December 17th

Those Yuletide Days

The Creighton Ward manor had its traditions. One especially was the 'yule log'. Although after a few centuries, that popularity fell by the wayside and was replaced by a simple crackling log fire that was kept burning all through the Winter. Same principle really. Just more logs, taken from the trees behind the estate (and promptly replaced by the Woodlands Commission), rather than the single 'yule' log.

Over the years, the generations found different ways of utilizing this fireplace. Some dried clothes in front of it, others toasted bread. Penny curled up in front of it, reading her book and hoping to stay awake long enough to see Santa Claus.

And each and every time, Parker would find her fast asleep. She was small enough to be picked up and put to bed. But as time moved onwards, and she grew taller - only just. It was easier for him to wrap her up in blankets and leave her there.

As she grew older, the novelty of a real Santa Claus soon wore off. But it still didn't stop her from sitting there reading her book, and falling asleep by the fire. She'd been doing it for so long that it was indeed, a tradition - of sorts.

The first time Gordon stayed over, it took him by surprise. She looked so young and vulnerable, just curled up, fast asleep. So he took the blanket from Parker, dismissed the old man, pulled the covers over the two of them, and snuggled underneath.