Author's Note: Hello everyone and welcome back to "The Winter Child! =D This one-shot collection has two more chapters left to go until it's finally done. QwQ I honestly can't believe this story is wrapping up...I still vividly remember posting it back in November, but at the same time, I'm really satisfied that it's almost done. XD I have a bunch of other fanfics and writing projects that I've been wanting to start/post. ='3

And speaking of writing projects, Camp NaNoWriMo July starts today! =D I'm going to start writing my original story once this chapter is posted and all. That said, I haven't written any fanfictions as I've been spending the past weeks planning this original story, so I won't be posting anything throughout the month of July, and the early beginnings of August as I get some new fanfictions written. I'm not sure when I'll return in August, but I'll be sure to put a date once I'm certain.

This actually works out really well, because I think my hiatus start date is coming up soon. I was so focused on getting these chapters out, that I completely forgot about it. XD I'll post two chapters today (since this one and the other is quite short), and I'll post the final one tomorrow, and then I'll officially have my focus geared toward my original book. =)

I'd just like to take a moment to thank you guys for sticking with me for this one-shot collection. =D I always knew it was going to be special ever since the idea first came into my head, and I had so much fun working on it despite my relief that it's almost over. XD I was not expecting this much feedback (480+ reviews...you guysssss QwQ), but I'm so glad you all enjoyed the story while it lasted. ^u^

On that sentimental note, I hope you guys enjoy this new chapter and the next one that should be posted shortly! =D


~ XCII ~

Gentle Hands

They were:

Soft

Warm

Comforting

Safe

Calloused

Rough

Big

Strong

...

North's hands were rough and calloused from working in the workshop and his past battles. As tough as they were, they were as gentle as could be.

Jack remembered how North handled him when he was just a baby; he was careful and kind. Gentle and caring. He'd rub his back when he cried, rock him when he couldn't sleep. He brushed his cheek and ran his fingers through his hair, comforting the winter child from any nightmares that he had.

His touch was warm and comforting. And right now, that was exactly what Jack needed. He felt like a child, but his nightmares had been incessant since their final battle with Pitch. He slowly creaked open North's door and peeked inside. The ex-Cossack was sleeping.

Jack sucked in a breath; he didn't want to wake him up. The snow sprite was about to leave when...

"Jack?"

Jack stiffened and turned around. North's knowing eyes looked up at him.

"Rough night?" he asked softly.

Jack chewed his lip and nodded.

North made room for Jack to climb in, and the snow sprite, hesitantly, joined North in bed. The man smiled, reminded of how he would let Jack sleep with him when he was scared when he was little, and he ran his fingers against the boy's cheek.

Jack softened at the touch. "Thank you," he whispered.

North smiled and gently caressed Jack's cheek until he fell asleep.