Stay

A/n: I'm sorry for taking so long, but school just started and there's a whole lot more to do this year so please bear with me. I'll try to update as often as I can, but please understand when I say a whole lot it means A WHOLE LOT, more than all of Jack's snowballs. LOL haha. I hope you won't unfollow or un-anything this story cuz someone did and I felt really really sad about it. I almost didn't want to write anymore but I made a promise in the first chapter to keep on with this so I'm gonna continue updating. I love all of you and keep those reviews coming!

P.S. Go and watch the Believe movie. I promise you that it's a truly inspirational work and will encourage you in some way even if you're not a belieber. And if you think Justin's really retiring, HE'S NOT. It's just a one year break so don't believe the rumors. Please.

Now onto the story:D

I love you.

Chapter 12

I woke up to an unbelievably sunny day. Rubbing my eyes lazily, I tried to sit up when I felt someone's arm draped over my midsection. 'Jack?' I mumbled, still tired from yesterday's events. I looked over at the head nuzzled in my neck and almost screamed. Who the heck was lying in bed with me?!

Jack's P.O.V.

I felt (f/n) move beside me and figured she woke up. Opening my eyes, I met the gaze of the love of my life. But why was she staring at me so strangely? 'Baby what's the matter? It's like you just saw a ghost,' I joked, running a hand through my hair. Her mouth was opened and her eyes were filled with disbelief and horror. '(f/n) are you okay?' I moved to touch her hand when she flung a pillow at me. 'Who are you and where's Jack?' she hollered at me. I was taken aback by her question. '(f/n) I am Jack. What are you talking about?' I was starting to feel strange. My body ached a bit, but the unusual thing was I felt warm yet comfortable with it.

(f/n) cautiously inched closer to me. Turning my head, she felt my hair and gaped. 'What's wrong? Why're you acting all weird today?' I puzzled. She moved away and groped about in her bedside table drawer, her eyes on me all the time. Finally she moved back to me and handed me a mirror with a shaking hand. 'Baby I know I'm good looking without having to see for myself,' I gave her a smirk. Even in her shocked state she could still stick her tongue out and roll her beautiful (e/c) eyes at me. I held the hand mirror in front of me and almost jumped.

The person I saw couldn't possibly be me. He had dark brown hair, brown eyes and slightly tanned skin, which was completely opposite to me. And need I mention he looked very attractive? I scratched my head, puzzled. The boy in the mirror did the same thing. I frowned. He frowned too. Turning my head, I noticed one side of his hair was also shorter than the rest, like it had been snipped away. Finally it dawned on me. Manny had granted my wish! I grinned widely and looked back at (f/n). She was staring dreamily at me, a strange expression about her face. '(f/n)?' I waved a hand before her face. 'Hello?' (f/n) started and blinked her eyes like she just woke up. I took her hand and held it in both of mine. '(f/n), it's me. I'm a human now.'

My P.O.V.

My fingers tightened around the warm hands cradling it. Could this be true? Jack had told me how he looked like when he was a human, but it was still mindblowing to see it for real. For one, he was every bit as handsome and beautiful as he was when being a spirit. Then there was the fact that he was warm. I pressed his hand to my cheek and felt his warmth seep into me. I looked up and gazed into a pair of warm, deep brown eyes, so different from the former cool blue orbs. Jack's hair was a beautiful shade of deep chocolate brown and looked soft as ever, though I secretly mourned the absence of his snow white locks. 'You really are human?' I whispered, edging closer and cupping his face. 'I am, at least I think so. I can feel warm without being uncomfortable, and you don't feel like burning to me.' Jack spilled out, then bit his lip. I was confused. 'You mean, all along I was hurting you when I touched you?' I should have noticed long ago. Jack put his arm around my waist and pulled me in. 'It doesn't matter, (f/n). You weren't really burning me, just that warmness and I don't go together. It would feel uneasy, but I'd put up with anything to be with you.'

A tear rolled down my cheek as I wrapped my arms around his neck and hugged him. It felt strange having his warm body against mine, after having gotten used to the coldness and shivering whenever we touched. One of Jack's hands slid up my back and entangled itself in my messy hair. After a while, I pulled away just enough to place my lips on his. It was an entirely new sensation. The warmness of Jack on my mouth surprised me, letting him take the chance to suck on my lower lip. My nails grazed his chest as he gently bit my lip and kissed me passionately. We finally pulled away for breath. I leant my head on Jack's shoulder and closed my eyes. 'So you're still Jack Frost, right?' I murmured as Jack stroked my back. 'My staff's not in the corner, we'll have to wait till night for further instruction by Manny,' he stated. I nodded my head, running over in my head all that happened in the last half hour. I freaked out internally when I saw the brown head nuzzled sweetly in the curve of my neck. I'd considered whacking him in the head with the hairdryer, but it's a good thing I didn't.

