by what you did to Kyle," Mariah said, "But for the sake of Christmas, I am willing to share the holiday with you."
"You're being very gracious," Lola said, "Thank you."
"All of us here have done some questionable things," Tessa said, "We shouldn't continue to punish ourselves for them. We all deserve to celebrate at this time of year."
"I brought some sponge cake and shortbread cookies," Lola said, holding out containers.
Taking them from her, Austin said, "Did you make them?"
"I did," Lola said.
"Then I'm sure it's delicious," Austin said. He smiled at Lola, which she returned.
Kyle sighed as he surveyed his face in the bedroom mirror. His bruises had healed and he was feeling better, however he was concerned by the streak still showing down his cheek. His stiches had been removed and Kyle could see the redness was fading. He was bothered by the raised and rough appearance of the skin, which was forming in its place.
"How do I look?" Rachel said, appearing in the room. She turned around, to show off her dress and upswept hairstyle.
"Just when I think you can't look more beautiful, you go and out do yourself," Kyle said.
"I'm looking forward to this evening," Rachel said.
"Should be a fun time," Kyle said.
"You could sound like you mean it," Rachel said.
"It's Christmas Eve," Kyle said, half-heartedly, "What's not to like?"
"Is there some reason you don't feel like going out?" Rachel said.
"I don't want to ruin everyone's Christmas," Kyle said.
"Why on earth would you think that would happen?" Rachel said.
"Because of this," Kyle said, gesturing to his facial scar.
"Kyle, you are so much better," Rachel said, "The bruises have disappeared, your ribs are practically healed."
"I know, and I'm relieved about that," Kyle said, "I just can't have a good time when people are staring at me, wondering what's wrong with me."
"No one is going to do that," Rachel said, "These are our friends. It doesn't bother me."
"You keep saying that," Kyle said, "But I have to wonder if you're only trying to make me feel better."
"I mean every word," Rachel said, "And Susie doesn't mind either. She has said nothing to indicate she's disturbed by it. Besides, sometimes these things take a while to heal."
"You're right," Kyle said, "I'm sorry for complaining."
"You have every right," Rachel said, "Trust me, you will have fun tonight."
"What would I do without you?" Kyle said.
"You wouldn't have someone to remind you, that you really should put some pants on," Rachel said, observing Kyle in his undershorts and shirt.
"You don't think this is festive for a party?" Kyle said, gesturing to himself.
"A party for two maybe," Rachel said, "Not for people at a gathering."
Kyle laughed and said, "Have you seen my navy pants? You know the comfortable ones?"
"I know the ones you mean," Rachel said, "I laundered them."
"You did what?" Kyle said, slight panic in his voice.
"Somebody had to," Rachel said.
"Please tell me you washed them separately in cold water," Kyle said.
"Cold water?" Rachel winced.
Kyle momentarily closed his eyes and said, "Otherwise they will shrink. I haven't been able to find another pair like them."
"Kyle," Rachel said, rubbing her hands up the front of his shoulders, "You're pants are safe. I washed them separately in cold water. Your wife was just messing with you."
Kyle shook his head. "You know that kind of behaviour puts you on Santa's naughty list," he said.
"Oooh, I hope so," Rachel said, pulling Kyle into a kiss.
Kyle kissed Rachel towards the bed, where she pushed him down. Kyle smiled and said, "Aren't we going to be late for the party?"
"So, we're a little late," Rachel said. She leaned in for a kiss, their embrace cut short by the sound of the doorbell.
They both paused, until Rachel said, "I'll get rid of whoever it is." She darted out of the bedroom.
Kyle smiled after her, propped up his elbows, he heard Rachel say, "Mother, what are you doing here?"
Kyle closed his eyes and fell back against the bed, with a groan.
At a loss for words, Summer stared at Fen, both of their hearts beating rapidly. "Please say something," Fen said.
"Fen, I…" Summer started, "I can't believe…oh, you are the most incredible man and I love our life together."
