An Anderson-Smythe Christmas
Every year at Christmas, Blaine and Sebastian promised one another that they wouldn't go overboard in regards to gifts, especially for their children. Yet that was one promise they both had problems keeping, and as Sebastian pointed out numerous times, it's all a matter of perspective. While throughout the year, they certainly didn't deprive their children of things they wanted, they also didn't give into every whim one of them might have. Once Juliette was old enough to comprehend what was going on, Blaine and Sebastian knew this was going to be one to remember.
That realization hit them when they came home from work one day in November as Jocelyn was watching them there as Cooper and Lexi had a red carpet to attend. When they reached the living room they found their kids sitting around the coffee table writing letters, to Santa. Given Ainsley had only recently stopped believing a few months prior, she promised her Dads she wouldn't ruin things for her brother or sister. "What's going on here?" Sebastian asked as he loosened his tie as he and Blaine walked around the couch and took in the colorful paper.
"Joce is helping us with our letters to Santa!" Devon replied enthusiastically.
"Isn't it a bit early?" Blaine asked as he looked closer and saw that Jocelyn had gotten her stamps out and decorated the paper accordingly. "It's only November."
"Jocelyn said it was best to start early so they get to Santa in a timely manner." Ainsley said with a big smile earning her a wink from Jocelyn.
"She's right." Sebastian said before sitting down in a nearby chair, and then pulling Blaine onto his lap. "It'll give Santa ample time to get things organized as he's got a big job that night." While he was speaking, Juliette got up from Jocelyn's lap and walked over to her Dads. "Did you do this yourself?" He asked as he looked at her list around Blaine who'd she'd handed it to.
She shook her head while looking up at her Dads. "Joce helped me!" After she spoke, Blaine handed the letter to Sebastian whose smile seemed to grow if possible the closer look he got. Even though Sebastian had clearly mellowed through the years, there was a whole other-side to him when it came to Blaine and their children. No matter how long of a day he had, he never let it affect how he treated his family. "Papa…Daddy…are you going to write Santa too?" The way she looked at them when she spoke had them soon exchanging looks as this was new for them. Yet once Sebastian winked, Blaine smiled.
"Of course we will." Blaine told her. "Papa and I will write ours later."
"Why wait Dad?" Devon asked as he looked at them, causing them to exchange another look. "Joce can make more papers?"
"Stationary." Jocelyn said with a smile. "What do you say Uncle Blaine, Uncle Bas?"
"Did you write yours?" Sebastian asked as he looked at their eldest niece.
"I did, would you like to see it?"
"No, I believe you." Sebastian told her and then spotted an envelope on the table addressed to Santa in Jocelyn's writing. "We'll write our letters after we change, how about that?"
"Perfect, it'll give me time to make your stationary special." When Jocelyn smirked, Blaine couldn't help but laugh as it was such a Smythe trait.
"What's so funny?" Sebastian asked in response while tightening his hold around Blaine.
"Nothing." Blaine managed to get out through his laughter as Sebastian had begun to tickle him.
"B, answer or I won't stop."
"Are you sure you're on the nice list as you know Santa doesn't get things for naughty boys?" Jocelyn had to cover her mouth so that she didn't react to Blaine's response. She wasn't sure exactly what Sebastian said in response, as he pulled Blaine closer and whispered it into Blaine's ear. Yet the moment she saw her Uncle Blaine blush, she had a good idea.
"Papa, are you on the nice list?" Devon asked.
"Yes, I'm on the nice list as I've been very good this year." Blaine couldn't help but roll his eyes given what Sebastian had said when he answered his question. "Just a reminder to all of you though, Santa constantly checks his list so you don't want to slide off onto the naughty list when you've made it this far."
"We know." Ainsley replied before watching her Dads stand up to go change.
Once they were safely ensconced in their bedroom, Blaine could only smile when Sebastian tackled him onto their bed. "We can't be doing this now Bas." Blaine said as Sebastian tugged on his bowtie. "We have letters to Santa to write after we change."
"I'm preparing to show Santa how good I can be." Sebastian told him with a waggle of is eyebrows as he looked at Blaine who was looking up at him.
"While Santa appreciates that, it'll have to wait till later." Blaine replied. "We have kids who are eager for us to write our letters. I love seeing Juliette so excited."
"As do I. Just as I love how your face lights up around this time of year." Sebastian said before giving him a kiss and then getting up off the bed. "And it was cute that you said isn't it early as I know for a fact you started your shopping a long time ago."
"As though you're any different." Blaine replied before getting up as well. "Do you think I hadn't noticed you locked the closet in your office?"
"Just as you locked one of the closets in the craft room." Sebastian retorted before pulling a sweatshirt on over his head after removing his shirt and tie. "I went to get a gift bag for Brittany's birthday present and low and behold your little workshop was locked."
"It's not a workshop Bas." Blaine told him before grabbing his lounge pants from the drawer as he was going for comfort as well since he had files to go over that night.
"I'll take pictures this year when you get in wrapping mode, it's a workshop B." When Blaine scrunched up his nose, Sebastian stepped towards him before wrapping his arms around him. "It's not a bad thing B, it's actually quite adorable." He then leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to Blaine's lips. "Tempting as it would be to continue, we have children waiting for us to write our letters to Santa." Blaine smiled up at him but as Sebastian loosened his hold, Blaine wrapped his arms around him. "What is it?"
