Word Count: 424

It's hard not to feel disappointed. It's his and Kingsley's first Christmas together. By some miracle, Harry managed to leave the Auror office early enough to get started on the festivities.

There are minimal decorations, but Christmas cheer can be seen throughout the house. The Christmas tree is decorated, and gifts rest beneath its branches. A sprig of mistletoe dangles above the entryway into the living room. It really is perfect…

Except, unfortunately, Kingsley won't be home until much later. Harry should have expected it; of course someone like the Minister of Magic would be busy. It's all part of the job description.

Still, Harry refuses to let it get him down. He's forced himself to maintain a positive attitude because it's still Christmas. Maybe Kingsley isn't here yet, and they can't set about, enjoying the holiday and making new traditions together. Kingsley will be home eventually. Harry can take the time to make sure everything is perfect.

There's a shuffling sound near the front door. Instinct takes over, and Harry draws his wand, pointing it, poised and ready to attack. It's been six years since Voldemort's defeat, and four years since the last recorded Death Eater activity. He hasn't forgotten; he will never forget.

The door opens, and Harry shouts, "Expelliarmus!"

Instead of a wand, a bottle of champagne soars through the air, shattering against the wall. Kingsley chuckles. "Someone needs to remind me not to try and surprise you," he muses.

Harry's cheeks flush with heated color. He takes a step back, rubbing his palm over the back of his neck. "That…" He clears his throat. "That was not my intention."

Kingsley just grins and steps inside. "Unfortunately, I don't have a spare bottle," he says. "That was a gift from Rosmerta, by the way."

"Oops."

Kingsley reaches out and pulls Harry into a hug. "Oops," he agrees.

Harry holds onto his boyfriend for a moment before stepping away, brows raising. "What are you doing home?" he asks. "You said you were swamped with paperwork."

"I lied." Kingsley winks. "I wanted to surprise you."

"Well, you definitely succeeded."

Kingsley looks around. A content smile plays at his lips as he takes in the subtle decorations. "You've been busy."

With a chuckle, Harry shrugs. "A bit, yeah."

Something catches Kingsley's eye. He rests his hands on Harry's shoulders, gently guiding him back. "Mistletoe," he says before leaning down, kissing Harry. "Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas, Kingsley."

And as joy spreads through him, he knows he could never have a more perfect night than this.