"So," Axel drawled, looking around at everyone. "What's everybody doing for winter break?"
The group launched into conversation and, satisfied he'd killed the lull in talking, Axel lit up another smoke. He listened impassively to the talks of Yule, Chanukah, Christmas and various non-religious wintertime family get-togethers.
Roxas noticed that look on his face. He ran his fingers through the hair of his crown. "Hey. Riku's coming to ours this Christmas. Sorry to steal him."
Axel, whose entire body had relaxed at the soothing motion against his scalp, made a vague "hm?" of acknowledgement.
"You usually spend those days with Riku at his place, right?" He reminded the redhead.
He got another 'hm' in response, but this time the purple-lined eyes opened to look up at him.
"You know Dad always tells me to bring you over for Christmas," he continued. "I know you don't celebrate, but I'm inviting you to spend time with us anyway."
"Rox," Axel said, sitting up a little. "You don't have to invite me just because you feel sorry for me."
"That's not what it's about at all," Roxas replied, rolling his eyes at his best friend. "I'd like it if you came over." He continued to run his fingers through the sensitive spikes of hair at Axel's crown.
The redhead heaved a sigh, smoke curling out of his nostrils like a dragon. The scent of peppermint teased at Roxas's senses. He was in the seasonal blend already.
He licked at his lips. The flavour always reminded him of the season. Peppermint candy canes and yule logs burning on an open fire. He leaned closer to inhale the smoke with a happy hum.
"Are you two going to make out at school?" Came a very familiar voice.
Roxas looked up to see Naminé approaching their little group. He frowned at her. "It's none of your business if we are."
She rolled her eyes and started handing out candy canes to everyone. "It's about time. Everyone can tell you two are head over heels for each other." She handed one each to Roxas and Axel. "Even when you were dating me."
"Go away, Naminé," Axel grumbled. "You don't know what you're talking about."
"Suit yourself." She handed out the rest of the candy canes. "Merry Christmas, everyone. I'll see you at New Years."
"Does that mean you're hosting again, Kairi?" Riku asked, glancing up at her from her lap.
"Mm. Yeah. Dad finally relented – as long as it doesn't turn into an open house again." She was unwrapping the candy cane her siser had given her. "I've still got to book a DJ though. If there's one available at this short notice."
"Actually, Kairi," Axel piped up, stubbing out his smoke. "I might have an idea for that. Let's talk tonight before the party."
"Oh?" She asked, smiling. "I'm intrigued. Pick me up and we'll chat about it while you drive me to Sora's."
Roxas glanced between them suspiciously, and only settled once Axel was back in his lap, lighting up another smoke. He ran his fingers through Axel's hair, feeling the muscles in his face relax out of their scowl.