[Warning: This chapter contains mature content]

Chapter 16:

Christmas Spirit (Part One)

The Christmas party was in two days but already the Wesker home felt overcrowded. Wesker and Jake had hired workers for decorations once again and while they adorned the abode in the holiday spirit, Marlowe and the women were instructed to literally stay out of the way so they could finish their jobs by the following day.

The three stayed in the upstairs rooms for easy access to the family room, Marlowe and Sherry's bedroom, and of course Stephanie's favorite spot - the sewing room.

Sherry was in the kitchen area of the family room preparing a cheese sandwich for Marlowe when Stephanie walked in. The auburn haired woman observed Marlowe quietly completing a Sudoku puzzle by the computer desk and closed in to kiss his soft blonde hair as a greeting.

"Hi mom!" he grinned to her and returned to his puzzle.

Sherry hadn't noticed her before that and jumped some. "O-oh, hi ma'am." the petite girl offered a smile. "Would you like something? I was just preparing Marlowe a snack."

Stephanie shook her head, bundling herself up some more with the wool shawl over her shoulders. "I'm fine, I was just wondering would you mind helping me dust off some of the woodworks in the hallway is all, but I see you're busy so we can deal with that later." she ruffled Marlowe's hair earning her a huff in response so she chuckled. "You sure know how to hit the books, don't you Marlowe?"

"He's been studying like a madman all morning." Sherry said as she removed his sandwich from the hot pan. "If I didn't beg, he wouldn't even eat this - but he's going to have to since he hasn't eaten in a few hours. After this it's naptime and then I can help you dust, ma'am."

"Alright, in the meantime I'll be in the sewing room - I've got something to finish stitching before the day of the party." the older woman said and exited quietly.

Sherry sat Marlowe's plate on the countertop and clapped. "Okay little mister - it's time to eat so you can take a little nap. You know you can't skip meals or sleep because you get very, very grouchy."

"Leave me alone." he retorted, filling in the last number to the puzzle. He spun the chair around and hopped out of it to run over. "Okay, now I'm hungry!"

Sherry wasn't sure if she should laugh or just shake her head at his fierce dedication to finishing everything he started. It was an excellent quality in someone… but a baby like himself…?

He was really quite the character.

Sherry wiped along the woodworks with a damp old rag, Stephanie was behind her cleaning the windows with paper towels and Windex; both were dressed head to toe in their working attire [sweats, old shoes, hair scarves and rubber gloves] and were covered in dust, dirt and sweat.

The two worked in silence until Sherry spoke. "I'm really glad that your health has improved so much ma'am." she said a little breathlessly. Despite what Jake believed, she actually got quite the workout just doing house chores.

Her arms felt a little sore from scrubbing so much but her healing abilities were helping to ease the pain. She wiped the tiny beads of sweat from her forehead with her shirt and leaned against the wall to fan herself and cool down. "Gosh, I'm bushed…" she mumbled.

Stephanie smiled, taking the broom and dustpan from the utility closet next to the bathroom. They were in the hallway just before the granite bathroom across from Marlowe and Sherry's room. "Yes I'm feeling very energized today. I guess there's just something about the holiday's that brings me so much peace..." she started to sweep the floors.

Or maybe it's my influence. Sherry considered but thought better than to speak it. "May I ask why, ma'am? I'm just curious… because I like that Christmas is a time of giving, getting and spending time with loved ones."

"Funny, I feel the same way – I love that Christmas brings friends and families together."

Sherry nodded. "It's the perfect time of year for it."

"Indeed, I just want us all to be together this year – for Marlowe's first Christmas."

"Forgive me ma'am, but is that why you told Jake to reconsider the nurse?" Sherry asked nervously. "I mean, I understand that wholeheartedly if that's why… so we can feed him all of our attention right?"

Stephanie stopped and let out a sigh. Sherry bit her lip fearful she'd spoken out of bounds to her boss's estranged wife. "That's part of it... I also just don't want some stranger caring for me."

"I understand..." She must have known Rebecca for a while to trust her so much.

"I won't lie to you, I do have a slight problem with the idea of another woman in this house." she admitted and it caught Sherry off guard enough that she had to shake her head to prevent dropping her jaw.

"Ma'am - forgive me but is that really justifiable?" she asked. "You could be risking your health…"

"Of course it's justifiable." the older woman shot back firmly. Sherry flinched, Stephanie observed this and seemed to mellow out immediately. "I'm sorry it's just - well it isn't easy being the wife of such an influential man like Albert. Women frolic to him and he's not above using them for his own means..."

Sherry recalled Excella's words about the Wesker men and their fidelity. She took them into consideration for the moment. "Ma'am, I'm not sure if this will help much but someone very close to Mr. Wesker informed me of his fidelity one day... they told me that the men of the Wesker bloodline are loyal to their women and that once they find a special one - there isn't anything that can tear them away."

Stephanie sent her a peculiar stare but suddenly she appeared to sadden... "I... just have trouble believing that. I wish I could but it isn't easy."

"Why?" the slender blonde asked, coming up to face her.

"It's a lot more complicated than you could ever imagine." she replied slowly.

Sherry couldn't help but feel a strangling tightness in her chest when she heard that. It always seemed like there were so many secrets to the Wesker family and she was starting to feel weary. Excella had told her Wesker was being faithful but now Sherry was beginning to wonder had the woman lied to cover him.

What exactly is going on here? Why is Mrs. Stephanie so antagonistic to the idea of other women - could she just be insecure? What if the reason why she ran away with Jake when he was a baby was because Mr. Wesker may have cheated on her...? Or… could Ms. Excella have lied to me to cover up something...?

Later that evening, Jake walked along the deck and stopped in front of Sherry's doors to knock twice. He heard her give permission for him to enter and slid one side open and pushed through the curtains, closing the door behind him. Her room was dark besides the light from the TV and the dimly lit fireplace to keep the room at a comfortable temperature.

Sherry was in her bed with her back pressed against a pile of pillows behind her. She was covered from the waist down by her bed sheets, Jake could only make out that she was wearing a long-sleeved fitted shirt with a turtleneck. In her lap was a bowl of popcorn which she stopped munching on upon his entrance.

Sherry noted that Jake was dressed quite comfortably. He wore solid black pajama bottoms with matching house shoes and a robe that looked soft to the touch. She blushed upon noticing she could still see the outlines and shapes of his muscular form through his attire.

"Hey Supergirl," he greeted with a smirk.

"Hi baby," she sang sweetly. "Gosh, you brought cold air in here with you." Jake laughed at her and her eyes traveled to the wooden box in his arm. It was sealed with a cute white ribbon. "What's that?"

Jake came to sit beside her on the bed, she sat the bowl of popcorn on her nightstand and then gave the man a sweet kiss on the lips before giving him her undivided attention. "Got something for you." he held out the box.

Sherry was elated but confused. "It's a bit early for a Christmas gift giving isn't it?" she asked cutely.

He shrugged. "It's not from me - it's from that evil chick."

She laughed. "I'm guessing it's my costume for the party... Oh boy."

"Want me to leave?" he asked once she removed the ribbon to peek inside. It was late and he was curious if she were too tired to be bothered. He certainly didn't want to go.

"No..." she said with a blush, she put the box on the floor. "I... I want you to stay with me for a while." she whispered into his ear. She hadn't got to see him much and just wanted him to spend a little time with her.

Jake chuckled and got cozy next to her after she scooted over. She settled next to him, resting her head on his shoulder, she sighed against the exposed skin of his neck. He hummed while wrapping an arm around her middle. "You cold or something? I mean, why not come out from under the comforter?" he asked quietly, half-watching the TV.

"I'm only wearing panties..." she answered honestly but meekly. "The baby isn't too far away and I don't want to tempt you into anything..."

"Just hearing that turns me on though." Jake replied with a devious smirk.

Sherry rolled her eyes. "Oh hush, by the way - what's your costume for the party?"

Jake grinned with mischief. "No, no, no - I can't spoil the surprise baby girl."

Sherry giggled and just snuggled closer to her man. "Fine, I'll be patient - but you better not be the Grinch who stole Christmas."

"Oh trust me, I'm definitely not him."

The two were quiet for some time, enjoying each other's company. Jake broke that silence when he whispered into Sherry's hair. "Baby girl...?"

"Hmm?" Sherry softly responded.

"What's your idea of a wonderful Christmas?" he asked while gently rubbing circular motions along her spine with his finger.

She hummed as she pondered this. Jake waited patiently, discreetly listening to her thoughts as they stirred about in her subconscious. He noticed a lot of her thoughts drifted from him, to Marlowe, and eventually settled on the two of them as well as Leon and Claire.

This would be her first Christmas without them since they took her in. Jake considered quietly. I'm sure she'd love to have them here with her... After all, they're the only parents she knows.