"Keep your list G-rated Bas, the kids are probably going to want to see what Papa wants."
"So saying I want my gorgeous husband under the tree in nothing but a red bowtie…strategically placed would be wrong?"
"Yes, but know that it's duly noted." The smile that crept to Blaine's face once he spoke, certainly hinted that Blaine would try and accommodate Sebastian's request this holiday season.
Once they returned to the living room, their kids had made room for them around the table to write their letters. Shortly after Sebastian stretched his legs out beneath the table, Juliette came over and made herself comfortable by curling up beside him. When Blaine laughed softly, Sebastian could only smile. The two were barely settled when Devon was handing them everything they needed. It wasn't long after they began to write and their kids were more than eager to see what their Dads were putting on their lists. "I thought I would let you both know, Mom thinks you're crazy for wanting to host Christmas." Jocelyn said to them as she stretched out on the couch. "I mean, the manor has more room."
"We're well aware of that Joce." Blaine told her. "Yet last year was harder than we thought getting all the gifts home. For some reason, little kids get lots of big gifts." When Jocelyn giggled, Sebastian looked at her.
"See, you know we're correct. So that's why you guys are hosting Christmas Eve and we are doing Christmas Day." Sebastian added. "And next year, it's off to Ohio for Christmas."
"Will Santa be able to find us if we're not home?" Juliette asked as she looked up at her Papa.
"Yes, he'll be able to find you." Sebastian told her. "Right Ainsley, Devon?"
"Yep! Ainsley replied. "We've spent a few Christmases there and Santa always knows, though he leaves some things here too. I think that's so it's easier for Dad and Papa."
"Do you and Dad send him an email or something telling him where we are?" Devon asked.
"Yes, we do." Blaine said in response. "Though, we're pretty sure it's not needed as according to Nana, they didn't have the same conveniences when your Uncle Coop and I were little yet Santa always knew when we were with our Grandparents." Sebastian nodded at Blaine as he more than approved of the answer he gave. It was a few minutes later that he noticed Juliette kneeling next to Sebastian with a confused look in her face. "What is it angel?"
"Why is Papa writing in French?"
"Why don't you ask him?" Blaine replied before getting back to his as Devon looked on and Ainsley joined Jocelyn on the couch. The next thing they heard was her asking her Papa why he was writing it the way he was. Sebastian proceeded to tell her that Santa reads multiple languages so he's taking the opportunity to write in French since he doesn't get to do it often. That was a more than acceptable answer for all of them. While Blaine and Sebastian worked on their letters, they asked Jocelyn if she'd order pizza for dinner since they didn't quite get started on dinner after arriving as they planned.
By the time they'd finished, their kids were eager to read them though only Ainsley could really read Sebastian's completely on her own. With the kids giving their approval, they each put them in envelopes and handed them to Jocelyn who said she'd mail them on her way out. It only took a look from Blaine and Sebastian to Jocelyn for her to know to give the letters to them the next day as they'd only read Juliette's.
When they'd dropped Juliette off with Lexi the next morning, Lexi carefully handed three of the letters back to Blaine as Juliette spoke with Sebastian. "Care to tell me why we're not getting ours back?" Blaine asked.
"That would be because I'm keeping them so I've got bonus ideas for the two of you." Lexi said with a wink. "Jocelyn said you both had some pretty good ideas on them."
"How do you know we don't need them for each other?" When she crossed her arms over her chest and tilted her head, Blaine laughed. "Okay, good point. Did Joce give our reasoning for hosting Christmas?"
"Yes, and it's exactly what Coop and I thought. Just remember, if you two need anything, ask." Lexi told him. "I remember all too well balancing out my kids and preparing for the holiday. And hosting everyone isn't an easy thing."
"I'll remember."
By the time all the Grandparents arrived into town a few weeks later, Sebastian and Blaine had begun to wonder if they were truly going to be able to pull it off. Given Lexi worked from home, she had an added advantage that Blaine and Sebastian didn't have. And with it being the holidays, Blaine seemed even busier than usual and was keeping Saturday hours because of it.
On the Sunday before Christmas which landed on a Thursday that week, Sebastian quietly snuck out of bed, allowing Blaine to sleep as they'd both been up late wrapping gifts. But unlike Sebastian who'd been home with their kids on Saturday, Blaine had spent a full day in the office and was fried by the time he came home. With Blaine sleeping, Sebastian made his way into the craft room which Blaine finally admitted was more like a workshop at this time of year to wrap his gifts. He was contemplating which color ribbon to put on Blaine's gift when he looked to the side and saw Ainsley quietly sitting on the stool beside him. "What are you doing up young lady?" Sebastian asked as she yawned and he ran his fingers through her curls. "Looks like you should still be sleeping."
"I'm slowly waking." She replied with a smile, before tilting her head. "Is Dad okay?" Once the question left her mouth, Sebastian sat down on the stool beside her. While he knew Blaine was more stressed out than usual as his patients seemed to need him more this year, he didn't realize the kids noticed. "Papa?"