'Well, it's time for breakfast. I'm starving,' I let go of Jack and got off the bed, which was a mess of sheets and pillows after the tickle fight last night. Jack helped me make the bed, then followed me to the bathroom. 'So here's a new toothbrush for you, and toothpaste is here, floss is there, you can use my dad's shampoo and stuff so there you go.' Brushing our teeth took longer than usual as Jack kept flinging water into my face, teasing me. I made American breakfasts for both of us and gave Diablo and Buddy each a fat sausage. Jack soon proved he had a big appetite and could really eat after finishing up two extra servings of ham and eggs.

We washed up and I gave Jack a more comfortable checked blue shirt to wear as I hadn't gotten rid of the egg on his hoodie. I handed him a pair of red sneakers, jeans and a leather jacket. 'Dress up, Jack. We're going to the mall.' I went to put on a purple blouse with a fleece jacket on top then slipped on my mesh leggings followed by a denim skirt. After putting on some lip balm and combing my hair, I went to the living room and at once pronounced myself a fashion genius. Jack looked ravishing in his getup, the light colour of the jacket really bringing out his radiant brown eyes. He smiled and got up from the couch as I walked towards him. 'What do you think?' he gestured to his body, an expectant look on his face. I nodded approvingly. 'You look like a model, Jack. I wish I could look as good as you,' I grinned. He rolled his eyes then pulled me in and kissed me pleasantly on the lips. 'But you look gorgeous, beautiful,' he muttered in my ear, making me blush. He pulled away and opened the door for me. I bid my two canine friends goodbye, then walked out with Jack behind me.

'We're riding the car this time,' I said as I unlocked my mom's Toyota Camry. My parents had offered to buy me a car before, but I didn't want another thing to worry about and we already had five cars in the garage. Jack opened the car door and peered in. 'I've never been in one of these before,' he mused, getting in and closing the door. I climbed in the driver's seat and started the engine. Soon we were on the road, driving towards town. Jack poked about the buttons on the radio then jumped violently when music started blasting from the speakers. I bit my lip hard, trying not to laugh as he tried to steady his breath. 'How do you turn this thing off?' he panted. I allowed myself a giggle and pressed the off button. 'Oh Jack, you're so funny,' I grinned as I shook my head. 'Not to mention sexy,' he added. I turned to him in disbelief. 'You did say I looked like a model, didn't you?' he smirked, and with that he struck a seductive pose, wagging his eyebrows up and down at me. I choked, not knowing whether to laugh or just stare at him. 'Jack—' I broke out when he put a finger to my lips. 'Eyes on the road, (f/n),' he said as he ran a hand through his hair, ruffling it up. I turned to concentrate on driving, frustrated at how Jack could get me undone so effortlessly. Also I was a tint bit annoyed at his cockiness which yet seemed sexy too.

I really needed to stop these thoughts.

'How's it taste like?' I asked Jack as he took his second bite of the Subway chicken sandwich. He shrugged his shoulders. 'It's tasty, but pizza's better,' he mumbled with his mouth full. I looked around us. People were still glancing over at us, or more accurately, at Jack. The moment we stepped into the mall, heads were turning everywhere we went. It seemed Jack's charisma was that extraordinary. I had a hard time picking clothes in the retail store as the salesgirls were all glaring at me and giggling at Jack. He didn't seem to notice, or didn't care if he did. I had earned a few more glares when Jack kissed me in the store. Now we were at the eatery having lunch and I still couldn't get a rest from the attention directed towards us. Girls stared dreamily at Jack, throwing a few disapproving glances my way first. Some guys had on amazed faces while the rest looked plain jealous.

'Jack, do you know people are looking at you?' I whispered into his ear as we walked away from the eatery. 'Really? I thought they were looking at you,' he grinned. 'Don't play around, Jack. I'm getting angry looks while you're being worshipped.' I hid my face in Jack's jacket sleeve, sighing heavily. 'Then make them jealous,' he laughed. 'Kiss me, for instance. I'm always ready.' He stopped walking as he waited for me expectantly. Oh whatever, I thought. It's not like I actually had a reputation to ruin. I grabbed the front of his jacket and attacked him with my lips. Jack smiled wide as he held my waist tightly and kissed me back fervently. I could sense stare upon stare boring down on us, but I didn't care anymore. Jack's lips were too wonderful and distracting. I put my arms around his neck and closed my eyes. Suddenly Jack gripped my waist and lifted me into the air, not breaking the kiss for a moment. I propped my arms on his shoulders, my head bent down kissing his lips as he held me against him. We broke the kiss and stayed there grinning at each other. Jack put me down and we continued walking as normal, taking in all the different faces turned towards us. 'I love doing that with you,' Jack squeezed my hand as I felt my blush coming up. Then my eyes caught sight of the last person I wanted to see in forever.

Lauren.