Jake gave her a comforting squeeze when he felt moisture upon is chest. He could feel her pain, her happiness, her confusion. "Jake, just seeing you and Marlowe happy is enough for me."

"Then why are you crying Supergirl?" he asked gently into her hair again.

"I-I don't know..." she murmured while sobbing.

Jake lifted her chin delicately with his hand calloused by fist fights and battles. He gazed tenderly into her watery eyes and could just quite literally feel her submitting to him once again. She was displaying her emotional fragility because she trusted him and saw him as someone who truly cared for her. He would never take advantage of her and he knew she wouldn't either.

The hot-blooded redhead remembered why he stopped fighting pointless battles with criminals, getting in trouble with the law, and only thinking of himself. He stopped all of it because of the woman in his arms; the woman who helped him see that fighting for a worthy cause was better than anything else, who pulled him away from the life of crime he once lived by captivating him with her awkward charms, the woman who showed him that she would give her all for him and his family - while wanting nothing in return but for him to support his brother.

She never asked for diamonds, expensive clothes or anything to tear him down financially even though he informed her of his wealth. Still, she wouldn't ask - she just gave him whatever she could without much issue. She never asked for anything from him except trust.

Trust was exactly what he'd given her. He trusted the girl who shared so much in common with himself because she was in a way different than him. She was optimistic, docile and benign while he'd been somewhat of a pessimist, unpredictable and cold. She changed him into a more considerate person while he had shown her what the world was truly like outside of the sheltered lifestyle she once lived.

Jake adored this woman with everything he had. I promise you, I'll do whatever I can for you and you don't have to say a word for me to do it. His lips descended upon hers slowly, his thumbs lovingly wiped away her tears as he cupped her face.

I know how you feel about me Sherry and I... feel the same, but I can't confess how I feel for you just yet... not until complete at least one task that I know will make you smile.

The party day arrived and everyone was up bright and early to prepare. It was 7:45 [7: 45 am] when Sherry met with Jake in the foyer with Marlowe by her side, the party was scheduled to start at 16:00 [4:00 pm] so they had to get an early start.

The two blondes were baffled by the decor and Jake smiled proudly at the fact that his ideas were once again stunning people into awe.

There was so much holiday merit to behold! Lights of many colors flourished the abode and the floors in the front room were covered with synthetic ice and snow. A giant Christmas tree surrounded by hundreds of gift boxes protruded from the center of the room behind the fireplace. It was embellished beautifully with so many lights and decorations, the lovely twirling gold star on top lit up the entire room. Sherry noticed that even the moose head over the fireplace wore a Santa hat and all the lamps had red and green bulbs in them.

There was a machine underneath the stairs, sticking out from the door that usually lead to the first floor laundry room. She realized it was the snow maker when puffs of white crystals shot into the air. Marlowe went to chase some as they scattered and she followed him, noting that there were a lot more tables in the front room now, with cups, plates and party favors on them.

"My God..." she breathed with sparkles in her eyes. "If this is the front room, what's the rest of the house look like?"

Stephanie, Marlowe and herself hadn't been allowed to leave the first floor for two whole days [well she and Marlowe couldn't come downstairs but Stephanie's bedroom was down there through the same hallway the luxury kitchen was located – therefore she had the right to do what she pleased] so she had no idea how everything else looked.

"You'll have to wait and see Supergirl," Jake replied with a smile. He hugged her and rocked back and forth mumbling sweet things to her and kissing her hair. "Come on, you've got some cooking to do because at 13:00 [1:00 pm], you're gonna be attacked..." he growled the last part.

"Attacked?" Sherry echoed with big eyes, following behind him. She saw Stephanie come from the formal dining room behind Jake and greet Marlowe with open arms, picking him up and showering him with kisses. When she disappeared back inside the dining room, Sherry returned her attention back to her boyfriend.

"That evil chick is coming by to get you to do whatever you ladies need to do for the party." Jake said as he gestured her towards the dining room behind his mother, they made a straight line from the staircase to it.

The formal dining room was long and wide with a table seated for 12. Its usual simple decor of animal skins, candles and the smell of wood were transformed by Christmas decorations and the smell of pine trees. Stockings hung from the chimney in here, they were filled with candies.

The table was set up with plates, cups and napkins of the holiday's liking, snow globes were present as well, and giant candy canes were hooked to each chair. The animal skins were replaced with Frosty the Snowman mats and rugs of Yeti skins.

They passed through here and entered the first floor corridor. On the immediate right was the luxury kitchen but there were many more rooms passed it - bedrooms, Wesker's office, bathrooms and of course more lounge rooms.

The two entered the luxury kitchen.

It had wooden cabinets, drawers and a freezer embedded into the cabinet walls with a see through glass, the fridge was right beside it and made of chrome. The floors were a pretty cream color tile with matching countertops.

The island center had two chairs made of wood in front of it with red seat covers. There was a square table made of wood as well with four chairs surrounding it. A table for rolling bread was present and the sink, oven and counters where far into the room against the wall nearby the basement door.

The kitchen also had Christmas decorations; lights, pictures of the gingerbread man and candy canes where everywhere.

Stephanie was already laying supplies out onto the island while humming a soft melodic tune. Marlowe was in the high chair close to her occupying himself with a coloring book.

Jake gave Sherry a warm hug and placed a sweet kiss on her forehead. "I'll leave you two alone to do your thing." He ruffled Marlowe's hair a little and hugged his mother before leaving.

Sherry watched him go and then went to join Stephanie. "Um, okay ma'am, is there anything you'd like to make? I was thinking I could make all the different types of cookies and make some candies... if that's alright with you?"

Stephanie smiled sending her a nod. "I'll handle dinner then, I'll make hams, turkeys, chickens and other foods. I'll leave all the desserts in your capable hands."

"Sounds great."

"And I'll be the taster!" Marlowe volunteered with a big grin. The women laughed and broke out the cook books.

"Okay Sherry," Stephanie started and handed the girl a book of Finnish delights. "This book has the perfect setup for gingerbread houses and other things like chocolate surprises and even..." she shuttered a bit. "Fruit cakes."

Sherry was amused by her sense of humor. "Thanks, I'll get straight to work." she figured she would start by preparing the most difficult dessert first and work from there.

"And I'll wait patiently for you to finish!" Marlowe chimed while coloring the suit of a Santa Claus picture with a red pencil.

The women laughed at his enthusiasm.

It was thirty minutes to 13:00 [1:00 pm] and Sherry was waiting in the upstairs family room for Excella to arrive. In her hands was the box containing her so called 'costume' courtesy of an overzealous 'guardian' as one might call the Italian beauty.

Sherry had no idea who or what she was supposed to be with this costume. There was a lot of pink to it and she couldn't make out what exactly was her shirt or skirt or whatever... Everything seemed so lightweight, see-through and like scarves almost. She made out a lot of ribbons, a lot of jewelry, glitter and what looked like ballet shoes.

She considered asking Jake but trashed the idea once she decided she wanted to surprise him with the outfit like he was for her. Marlowe said it looked like some sort of ballerina 'thing', Stephanie just giggled at her and said how much she couldn't wait to see her wear it.

There was no way she had the nerve to ask Wesker...

Speaking of which, said Wesker entered the family room and saw her sitting on the couch. He gestured her over and informed her of Excella's arrival. Sherry exited the room quickly to meet the woman downstairs in the foyer.

As she descended the stairs she noticed Excella's instantly, she was wearing a long coat made of animal fur, it was unzipped and exposed the fitted turtleneck dress that stopped way before her mid-thighs and had a triangle shaped vacancy on her chest displaying her overly-ample bosom.

"Mistress," she greeted with a smirk. "Come here."

Sherry saw that she wasn't alone. There were to other women in her presence, one she was quite familiar with. Both were easily of the same stature as Excella, both brunettes but their style was opposite. One had long wavy hair and eyes one might attribute to the color of ice; she dressed on par with Excella - feminine but revealing. The other was more conservatively dressed and had her hair tied back into a ponytail, she had a kind smile and an easy-going air about her [as always – from Sherry's experiences with her].

Sherry knew this girl as Jill Valentine; she was the close friend [if not lover] of Claire's brother, Chris Redfield. They had met a few times whenever Sherry and Claire would visit. She knew Jill as a cheerful, independent woman with skills learned in the BSAA to back up her impressive wits.

"Jill!" Sherry greeted her with a smile and had the courage to actually hug the taller woman.

Jill laughed lightly. "Well hi there, Sherry! It's been quite a while hasn't it?"

Sherry nodded and Excella cut in with raised brow. "Jill? How do you know the Mistress?" Sherry blushed at the pet-name the woman was adamant about giving her.

"It's a long story but we met a few times in the company of friends." Jill replied.

"How do you two know each other?" Sherry inquired with a smile.