"He's just tired Princess." Sebastian told her before wrapping an arm around her. "Work has been a bit more trying this year than previously. Your Dad is really good at what he does and his patients have needed him more. How'd you know something wasn't right?"
"This is going to sound silly, but…we haven't baked cookies yet and that's something we usual do twice before Christmas and Christmas is in a few days." After she spoke, Sebastian realized she was right and that the cookies they had in the house were brought over by Gabrielle as she, Jocelyn, and Lexi had baked. "I didn't say anything because I didn't want to upset him."
"Ainsley, that wouldn't upset him. Though, he might be disappointed that he let you down." Sebastian said to her. "What do you say we get everything ready and we'll bake cookies today?"
"But Dad said he still has things to do."
"Sweetie, trust me…this is exactly what your Dad needs. So thank you, for mentioning it as I've been so caught up in things that it slipped my mind as well." Sebastian then pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "Are your brother or sister up yet?"
"No." When Sebastian smiled, Ainsley looked up at him. "What is it Papa?"
"With us not doing brunch with everyone today because so many of us have company, what do you say we make breakfast as well?"
"I'd like that!" Ainsley replied with a big smile. "Are we going to surprise Dad?"
"Yes. Since we've got our day planned out now, how about you help me finish up wrapping your Dads gifts and we can get started?"
"What do you need help with as it looks like you're done?"
"I don't know what color bow to put on his big gift from me."
"The sparkly green." Ainsley replied as she reached for the big green bow.
"Why not the red or gold?" Sebastian asked as he grabbed the matching ribbon to go around it.
"It's from you Papa and Dad loves the color of your eyes." Sebastian had to blink his eyes a few times as he was overwhelmed a bit emotionally that she said that before kissing the top of her head once more. By the time he was done, Ainsley waited patiently while he placed the gifts into a big bag. "Do you want me to wake Devon and Juliette?"
"Yea, I think so. Just be careful waking Devon as you know he can be cranky."
"Trust me, I know." Once Sebastian laughed, he Ainsley took ahold of his hand and the two headed on their way.
When she returned to the kitchen with her brother and sister, Sebastian had to try not to laugh again as it looked as though Devon could fall back to sleep on the spot and Juliette had her Christmas teddy bear with her as she wanted to help as well. "Papa, where is Dad?" Devon asked as he slipped into the banquette.
"He's still sleeping." Sebastian told him as Ainsley got out Blaine's baking cook book. "Since you're still waking up, set the table as it's one of the easier things to do.
"What about us Papa?" Juliette asked as she held her bear tight and he took the griddle from the cabinet.
"Why don't you help Ainsley get everything organized for making cookies later while I work on breakfast?"
"What's for breakfast?" Devon asked as he set the placemats on the table.
"French toast."
"Dad's favorite."
"Yes. Today is about us helping Dad get back in the Christmas spirit a bit more."
"He's been really tired lately." Devon said which got Ainsley to look at Sebastian who nodded. He'd always known their kids were observant, he just didn't realize how much.
When he was about done, he looked at Juliette, and then at Devon and Ainsley. "It's time to go wake your Dad." The moment Devon grinned, Sebastian continued. "Carefully, no jumping on our bed to do so." Once he huffed, Sebastian looked at him. "With as tired as he is, he doesn't need to be startled awake." Devon nodded before the three of them headed off. With them out of the kitchen, Sebastian went to pour himself another cup of coffee and one for Blaine once everything was in the warming drawers.
While he was doing that, their kids had made their way into their bed and Blaine had yet to move. "Daddy, wake up!" Juliette stated as she tugged on the sleeve of his pajamas. "Daddy!" The moment Blaine began to stir, she smiled and looked at her big sister and brother. "He's up."
"Not quite." Ainsley replied as she noticed he'd yet to open his eyes. "Dad, it's time to get up." She then shook his shoulder a bit. "Dad." When Blaine cracked open an eye he saw their three kids before him.
"Why?" Blaine asked softly as he was more than comfortable, though he was curious where Sebastian was.
"Papa made breakfast." Devon told him. "Your favorite."
"Is that so?" Blaine asked as he looked at him.
"Yes, he mad French toast."
"And bacon." Ainsley added getting Blaine to sit up a bit before stretching. "It's already, we're just waiting for you."
"They're right B." Sebastian said as he walked in, holding Blaine's cup of coffee as well as his own. "The only thing missing is you."
"Well then, I guess I better get up." After Blaine was standing, Sebastian handed him his cup of coffee before giving him a kiss.
"So you know, the day's schedule has already been made." When Blaine raised an eyebrow, Sebastian smiled. "No changing of plans B, it's a family affair today." The last bit came out of his mouth while they headed for the kitchen.
"And what are these plans as I had some things to do today." Blaine replied.
"We're baking cookies." Ainsley said as she looked back over her shoulder at her Dads who were walking behind them with Juliette. The moment the words came out of her mouth, a dumbfounded look came to Blaine's causing Sebastian to slip an arm around him.
