offshore | h.s

23

HARRY STYLES

I've always loved Christmas. 

It's always held a special place in my heart. Holmes Chapel, my childhood home, has countless memories of this magical time, spent with Gemma and Mum on Christmas mornings. The joy and excitement that filled the air is something I'll never forget.

I've never been particularly religious, but Christmas is about more than just the religious connotations. It's about love, giving, and being surrounded by the people who mean the most to me. 

But this year, as December unfolds, I find myself contemplating what Christmas will look like. With Gen and Avery in my life now, everything feels different. I want to make it memorable for them, but I don't want to upset Gen or overstep any boundaries. 

I find myself sitting by the crackling fireplace in the early morning glow, engaged in a lively conversation with James. December 1st has arrived, and the air is filled with the promise of holiday cheer. 

"So, Harry," James begins with a mischievous grin, "Amber has this grand plan for Avery this Christmas. She wants to do the whole Elf on the Shelf thing. Have you heard of it?"

I chuckle, a hint of amusement twinkling in my eyes. 

The thought of Elf on the Shelf always struck me as a little peculiar, but I can't help but see the potential for delight in Avery's eyes.

"Yeah, I've heard of it," I reply, my voice laced with a touch of scepticism. "It's a bit creepy, isn't it? But I suppose Avery would find it cute. Kids have a way of seeing magic in the strangest things."

James nods in agreement, his laughter mingling with mine."Exactly! Amber's convinced that it will bring so much joy to Avery's Christmas season. She's been looking at all these ideas on Pinterest for the mischievous elf's antics. It's quite entertaining, I must say."

I hear the soft sound of footsteps descending the stairs. I turn my head and there she is—Gen. She's wearing her cozy pyjamas and a soft dressing gown, looking effortlessly beautiful. Unable to contain my affection, I greet her with a warm smile. 

"Good morning, my angel."

Gen's cheeks flush with a mixture of bashfulness and playfulness. "Shut up," she retorts, her eyes sparkling with adoration. 

I pat the empty seat next to me on the couch, silently inviting Gen to join me. With grace, she settles beside me and leans in for a sweet morning kiss, the gentle touch of her lips filling me with warmth and affection.

The ever-attentive friend, James chimes in with a cheerful, "How did you sleep, Gen?"

Gen adjusts her position, her eyes filled with contentment. "Okay," she responds, a soft smile gracing her lips."Avery has been sleeping in her own bed these past few nights, and I couldn't be more grateful. It's a small victory but a significant step forward."

Just as our conversation continues, the familiar sound of the front door opening draws our attention. Amber and Gemma, carrying a tray of coffees in a cardboard carrier, enter the room, their presence welcomed with warm smiles.

"Good morning, everyone," Gemma greets cheerfully, her voice filled with contagious energy.

Curiosity piqued, Amber wastes no time in sharing her excitement. "Guess what? I set up the Elf on the Shelf for Ave! I can't wait for her to discover it."

Gen's brows furrow in mild surprise. "Really? It's December Already?"

Amber nods enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Yes! I thought it would be a fun way to kickstart the Christmas season. It's all about creating those magical moments, right?"

A mix of amusement and curiosity dances in Gen's eyes as she responds, "I can't wait to see her reaction. She'll be thrilled, no doubt."

As the morning unfolds and the conversation seamlessly flows, I can't help but feel a surge of warmth within me. Surrounded by loved ones, the crackling fire, and the promise of joyous moments ahead, I realize that Christmas is not just about the traditions or the festivities—it's about the love and connection we share.

The sound of footsteps interrupts our chat, and my eyes instinctively turn towards the staircase. Avery appears, descending the steps with boundless energy that fills the room. 

She rushes toward Gen, calling out "Mumma!" in a voice that fills my heart with joy. Gen embraces her tightly, returning the greeting with a tender "Good morning, baby."

Avery settles on Gen's lap, her tiny fingers playing with the strings of Gen's pyjama pants. I watch this tender moment unfold, a sense of profound gratitude washing over me. My heart swells with love for both of them.

Amber, ever the enthusiastic one, joins in, calling out to Avery, "Hey, Ave! Why don't you go and look in the kitchen? There's something special waiting for you." Avery's eyes widen with anticipation, and she eagerly takes Gen's hand, ready to explore the surprise. 

Amber and James make their way outside the living room, Gen and Ave following closely behind. 

However, Avery very quickly returns, her face beaming with delight. "Daddy, come and look! The elf is here!" Her words hang in the air, and for a moment, time stands still. I'm frozen, unsure of how to react.

Those words hang in the air, and I'm struck by a mix of shock and overwhelming emotion. Avery has just called me "Daddy," a title I never anticipated having. Tears well up in my eyes as I grapple with the magnitude of what this means.

I can't help but question if I'm genuinely ready to take on the role of a father figure. The weight of responsibility and the realization of how real this all is hits me like a tidal wave.

I turn to Gemma, seeking some semblance of understanding. To my surprise, she wears a knowing smile on her face, as if she had anticipated this moment all along. It's as if she's saying, "You deserve this, Harry."

Avery takes my hand, her small fingers wrapping around mine, grounding me in the present moment. I can't help but feel a surge of happiness coursing through me. Despite my initial hesitation, the love that flows between us is undeniable.

"Okay, bunny," I say with a gentle smile, using the endearing nickname that has become our little bond. "Let's go."

I scoop her up, placing her on my hip, and together we make our way to the kitchen where the mischievous elf is perched on the bottom shelf of the pantry and has gotten his hands on a jar of chocolate chips. Little crumbs are scattered across the countertop, evidence of his indulgence. 

Avery's eyes widen with delight, and a giggle escapes her lips.

I catch Amber's eye from across the kitchen, and with a subtle movement of my lips, I mouth, "She loves it." 

Amber's smile widens, her eyes sparkling with joy. It's heartwarming to see the happiness we can create for Avery through these simple gestures.

Setting Avery down gently, I watch as she toddles over to the pantry, her curiosity getting the better of her. James joins in the fun, his voice full of playful banter. "The elf is very cheeky, isn't he, Ave?" he asks, a twinkle in his eyes. Avery nods vigorously, her enthusiasm evident.

Amber and James mention they are heading out for breakfast, bidding us goodbye. 

Gen then makes her way over to me, her eyes filled with a mixture of love and understanding.

She whispers in my ear, her voice filled with tenderness, "I heard her." I wrap my arm around her, pulling her closer as her head finds a resting place on my shoulder. At that moment, unspoken words pass between us, a silent acknowledgment of the significance of Avery's words.

Sensing the weight of the situation, I ask Gen softly, "Are you okay with it?" 

She responds with a gentle nod, her love for Avery shining through. Knowing that Avery sees me as her father despite the absence of a biological connection is a bittersweet realisation. But it's also a testament to the strength of our bond and the love we've built as a family.

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i love them so much. also thank you for 10k reads!! i love you all