"Excella is in charge of Tricell, they're a company that provides funding for the BSAA. Sometimes Excella and I would meet for coffee, eventually we became friends and I also work as her right hand assistant from time to time." Jill answered.

"She makes a great bodyguard as well." Excella added, batting her lashes at Jill; the brunette laughed while shaking her head.

"Argh, Jill - do you always have to be buddy-buddy with everyone?" the other woman groaned with disinterest, folding her arms behind her head. "Epic place here though, loving this decor - it screams creativity." she purred.

"Mistress, since you already know Jill let me introduce you to Jessica Sherawat. She does everything involving beauty care - she will be in charge of helping you get ready for the celebration." Excella explained.

"Nice to meet you, Ms. Sherawat." Sherry held out her hand to shake Jessica's but the woman sighed and rolled her eyes. The petite blonde slowly retracted her hand with her feelings a bit hurt.

"Skip the formal b.s. - just call me Jessica." she stepped up and grabbed Sherry's chin not too gently to stare her hard in the face. "Hm, you've got some big blue eyes you know that?"

"Uh..."

"Just like the deep blue sea - only your eyes look like a child's. How old are you like 16?"

"I-I'm 22, ma'am." Sherry answered meekly.

Jessica looked taken aback. "Whoa... what's your secret?! You got some sort of aging problem maybe? You don't look anything like a woman…" Ouch, that hurt Sherry quite a bit…

Jill cut in with a sigh. "Jessica come on, stop being a critic."

Jessica rolled her eyes at Jill and observed Sherry's delicate features even more; Sherry nervously avoided her gaze and trembled against her will. "Hm, you've got some very pretty skin, too - you're like milk and honey. Long lashes, pretty lips... hm... I think I can work with this girl. Okay show me where to set up."

"Come," Excella said leading the women upstairs. Sherry wondered how she knew where to go but said nothing assuming she must have been there before. "There's a special compartment inside the Mistress's closet."

What? Okay, I know about the walk-in part but what's she talking about? Sherry wondered as she followed behind the other women.

She felt self-conscious; maybe it was because of Jessica's words about her appearance. Sherry knew she had a very youthful face and appearance and had grown used to being behind the other girls in those departments, but walking with these tall, long haired beauties with high-cheek bones and their air of unbridled confidence was quite intimidating.

Don't be silly Sherry, you're fine just the way you are. Besides, they're much older than you and have had enough time to grow into their skin - thus they have pride in themselves for who they are. Your time will come... it just takes time...

When the three cut through Marlowe's section of the room and ascended up the stairs into Sherry's, she felt relieved that she'd remembered to clean up her room before leaving earlier - otherwise it would have been embarrassing to have people in her cluttered room.

Jill commented on the extravagancy of the home and admired Sherry's room. The delicate blonde simply thanked her and trailed into her walk-in closet behind the others. Sherry hadn't spent much time in here, she wasn't used to luxuries like these so she couldn't bring herself to use it too much.

Excella handed her coat to Sherry to hang up and the other women did the same. Sherry hung them quietly but was shocked when she saw Excella pull a set of cabinets from a wall. She had no idea that wasn't a simple wall...

It opened like a cabinet and inside was a wall of makeups, combs, brushes, hairdryers, and other beauty supplies. Sherry was dumbfounded, what else did she not know about? Did her bathroom secretly lead to an aquarium?

That would be nice... she thought but rejected it instantly. Gosh, Jake shouldn't have given me my own bathroom... he spoiled me.

Excella sat a chair in front of the cabinets and presented it to everyone. "Here, this is a perfect spot, isn't it? Excellent lighting, full body mirrors and all the supplies you need - now get busy Jessica, I have to get prepared as well no later than 15:00 [3:00 pm]." Excella reached into her expensive purse and pulled out a piece of paper to hand to the other woman. "Use your imagination dear, but something like this would be excellent."

What's that? Sherry wondered while trying to have a look at the picture. Jill pulled her back and shook her head, mentioning it was a 'surprise'.

Jessica tossed her long hair over one shoulder and let out a huff. "Alright then, first things first Mistress," Sherry wasn't sure how to feel about two people calling her that. "Strip down and let's get you showered."

Sherry was petrified. "W-What? I already showered this morning..." she protested meekly.

Jessica scoffed, rolling her icy eyes. "Oh my God, I know what I'm doing girl. Do as I say." she gripped the bottom of Sherry's sweater dress to tug it over her head.

The smaller woman squeaked and tried to fight Jessica off but it was futile. She yanked her wool leggings down easily and left Sherry standing mortified in her simple white bra and panties. She covered herself as best as she could - she felt exposed and uncomfortable.

"Try not to give her a hard time, Mistress." Excella sounded out, sitting beside Jill on the bench used for trying on shoes. "She knows what she's doing."

Jessica scrubbed Sherry's skin until it felt raw - if it weren't for her healing ability, she was sure she would be skinless with how rough Jessica was. She was even harsher when washing her hair! Her scalp was sore for a moment but again her powers kicked in and she recovered.

After the shower, she wrapped a towel around the petite girl and hauled her half-naked behind back into the closet where Jill and Excella sat drinking hot cocoa from a thermos Jill had brought with her while discussing what Sherry thought sounded like travel related talk.

Jessica sat Sherry in the chair in front of the studio, pulled a thin toothed comb from a drawer and started combing Sherry's short wet tresses. The girl tore up her face in agony as it felt her scalp was about to be ripped off. After the painful treatment, her hair was blow-dried and Jessica moved on. Sherry noticed her hair seemed much lighter, shinier and maybe longer but not too much.

Her stylist asked Jill to hand her Sherry's undergarments. Her jaw dropped when she saw Jill place a pink lace thong into Jessica's hand. Sherry didn't care that it was a thong, [she was getting used to dressing provocative] she was just fascinated by the pretty golden and magenta colored gems around the top of it.

Jessica demanded Sherry put it on and she did under her towel. The stylist ripped the towel away and left Sherry standing with her arms covering her bosom, face red like a cherry. Jill then offered her a strapless bra; it was silk with lace that matched the thong around the under part of the cups. In the center was another golden heart like the ones around the thong, Sherry touched it out of curiosity. Jessica fastened the bra on very tight and Sherry struggled to breathe while she did so.

The young woman was ordered to stand up straight and tall while Jessica applied very pale make-up to her entire body. She painted her arms, back, stomach, legs, chest, neck and finally her face. Sherry thought she looked almost ghostly from the glimpse she caught in the mirror.

Then she applied some dark eye shadow with mascara to her eyes, and painted her bottom lip so it stuck out rosier than normal compared to her pale makeup. She added some glitter around her eyes and stuck a few gems to the skin between her brows. She feathered her hair for a style and then went to work on the costume.

Sherry stood patiently as the woman wrapped her up with ribbons, loose materials and some jewelry but not much.

Finally she instructed Sherry to put on the ballet shoes and clapped her hands.

"There! A masterpiece!" Jessica took a dramatic bow and smiled. "I'm so glad I went to school for this!"

Sherry stood with a shy smile on her face. She wanted to look at herself but wanted to see Excella and Jill's reaction first. They were clapping and looked incredibly impressed, Jill came over to look her over more than once and even took a picture with her phone.

"You look like an actual fairy! So pretty!" she sang while admiring the smaller woman.

"Excellent work, Jessica." Excella said taking Sherry's hand and leading her straight to a mirror. "You look beautiful, no? The perfect Sugar Plum Fairy."

Sherry's jaw dropped - she couldn't believe this transformation. Her bra had a huge pink ribbon around the bottom and tied behind her back in a big bow. Her bottoms weren't really... bottoms. The top of her thong [well the jewels] were exposed but she had more pink sheer materials loosely attached to it, Sherry would attribute this 'skirt' to being almost like toga - it was consistent of multiple thin layers and tied around her thong... how odd.

She had ribbons around her wrists and a choker around her neck. Her hair styled so that she had a bang over one brow [perhaps so her eye makeup wouldn't be ruined].

"Wow... I look..."

"Lovely!" Jessica cut in with a proud smirk. "Now thank me - I don't work for just anyone girl." Sherry tried to hug her but she halted her. "Nope, that makeup needs at least hour on you before you should touch anyone and if you sit down, make sure you don't press your back, arms or anything against anything. Sit flat on your bottom little girl, got it?"

"Yes ma'am." Sherry said with a smile. "Thank you so much."

Jessica gave her a thumbs up. "No problem, now - we've gotta go get ourselves ready so we'll see you at the party."

Excella stood and beckoned the women to follow. "Come girls, we'll show ourselves out."

After they left, Sherry sat down on the bench in her closet and just waited…

While she sat there, she couldn't help but think this was all quite unnecessary. What was the point in dressing up as a fairy or whatever for Christmas when a simple Santa or elf costume would have sufficed? This was excessive and just didn't feel like Christmas for the small blonde woman.