Too late to hide, though. She caught sight of me before I had the chance to duck behind Jack. 'Well look what we have here, girls,' she declared to the bunch of school cheerleaders who were in a shoe shop dissing the shoes sold there. They turned their heads towards me. I clutched Jack's hand tighter, fearing I may collapse in nervousness. 'If it isn't (f/n) Moneypants,' scoffed Lauren as she looked me up and down. Then her gaze turned to Jack who had a puzzled expression on his face. Lauren's gang were pointing and staring at him as she walked nearer to us. 'What do you want?' I growled at the brunette in front of me. 'And who's gorgeous here?' Lauren demanded, smiling sickly at Jack as she looked him over. 'He's my boyfriend. We have to leave now,' I replied in a forced calm tone. I looked over at Jack, who smiled and nodded at me. Lauren looked at me in disbelief. 'So I see someone actually has a boyfriend now. Oh honey we were wondering if anyone would even want you,' she taunted. The cheerleaders behind her gave shouts of agreement. One of them, I think her name was Karla, reached over and gave my hair a sharp tug making me squeal in pain.

'Hey don't do that to her!' Jack yelled as he pulled me away from them, resting my head on his chest. He put an arm around me as I leant in to his heart beating fast. I heard mutters and murmurs coming from the gang as a tear rolled down my cheek. Why of all days does this have to happen today? I wiped my face against Jack's hoodie not wanting anyone to see me cry. 'Ooh he's handsome and protective too,' Lauren drawled out. I turned around to look her full in the face. The anger I felt must have showed on my face as she took a tiny step backwards. 'What's your name, sweetheart?' she cooed. I rolled my eyes. 'Jack,' I heard him say through gritted teeth. 'How come I've never seen you around before?' Lauren started to twirl a piece of hair around her finger as she gazed at Jack. 'He just moved here from…from…' I racked my brain for a suitable country that would fit the situation. 'From Burgess, miss,' Jack put in. 'Oh yeah, Burgess. I keep forgetting the name,' I grinned up at him, sending a silent thank you for helping me out. It was Lauren's turn to roll her eyes. But she continued in a sweet tone, 'I didn't know the guys from Burgess were so charming and superior.' Jack gave a polite smile as he pulled me away from them. 'We must be going now. Goodbye,' he said firmly, whisking me away from the dreaded group towards the mall exit.

'Thank you Jack,' I said weakly when we were out of Lauren's sight in a small park. 'You alright?' he asked anxiously, gently massaging the spot on my scalp where Karla pulled my hair. 'I'm fine. I'm used to it, anyway,' I kissed Jack's cheek as he looked down at me disbelievingly. 'You mean to say they've bullied you at school all this time?' he looked me straight in the eyes. I bit my lip and nodded timidly. 'Why didn't you tell me before?' he shouted. A few people were staring at us now. Jack sighed and locked his arms around me, leaning his cheek on my head. 'I'm sorry baby,' he whispered as his fingers rubbed small circles on the small of my back. I hugged him and let the cooped up tears flow freely down my face. 'I-I didn't tell you…because I was…sc-scared. Wh-what could y-y-you have done, anyway?' I stammered. Jack pulled away and looked into my eyes. 'I could have said more in your defence.' I shook my head. 'They'll only bully me more when we go back to school,' I palmed Jack's cheek as he wiped my tears dry. Jack pondered for a while before his eyes lit up. 'Then I'll go to school with you, if Manny lets me.' I was dumbfounded at this idea which seemed crazy yet wonderful. 'Besides you only have half a year left before you graduate. I could come with you,' his hand closed around mine on his cheek as I considered the idea. 'Okay,' I confirmed, grinning happily. Jack chuckled as he leaned down for a short kiss.

We had dinner in an Italian restaurant just opposite the mall. Jack stuffed himself full with spaghetti and lasagne while I watched him with amusement. I didn't really have an appetite as I was worried about what Lauren would do to me and also sad that my parents weren't coming home for Christmas which was just a day away. After Jack was finished, we drove home.

I put away the things I bought then cleaned up before plopping down onto the bed, totally exhausted. I felt Jack climb in after me and turned to face him, snuggling up to his warmth. He put an arm around my middle and kissed my forehead. 'I saw that you weren't that happy at dinner, (f/n). What's bothering you?' he asked tenderly. I opened my eyes to meet his warm brown orbs. 'Lauren,' I mumbled before closing my eyes again. 'And?' he coaxed. I sighed and forced myself to not fall asleep yet. 'It's my parents. They won't be home for Christmas,' I let out. I knew he understood me even though he kept silent, his eyes looking at me sadly. He gazed out the window and gasped. 'Look, (f/n). It's the moon. Maybe we can go talk to Manny,' he smiled, taking my hand. I turned to look out the window to see the silvery moon shining brighter as usual, bathing us in its beautiful light. I got up, still sleepy but not wanting to miss this chance. 'Can you hear him if you're not a spirit anymore?' I asked Jack. He just shrugged his shoulders and pulled me towards the window. He opened it and we sat down on the windowsill. 'Hey Manny,' Jack greeted, then remained silent. I couldn't hear a thing. '(f/n)? He's talking to you,' Jack nudged me. 'I can't hear him,' I explained. He frowned slightly, then snapped his fingers. 'Look at the moon and put your heart into believing him. Think soothing thoughts,' he suggested.