"It's okay Killer, I hadn't realized it either since Lexi and the girls sent some over." The look on Blaine's face was what Sebastian had expected as he knew how much Blaine enjoyed baking cookies with the kids. "Now you know why I said the plans aren't going to be changed." Blaine nodded, just as they walked into the kitchen and the kids took their seats. "You too B, I'll get everything else."
"We need juice Papa." Juliette said as she got settled in her booster seat with the help of Ainsley.
"It's coming as well."
Once everything was on the table, Blaine reached over and took ahold of Sebastian's hand and gave it a squeeze as this was exactly what he needed. As everyone fixed their plates, Blaine asked if they knew which cookies they wanted to make first and not surprisingly, they all had different answers. Considering he hadn't done any other baking, Blaine knew they had quite the day ahead of them and while it could seem daunting, he was looking forward to it.
By the time they got started everyone had changed out of their pajamas and Sebastian had turned on Christmas music. While Ainsley helped Blaine put ingredients into the mixer, Devon was sorting through their cookie cutters, and Juliette was coloring frosting with Sebastian. For what seemed to be the first time in a week or so, Sebastian saw an honest to goodness smile on Blaine's face, and his eyes sparkled. The enthusiasm Blaine had throughout that day, was what it had been when they'd first started before work started to get the better of him. And seeing the smiles on their kids' faces as they decorated made it all the more worthwhile. After they finished and each of the kids had showered or taken a bath, Blaine and Sebastian relaxed on the couch while the kids curled up on the floor as they watched Christmas movies. "How are you feeling now B?" Sebastian asked as Blaine rested his head against his shoulder.
"More like myself than I have in weeks. Thank you for today."
"You're welcome." Once he replied, Blaine reached over and intertwined their fingers. "I think this was the most fun we've had in a while. Even with the kitchen needing a good cleaning from all the food coloring." When Blaine laughed softly, Sebastian pressed a kiss to the top of his head. "Is your week going to be a bit quieter?"
"It should be." Blaine told him. "Are you going to be able to come home early on Tuesday as planned?"
"Yes, why?"
"I might've arranged for the kids to spend the night with Lexi, Cooper, and the Grandparents considering they'll be with them all day anyhow." When a wicked smile crept to Sebastian's face, Blaine moved in a bit closer. "I thought you'd like that."
"Like, doesn't even begin to describe how I feel about that." Sebastian replied softly so as not to disturb their kids. "Will I be getting one of my Christmas gifts early?"
"You'll have to wait and see."
Having the Grandparents in town, made it so Blaine and Sebastian didn't feel as guilty about working late on Monday as their kids were more than happy to get extra time with their Grandparents. By the time they all headed home after having dinner with everyone, Juliette was sound asleep. "Who do you think tired her out more, your Dad or mine?" Sebastian asked softly after they got her changed and tucked into bed.
"They're both probably guilty." Blaine replied with a soft laugh while they went to check on Devon and Ainsley. "And if you ask either one of them, they'll say…"
"It's their prerogative, I know." Sebastian said softly while sliding his arm around Blaine's waist. They then stopped in front of Devon's room who was sitting on his bed. "Are you almost ready for bed buddy?"
"Yes Papa. We're staying with Uncle Coop and Aunt Lexi tomorrow night, right?"
"You are."
"Why?" After Devon spoke, Sebastian looked at Blaine who was looking up at him.
"We thought you'd like to spend more time with your Grandparents." Blaine replied. "Don't you want that?"
"Are you and Papa staying too?"
"No, your Dad and I are staying here."
"Why?"
"It's because Dad and Papa haven't had date night in almost a month." Blaine and Sebastian turned at the sound of Ainsley's voice and saw she was standing beside Blaine. "That's why."
"And how do you know this?" Sebastian asked.
"Aunt Lexi was telling Nana and Grandma about it while me and Gabby were making stuff."
"Is that okay with you Devon?" Blaine asked as Devon was still looking at them.
"Yes."
"I'm glad we have your approval." Sebastian replied. "Would you like us to tuck you in?" When he hesitated, Blaine and Sebastian walked into the room to do so. After tucking him in and giving him a good night kiss, the two exited and found Ainsley in the hallway. "Aren't you going to head to bed?"
"I still have an hour till my bedtime." Ainsley said to them so Blaine slipped his arm around her shoulders as they walked to the living room. "You're not mad at me for telling Devon why you aren't staying, are you?"
"No, as you had the right answer." Blaine told her. "Care to tell us what sort of stuff you and Gabby were making?"
"You'll find out soon."
"How soon?" Sebastian asked as they got settled on the couch.
"On Christmas Papa."
"Oh, so it was that sort of stuff." Ainsley nodded before getting comfortable between her Dads on the couch. "Comfortable?" She nodded once again causing Blaine and Sebastian to look at one another, as their cuddling was going to be put off till she went to bed. "Do you have a movie preference?"
"White Christmas."
"That's going to run past your bedtime." Blaine told her.
"Please Daddy." Sebastian had to refrain for snickering as he knew there was no way Blaine could say no when she called him Daddy. Blaine then glanced over at Sebastian once again.
"It's up to you B, as I don't mind." The next thing Sebastian and Ainsley saw was Blaine getting up off the couch to go and put the movie in. "You're getting sneaky." Sebastian said as he slipped his arm around her. "You know there was no way he was saying no when you asked like that."