She felt awful for thinking this way but she couldn't help it. A Halloween party is one thing, but a Christmas party…? Why do this? She wondered. She couldn't even wrap her mind around what was bothering her so much about all of this…

She stood up and looked herself over in the mirror. What's the point of dressing up like this? Claire's always told me Christmas was the season of giving… what am I giving Marlowe or Jake, or anyone by wearing this?

She thought she looked very pretty but Christmas wasn't about looking pretty to her. It wasn't about dressing up either – it was about family.

Sherry felt empty, there was something uncomfortable about this for her. I'm so used to spending this holiday with loved ones, making wishes, giving and getting presents… this just feels so wrong.

The dainty blonde thought of how much time and energy was put into planning this Christmas party and came to see that it all could have been avoided in favor of something more. The decorations and things were fine, but planning these dinners to feed strangers and dressing up to indulge them… what was the point of it all?

In the months she'd been working for the Wesker's, Sherry couldn't really recall a time when they all actually sat down and ate dinner together as a family. She'd done that all the time when she stayed with Claire. And another thing that bothered her was the costumes and parties – things that weren't really necessary and seemed to tear them all further apart.

For the Halloween party, Stephanie wasn't well enough to participate so that wasn't contestable but poor little Marlowe was locked away in a room with other kids, unable to join the party because the adults were doing their thing and wanted the kids out of the way.

It broke Sherry's heart as she remembered how she almost let him down, how she almost was unable to take him trick or treating – luckily Jake came through for her but the blonde woman felt appalled by the idea of that happening again.

Marlowe deserved to have a wonderful first Christmas and these parties weren't what he needed. He needed his family. Sherry remembered Stephanie's words about how she just wanted the family together for the child's first Christmas and felt a resolve inside her.

Sherry checked the clock in her bedroom and confirmed it had finally been an hour since the makeup was applied and now knew she could leave her room. She didn't want to risk Marlowe getting affectionate and touching her with the paint raw… but she was starting not to care too much.

Because at the end of the day, she knew Marlowe didn't care for these costumes and parties, he just wanted to experience Christmas and Sherry just wished she could get a chance to show him what Christmas was really all about. No parties, no costumes – just togetherness.

Oh, and Santa, because kids love Santa.

She was careful as she walked down the stairs. At the bottom she noticed there were more extra's laid out.

All the foods she'd prepared had finished before Stephanie's did and she could see that Jake had already set them out with covers over them until the party began. Sherry recalled it was a little after 15:00 [3:00 pm] - the party would be starting soon... So where was everyone?

"Nanny Bear!" Marlowe cheered, running from the dining room. Sherry was both shocked and amused when she saw his costume. She knew who this character was and he was a very cute version of Frosty the Snowman. His body was covered in an inflatable white balloon, he had a tie, a hat, and carrot nose.

"Awww! Mar you look so cute!" she squealed, hugging him but not tightly.

"You look pretty! You're the Sugar Plum Fairy aren't you?" he asked with a smile.

"I don't really know who she is..." Sherry answered, taking his hand and moving to the dining room.

"She was in The Nutcracker, she's a dancing ballerina fairy who rules the Land of Sweets." he said.

Ironic but I guess it's appropriate. I prepared all the sweets after all. Sherry mused with a giggle. "Well, let's just hope I don't have to actually do ballet. I'm not much of a dancer..."

Just then, Stephanie emerged from the kitchen looking quite upset.

"Ma'am, what's the matter?" Sherry asked worriedly.

Stephanie had to do a double take towards her. "Wow, look at the pretty sugar fairy." she humored briefly before sighing. "No really you look lovely Sherry... but I'm afraid this party won't be happening..."

Sherry froze in shock. "What? Why?"

Stephanie wiped her hands off on her apron while shaking her head. "There's a horrible storm coming in the next hour. The weather reports have us under blizzard warnings of high levels."

The fairy girl was in disbelief. "Oh my God, why didn't they report this earlier?"

"The warnings were going on but they were minor, it didn't seem serious at first so it didn't show up until an hour ago. I was looking for you because Jake wanted me to tell you about it. Albert caught his business partner, Excella right before she and her assistants left. He informed her to call each and every last guest and tell them it's been cancelled."

The three heard footsteps approaching and Wesker emerged around the corner with another male Sherry thought looked extremely familiar but he was painted all over as pale as she was and had tints of blue to him - he looked like an iceman. He had a wolf's skin over his shoulders with the animal's mouth over his head and he was topless wearing pants with hints of other animal skins.

It took her a minute to register this guy but there was no mistaking that smirk.

"Hey Supergirl!"

"J-Jake?" she passed Stephanie and looked at her boyfriend with fascinated eyes. She totally forgot Wesker was even present - she was too enthralled by Jake, he looked like a winter God or something so she had to work hard to not drool over him. "Who are you supposed to be?"

"I was going to be Jack Frost." he answered with a smile, his cerulean eyes were even more dazzling as they stood out among the pale makeup on him.

"Wow..." she breathed with a giddy grin. No idea who that is. She thought.

"Jack Frost is kind of like old man winter – he's the guy people blame for blizzards and snowstorms." Jake told her, he could tell she had no clue who Jack Frost was.

Marlowe tugged on his brother's pants leg. "Why do you get to look cool and I gotta be fat?" he asked with a pout.

"Because, you're still a kid." Jake said ruffling his hair with the hat he wore.

"Miss Birkin," Wesker started. "I'm sure Stephanie has informed you of the circumstances?" Sherry nodded. "While postponing this event would be convenient, I'm afraid this storm could very well last well into the next week."

"It's that bad of a storm?" Sherry asked incredulously.

"Finland's snowstorms are extreme." Jake added with a sigh. "Looks like all this preparation was for nothing."

"It must have been a lot of money put into this huh?" asked Sherry with hesitance.

"Huh? No, no, no - all this stuff was already here in the house." Jake replied. "The snow machine, the tree - that's all been here, we just had to set it up and hang all the lights which we would have done either way around."

"It seems Jack Frost is literally paying us a visit." Stephanie joked to ease the mood. It did earn her a few laughs from Sherry but Wesker was as stiff as ever and Jake and Marlowe both were visibly upset.

"Yeah, I picked a bad time to wear this didn't I?" Jake groaned with a shake of his head.

Wesker turned away and started back towards his office. "I'll be in my quarters, Stephanie, feel free to join me whenever you please."

"I'll try to remember that," Stephanie said patting his back as he left. "But I will be showing Rebecca and Billy around and to their rooms so if I forget I apologize." Wesker hummed a response and took his leave.

"Rebecca's here?" Sherry asked with a look of delight, it had been quite some time since she'd seen or heard from her.

Stephanie nodded. "She's in the basement right now with Billy, they were expecting a party too so you have to imagine their surprise. They just made it maybe 20 minutes ago."

"So I'm guessing now that your buddy's here you feel happy right mom?" Jake teased with a dry tone.

"Oh course, Rebecca's not only my caretaker, she and I have been friends since we were in high school. I hate the storm stranded her and Billy here but to spend a few days with them before the storm's over sounds excellent. Not to mention we need some extra help eating all this extra food Sherry and I prepared."

"Come on, let's go see them." Jake said and beckoned everyone towards the kitchen. They reached the stairs and descended to see that even the basement had holiday decorations. Rebecca and her fiancé Billy were sitting on the couch watching The Grinch Who Stole Christmas on the big screen TV. They'd been watching it with Marlowe until the super kid picked up on Sherry's presence and went to find her.

Rebecca came up and hugged Sherry with a bright smile, Billy shook her hand firm and strong - it was easy to tell this officer was once in the marines. "Great to see you again." they both said.

Sherry smiled in return. "Yeah, it's been a while."

"Who would've thought we'd make it just in time." Billy said.

"Yeah, luckily we packed enough clothing for a week." said Rebecca. "Sorry we'll be stuck with you for a few days."

"It's no problem," Stephanie said with a smile. "We have a lovely guest room I'm sure would be perfect for you two."

I never would have guessed the party would have been cancelled. Sherry thought to herself. Is it wrong of me to feel… happy?

Sherry glanced down at Marlowe and saw him tearing up and it broke her heart. "What's wrong Mar?" she asked him sweetly.

"The party is cancelled so does that mean Christmas is cancelled too?" He asked her with big eyes swelling with tears.

Sherry picked him up and held him. "Hey now, don't cry - even if the party's cancelled that doesn't mean you still can't have a Christmas all your own sweetheart."

The child sniffed. "Really?"