I thought for a while, then took his hand in mine. I closed my eyes and put the hand to my cheek, thinking up all the times Jack held me in his arms, and the fun times I had with my grandfather. I opened my eyes and gazed at the moon, when I heard a soft silvery whisper in the back of my mind. It grew louder gradually until I could listen to it loud and clear. 'How are you, my dear?' the moon asked. I looked at Jack and he gave an approving nod. 'I'm fine, sir,' I replied meekly. The voice laughed. 'Call me Manny, child.' 'Oh okay,' I bit my lip. Jack snaked his arm around my waist, reassuring me. 'How do you like the new and improved Jack?' the Moon asked. I burst out a laugh while Jack rolled his eyes. 'He's still the same, Manny. Just warmer,' I grinned, leaning my head on Jack's shoulder. Manny chuckled 'Very well. Now I have to let you both know something very important. Pitch is on the rise again, and stronger then ever,' he said gravely. I felt Jack tense up beside me. 'You should have known, Jack, the very moment he attacked (f/n) on the field.' Jack was glaring furiously at the snowy ground. 'I know Manny, but I didn't know how strong he really was. I thought we defeated him for good.'

Manny let out a sigh. 'Jack, you can never fully wipe out fear. You can only learn to conquer it.' Then he addressed me. '(f/n), I would like Jack to be human for a while longer, is that fine with you?' the Man in the Moon asked. 'I'm perfectly fine with that, Manny. But for how long?' I looked over at Jack who had his eyes closed, a frown on his face. 'Pitch does not know he has turned back into a human, but it will not take long for him to realise it. So for the meantime he will go to school with you and act like a normal person.' Suddenly Jack's head popped up. 'But what about the children around the world? What about their fun times and snow days?' he pleaded. 'I'm very sorry, Jack. But you and (f/n) must stay together to protect each other. Pitch is targeting you both, and being separated only increases the chance of one of you being hurt badly. And he knows that to get you both, he'll only have to hurt one of you.'

'But why would he want to hurt (f/n)?' Jack croaked, his hand holding mine tightly. 'For the same reason North told you at the Pole. He wants revenge on her grandfather and at the same time on you for defeating him.' My head was spinning fast. So we were really being pursued by that creepy man who almost killed Jack? 'But how come he's risen again? How?!' Jack seemed to be freaking out, his hands clutching at his hair. 'Jack, calm down. I'm here with you on this,' I soothed, cupping his cheek. 'That's exactly what I'm afraid of, (f/n).' Jack said with a pained expression on his normally cheerful face. 'I brought all this onto you. If I hadn't met you, you wouldn't be in such great danger.' I was horrified at all this. 'But I can't imagine life without you! I don't want to go back to being alone again, Jack. How could you say such a thing?!' My eyes watered and I started sobbing uncontrollably. Jack seemed to be lost in thought, staring at me mournfully as I sniffed and tried to stop the salty tears rolling down my cheeks and into my mouth. Then he slowly reached out a hand and wiped my cheek dry. '(f/n)…' he murmured as he pulled me into his arms, laying my head on his shoulder. One warm hand stroked my back while the other hugged my waist. The moon seemed to have stopped conversing with us though its brightness never faded. I took a deep breath, sniffling a bit and inhaling Jack's winter scent which surprisingly didn't change. A small smile crept onto my face as I closed my eyes and sighed contentedly.

Nothing disturbed us as we sat on the wide windowsill, leaning into each other and trying to understand the fate that awaited us. Jack kissed the top of my head then moved his hands to cup my face, his fingers caressing my cheek bones. 'Baby,' he said in a calming, warm tone as those brown eyes looked straight into my (e/c) ones. 'I never regretted meeting you, because you're literally the best thing that has ever happened to me. I don't want to imagine life without you. I promise I'll never leave you. Don't ever doubt that.' He blinked away a tear of his own and held my hands firmly in one hand while he placed his other arm over his chest. 'I, Jackson Overland Frost, spirit of winter and Guardian of Fun, swear to guard and protect you, lady (f/n) (l/n), from any harm that may come upon you, forever and ever.' I giggled at his serious expression, making him grin at me. I put up my own hand, 'And I, (f/n) (l/n), normal human being and crazy lover of Jackson Overland Frost, the winter spirit, swear to do the same plus make sure he doesn't do anything stupid.' I smiled at my own cheesy joke. Jack raised an eyebrow at me. 'What? It's true,' I defended. He rolled his eyes and smirked at me. 'Did I tell you that when you get angry like this afternoon it's really sexy?' he teased. I snorted and gave him a push, almost unbalancing him off the window. I shrieked and reached out to seize his sleeve in a panic. Jack looked a bit white but that didn't stop him from teasing me further. 'Aww, my princess really does care about me, doesn't she?' He bent down and stole a kiss from me before walking to the bed.