"But…" Fen stammered, preparing for her rejection.
"No buts," Summer said, shaking her head, "I wasn't expecting a proposal, especially a Christmas one."
"Summer, I love you," Fen said, "I will be the best husband you could hope for. I will make you the happiest woman in the world, because being with you makes me the happiest man alive. But if you're still not ready…"
"Yes," Summer said.
"I know it's a big step…" Fen said, "What did you say?"
Crouching to her knees in front of him, Summer placed her hands on his cheeks and said, "I will marry you Fen."
"You will," Fen said, breaking into a big smile, "Did you say yes?"
"Yes, a thousand times yes," Summer said.
Fen kissed her. "This is happening," Fen said, "We're engaged."
"Not yet," Summer said.
"What do you mean?" Fen said.
"You're forgetting something," Summer said. Fen just stared at her, so Summer said, "The ring, silly."
"Oh, of course," Fen said, rushing to take it out of the case.
"It's beautiful," Summer said.
"Just like you," Fen said. He slipped the ring onto her finger. "Perfect fit," he said.
"Like us," Summer said.
"I can't wait to make you my wife," Fen said.
"What do you say we're fashionably late tonight," Summer said.
Fen kissed her as they tumbled to the floor.
Shivering in the cold night air, Chloe put her arms around herself, as she stood in the open doorway of her home.
"Chloe," Kevin said, "What are you doing standing here?" Kevin closed the door saying, "You're going to catch pneumonia."
"I was just looking," Chloe said.
"For Santa?" Kevin said, "He comes down the chimney, not the front door."
"I was looking for guests," Chloe said, "Where is everyone?"
"I'm sure they are on their way," Kevin said.
"Maybe no one wants to come," Chloe said, "What was I thinking throwing a party on Christmas Eve?"
"Wanting to share the holiday with family and friends?" Kevin said, "They want to spend it with you too."
"Yes, you can see how much," Chloe said, gesturing to the empty room.
Their attention was diverted by the sound of Susie and Bella, clamoring down the stairs. "Wow, you two look festive," Kevin smiled.
"They wanted to wear their new holiday sweaters for the party," Chloe said.
"Where is everyone?" Susie said.
"Good question," Chloe said.
"Can we have some food?" Bella said.
"We're getting hungry," Susie said.
"You might as well," Chloe said, "Let's go see what you would like from the buffet."
With Chloe's attention diverted, Kevin pulled out his phone and began to text his brother. "Mikey, are you and Lauren on the way? Chloe is getting anxious, no one has showed up yet. Please be here soon." Kevin tucked his phone into his pocket with a sigh.
"I have never been so full in my life," Mariah said, as she flopped onto the couch.
"Me too," Tessa said, sitting next to her and dropping her head on Mariah's shoulder, "I am stuffed."
"You put out quite a spread," Lola said, "All very good."
"Except that none of us will be able to move now," Austin said.
"Does anyone want to watch another movie?" Tessa said.
"I've had my fill of that too," Austin said.
"Maybe later," Mariah said.
"I know, what we need," Austin said, standing up with a groan. He walked to the tree and grabbed some gifts, "We should open a present tonight."
"Oh, we were going to wait until tomorrow for that," Tessa said.
"Yeah, we like the anticipation," Mariah said.
"At least open the ones from me," Austin said, "Since I won't be here tomorrow."
"You have plans?" Tessa said.
"I'm sure you two want some time alone," Austin said, "I don't want to intrude on your holiday."
"That's nice of you," Mariah said.
"You're family that's not an intrusion," Tessa said.
"Just the same," Austin said, "Maybe, I'll call you to wish you a merry one. But for now, this is for the two of you." Austin handed Tessa and Mariah, each a gift box, the same size.
Lola smiled, enjoying watching, them open the boxes, and push back tissue paper.
Tessa and Mariah paused, before Tessa said "Wow…picture frames."
"You shouldn't have," Mariah said.