She nodded. "Listen Mar, I didn't have a Christmas until I was 18 and moved in with Claire. My very first Christmas experience consisted of me making dinner with her and receiving gifts... I'd never been to a party and believe me when I say the gifts I was given were well appreciated - but the best part of that day was that I got to spend it with people who actually cared for me."

"Really?" he asked again with interest.

"Yes of course. Christmas parties and gifts are wonderful but Christmas is really about spending time with the people you love most." she looked at Stephanie and received a nod of acknowledge from her.

Jake felt tightness in his chest. The weather didn't ruin just Marlowe's day, it ruined his as well. He'd planned for Claire and Leon to come see Sherry but Leon was working a case and unable to. Claire on the other hand was an eager participant but when news came of the storm, Steve and him had agreed it would be too risky to fly her over - private jet or not.

Shit... I really wanted to make her happy... Jake felt like a failure and he hated that.

He needed to go and blow off some steam before he did something crazy.

"We'll have fun and just enjoy each other's company, Mar - how does that sound?" Sherry chirped cutely.

"Sounds great!" Marlowe shouted happily.

"I need to go." Jake said suddenly and departed for the stairs.

Sherry could see the fumes radiating off of him and felt worried. She begged Stephanie to look after Marlowe for a moment and she raced after her boyfriend as quickly as her legs could carry her.

She caught up to him in the front room as he was starting up the stairs. "Jake wait!"

He stopped and looked at her over his shoulder. "What?" his response was cold, earning a flinch from Sherry.

"What's the matter?" she approached him and wrapped her arms around his middle. "Please talk to me, I hate seeing you upset."

Jake fidgeted from her embrace, her touch was calming him and he didn't want that at the moment, he was upset and really needed a moment to himself. "It's nothing I just need some space. I gotta wash off this paint and take care of something."

She looked quite hurt by his rejection. "Jake... I'll give you your space, but please promise me we'll talk about this before Christmas. …I need your help cheering up Marlowe..."

He was really trying to stay patient but he lost it. "Dammit! Why are you always worried about everyone else?! What about you?! What about how you feel...?"

Sherry couldn't believe him. "Jake... what's gotten into you?" she asked slowly.

He didn't answer, he just stormed off leaving her alone on the stairs.

Sherry spent time with Marlowe alone. They watched movies, ate candy and out of his request, Sherry kept her costume on. They ate dinner with Rebecca, Billy and Stephanie and it was a pleasant one too. Everyone talked about various topics and shared laughs.

Incredibly, Stephanie offered to take Marlowe off her hands for the rest of the evening. Sherry agreed upon seeing how excited Marlowe was to spend time with his mom. She went to his room and gave her some of his pajamas so that he could sleep with her for the night.

By the time she'd given up the baby, she was quite tired. She'd played with Marlowe, cooked, served and stuffed herself with sweets enough for one day...

The delicate blonde retreated to her room for the night after bidding everyone a good evening. She climbed the stairs to her section of the room and planned to shower, dress and then text Claire, Piers and Helena a little before calling it a night.

She dug through her dresser drawers for some pajamas to put on and was shocked when she realized all of her panties were missing and replaced with lacy things. Her bras were missing too! She noticed a small note on the top of her dresser and read it.

Hope you like your new intimates - your old ones left a lot to be desired. - Excella

This woman's out to get me! Sherry thought with a sigh. There's no way I can be comfortable sleeping in a thong...

Her cellphone began to sound out and she quickly raced to it to answer. "Hello?" she answered.

"Hey Sherry!"

Sherry smiled. "Hi Claire, how are you?" She returned to her drawers to settle on wearing a t-shirt she'd taken from Jake to bed, skipping underwear and a bra for the night.

"I'm alright, just worried about you."

Her fingers ran over the shirt and she felt her heart sink. She hated not knowing what was going through her boyfriend's mind. He was such a moody guy and while she accepted that quality about him without issue, she still wished he could open up to her instead of switching moods so suddenly.

Oh Jake…

"Worried about me? Why?" Sherry asked, walking into the bathroom with a towel and her body soaps in hand.

"Well I thought you'd be upset that I was unable to make the party with the snowstorm there..."

Sherry blinked. "What? You were trying to come?"

"Yeah, Jake tried to get Leon and me to come see you but the weather ruined the plan..."

The pretty blonde was stunned. "Jake... did that?"

"Yeah, he said he wanted to give you the perfect holiday and surprise you with our presence but it didn't happen that way. I'm sorry, Sher."

She bit her lip. That's why he got upset... he thought bringing them here for me would make me happy... "Don't be sorry, Claire - it's the thought that counts. I appreciate the effort."

"Don't thank me, you should thank Jake. It's cute isn't it? Most guys resort to cheesy things like flowers and chocolates but he likes you so much that he was gonna fly me to Finland because he knows what makes you happy and wanted to do just that. Like gosh, he loves you Sherry… but do you love him?"

Sherry was trembling, not of fear or anger but because she felt happy. Could he really love me? Gods… "Yes I do... I love him, Claire." Sherry admitted quietly.

"Then why don't you tell him?"

Sherry stepped out the bathroom with the towel around her and a trail of wet footprints and steam behind her. She dropped her costume into her laundry hamper went back inside to grab her cell. The battery was dying so she needed to find her charger and quick. She came out into her room once again and gasped upon noticing a dark figure sitting on the foot of her bed in the dark.

"Didn't mean to scare you, Sherry." it was Jake. Sherry felt her heart beat faster, the man she loved was there... but did she have the nerve to tell him how she felt?

"Jake... are you okay?" she asked softly, coming to sit beside him.

He looked at her with eyes of remorse. "Listen, I'm sorry for acting like that towards you baby girl. You didn't deserve it... I was just acting like a child."

"It's okay, baby – I understand why you got upset." Sherry told him, taking his handsome face in her hands.

Jake kissed her palm. "Do you?"

"Claire told me..." she said, her watery eyes glistening with tears.

"Why are you crying baby girl?"

"Because there's something I need to tell you... and it can't wait any longer."

"I love you." she gasped when he beat her to the punch. "I love you Sherry Birkin."

"J-Jake…"

"You're everything to me," he continued softly. "All I want is to love you... to hold you... to protect you... and make you smile. You may put your own happiness last, but I'll always put it first." his eyes were soft but unyielding and full of emotion.

Sherry started to cry, wrapping her arms around his neck she buried her face into his shoulder. "I love you too Jake. I love you so much..."

Jake slid his hands between them to cup her soft cheeks in his hands. "I didn't want to say anything at first... and I wasn't going to – not until my plan succeeded… but now I feel like an asshole because I've been putting this off like this and nothing planned out."

"Jake….?"

"I fucking love you, Sherry. You made me into the man I am today and I couldn't have ever dreamed that I would get to this position in my life where I can actually say I'm... happy. You make me happy, Sherry and I want to do the same for you… but I feel like I let you down or something."

"What? Jake, you always make me happy." she told him with a smile.

"Really?"

She nodded. "You're my man - the most wonderful man for me and I don't intend on sharing you." she giggled and Jake wowed at her beautiful glow. She was shining like a late night star. "I really do love you Jake, I love you so, so much."

"Why? I always mess shit up for you."

"No you don't." she countered, moving closer to him. "Everything you've done for me has made me feel beyond happy. Can't you see that? You make me happy by being the one I can always count on to love me and care for me more than I could have ever imagined. You're wonderful… you're… my man."

Jake smiled and leaned closer to her as she did the same. "Can I kiss you Sherry?" he asked quietly against her lips.

"Please, please do..."

"Not here." he said rubbing his nose with hers. "Come to my room... I want to show you how much I love you."

Jake led Sherry to his branch of the house and straight to his room. The door was arc shaped; he opened it and allowed her to enter first. The room was very dark; she couldn't make out much of anything at first. Jake switched the light on and turned her around before she could see anything.

"Don't look yet." he instructed and had her face the door while he went further inside.

She could hear him shuffling through drawers and her ears perked at the sound of a match striking a box. She was anxious as she stood there clad in his t-shirt [he allowed her to put it on before they came], she couldn't wait to see this surprise he had for her.

"Okay, turn off the light and come here." he said finally; Sherry did as she was told and then turned around to scan the room with her eyes.

"Oh my God..." she uttered breathlessly as she took in the beauty around her, stepping farther into her lover's incredible bedchamber.

Jake had really gone out of his way with this...

The room was much larger than hers, luxurious to the eye and the way he'd set things up gave it a perfect romance display. Straight ahead was a massive circular bed with red satin sheets; candles were perfectly aligned on each side of it, lighting the room with their combined radiance and enchanting Sherry further with the aroma of roses.

Dark curtains wrapped around the room concealing everything from the outside world. A fireplace was on the left wall many safe feet away from the bed and candles and remained unlit for the time being. She looked to her immediate right and saw a tub embedded into the floor taking over the entire corner.

