WHERE WE MEET!

Chapter 11 - Change

After concluding all the arrangements, Cone proceeded to embark on the delightful task of baking cookies or gingerbread, a culinary venture he had meticulously outlined. While engrossed in the kitchen, he observed Seraph descending the staircase, seemingly oblivious to Cone's presence. Without hesitation, Cone vocalized a greeting, attempting to capture Seraph's attention.

" Hey, Seraph! Wanna help me make gingerbread cookies with me? "

" ... Sure. "

Seraph had a soft spot for helping Cone with things, them both entering the kitchen and getting the resources and food needed to make the gingerbread.

In the bustling kitchen, Cone's infectious joy contrasted with Seraph's more reserved demeanor as they embarked on making gingerbread cookies together. Cone, brimming with enthusiasm, measured ingredients with flair, while Seraph meticulously followed the recipe with a touch of monotony.

As the oven preheated, Cone injected liveliness into the atmosphere, playfully suggesting unconventional shapes for the gingerbread. Seraph, though more reserved, acknowledged Cone's ideas with a subtle smile, finding amusement in the unexpected turns of the baking session. Once the cookies were baked to golden perfection, Cone's eyes sparkled with excitement as he reached for vibrant icing and an array of sprinkles. He encouraged Seraph to join in the decorating process, coaxing a rare grin from his usually composed friend. Together, they transformed the plain gingerbread into a mix of lively and more traditional designs.

Despite their differing approaches, Cone and Seraph discovered a delightful balance in their collaboration. Cone's exuberance brought a burst of energy, while Seraph's steady hand added a touch to their festive creations. In the end, the gingerbread cookies became a testament to the harmonious blend of joy and order that emerged from their unique partnership. Cone was happy, admiring the gingerbreads the both of them made.

" They look so good, Sera! We did great! "

Cone then gave Seraph a tight hug, Seraph giving him a tighter hug in response. Letting go of each other, Cone carefully grabbed the hot tray of gingerbread and brought them to the living room.

" Rot, Jass! The gingerbread is finished! "

Cone loudly announced, he already saw Rot shooting down the stairs about to eat all the cookies. Cone knowing their move, he stopped them in their tracks by putting a hand on their head.

" Only eat one, Rot. "

Rot then frowned, but nodded as they walked up to the couch, taking one of the colorized gingerbread and taking a chomp out of it. Jass, who was right behind them came from downstairs as well. Sitting next to Rot on the couch and taking one as well.

" Wow, Cone! These are amazing! "

Rot smiled as they as well admired the decorations of the gingerbread men and all their cute smiley faces and designs.

" Thanks! Me and Sera made them together. "

" You guys both did so good!!! "

Seraph basked in a wave of self-pride, a warm smile spreading across his face as Rot's support made him feel genuinely appreciated.

Seated closely beside him, Cone seized a gingerbread creation, his gingerbread creation, and handing another to Seraph with a grin. Eagerly, Seraph indulged in a bite, exchanging smiles with Cone as they savored their collaborative masterpiece.

As the quartet engaged in lively conversation, Jass and Rot thought of a mischievous plan, sneaking away to plot something whimsical out of Cone and Seraph's line of sight. Positioning themselves in front of the stairs, shrouded in secrecy, they grinned like co-conspirators about to unleash a hilarious surprise.

When the stage was set, Rot jumped onto Jass' shoulders, the duo executing their devious mission. oblivious to Cone and Seraph, a mistletoe materialized above their heads, prompting a collective glance upward. Caught in the unexpected festive moment, the demon and raccoon exchanged bemused glances, realizing they'd been unknowingly set up for a potential holiday kiss.

With a shared glance, Seraph emitted a small sigh, thinking, " Fuck this shit. " Suddenly, he had a gentle grasp on Cone's cheeks, playfully yanking him in for a big smack on the lips. The room hung in a momentary hush as they held the surprising kiss for a beat or two, leaving Cone with a rosy complexion.

Amused snickers erupted from the mischievous duo, Rot and Jass, observing the spectacle from behind. Seraph, not one to be outdone in the laughter, joined in, taking in Cone's stunned expression. In a surprising turn, Seraph smoothly transitioned from the lip lock to a gentle embrace, wrapping Cone in a big feeling of warmth.

" I love you, Cone. "

" ... I love you too. "

" AND HAPPY NEW YEARS! "

Rot yelled on Jass' shoulders, too much excitement and impact causing them to fall back. Causing a laugh from everyone in the room.

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CHARACTER STATUS:

(SERAPH - ALIVE - STABLE)

(CONE - ALIVE - STABLE)

(ROT - INFECTED - STABLE)

(JASS - ALIVE - STABLE)