I folded my arms together. 'Well Jack Frost, you don't have to steal no kisses from me, you know.' I jumped onto the bed next to him and gave him a sweet lingering kiss. Jack chuckled and tried to catch hold of me. I hopped out of his grasp, giggling hysterically as he looked around searching for me. I crept up behind him and pecked his lips again when he heard me and turned around. 'That's a one for me,' I boasted. 'Not for long,' Jack smirked before pushing me down and giving me a wet kiss. 'Eww Jack,' I whined. He shrugged his shoulders as he ruffled his hair. 'I know you liked it, so you might as well admit it.' He grinned at me cheekily. I snorted at this. 'As if,' I lay down and pulled the covers over my head. There was no movement on the bed which seemed weird to me. I risked a little peek from the covers and saw Jack lying next to me, his eyes closed and a smile on his lips. Before I could get back under, his eyes opened and he started attacking me with tickles. I squirmed and shrieked as my hands tried to push his off me. I heard him laugh as he stopped the torture. 'Kiss me then,' he ordered in a serious tone. I raised an eyebrow at him, silently fighting against the urge to do just what he wanted.

'What if I don't?' I challenged him. Jack pouted and gave me the puppy eyes no one could resist. I bit my lip and sighed. Palming his cheek, I leaned in and pressed my lips against his. Jack smiled and kissed me back lovingly. My hands locked around his neck as he held my face gently, both our eyes closed. He pulled away after a while and rubbed his nose against mine, giving me an Eskimo kiss. I positioned my head in the crook of his neck and entwined my fingers with his. 'Goodnight, Jack. I love you,' I muttered into his smooth skin. 'Goodnight baby. And I love you more,' he replied with a grin before closing his eyes. I gazed at his beautiful face for a long time before finally falling to sleep.

I woke up to a gloomy Christmas Eve morning. Since the sky didn't look too welcoming, Jack and I spent the day decorating the house. It was a bit late for that since the next day was already Christmas Day, but it was really just putting up the tree and hanging the large wreath on the old hook in the front door. Diablo and Buddy kept getting underfoot as Jack draped the lights around the large tree making him almost step on them in annoyance. The two dogs pranced around and caused such havoc that I had to tell them off sternly. Finally they retired to a corner and fell asleep.

'If only I had my powers, I could make it a real Christmas scene in here,' Jack brooded as he paced about the living room. I brought out two large mugs of hot chocolate as supper and smiled to see the colourful lights and beautiful ornaments on the tree. 'We'll just have to make do with this, baby,' I set the tray down on the table and sat down on the sofa. Jack plopped down beside me and took a large swig from his mug. I giggled at the chocolate moustache on his face when he set the mug down. He cocked his head to one side and looked at me quizzically before realizing what I was laughing at. He licked the chocolate away with his tongue and put his arm around me. I snuggled up next to him and sipped my drink, enjoying the warmness pouring down my throat and the beat of Jack's heart by my ear. I turned on the TV and flipped through the channels, stopping at one showing a favourite movie of mine. 'Do you wanna watch this?' I looked up at Jack who was gazing down at me. 'I'm okay with anything, princess.' I blushed a little at the nickname before settling down in his arms. As the movie went on, I cried at the sad parts then burst out guffawing at the hilarious moments. When the two separated lovers were reunited and finally had their happy ending, I turned around to see Jack wiping his eyes, a sniffle escaping from him.

'Are you…crying, Jack?' I put my hand on his shoulder. I was supposed to be the one bawling my eyes out here. He looked back at me with slightly red eyes. 'As much as I hate to say it, yes.' Jack admitted. 'Great movie though. First time something like that could make me cry.' He grinned at me tiredly. It was 11p.m. so we brushed our teeth and got ready for bed. I suddenly remembered Jack's present. While he was in the washroom, I quietly tiptoed into my room, whipped out the present and went downstairs. I quickly found some shiny gold wrapping paper and hastily wrapped the box, tying it with a nice large silver ribbon I found in a drawer. '(f/n) where are you?' I froze as I heard Jack's voice calling from upstairs. Sliding the present underneath the tree, I skipped back upstairs to see Jack rubbing his eyes and yawning on the landing. 'Baby you're tired,' I hugged him tightly. 'Where were you?' he yawned again, burying his face in my hair. 'I…remembered about the mugs. I didn't wash one properly,' I lied. Jack mumbled something and went to my room. 'Here, you can wear this for bed. We'll get you your own clothes tomorrow.' I passed him a warm tee and black pyjama pants. Jack stared at them then turned to me. 'Can I change here? I'm so tired,' he drawled, a smirk on his worn out face. I scowled at him. 'I'm tired too, Jack. And the trip to the bathroom is too scary for me,' I shivered as I thought of the dark corridor in the landing.