I'm dreaming, aren't I?

"I listened to what you were saying..." Jake started, startling her out of her thoughts. He took her hand gently and led her to the bed. Sherry sat down slowly and stared lovingly into his eyes. "I realized today that all these parties really don't serve the purpose of these holidays. I mean sure, they're fun to throw but... you were right. The real purpose of Christmas is to spend time with the ones you care about and who care for you. I realized that once I saw how everyone else was responding to the cancellation."

"Marlowe and I were the only ones disappointed and I know it's because everything's gotta be about a party for me... but seeing Rebecca and Billy stranded here - away from their home in hopes to attend a party that didn't happen... and still be positive and happy to just be in each other's company. That's really something."

Sherry nodded in agreement. "They love each other and that's why as long as they're together they're happy."

Jake hummed. "And then mom, she wasn't fazed at all - she was just glad to have Rebecca here to spend time with. And then there's you... you were able to cheer Mar up and stay optimistic. Once again, your words rang true. The party was called off but the good news is that we still have each other... I see that now, I now know that what truly makes you happy is just to be with your loved ones and…"

Sherry smiled and took his hands in her own, she caught whiff of his spicy cologne and shuddered some. Gosh he smells fantastic. "Claire and Leon would have been wonderful to have here and I love them with all of my heart but... you didn't have to put so much stress on yourself to do that."

He sighed and ran his thumb gently down her cheek. "I wanted to baby girl, I wanted to make you happy."

"You make me happy, Jake." She stated with her glow captivating him. "You and Marlowe are here with me and that's what gives joy. You're right, the parties are fun and all but the best part about this holiday is that I get to spend it with you."

"Looks like the gathering or whatever being cancelled was the best thing to happen to us." Jake mused with a laugh and then sobered. "I love you Sherry."

"I love you too Jake," she breathed and scooted even closer to him. "And now that you know that, will you indulge me? Will you kiss me now?"

[Warnings for Mature Content]

Jake smirked and responded by doing just that. His lips ghosted over hers momentarily until he moved in and connected them. It started as a few slow pecks together but soon their lips moved over one another's slowly and gently to savor the moment of uninterrupted intimacy.

Electricity shot through the both of them. He could feel her influence warming his body to a new level and she felt the same from his touch.

Sherry moaned sweetly as he nibbled gently on her bottom lip and sucked it; he gradually began to escalate and stuck his tongue inside her mouth to caress hers. His hands encased her pretty face as he deepened the kiss.

The two fell to the bed on their sides as they made out in a sensual but not quite yet fervid manner. She pulled away to breath for a second only to return to him, her fingers grazed over his wrists until she brought her hands to his broad shoulders to grip his t-shirt. She moaned again as he pulled her closer, wrapping one arm around her neck to run his fingers in her hair and the other lifted her leg so that it hooked over his hip.

He groaned into her mouth, their tongues were wrestling now, their hands exploring one another. Jake fondled Sherry's soft breasts through the shirt she wore and pulled from her hungry lips to nip and bite at the skin of her neck and collar bone. He rolled her onto her back and began kissing everywhere her skin was exposed.

Jake kissed her forehead, her nose, each cheek, her chin and of course her lips. He nibbled her sensitive earlobes and returned to sucking the tender spot on her neck. Sherry ran her hands all over his chest pinching at his nipples occasionally and planted sweet kisses on his hair and forehead.

He sat back to allow her to remove his t-shirt from her supple body before descending upon her again to take advantage of her naked form and her milky skin. He loved her wearing his things but he loved her nude body even more. She was clean, fresh out of the shower and no matter how much strawberry soaps she used, the scent of fresh lilacs maintained as her very essence.

Beautiful... he thought as he gazed upon her. He removed his t-shirt and threw it behind him to prevent it from landing on the candles.

Sherry admired him as well, her eyes trailed over every inch of his smooth skin. She didn't care that he had scars here and there - they made him seem dangerous but she knew he would never hurt her and that turned her on.

Jake licked his lips before he let his tongue run slow circles on her erect and pink nipples. She whimpered and let out soft coos and purrs as he tasted her flesh. He moved downwards to her nether lips, leaving a trail of kisses in his wake, stopping for a moment to dip his tongue into her belly button and stir around. Once he was down there, he tasted her, kissing and suckling her pink folds gently.

"Ah..." she moaned softly, wiggling as she flourished in the feeling of his tongue. He was tender with her but his skilled tongue was still able to make her squirm and pant.

She pulled him up to her after a while and their lips met once again. The delicate blonde blushed as she tasted herself on him. It wasn't bad at all... but different. Jake slowly parted from her lips leaving a trail of saliva between them. Sherry took this moment to hook her thumbs onto his pants, he climbed off her to remove them completely.

All that was left was his boxers.

He was about to climb back onto her but she stopped him and pulled at his boxers with longing in her watery eyes. His member protruded boldly from the last clothing he wore, it was in Sherry's face and she didn't mind.

...She secretly wanted to taste it one day... but she would tell no one this.

Jake already knew though.

The tall redhead lifted her chin gently so their eyes would meet. He was searching for doubt or any sort of fear in her eyes, she didn't falter, or look away - he could tell she was sure. Her mind was screaming to him that she wanted this, she wanted to be closer to him.

She wasn't worried about pregnancy; Claire had started her on the pill since she was 20. Even though she wasn't sexually active at the time, Claire insisted she start just in case.

Thanks Claire. She thought as she watched Jake pull his boxers down and climb back on top of her.

His size was intimidating but she told herself she wouldn't be afraid. They were in love and she had nothing to fear from him...

As he laid on top of her, Jake nearly hesitated but she wrapped her shapely legs around his waist and her arms around his neck. She kissed his cheek lovingly and moaned into his mouth when his connected with hers.

We both want this. Jake told himself as he started to ravage her sweet mouth. He hummed and shuddered as his stiff length stroked at her wet folds. He rubbed the tip of his rod up and down from her clit to the moistened cave his fingers had successfully managed to stretch without issue.

He paused at her entrance to lock lips with her once again. When he realized she was completely flushed from head to toe and ready for him, he mouthed an apology against her lips and kissed her just in time to muffle her loud moan as he slid into her wet center.

Jake kissed her repeatedly, whispering into her ear how much he loved her and could stop whenever she wanted him to. He wouldn't dare purposely hurt her and even though it wouldn't be easy to stop after feeling such tight, wet warmth wrap around his aroused member, he would pull away if she asked.

He would, no matter how badly he wanted this. He'd just have to rub one out to compensate is all...

Sherry felt coolness spread through her cave and she sighed, the pain was gone and in its place was something incredibly good. Her nether parts were throbbing in pleasure; Jake was thick and long, he pressed deliciously close to something within her that she wanted him to hit.

There's no way she wanted him to stop.

She started to grind against him, gasping and mewling as electricity shot through her entire body, bringing her alive with need. Jake responded to her body's need by starting a slow rhythm with her. He slid in and out of her as gently as he could but he wasn't sure he could keep it up. He was losing control of himself and her whimpers and sudden purrs weren't helping.

"Mhhhmmm..." she hummed in pleasure, throwing back her head.

He could hear her subconscious screaming for him to move faster in her and he gradually began to pick up speed. The feeling was indescribable - she was so wet and tight around him that he found himself growling and groaning along with her. He could hear her every thought, he could feel her influence soothing him and he wondered was it also the reason why he was becoming dizzy with pleasure.

She wanted more and Jake sped up, delivering an incredible performance to her eager body. He hovered over her and trapped both her hands above her head with one hand and used his other hand to hold her left leg and get her to a certain angle. His hand gripped beneath her knee and then pinned her by holding her thigh. She whined and mewled as he picked up speed again.

He heard her thinking over and over that she wanted him to hit a spot in her. Jake knew exactly where it was because of his experience fingering her and the reaction he would get. He could access her sweet spot easily by lifting her left leg.

When his tip began to make contact with her spot she screamed in pleasure. By God she loved this man, he was just amazing at everything he did. She whined and pleaded for him to let her hands go and when he finally did she pulled him into a passionate kiss, moaning into his mouth as he worked her over.

She was asking for him to go deeper now, to push his length all the way inside her. Jake chuckled and wrapped his strong arms around her, pulling her against him. He kissed her deeply and adjusted them so that he sat with his back against the pillows along the headboard of the bed with her in his lap.

Sherry was blushing like mad and it never once left her cheeks. She liked these feelings and sensations Jake was giving her but she unsure what to do like this...

Jake scooted down some and laid back, he had her hovering over his length to slide down on top of it. He was turned on by the fact that her fluids were heavily coating his member, she was so wet it was astonishing. She whimpered some as he placed himself back at her entrance and slowly lowered her down.