"They're nice," Tessa said.
"Yes, they are," Mariah said.
Handing them another box, wrapped in holiday paper, Austin said, "This will explain it."
Tessa raised her eyebrows at Mariah, who said, "Go for it. Rip it open."
Removing the paper, Tessa smiled when she revealed the gift. "Austin…this is amazing."
"It's only a state of the art camera," Mariah smiled.
"You can create all kinds of images with this," Austin said, "The resolution is said to be spectacular. Better than anything you could take with a phone camera."
"This is so great," Tessa said, "Thank you."
"Yes, very thoughtful," Mariah said, "Thanks."
"My pleasure," Austin said.
"What a wonderful gift," Lola said, "This has been a nice evening, but I should get going."
"You can't leave yet," Austin said. Everyone stared at him, until he said, "Not until I give you my gift." He held out a small box to her.
"Austin," Lola said, "You didn't have to buy me something."
"A token of friendship," Austin said. Lola hesitated to take it from him, so he said, "Go ahead, it won't bite."
Lola took the box, with smile she said, "Thank you. That's very sweet of you."
"Are you going to open it?" Austin said.
"Do you mind if I wait until tomorrow?" Lola said, "This is probably the only gift I will get this year."
"Sure," Austin said, "I hope you like it."
"I'm sure I will," Lola said, "I should be on my way."
Lola grabbed her coat, prompting Austin to say, "Let me help you." With Austin's assistance, Lola settled into her outerwear.
"Ahem," Tessa said, "Someone is standing under the mistletoe."
Lola and Austin looked up at the decoration, before Lola looked nervously at Austin. "We don't have to," she said.
"It is a Christmas law," Austin said. He lifted one of her hands and tenderly kissed the back of it.
"Thank you," Lola smiled. Their eyes met and for a moment both were transfixed, until Lola pulled herself back to reality. Addressing Tessa and Mariah, she said, "Thank you for having me."
"It was nice that you could come," Tessa said.
"I was good of you to invite me," Lola said.
"Told you it would be fun," Austin said.
"Yes, you were right," Lola said, "I needed a night with friends."
"Maybe, we can get together again sometime," Austin said.
"Perhaps," Lola said, "Goodnight everyone."
Opening the door for her, Austin said, "Drive safe." He waived, watching Lola until she was out of sight. Austin couldn't hide his smile as he shut the door. Turning around, he saw Tessa and Mariah watching him. "What?" he said.
"Does my brother have a crush on Miss Rosales?" Tessa said.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Austin defended.
"That kiss on the hand, the look in your eyes," Tessa said, "The suggestion of maybe we can get together?"
"Except you didn't mean all of us, you meant just the two of you," Mariah said.
"She's a nice person," Austin said.
"It has nothing to do with the fact that she's beautiful," Mariah said.
"I happened to notice that too," Austin said.
"It could be the glow from the tree, but I think he's blushing," Tessa said.
"It's warm in here," Austin said, "Who wants another drink?"
"Chelsea, it's so nice to see you!" Chloe gushed, as her friend arrived, "And you brought Connor."
"Hi," Connor said.
"Did you bring anyone else?" Chloe said.
"If you are talking about Adam, he is not coming," Chelsea said, "So, Connor is my escort this evening."
"Good call," Kevin said, "Can I get you a drink?"
"That would be nice, thank you," Chelsea said.
"Connor, what about you?" Kevin said, "Would you like some punch? Non-spiked kind of course."
"Sure," Connor said. A look from his mother, prompted him to add, "Thanks."
Spying Connor, Susie turned around saying, "Oh, no."
"What's wrong?" Bella said.
"Connor Newman is here," Susie said.
"Don't you like him?" Bella said, "He's nice."
"Yes, but he always makes these googly eyes at me and he never leaves me alone," Susie said. Connor looked at Susie and smiled, proving her point.
"Hi Susie," Connor said, walking over.
"Hi Connor," Susie said.