'Then we have to change here, then,' Jack shrugged, grabbing the pants and grinning at me. 'Better turn around…unless you wanna see the show?' he purred. My lips thinned into a straight line as I took my PJs and went to the other side of the bed. The side of the bed only covered half my torso when I sat down. 'Don't turn around,' I warned. Stripping my shirt off, I slipped on my long sleeved jumper fast before changing out of my pants into yoga shorts. I whipped around to see Jack lying down on his side. With no shirt on.

'Jack Frost what are you doing?' I asked him bewildered. He turned around to look at me with half closed eyes. 'Hey baby,' he sat up rubbing his eyes, the shirt still in his hands. 'I almost fell asleep after changing my pants. By the way, you looked really amazing just now.' My eyes widened as I looked at him give me a one sided smirk and a wink. I flew at him and pinned him back down on the covers. 'You mean to say that you've been peeking at me?' I growled angrily. Jack laughed and shook his head at me. 'No (f/n). You know I wouldn't. It's just a joke, okay?' I bit my lip and glared at his cute sleepy face. 'What, you don't believe me?' he raised his eyebrows. I shook my head. Jack sighed in exasperation. 'Well, I really didn't sneak a peek at you. But it's not fair that you still get to see me.' I blushed as my eyes darted back up to his, not realizing I had been checking him out again. Jack held my chin and pulled me down to kiss my lips. My hands slid down his shoulders then onto his broad chest of their own accord. I heard Jack moan my name quietly making the blood in my veins rush through a hundred times faster. He fondled my hair as his free hand slid down my back, fingers tracing my spine. I shivered, frowning while my nails grazed the smooth skin on his chest.

Jack pulled away and tucked a lock of (h/c) hair behind my ear. 'I really want more, (f/n). But my eyes can't stay open any longer.' I rolled off him and felt him wrap his warm arms around me. 'Put on the darn shirt, Jack. You're a human now and at great risk of catching a cold.' He opened one eye and pouted his lip at me. 'Do it or I won't stop bugging you,' I folded my hands across my chest. Jack sat up and slowly put the shirt on. I watched the fabric slide down his toned body and mentally slapped myself before he noticed me staring. 'Happy?' he lay down and looked at me. I smiled and nodded my head before pulling the covers over both of us. Jack put his hands around my waist as his head nuzzled into my neck again. I felt my breath hitch for just a second as I gazed at his serene face. His brown hair fell into his forehead, just grazing his eyebrows. I shut my eyes, wondering until I fell asleep how insanely lucky I was to have fallen in love with the winter spirit.

I knew was in the cafeteria although the colours around me were shifting about in a dizzying way and loud muffled voices rang in my ears. I looked around and came face to face with Lauren. She had blonde ringlets spilling around her powdered complexion as an evil smirk formed on her lips. My heart thumped in fright as she lifted her strawberry smoothie over my head, eyes piercing into mine. I squeezed them shut as I waited for it the beverage to splash down over my head. And it did, making me shiver in cold and shame as voices whooped and laughed around me.

Sitting up in a hurry, I wiped away the sweat on my forehead and pushed away Diablo who had been licking my face wet. Panting slightly, I grimaced at the dream I hadn't had for years since it really happened. I went out to wash my face and brush my teeth when I heard someone thumping up the stairs like a crazy rhino. '(f/n) come down quick and look at the tree!' I heard Jack yell excitedly. Walking out the bathroom, I saw him grinning at me, eyes bright and hair tousled as he took my hand and led me downstairs. My mouth dropped open at the small pile of shiny wrapped presents on the floor beneath the tree. 'Merry Christmas, (f/n),' Jack whispered in my ear before kissing me. I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him back eagerly before breaking away. 'Merry Christmas Jack,' I smiled at him before going to the tree. We examined the presents together with Diablo and Buddy prancing around us. I noticed the two palominos watching us from the mantelpiece beside the tree.

Tearing off the wrappings and seeing Jack's smile seemed to numb the awareness that my parents weren't here with me for today. Trying to not think about it, I opened the small box (bf/n) sent me from the Bahamas and gaped. 'What you got?' Jack asked, leaning over to peer into the box. I tried to tilt it away from him but too late. His face turned beet red as he stared at the pure black lingerie set nestled in silk cloth inside the box. My mind whirled. That girl was so going to get it from me when school starts. Why was she sending me lingerie which I didn't even need?! Jack bit his lip, trying to disguise the obvious grin on his face. He moved away and became suddenly engrossed at studying the Santa designs on the wrapping paper, his head bowed so I couldn't see his expression. I took in a mega large breath of air and touched my sizzling cheek. 'Pretend you never saw that,' I breathed unevenly. 'I can't,' Jack mumbled honestly.