He growled at the sensation, while she sighed blissfully; she was so slick but her walls hugged him lovingly when he entered, Sherry liked feeling filled up – it was wonderful for her aching lady parts.

He placed his hands on her hips and hers were on his chest. She shuddered as he lowered her some more until she took all of him. He sat up enough to suckle her breasts while she adjusted to the new position. He purred against her skin, her heavy mounds were lovely to watch as they jiggled whenever she moved.

Sherry started to move some. She slowly tried to move up and down his shaft and began a slow rhythm. It felt good to fit all of him inside her, she would growl low in her throat releasing a noise she didn't know she could whenever she took all of him. Eventually she grew flustered because she wanted more friction, Jake picked up on it and pulled her down against him - kissing her lovingly and wrapped his arms around her to tightly press her body to his. Sherry cooed and rested her head to his shoulder, he turned his head to look her in the eye and in an instant he thrusts upward into her.

"Oh God!" Sherry cried out in surprise and satisfaction. He was going deep in her and moving fast, she could do nothing but cry out while locking eyes with him. His arms were so tight around her shoulders, smashing her chest deliciously to his.

Her buttocks smacked against his thighs as he became more adamant and attentive to her. She liked the sound of their skin connecting so he was giving her more of it. She liked being held against him and he was doing just that. She liked him deep inside her, he would give her every inch of his stem.

She was his girl - no one would ever please her like he was.

"J-Jake...! I'm gonna... Ugh, I can't hold on..." she whined breathlessly. It was just too good and she couldn't believe how easily he learned how to please her. "Jake I love you so much...!"

"I love you too, Sherry..." he growled into her ear. He was nearing his peak as well, even if he didn't want this to end just yet.

"Ah...!" she cried out and started to beg him for anything - she didn't know, she was losing herself and so was Jake. He was feeling dizzy from her as she milked him for his seed.

"Ah shit Sherry - you're so tight...!" he said hoarsely squeezing her anywhere he could with affection in every squeeze.

"Sherry..." he groaned her name as he ran his fingers through her hair. "It's okay sweet girl... cum with me okay? Cum with me." he whispered over and over to her.

She lost it.

Jake held her soft frame even tighter to his hardened body and they rode over the edge together calling each other's name and shouting their affections for one another. Sherry gasped when she felt something pop inside her and then a warm and wet liquid in her inner walls before she completely weakened on top of him losing herself in another world...

After a long while of just lying there panting to catch their breath and grasping onto one another, the two came down from ecstasy and Jake kissed the side of Sherry's hair and chuckled. "Wow... that was..."

"Incredible." Sherry finished tiredly. Her body felt weak and she let out a tired yawn before Jake drew her in for a long but sweet kiss.

He shifted and she whimpered, she was weak and sensitive from the orgasm unable to do much let alone move her legs. Jake kissed her forehead and slid out of her warmth, she groaned and her reactions made her lover struggle to not get aroused once again.

"I'm glad you liked it." Jake purred to her with a smirk, he laid beside her and sighed. "We should do it again sometime." Jake pulled her close to him again, kissing her everywhere once again. He loved her so much, he just worshiped her.

Sherry laughed at his suggestion but didn't budge, she was just too tired. "That sounds absolutely wonderful." She felt very wet between her legs and that was when she realized he'd released inside her. She wasn't alarmed too much because she was on the pill, but it was an odd way to face the reality that they'd just lost their virginity together.

So much could change... for good or for worse. And that was what scared her.

"You have nothing to be afraid of, I promise you everything's going to be fine." Jake said softly, kissing her hair.

"I love you, Jake."

"I love you too, Sherry."

They fell asleep after Jake put out the candles. For the first time ever, they knew they didn't have to leave each other by morning. With Marlowe with safe with Stephanie for the night they could just be together.

The two made love twice more that night and speaking of more first times – they actually slept in way past dawn.

[End Mature Content]

When Christmas day arrived, the Wesker family along with Sherry, Rebecca, and Billy awoke to Marlowe's cheerful exclamations of the day. He was first up and anxious to open his gifts like every other child in the world.

As per request, everyone had to wear a Santa hat… even Wesker…

Everyone met in the front room by the giant tree. Jake helped Marlowe sort through the many gift boxes to find the ones with his name. Sherry showed the child how to open the wrappers and he ignored her completely to tear in them anyway he pleased.

"Hang on Mar! I want a picture of you opening your first gift!" Sherry explained with a laugh as she videotaped him on her camera phone. She snapped two pictures, one of him ripping the paper and the second with him holding his book of algebra...

"An algebra book?" Rebecca questioned, confusion etched her face.

"It's from father!" Marlowe said with a grin. "Thanks daddy - I'll finish it by next week!"

Billy's jaw dropped while the boy's father smiled at him. An actual smile. "Good boy."

"Baby genius?" Billy wondered aloud. Stephanie shrugged with a look of helplessness before smiling.

"Why don't you open one from your mommy, Mar?" Sherry asked giving Stephanie a smile. The woman clapped happily and Jake picked out one with her name and handed it to Marlowe.

He tore into the multicolored paper and was shocked to see a water gun. Sherry blanched and Jake sent his mom a thumbs up. "Wow! A water gun! Can I shoot you with it Nanny Bear?"

I knew he'd ask that... She shook her head quickly. "H-How about you open another! Please!" everyone laughed at her as she urged him to pick another.

"Here Sherry," Billy said from behind her. He offered her a camera and she looked it over with interest. "Rebecca says to use hers, she'll email you the pictures and videos but with this things technology she could very well text them to you."

"Wow, awesome - thanks Billy, thanks Rebecca!" Sherry said and started filming immediately. Rebecca smiled in response and offered Stephanie a gift. "Hang on ma'am! I've gotta see this!" she giggled. Stephanie grinned and began to tear at the paper.

Jake came up behind his sweetheart and whistled. "Check out the resolution on this bad boy! Everything's so clear…" Sherry agreed while watching Stephanie gasp in delight at a new sewing kit.

"Now you can make my wedding dress!" Rebecca explained hugging her best friend tightly. Sherry awed at how sweet it was.

"That camera's expensive as hell but it's worth it." Billy informed Jake while observing Stephanie and his fiancé. "Great investment if you travel a lot."

Jake considered his words. "Heh, thanks I'll look into it since Sherry's mom likes pictures and stuff."

Sherry giggled. "Yep, Claire loves cameras, which is why we got her one!" Jake and her high-fived, they planned to give her the camera if she came to visit them after the storm. "But after seeing this baby we might need to exchange, huh?"

"Probably." Jake responded.

"Jake, could you open this?" Marlowe asked his big brother sweetly, tugging on his pant leg. Jake crouched down to untie the package, it was a pretty big bundle with a straight end and curvy one. Jake failed to see Stephanie smirking behind his back but Sherry didn't - she snickered with excitement and Stephanie looked like a clever fox.

Stephanie was quite the trickster. Jake must have gotten his pranks and mischief from her and Sherry thought it was cool, there weren't many moms out there that liked to trick people for fun. She was quite the tease too, seeming to get a kick out of frustrating those around her.

She kind of reminds me of a more mature but more devious Claire... if that's possible. Sherry thought.

"Whoa..." Jake chuckled and Sherry realized what he was holding. "Okay, which one of you got me this guitar?"

Everyone froze in surprise as Stephanie's eyes traveled to her silent husband. Jake's brow rose and he shook his head. "No he didn't."

"Actually I did." Wesker confirmed with a smirk. "You're quite the musician my son - think of it as a means of encouragement."

Jake actually smiled and Sherry just felt fuzzy all over. The redhead was shocked at his father's thoughtfulness but he appreciated it either way. "Thanks old man - I should've got you some shades then shouldn't I?"

Everyone laughed and Wesker amazingly offered a short chuckle, Sherry wasn't sure if she should be alarmed or just happy. The man turned to her, "Miss Birkin, you haven't opened a gift for yourself."

"Huh?" she began to fidget. "I um, I don't know."

Marlowe placed a box on her lap and Jake took the camera to film her. She slowly removed the paper and was amazed to see a beautifully crafted box of Oriental influence. Inside was an assortment of different hair clips and other hair decorations. She started to tear up and everyone laughed at her for it. Marlowe even called her a crybaby.

Sherry laughed, her eyes still glistening with tears. "Who got me this? It's beautiful." Marlowe pointed to his father with a smile. She looked at the man with big eyes. "T-Thank you so much sir!" she beamed. "It's wonderful!" she took a small purple butterfly clip and stuck it in her hair with a smile.

"You are welcome, Miss Birkin." He replied, discreetly sliding a small box behind his back towards his wife. She felt him poking her with it and opened it to laugh. She pulled out an expensive and beautiful pin. It was shaped like a ladybug with fancy jewels embedded into it. She gave her husband's hand a squeeze in appreciation.

