Fate || BENNIFER

Blended Family

Jennifer's P.O.V

The sun was setting over the palm trees in our backyard, casting a warm glow over the California landscape. Despite the lack of snow and chilly weather, the Christmas spirit was in the air, and we were ready to bring it into our home.

We unboxed the Christmas tree, carefully assembling it limb by limb. Laughter filled the air as the children took turns arranging the branches. Our-nine-week old, Grace, lay peacefully in her bassinet by the couch, oblivious to the excitement around her.

Once the tree stood tall, the little ones began to adorn it with the ornaments. Sam was in my arms, watching with wide eyes, seemingly captivated by the shimmering decorations. Ben surrounded my waist, pulling me close, and I leaned into his embrace. We exchanged a tender kiss, which made Sam smile.

Violet carefully placed a delicate glass ornament. Max clung onto his favorite reindeer, eagerly approaching the tree. Emme's face lit up with excitement as she rushed to the box of ornaments. With Sera's help, she selected a shiny candy cane and placed it on a low-hanging branch. Ben untangled the string of twinkling lights right after placing the colorful garlands. Those also decorated the rest of the room, the piano, thresholds, staircase handrail, fireplace mantel, front door, and windows. The living room was transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland.

This year, the mantel would hold not just two or four, but eight stockings that represented our lovely blended family. As we knelt down, we began to distribute the stockings with their names. Violet was the first to secure hers to later assist her siblings. She held Sam in her arms to make sure he could also have his moment. For Grace's stocking, Ben and I stood together, our fingers intertwined while she was nestled in my arm. Ben reached out to hang the stocking on the mantel.

We stood back to take a look, and the room seemed to hold its breath, as if acknowledging the significance of the moment. The stockings, each one representing a cherished member of our family.

"I think it's time to make some cookies." I said turning to Ben.

"Absolutely." He replied.

Their eyes widened before they went nuts. Laughter and excitement filled the kitchen as we prepared to embark on our baking adventure with five whirlwind children.

We began by gathering the ingredients. Flour, sugar, butter, and a rainbow of sprinkles were lined up on the countertop. Ben, who looked absurdly cute wearing a rather small apron, stood by my side, eager to lend a hand.

As I sifted flour into a mixing bowl, Ben couldn't help a little mischief. He gently dipped his finger into the flour and playfully tapped my nose. Giggles erupted from the kids. I scrunched my face and retaliated by grabbing a handful of flour. With a swift movement, I smudged it on his cheek, leaving a trail of laughter in my wake.

The children squealed as they joined the flour fight, their tiny hands creating clouds of white that floated through the air. Amidst the playful chaos, Ben leaned in and gently brushed away the flour from my nose. Our lips met in a sweet, flour-dusted kiss.

As they mixed and kneaded the dough, the scent of vanilla and butter enveloped the kitchen. For the last step, they sprinkled chocolate chips onto the dough. They also helped scoop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the baking trays, their little fingers leaving imprints.

The timer finally chimed, and the aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the air, adding a delightful sweetness to the festive atmosphere. The first lighting of the Christmas tree illuminated the room, casting a warm and comforting light as we snuggled under cozy blankets. As the clock ticked into the night, most of them drifted off to sleep.