I pushed the incident to the back of my mind. Ripping open another present, I found a book bound in old wrinkled leather, smelling of sweet ink and time. Piff the Fairy and Other Tales read the cover. I unlocked the clasp and thumbed though the light yellow pages bursting with words and lively illustrations. The short note with it read 'To (f/n), I hope you like this. I think it suits you. From North.' I slid the note in between two pages and hugged the book to my chest. 'That book's good,' Jack stated, looking at me with his dark chocolate eyes. I put the book down beside me and ran a finger over his palm. 'Where's your presents?' I asked him. He didn't seem to open anything since I started ripping the presents apart. 'I don't get anything. It's okay, I got used to it a long time ago.' I stared at his sad face in disbelief. 'But you do have something,' I said. Buddy went to the other side of the tree and pushed the blue box toward Jack. His eyes widened as he took it onto his lap, one hand patting the husky's head. He turned to me. 'Are you sure?' I nodded. Jack's fingers undid the ribbon then removed the lid. I couldn't read his face as he took out the hoodie, beautiful though slightly crumpled from being in the box so long.

His hands felt the fabric as his eyes took in every stitch and detail. I had written a card which said it was from me, which he then opened and stared at. After a long while, a tear dropped down onto the garment as Jack cleared his throat, not looking at me. 'Jack?' I gently called his name, putting a hand on his arm. I wiped away another tear on his cheek. 'Thank you so much, (f/n),' he breathed, eyes looking up to meet mine. 'It's been so long since anyone ever gave me anything.'

'But what about North?' I puzzled. Jack shrugged and put an arm around my waist. 'The Guardians do exchange presents, but I've never really took part in them. Plus, I'm on the naughty list forever. The fact North doesn't send his yetis after me for setting the record is a gift in itself.' I grinned at his joke, but it still didn't seem right. Jack really deserved at least one present on Christmas day. Heck, everyone did. Plus he was a Guardian and was supposed to be friends with North. A little polite gift couldn't hurt. Jack sighed beside me and leaned his head on my shoulder. 'I love you so much, (f/n). You're the best present I could ever have,' he breathed into my ear. His lips found their way to my neck and he kissed the skin there gently. His hand moved to the small of my back and his lips kissed down to my collarbone. I bit my lip and felt a strange sense of disappointment as I felt him move away all at once. 'You make it so hard for me to behave, (f/n),' he frowned, glancing at the floor. I couldn't find any words to reply him. Jack cleared the floor of paper and stood up to throw them into the waste basket. 'What do you mean?' I asked blankly, though I had a faint idea of what he really meant. Jack just stared at me with those sad, deep eyes of his. I was vaguely aware that there was no present from him for me. A small pang of remorse hit me and I shook it off. He didn't need to give me anything as long as he was here.

All of a sudden a loud crash from the front yard sent us flying to the door. Opening it, I couldn't believe my eyes as I saw a huge red sleigh on the other side of the gate. The rubbish bin was rolling down the road, its original place taken by eight beautiful reindeer. North was struggling out of his seat, his red face beaming as he finally got out. The gate opened magically and he jogged into the compound. 'Merry Christmas (f/n)! I have come to see you,' he shouted. I was planted onto the ground, unable to move. 'Hey North. Merry Christmas,' I replied, hoping the neighbours were still in bed and wouldn't look out to find a sleigh in the road and Santa Clause in my house. 'Don't worry about my sleigh, (f/n).' North read my mind. 'Only people who believe in me can see it.' He stepped in and stopped short of taking off his boots as his eyes landed on Jack. 'By jingle, the boy's a human,' he muttered. Jack chuckled and slapped the big man's back. 'I know, North. It's a long story but I'll explain.' North's forehead was creased with worry, but he nodded his head. 'I hope you like your present, my dear,' he turned to me. I beamed and took his hand. 'It's very special, North. Thank you. I'm sure it won't be long before I'm done with it.' North laughed out loud, startling me and Jack a bit. 'We'll see about that,' he patted my head and went back to Jack, leaving me to decipher his meaning. 'Jack, I need to talk to you.' North's voice had gone serious. Jack scratched his head and gave me a glance before leading him to the kitchen. I heard the door close and wondered what North wanted to tell Jack that was so urgent.

After their private talk, we had cookies and eggnog before North flew back to the Pole. Jack wouldn't tell me what their conversation was about, making me just the slightest bit pissed. Nevertheless, we still curled up on the sofa later to watch The Christmas Carol, with me falling asleep in his arms near the ending. It was about five I opened my eyes to see the evening sunlight coming on through the windows, bathing the living room in a flawless golden shade. Jack was nowhere to be seen. I sat up and my leg kicked against a large, rectangular, flowery box on the floor. My name was printed on a golden card in what I knew was Jack's sloping handwriting. My heart leaped a mile as I reached down to pick it up. It smelled of roses and Jack's sharp winter scent. I took off the lid, a million guesses of what it could be shooting across my mind, then gasped.