"Merry Christmas," Connor said.
"Thanks, same to you," Susie said.
"Do you want to go look at the buffet table with me?" Connor said.
"No thanks, I already had some food," Susie said.
"I wanted to tell you…" Connor started, before Susie cut him off.
"He's here," Susie said, excitement in her eyes, when she saw Fen and Summer walk in. Susie walked away to greet him, leaving Connor standing alone.
Michael and Lauren arrived, bearing gifts for the family.
"That's so sweet of you," Chloe said, "I'll put these under the tree."
"There is something for everyone," Michael said.
"For me too?" Bella said.
"I don't know," Michael teased, "Have you been good this year?"
"I think so," Bella said.
"I would not forget my nieces at Christmas," Michael said, "I believe there is something with your names on them."
"I got one too?" Susie said.
"Of course," Michael said, "Everybody has a gift, even Fen."
"Thanks Dad," Fen said.
Michael stood observing Fen's tie. "Snowflakes?" Michael said.
"Be thankful, I dissuaded him from wearing the reindeer tie," Summer said.
"Who doesn't like reindeer?" Fen said, "I'm trying to be festive."
"You look very handsome," Lauren said.
"Thank you," Fen said, with a nod.
Susie paused as she noticed Summer's ring. She stared at it for several seconds, before she spoke in loud voice, "Is that an engagement ring?"
The room fell silent, all eyes on Summer and Fen.
"Oh," Summer said, "As a matter of fact…Fen?"
Fen put his arm around Summer, as he announced, with a smile, "Summer and I…are engaged to be married."
Fanfare of congratulations filled the room, with Lauren rushing to her son. "Oh, this is wonderful news!" she said, hugging Fen.
Seeing the tears on Lauren's face, Fen said, "Mom, why the tears?"
"This is all I wanted for you," Lauren said, "I'm so happy for both of you!" Lauren hugged Summer too.
Michael walked to Fen, putting his hands on his son's shoulders. For a moment Fen, took his father's silence as disapproval, until Michael pulled him into a hug.
"For a second there, I thought you weren't happy," Fen said.
"I'm thrilled," Michael said, "This is the best news." After giving Summer a warm hug, he continued, "Are you sure you can handle this guy?"
"I'm fairly sure, I can keep him in line," Summer said.
"That's what I want to hear," Michael said. The sound of the doorbell, sent Chloe to answer, as Michael proclaimed, "Everybody grab their drinks. A toast, to Fen and Summer, the future Mr. & Mrs. Baldwin!"
Everyone saluted the couple as, Kyle and Rachel, looked on with surprise.
"I get the feeling we missed something," Kyle said, entering the room.
"My son is getting married!" Michael triumphantly proclaimed.
"Wow," Kyle said, "You two are engaged?"
"Yes, we are," Summer said, latching onto Fen and displaying her ring.
"That's a beautiful ring," Rachel said.
"I like it," Summer said, "Maybe now you are satisfied."
"Excuse me?" Rachel said.
"The other day, you accused me of…not loving Fen as much as I should," Summer said.
"Why would you say that?" Fen said.
"That's not what I said," Rachel said.
"What did you say?" Kyle said. Rachel gave Summer an exasperated look, while Summer was delighted she had put Rachel on the spot.
"I only want Fen and Summer, to be as happy as you and I are," Rachel said, "Besides, this calls for congratulations." She moved in to hug Fen, as Kyle did the same to Summer.
"So, this is for real," Kyle said.
"Aren't you happy for me?" Summer said.
"Yes, of course," Kyle smiled, giving her a second hug, "As long as you are happy, then so am I."
"Are you sure you know what you're doing?" Rachel said to Fen.
"I know Summer is not your favorite person," Fen said, "But I love her so much, I can hardly wait to marry her. It would be nice if my friends would share in my joy."
"I do," Rachel said, "I wish you all the best."
