Professor George Challenger and his wife, Jessie, were wrapping the last of the Christmas gifts for the Roxton children, whom they adored as if they were their very own. William's boundless curiosity, Isabelle's spirited nature, and Juliette's gentle demeanor had all found a special place in the Challengers' hearts.

As George carefully wrapped a large, rectangular gift, his eyes sparkled with excitement. "Jessie, I think William is going to be over the moon with this," he said, carefully placing a paleontology toy kit alongside a beginner's book on prehistoric creatures. "It's not every day you find a five-year-old so fascinated by the prehistoric world."

Jessie smiled, tying a ribbon around the smaller, brightly wrapped package. "He's a remarkable boy, George. Your gift will surely fuel his passion for learning," she replied, her hands working skillfully. "And these dolls should be just right for the girls," she said, arranging two beautifully crafted dolls among the gifts.

The living room, adorned with festive decor and the rich scent of pine, echoed with the sounds of Christmas cheer. The Challengers, surrounded by a pile of gifts, reflected on the upcoming celebration with the Roxtons.

"It's going to be such a joyous day, George. The children's laughter, the stories, the warmth of being together," Jessie mused, her voice filled with happiness.

George nodded, a contented smile on his face. "Indeed, Jessie. This Christmas with the Roxtons will be one to remember. A gathering of minds and hearts alike."

There was also a touch of longing in the air, a yearning for the friends who were far away. Veronica and Ned Malone, along with their little ones, Annika and Tommy, were living in the Lost World, and despite the occasional correspondence, their absence was deeply felt.

As George placed a final bow on a gift, he turned to Jessie with a reflective expression. "I do wish Veronica and Ned could be with us. It's been too long since we've seen them, and we've yet to meet Annika and Tommy," he said softly.

Jessie, understanding the sentiment, added, "Yes, George. But I hold onto the hope that someday soon, we'll have the chance to welcome them into our home, to share in the laughter and stories, just as we do with the Roxtons."

George, with a heartfelt expression, reflected on the relationships of their dear friends. "I can't express enough how glad I am that both Marguerite and John, as well as Veronica and Ned, overcame their differences and found their way to each other. Watching them fall in love on the Plateau was truly a joy to behold."

Jessie, nodding in agreement, added, "It's wonderful to hear about their experiences on the Plateau. The stories you've shared, George, paint such a vivid picture of their journey. To think how they found love in such a challenging and unique environment, it's truly heartwarming."

George chuckled, his eyes reflecting a deep fondness for the memory. "I am especially glad for Marguerite. If you knew her back then, you would never think she had a maternal bone in her body. But I'm so glad she proved us all wrong."

Jessie smiled knowingly. "Oh, George, as a woman, she wouldn't have fooled me. I would have known then and there that she had a big, kind, compassionate heart. It would only be a matter of time before she let everyone else know it too."

As George and Jessie continued their conversation, Ethel, their faithful maid, entered the room with a tray of freshly baked brown cookies and steaming hot tea. The delightful aroma of the cookies filled the room.

"Here we are," Ethel announced cheerfully, placing the tray on the table. "Some warm cookies and tea to brighten up this cold morning."

George and Jessie both thanked Ethel, their eyes lighting up at the sight of the treats. The cookies, perfectly baked to a golden brown, looked irresistible, and the tea seemed just right to warm them up on this chilly Christmas morning.

George, taking a sip of tea, looked at Jessie with a fond expression. "It warms my heart to see how quickly you bonded with Marguerite."

Jessie, with a thoughtful smile, replied, "She's the most interesting woman I've ever met. I'll always hold her in high regard. If we're to have favorites, she's certainly mine."

As George and Jessie savored the last of their tea and cookies, they shared a contented look, filled with anticipation for the day ahead. The morning had been a pleasant prelude to the joyous occasion they were about to embark upon.

Finishing their tea, George stood up, his eyes alight with excitement. "Well, Jessie, it's almost time. We should get ready to catch our train to Avebury."

Jessie, placing her cup on the tray, nodded in agreement. "Yes, let's not keep the Roxtons waiting. This Christmas is going to be a beautiful time with the family."

With the gifts securely packed and their spirits high, the couple made their final preparations, ensuring they had everything needed for their journey. The journey to Avebury promised a day filled with laughter, love, and the warmth of family.