"It also helps that it's one of yours and his favorite movies as well as mine."
"True." Once Blaine returned, Ainsley stretched to give him a kiss on the cheek and thank him for letting her stay up to watch it. After that, the three of them got settled and enjoyed their movie before Ainsley went to bed.
With all that was happening the next day, Blaine and Sebastian were grateful for more than one reason that Lexi and Cooper were keeping their kids for the entire day. After finishing work and getting in some much needed quality time together, the two began placing everything under the tree besides the gifts from Santa. "We did it again Bas, you know that."
"I know." Sebastian replied as he handed another gift to Blaine to place beneath the tree. "And I don't regret it in the slightest. Did Cooper mention when they were bringing their stuff over?"
"He and Braeden are bringing a bunch of it over tomorrow while the younger kids are out with the Grandparents."
"And where did you hide the gifts from Santa that our parents sent?"
"The back bedroom, where the rest of the Santa gifts are hidden. It's going to take us quite a while to get them all out on Christmas Eve."
"I figured as much considering the size of the boxes along with what we bought. It's going to look like Santa needed a special sleigh just for us."
"They were really good this year Bas."
"That I do know which is why I don't feel guilty in the slightest." While he spoke, Sebastian sat down behind Blaine, his legs on either side of him before wrapping his arms around him. "What does my love say to some more one on one time once he's done making sure everything is perfectly placed?"
"Do you honestly need to ask?" Blaine replied while looking back before giving Sebastian a kiss.
"I didn't want to presume since it's been awhile since we've had a kid-free evening to ourselves."
"Presume away."
With the kids being with family, Blaine and Sebastian stayed up much later than usual to make the most of their time, so they were still asleep when Cooper and Braeden arrived the next morning. "Why don't you go put the bags by the tree and I'll go wake the sleeping beauties." Cooper told Braeden who cocked an eyebrow. "What?"
"Are you sure you really want to go and do that Dad?" Braeden asked. "I mean…"
"They knew we were coming over this morning, so yes." Cooper told him. "Plus, this isn't the first time I've taken a chance waking them. Think about it Brae, they've been together since their senior year of high school."
"So, you've had more than a few opportunities to catch them over the years."
"Precisely! Once you're done, why don't you go start a pot of coffee as I have a feeling they'd appreciate it."
"Alright."
When Cooper rounded the corner of the hall to the bedrooms, he instantly saw that their bedroom door was open. Considering he didn't hear a sound, he knew he'd lucked out once again. Once he reached their door, he saw the two of them curled up together, much as he had plenty of times through the years. "Blaine…Bas…wake up." Cooper said softly before walking further into their room. "Guys, wake up." Cooper said again once he was beside their bed. "Blaine…"
"You've got to know that will never wake him." Sebastian groggily replied before glancing up at him. "Never has, never will." He then leaned in close to Blaine and kissed him on the cheek before whispering in his ear. When Blaine began to stir, Sebastian looked up at Cooper. "Now he's waking."
"How do you do that?"
"Years of practice." Sebastian told him. "Who else is with you?"
"Only Braeden, who happens to be brewing a pot of coffee…or at least should be." While Cooper was speaking, Sebastian sat up in bed and was soon followed by Blaine who looked at his brother.
"Morning Squirt, nice to see your curls still go every which direction."
"Shut up."
"Careful there little brother, there is still time to get on the naughty list." Blaine responded by sticking his tongue out at his brother.
"Nice to see you've both grown up." Sebastian said with a laugh before slipping out of bed and reaching for a pair of lounge pants. "Braeden's brewing us coffee Killer."
"Sweet!" Blaine replied before following suit and getting out of bed and putting on lounge pants. "How were our kids last night?"
"Well behaved as usual." Cooper told them as they headed for the kitchen. "Looks as though it's going to take quite awhile to open gifts on Christmas already."
"You should see the Santa stock pile." Blaine told him before glancing up at Sebastian upon spotting the bags near their tree. "Coop."
"Relax Blaine, they aren't all for the kids. Yours and Bas's gifts are in there as well along with ones for the Grandparents." Blaine nodded before they all reached the kitchen.
"Morning Uncle Blaine, Uncle Bas!" Braeden said before getting cups out of the cabinet.
"Morning." They both replied while waiting for the coffee to brew.
"How'd you get selected to bring gifts over and not anyone else?" Sebastian asked.
"I actually offered to help. Also, Mom said if you need any help for tomorrow, don't hesitate to ask."
"We might be taking her up on that depending on how long it takes to put some of the toys together." Sebastian told him. "Are you two heading back home after this or do you have more errands?"
"We have one more errand." Cooper told him. "We need to drop a gift bag off at the Jeff and Brittany's as the last of their gifts hadn't arrived before Brittany started her break. Oh, I was asked to tell you both to please not dawdle getting over to the house as Mom and Dad have something they want to talk to you about." When they both smiled, Cooper looked at Braeden. "So, you know what it's in regards to."
"We've got a good idea." Blaine replied. "You can tell them we won't dawdle. After you two leave we'll put out the rest of the gifts, eat, shower, and then head on over."
"Fair enough."