Spying her daughter, Rachel said, "Hi sweetheart, Merry Christmas." Sharing a hug, Susie returned the greeting.
"What about me?" Kyle said, "Where's my Christmas hug?" Susie gave Kyle a hug, as he noticed she held on tight.
"Are you okay?" Kyle said. Susie nodded. "Really?" Kyle said.
"I'm happy for Fen," Susie said, "But when I am going to find someone like him to be with?"
"You don't want someone like Fen," Kyle smirked, "Besides, you shouldn't be worried about this at your age. When the time is right, a lot of guys will come into your life, that will make you forget all about what's his name."
"They will?" Susie said.
"Count on it," Kyle said.
Fen noticed Susie was not very happy, so he said, "What do you think of our news?"
"Congratulations," Susie said.
"Thank you," Fen said, "You are coming to the wedding right?"
"You want me to?" Susie said.
"Of course we do," Summer said, "I need some bridesmaids."
"You're asking me?" Susie said.
"I am," Summer said, "Weddings are a time for families to celebrate together. It would mean a lot to us if you would accept."
"What do you say?" Fen said.
"I would love to," Susie said.
"That's my girl," Fen said, as he hugged her.
Over Susie's shoulder, Fen mouthed the words "Thank you" to Summer, who smiled back at him.
"Did you get any Christmas surprises?" Kevin said, as he stood talking to Rachel.
"Not yet," Rachel said, "Unless you count my mother."
"Adele is in Genoa City?" Kevin said, "I'll alert the media."
"She showed up at our front door, unexpected and ready to stay for the holidays," Rachel said, "When we told her we were coming here tonight, she decided not to join us."
"Well, that's too bad," Kevin joked, "I'm so sorry I missed her."
"She did say she is staying at the main house," Rachel said, "Tonight she is getting reacquainted with Jack."
"Poor Jack," Kevin said, "However, better him than me."
Susie was sitting to the side of the room by herself. She had conflicted feelings about Fen's engagement. In her head she knew nothing would ever happen romantically with the two of them, after all Fen is her family. She was a little jealous, that Summer got to snag such a great guy. Susie was certain she would never find her own boyfriend, one that could stir some of the same feelings she felt for her older cousin.
"Hi," Connor was suddenly beside her.
"Hi," Susie said.
"Nice about your cousin getting married," Connor said.
"Yeah, it's great," Susie said.
"Are you okay?" Connor said, "You seem kind of sad."
"I'm fine," Susie said.
"I um…" Connor started, "This is for you." He held out a small box, wrapped in Christmas paper.
Susie paused and then said, "You bought me a present?"
"For Christmas," Connor said.
"Oh, I didn't know you were going to," Susie said, "I don't have anything for you."
"That's okay," Connor said, "I want you to have this."
Taking it from him, Susie said, "Thanks…thank you."
"Maybe it will make you feel better if you open it," Connor said.
"Right now?" Susie said.
"I don't think anyone will mind," Connor said.
Connor watched as Susie removed the paper, to reveal a white box, to which she removed the lid. A smile came to her face and looking at Connor she said, "It's pretty."
Susie lifted out the egg shaped ornament, with a picturesque scene of Santa and his reindeer. Below the image read "Susie."
"It has my name on it," she said.
"They only had ones that read Susan," Connor said, "I told the man selling them, I had to have one that said Susie. So, he made one for you."
"You did that just for me?" Susie said.
"You have to turn it over," Connor said.
Looking at the other side, Susie read, "Merry Christmas 2020. Connor this is really nice, thank you."
Across the room, Fen and Summer observed the younger ones, share a quick hug, with Susie giving Connor a small kiss on the cheek.
"A super couple in the making?" Fen said.
"I have a feeling it could be, if Connor has anything to say about it," Summer said
"I wonder if Susie knows what she's in for, dealing with a Newman," Fen said.
"Hey, if you can handle a Newman, then so can your cousin," Summer said. She pulled Fen into kiss, unaware that Kyle was watching.