My glance landed on light blue and bright red fabric. Taking it up, I unfolded it and was met with a gorgeous knee high dress. I only had T-shirts and jeans and pants in my wardrobe, and the few times I wore (actually rented) dresses were during prom and wedding dinners. There was one miserable dress which some aunt had bought me and it made me itch all over, so I stuffed it into the darkest corner of the cupboard. But this dress, oh this dress. I never saw anything so simple and elegant. I fingered the delicate material and felt it slide across my skin, soft and definitely not itchy. Small snowflakes were embossed in the silk, starting from the right puffed sleeve to the left tip of the skirt. But what made me breathless was how the blue melted into fiery red and orange, drawing an indistinct diagonal line down the dress. Most of the chest was covered in brilliant shades of red, pierced through with orange, while the most part of the skirt was covered in hues of blue. The perfect embodiment of summer and winter. A thin black belt around the middle completed the dress.

I lay the dress beside me on the couch, then picked up a pair of earrings the colour of Sandy's dream sand. One was a moon and the other the sun. I lay them on the dress and reached back into the box to take out a fine pair of silver high heels. I had never owned anything like them. They were beautiful, the silver glistening and mixing with the last rays of the evening sun. I picked up the last piece of the set: a necklace. The snowflake pendant dangled on the thin silver chain, looking very pretty. My head was in the clouds. My winter spirit boyfriend just gave me a whole new outfit! I almost didn't notice the card lying in the box. '(f/n), Merry Christmas. I really wanted to give you your gift this morning, but plans have changed since I didn't bet on being a human on Christmas. I'm sorry if I made you sad. Put these on. I'll pick you up at seven. Forever yours, Jack Frost.' Blush was obvious on my cheeks as I looked at the clock. I still had an hour and fifteen minutes to prepare. I put the outfit back in the box and carried it upstairs, thinking about what Jack had in store for me.

At 6.45, I was ready and waiting at the living room. The dress fit perfectly, the belt accentuating my waist as the colours shimmered and shone. My earrings and necklace complimented the whole outfit. I had on a little makeup, just the basics with some lip gloss. I paced about the room in the heels, practicing and trying not to twist an ankle. Diablo and Buddy watched me silently, they seemed to acknowledge my nervousness. I was on my tenth circle around the room when the doorbell rang. My heart was pumping as fast as I'd ever felt it pump. I turned the handle and opened the door.

There was Jack, standing in my doorway. In a black suit. I almost forgot the meaning of air. He smiled, his perfect teeth and lips making me want to kiss him instantly. '(f/n).' He cupped my face before grinning again. 'You look beautiful tonight. I mean, you look beautiful every night, and day, but tonight is exceptional,' the words tumbled out over each other as Jack reached a hand up and mussed his hairstyle. 'Oh man, Bunny's gonna kill me,' he muttered. I giggled and took his hand in both of mine. 'Bunny helped you with this?' I asked. Jack nodded and pulled me into him. 'The others chipped in too. Like my suit and that's not the main thing. I want to take you out on a proper date tonight, (f/n). All at my expense. I feel like I've just been using your money too much all the time-' 'It's not my money, Jack. And I don't mind it.' I put my arms around his neck. 'But it's your parents'. I don't feel comfortable, it's like I'm using you. Which I don't want to.' He cleared his throat. 'I've settled things with North. You're going on a date with the winter spirit. Around the world.' I raised an eyebrow. Jack chuckled and gave me a sweet kiss. I closed my eyes and lost myself in his arms, whimpering when he pulled away. 'Come on, (f/n). Or we won't have enough time.' He gave me his arm and I took it, my other hand clutching my bag. The two dogs stood behind us, yapping their goodbyes. 'Ready?' Jack asked. I nodded and he pushed open the door.

The sleigh. Parked at my front porch. Eight reindeer stamping and champing on their bits. I gasped and blinked again. They were still there. I looked at Jack in surprise and happiness. He was looking at me shyly. 'North lent it to me. Don't worry, I've had practice before. I can fly it as good as him now.' I grinned and gave him a peck on the cheek. He twisted around and soon I was kissing his perfect lips, breathing in the sharp winter scent he still had. My hands locked into his flop of slightly gelled hair, wanting to feel the real softness underneath the hardened gel. Jack let out a groan and kissed me harder. I don't know if we would have ever stopped if one of the front reindeer hadn't snorted loudly in impatience. Jack broke away with a dazed face. 'You are so unromantic, Dasher.' He shook his head as the reindeer stamped its hoof. 'Here,' he walked to the side of the large sleigh and opened the door for me. The smell of old leather and hit my face as I climbed the step. The seat was so comfy and soft as I ran my hands over it. Numerous buttons occupied the dashboard, buttons and levers and more buttons. Jack hopped in the other side and took the reins. He looked toward me and flashed that lopsided smile of his that always made my stomach knot up. 'Get ready,' he grinned. Then we were pulling out and flying into the darkening sky.