By the time they arrived at Lexi and Cooper's they were practically knocked over by their own kids who were happy to see them. After hearing all about the fun they'd had the previous day with everyone, Jocelyn came and got her cousins as she knew her Grandparents wanted to speak with her Uncles. When they stepped into the side room, Greg looked at them both and smiled. "What is it Dad?" Blaine asked as they all got settled.
"It's good to see you, that's all, right dear?"
"That would correct." Carolyn replied. "We're looking forward to the next couple of days as we haven't had much time with either of you."
"Sorry about it."
"It's alright Blaine, you've both been busy." Greg told him. "And from what Lexi told us, you two were in need of last night."
"We were." Sebastian replied. "This holiday season has kept Blaine busier than usual, so we really haven't had time for ourselves."
"We're glad you took it as couple time is important." Carolyn said to them. "Now, we wanted to let you know that we'll be certain to record the kids' reaction to their big surprise."
"Thank you!" Blaine told them. "While we normally catch most things, we want to make sure we got this. Ainsley's been on us for a couple of years to return and this year Devon got in on it."
"Yet we'd been waiting as we wanted to make sure Juliette could appreciate it." Sebastian added. "Also, we're happy you're able to join us. It wouldn't have felt right if you weren't with since you were there for Ainsley's first trip as well as Devon's."
"We wouldn't have missed it." Greg said to them. "Also, we made certain not to say anything to Alex or Yvonne as you mentioned this is a surprise for them as well."
"Thank you!" Blaine replied. "We were afraid their trip to Europe was going to not make it possible, but the dates worked in our favor. Now, what are the plans for today?"
"Well, the kids want to go sledding and skating." Carolyn replied.
"I'm not surprised." Sebastian told them. "As much as those kids love the beach, they love the snow as well."
"Goes to show not much has changed through all of them."
Their Christmas Eve ended up being very much like it usually was, though now they were at Cooper and Lexi's instead of their home. Any time they would look back to the first Christmas they all spent together, some might not ever believed they were get to the point they were now with them all happily under one roof. Before calling it a night and heading home that evening, all of the kids opened up new pajamas and changed into them before Cooper read the night before Christmas. From Juliette at the youngest to Braeden and Jocelyn the oldest, they all seemed to have the same wonderment in their eyes that evening. After the kids put their boots and coats on, Sebastian and Blaine reminded everyone to come over whenever they wake as they'll be up early.
By the time they arrived home that evening, the kids headed straight to the kitchen so that they could get the plate of cookies and milk for ready for Santa. If neither of them knew better, it was hard to believe that Ainsley had stopped believing months prior with as excited as she was. After the kids set the plate and glass on the coffee table, Blaine and Sebastian ushered them off to bed which was quite the task considering how excited they were. Yet Blaine and Sebastian got them tucked in and made them promise to not try and sneak a peek of Santa doing his thing.
It was a few hours later when Blaine and Sebastian were satisfied that the kids were asleep that they began setting out the rest of the gifts beneath the tree. Even knowing how many gifts there were, it took them longer than either had imagined as there were gifts from Santa for every member of the family. When they finally made their way into bed, Sebastian curled up behind Blaine and wrapped his arm securely around him. "Merry Christmas Blaine." He whispered softly into his ear, causing Blaine to turn his head which Sebastian met with a kiss.
"Merry Christmas to you too Sebastian." Even with as securely as Sebastian was holding him, Blaine managed to roll over to face him. Once that happened, it didn't surprise either that they'd begun to kiss and soon got lost in it as they had plenty of times through the years. By the time they finally broke apart, Blaine ran his fingers through the back of Sebastian's hair. "We should probably get some sleep; it's going to be an early morning."
"True, but just a bit more." Sebastian didn't hear any objections from Blaine once he kissed him again and they got caught in the moment once more.
Considering the time they'd finally fallen asleep, they'd barely gotten a long nap in when Juliette came barreling into their bedroom and jumped onto their bed. "He was here! He was here! Santa was here! Daddy! Papa! Wake up! Wake up! Santa was here!" Even with as tired as they were, neither could refrain from smiling at the enthusiasm in her voice.
"Daddy! Papa! Wake up!" Devon added as he jumped onto their bed as well. "Santa came!"
Slowly Blaine and Sebastian sat up in bed and realized they'd need quite a bit of coffee to get their morning started. "Merry Christmas!" Blaine said as he looked at their smiling faces. "Isn't Ainsley up yet?"
"She's in the living room, looking at all the presents." Devon replied as he and Juliette each grabbed ahold of one of their Dads hands. "Come on!"
"Is there something we need to see?" Sebastian asked as Juliette now had her two little hands around one of his.
"Presents Papa! Presents!"
"Lots of presents!" Devon added as he pulled Blaine out of bed. "Come on Dad!"
"We're moving." Blaine replied while glancing over at Sebastian who had a big smile on his face that he knew was similar to the one he was sporting.
When they finally made it out to the living room, they spotted Ainsley in front of the tree looking at all the presents. "Wow, are you sure those all belong here?" Sebastian asked as he grabbed his camera from the sofa table.