"Another beautiful pin for your collection." he said to her.

She smiled and nodded. "I was just thinking of collecting some more, but this will do fine for now. It's gorgeous - thank you Albert." she pulled a box from behind her and Wesker's brow elevated behind his shades. "I made you something." Inside was a perfectly tailored tie with fine stitching.

"This is what you've been working on for the past few weeks, is it not?"

"Yes, I hope you'll wear it. It was a labor of love." she smiled brightly and Wesker just stared at her, his expression unreadable behind his glasses but the feeling was just obvious in Jake's opinion...

That awkward moment when your parents are 'lovey dovey' in front of you. Argh, now I know how Mar feels seeing me and Supergirl... Jake thought and turned his attention to Sherry who was helping his younger brother tear out even more of his gifts. Jake studied her with absolute adulation, he had a gift for her and he would give it to her later.

"Open my gift, Sherry." Rebecca gestured to the tall box Billy was lugging over. Sherry stood up carrying the box of Asian hair ornaments tucked under her arm.

The petite blonde tore away the paper and was nearly floored. "Is this... a karaoke machine?!" Sherry squealed, circling the box to observe it more closely.

"Wow, karaoke - that sounds like fun!" Stephanie chimed.

"It sounds loud to me." Wesker added with an edge to his voice.

Rebecca giggled. "Sorry Albert, it's just I heard Sherry singing Marlowe to sleep and I thought she had a lovely voice."

"Really?" Jake started, staring the petite blonde down with a smirk. She blushed and tried pushing him away. "How come I've never heard you sing?"

"She sings to me every night or she reads me a story. Momma and Sherry read me stories to sleep." Marlowe said flipping through the algebra book his father gave him already. With all the toys and games he was given, he was more interested in the book...

Jake grinned slyly. "I wanna hear you sing." Sherry shook her head violently.

"Come on Nanny Bear! You sound like a princess!"

Sherry's face turned red. "Let's hook the machine up and force her." Billy suggested with a laugh, everyone agreed except Sherry and Wesker who was more concerned with his youngest son's early start in reading the math book.

"Where's the best spot to plug it in?" Rebecca asked. "It plugs into a TV as well to display song lyrics."

"Cool, let's go to the basement - the game room's a great spot for this." Jake led the way and Billy carried the big machine while Rebecca followed him, carrying the cord. "Come on Supergirl, Mar, mom ... dad?"

"He's coming too." Stephanie giggled as she ushered Sherry to follow the rest while signaling for her husband and Marlowe to join them too.

When they arrived, Jake and Billy set the karaoke machine up and everyone got excited. Wesker took a seat on the couch beside his wife who eagerly clapped waiting to see some people sing and perform. Marlowe climbed into his father's lap, holding the algebra book. He began to quietly read while his father observed silently.

"No...!" Sherry whined playfully as Rebecca forced a microphone into her hand. Her face was red with embarrassment as she laughed nervously. "Why me? Jake I'm sure you can sing - there isn't anything you can't do - you sing!"

Jake shrugged. "I got a better idea, we'll sing together."

Her jaw dropped. "W-What? ...No, I don't know what we could sing..." Jake put the strap to his guitar on and began to tune it for a test, ignoring her protests.

"Come on, Supergirl - we'll sing Jingle Bell Rock. Have you heard it?" Sherry fidgeted awkwardly, feeling self-conscious - she'd never heard that song before. Jake nodded his head in understanding. "Well, you could learn it right? It's an easy song."

"And it's fun too." Rebecca added with smile. "We'll all sing along with you for support."

Sherry caved in finally. "Okay, but remember I don't know the song so if I sound bad at first it's not my fault!"

They all laughed and Billy put in the selection. The machine had an incredible database and could pinpoint many different songs in seconds. They picked the version they wanted and the music began.

Everyone started to rock side to side [except Wesker...], clapping and laughing in anticipation. When the lyrics began, Jake started to play his guitar in perfect sync with the song and after informing Sherry to jump in whenever she was ready, he began to sing.

"Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock. Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring, Snowing and blowing up bushels of fun. Now the jingle hop has begun."

"Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock. Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time, Dancing and prancing in jingle bell square. In the frosty air!"

"What a bright time, it's the right time, to rock the night away. Jingle bell time is a swell time, to go gliding in a one-horse sleigh."

"Giddy-up jingle horse, pick up your feet. Jingle around the clock, Mix and a-mingle in the jingling feet..."

"That's the jingle bell, that's the jingle bell, that's the jingle bell rock!"

Sherry felt excited suddenly. Jake had a fantastic voice and it was fun to see everyone joining in. Even Wesker wore a ghost of a smile.

"Come on Supergirl, join in!" Jake laughed. "If you can't remember much that's alright but at least join in when we say jingle bell rock, okay?"

Sherry nodded with a grin and took in some air. She was going to do it. She would sing with everyone.

They all started the song for the second time, Marlowe ran over to hold Sherry's hand and sing with her. The pretty blonde let her voice be heard, it was enough to delight Jake even more than ever. She sounded heavenly and Jake was elated when she began singing the whole song in union with him. He thought they sounded like a wonderful duet.

Damn, she's really good at making me love her more and more with each passing second. He thought with a smile as they hit the high note at the end together.

Everyone clapped once they finished and all Sherry could think of was how happy she felt - this was all she really wanted for Christmas.

To be surrounded by loved ones.

"Sherry, come here baby girl." Jake whispered from the hallway. Sherry tucked Marlowe in for the night and followed after Jake. He led her downstairs to the front room and through there all the way to the basement.

Sherry noticed there was something in his arms but before she could ask, he whirled around to her. They were alone in the basement now, everyone else had gone to bed.

"Here, these are for you sweet girl." Jake said softly, handing her two gift boxes; one small, one large.

"Oh Jake you didn't have to..." she told him with a shake of her head. "The bathroom in my bedroom was enough for me." she giggled.

"Please, for me baby girl?" Jake pleaded, kissing her forehead.

She gave in and opened them. What she pulled from the larger box was a beautiful white evening dress with fancy stitching and sequins in shades of purple. Sherry held it up to her body and squealed. "Wow it's so pretty!" she chirped girlishly. "Thank you so much Jake!" she went to hug him but he gestured to the other box. She opened it and her sea colored eyes brightened vividly.

Inside was a set of earrings and necklace of the finest white gold. Sherry gasped in fascination at the heart shapes and small amethyst gems decorating the jewels. "Oh my gosh... so pretty..."

"Amethyst gems are revered for their healing properties." Jake started as he helped Sherry try on the necklace. "They're known for healing the minds of wearers, bringing tranquility and peace to the soul - it influences emotions as well. Amethyst also acts as a defense against evil while attracting positive energy. It rids people of bad thoughts and protects the body from disease and suffering."

Sherry blushed. "Just like I do, right?" she guessed with a smile.

"Exactly. Amethyst heals everything and wards off negativity, just like you Supergirl." He helped her try the earrings and grinned at how beautiful they looked on her. The pinkish-purple gems brought a twinkle to her watery eyes, like she had stars in them. "Beautiful..." he breathed, kissing her cheeks.

"They match the dress too." Sherry noted while running her fingers over the smooth material and beads. She looked him in the eye and wrapped her arms around him. "Thank you, baby."

"Sherry, I don't know if you realized it, but you brought my family together - truly together... for the first time in my entire life. I always spent my Christmas with my Uncle and Rachael... this is the first time I had a blast with my mom, dad and Mar. It's all because of you."

Sherry blushed and Jake cupped her pretty face, muttering appreciation to her before enveloping her in his arms to rock back and forth. A moment later, Sherry fell in step with him and they danced together in silence.

When their lips met, Jake knew one thing was definitely clear now. This was the best Christmas he'd ever had. He got to spend it with his family and her.

He felt a change resonating within him. He deepened the kiss with her and relished in knowing he had the woman of his dreams and finally she was undeniably his.

Things could only get better from here. He knew the worse would rear its ugly face, but so long as he had Sherry with him he could take on the world.

A/N: Woot! Chapter 16 is complete! Sorry for the wait, my mom and little sister had B-day's back to back and I was booked because of it. So to make up for it here's a lemon and fluffy love XD

I hope everyone liked the chapter. It was fun to write! The party may not have worked out but the point of this story is about healing a family that's been ruined.

More Piers and Helena next chapter but some Jake and Sherry next chap as well. Things are getting interesting now that Stephanie seems to be becoming more outspoken... Hm, what does she know that could throw things for a loop? Hint: She knows quite a LOT.

Thanks for all the reviews! I appreciate them greatly!

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me. In the meantime, R&R and I'll be sure to update faster next time (hopefully...).

BTW, you guys know that if I had this story split into chapters with 5,000 words at max I'd be on chapter 34... O_O

See ya soon!

-Vio