"Yes!" Ainsley replied as she looked back over her shoulder at them. "Everyone's names are on them!" She then got up off the floor and ran to give each of her Dads a hug and a kiss. "Merry Christmas Dad! Merry Christmas Papa!" While she did that, Devon and Juliette sat before the tree. "When can we start?"
"You have to wait for everyone to get here." Sebastian told her, causing her to sigh. "Ainsley."
"Please Papa, can't we open at least one each?" This time around Sebastian looked at Blaine who was smiling.
"B?"
"I have no objections."
"Please Papa."
"Alright, but first I have to take a picture of the three of you in front of the tree with all the presents. And then, your Dad and I need to get some coffee." Ainsley then leaned in and gave him another kiss, before giving Blaine one as well prior to returning to the tree with her siblings. After getting a few different pictures of the kids in front of the tree, Blaine and Sebastian went to go and get their coffee. Thanks to Ainsley hitting brew on the pot while her siblings woke them, they returned quickly to the living room.
"You can each pick one, but it needs to be from me and Papa." Blaine told them as they were each scoping things out. "And it has to fit in your lap, as the big gifts have to wait." The kids nodded and began looking for the gift and as they did, Blaine and Sebastian's phones went off with texts letting them know family was on their way. "They're up early."
"They knew our three would be up early and didn't want to keep them waiting." Sebastian replied before slipping an arm around Blaine who settled against him. It was moments later when Sebastian froze when he saw Ainsley reaching for the one gift they didn't want her to open yet, but she soon grabbed another. Since their kids didn't grab any gift, they were still in the process of opening them when the others came walking in.
"Merry Christmas!" Alexander called out bring all attention to the doorway and the kids eyes went wide as each of their Grandfathers had Santa bags hanging over their shoulders. At any other moment, the kids would've run towards them but they were quickly focused back on their gifts. "And here we thought we'd get here before they started." He said as he set his bag beside the couch as Greg did the same."
"They would've been done unwrapping their first gifts if it wasn't for them taking their time choosing their first one." Sebastian told him as everyone got settled. Once they were, Blaine and Sebastian let them know there was coffee ready in the kitchen even though each had arrived with a cup in hand. Now that everyone was there, their kids eyes lit up knowing they could open all of their gifts.
Before they could though, the Grandparents wanted a few pictures with all of their Grandchildren in front of the tree. With as little as Juliette was, Braeden was quick to pull her into his lap so she didn't get lost in all the craziness of the morning. After those pictures were taken, the gift opening began. If there weren't so many people there, plenty of moments could've been missed even with Braeden and Jocelyn helping to distribute gifts to everyone.
The piles of next to each of the kids continued to grow and it wasn't surprising that the littlest of them all had the biggest pile do to the sheer size of some of her gifts. Blaine and Sebastian had to give Jocelyn and Braeden credit as the duo quickly realized that five gifts needed to be handed out together as they were the only ones with a certain wrapping paper on them. With wrapping paper strewn about everyone, Jocelyn and Braeden handed out the last five gifts under the three. "The kids need to open theirs first." Sebastian said as he looked at his parents who held their gifts in their hands. "Then you can open yours."
"What's going on Sebastian?" Yvonne asked, noticing the smile on Sebastian and Blaine's faces.
"You'll find out soon enough." With the smirk that crept to his face as he responded, Lexi curled up next to Cooper realizing these last gifts were something special. Ainsley opened up hers first as the request of her Dads and pulled out a book, a copy of Cinderella in French. While Devon opened up a replicate of the Black Pearl. With those two gifts open, Cooper leaned over Lexi's shoulder and gave her a kiss as he was pretty sure where this was going. When his own kids looked at him and smiled, he had a feeling they were all on the same page. "Your turn Juliette." She smiled up at her Dads and ripped open the paper and tossed the lid off the box. The moment the tissue paper was gone her eyes got wider if possible.
"What is it sweetie?" Blaine asked as it was clear he and Sebastian were wanting to burst. Juliette didn't say anything, just put her set of mouse ears on her head, bow facing front. Once Ainsley and Devon looked at her, they looked at each other and then at their Dads.
"Wait…does this mean what we think it means?" Ainsley asked.
"Depends, what do you think it means?" Sebastian asked.
"We're going back to Disney!"
"We've got smart kids B."
"You're right, we do." Blaine then leaned his head back and gave Sebastian a kiss. The kiss barely broke when they had all three of their kids nestled into the love seat with them. "I guess this means you approve!"
"We do!" Devon said as he hugged Blaine tight. "When are we going?"
"Spring Break." Sebastian replied. "Think you can wait that long?"
"Yes!" Ainsley exclaimed. Once the three of them got settled with their parents, Juliette relaxed against Sebastian who was holding her on his lap, as Devon curled up against Blaine and Ainsley curled against Sebastian.
"Mom, Dad, aren't you going to open yours?" Sebastian's parents looked at one another as they'd completely forgotten they each had one last gift each to open as well. It didn't take them long to unwrap them and soon they were both looking at Sebastian and Blaine. "No, comment?"
"Aren't you going to put them on?" Blaine added.
"Put them on!" Juliette said as she was curious what was in the boxes and soon saw her Grandparents with mouse ears on their heads as well.
"Are they coming too?" Ainsley asked.
"Yes."
"What about you Nana and Grandpa?" She asked as she looked at her Dads parents.
"I don't know, are we?" Greg replied.
"Braeden, Jocelyn, aren't there more gifts?" Blaine asked and soon had the two searching beneath the tree and moving wrapping paper about. When they both looked at Blaine and Sebastian they could tell by their smiles that there was more somewhere. Jocelyn was about to give up when she bumped a gift bag that she thought they'd opened. Yet with as heavy as it was, she soon grabbed it and looked at the tag. "Found something?"
"It says to Grandpa, Nana, and the Anderson clan."
"Sounds like there are more gifts to be opened." Sebastian said and with that Jocelyn pulled the tissue paper out and began dispersing the last of the gifts. In it were mouse ears for Blaine's parents, even though they already were aware they were coming. And then Cooper and Lexi began opening gifts as did their kids. It took the six some time which surprised Blaine and Sebastian but soon they figured it out.
"Wait, we're going to Europe?" Lexi replied.
"We thought it was time we all went once again." Sebastian told her. "We just didn't set a date as we weren't sure of everyone's availability. The last time we all went, Juliette was a toddler. It's time to go again all together."
"We'll get you our available dates as soon as we can Uncle Bas!" Braeden said and Jocelyn nodded as he spoke. Easy as it could be to go back and forth, Cooper and Lexi still didn't take their kids as often as they could as they wanted it to be special when they did. He then looked back at his parents. "You know what this means right?"
"We'll talk about it." Lexi stated.
"Talk about what?" Ethan asked.
"Mom and Dad promised the next time we went back Joce and I could drive her toy." When Blaine and Sebastian laughed all eyes went to them. "What's so funny?"
"You do realize driving it, doesn't mean alone, right?" When Jocelyn and Braeden looked at their Mom, Lexi smiled. "I knew nothing had changed."
"With all that power, nope!" Lexi said.
"With great power, comes great responsibility." Cooper said causing Blaine to laugh. "It's true."
"I know, but you said the same thing before Bas took it out for the first time."
"You've driven it alone, haven't you Uncle Bas?" Braeden asked.
"Yes, but it took awhile before she trusted me." Sebastian replied. "Even then, she only let me take it when your Uncle and I were going out to dinner and I wouldn't be on many open roads."
"I take it you're talking about the Aston?" Alexander said and they all nodded. "Such a sweet ride."
"That it is." Lexi said with a smile. "How about we finish talking later and get all this paper cleaned up?"
"What about stockings?" Devon asked.
"After breakfast." Blaine replied. "That way you still have something to look forward too."
"Ethan, Braeden, go get bags for all this." Cooper said to his sons. "Jocelyn, Gabby, make sure there are no presents mixed into all this." The four quickly got to work as Carolyn and Yvonne stood.
"What do you two think you are doing?" Sebastian asked.
"We're going to put breakfast into the oven since you two have your hands full."
"Mom." Blaine said as he looked at his.
"It's not cooking Blaine, we're putting it in the oven. So why don't you two get a start on putting toys together." Blaine looked at his Mom and then at Yvonne and could tell they didn't stand a chance.
"What do you say B?"
"Let's start putting toys together."
By the time Ethan and Braeden returned, Cooper had joined Blaine and Sebastian on the floor putting some of the bigger things together while Alexander and Greg sat on the couch working on smaller things. Once everything was cleaned up, the kids started to enjoy their gifts as they waited for breakfast. Since most of Jocelyn and Braeden's gifts were electronics or clothes, once they had their things off to the side, they began playing with their cousins.
While most would imagine Braeden playing with Devon, Jocelyn was the one helping him with his newest lego creation. Cooper smiled as he watched his two sons sit in little chairs and have a tea party with Juliette. And not surprising to anyone, Gabrielle and Ainsley were sorting through all their crafting supplies as they got more than they could possibly use in a year. When the Grandmothers came walking back in, Yvonne headed towards the couch to see what Alexander and Greg were working on, and Carolyn walked over to Lexi who was off to the side taking pictures. "It's quite the sight, isn't it?"
"Which one?" Lexi replied with a smile before watching Ethan adjust Juliette's bear which was falling out of its chair. "At times this all still feels surreal. Did you ever imagine you'd have seven grandchildren?"
"Honestly, no." Carolyn said to her. "Yet, I can't imagine our lives without any of them. They all add something special to our lives, just as you and Seb do."
"Are the two of you going to join us anytime soon?" Cooper called out. "These toys aren't going to put themselves together and you're mostly responsible!"
"He's never going to change, is he?" Carolyn said as they headed towards the others.
"No, I'd never want him to either." Lexi replied.
Once she sat down on the floor, Sebastian leaned over towards her and nudged her. "What was that all about?"
"We were talking about how lucky we all our, having each other and the kids in our lives. And for you and I, truly having our parents in our lives once again. After everything, we have the lives we never thought were possible."
"Ain't that the truth? Merry Christmas Lexi!"
"Merry Christmas Bas!"
After she spoke, the two Smythe siblings turned and kissed their husbands who were more than happy to be kissed. From where they had been almost twenty years prior to now, was proof that both their Christmas wishes came true all those years ago.