Stitches and Scars

Chapter 20

"The thing about the holiday season is that it almost doesn't matter what mood you're in or what kind of shitty year you've had – it's seems to be a fresh start. An opportunity to forgive, to do better, to do more, to give more, and most of all, to love more. And, you know, to stop and to reflect, and express your love to those who matter most. It is a time to share and to give. Yet, for some of us, the holidays can also be the loneliest time of the year."

Karylle had just come down the stairs, struggling to wear her cardigan, when she suddenly stopped in her tracks. The sight before her was unexpected. Their living room, which had been bare the night before, was now transformed into one of Santa's Christmas factory.

A massive Christmas tree stood in the corner with twinkling lights, glittering ornaments, and a shining star at the top. The entire room was filled with festive decorations – garlands draped over the windows, stockings hung by the television set, and even a few wrapped gifts already placed under the tree.

She found Anne, busy hanging colorful baubles on the tree, humming a Christmas carol to herself. She turned around and saw Karylle, her face lighting up with a bright smile. "Surprise!" she shouted, waving an ornament in the air. "What do you think?"

Before Karylle could respond, Angel stepped into the living room, taking in the extravagant display. She raised an eyebrow and smirked. "Did Santa throw up in here or what?" she said, her tone playful but filled with slight sarcasm.

Karylle blinked, still processing the sudden transformation of their house. "Wow," she finally managed to say, her voice filled with awe. "This is — something, Anne. You did all this?"

Anne laughed, placing the last ornament on a branch. "Yeah! Since it's my day off, I started very early this morning. Gusto ko sana talaga kayong e-surprise. But I had some guys naman from home deliver some stuff and help out."

Karylle forced a smile, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the festive display. "It looks amazing. Maganda. You really outdid yourself."

Anne grinned, stepping back to admire their handiwork. "I'm glad you like it. I wanted to bring some holiday cheer into the house."

Angel gave Karylle a knowing look, clearly not as enthusiastic about the holiday decorations. "Yeah, it's very — cheerful," Angel said, her tone betraying her true feelings.

Anne's face fell slightly, but she quickly recovered. "Alam ko, Christmas isn't really both your thing, but I thought it might be so much fun to get into the spirit this year."

Karylle nodded, feeling a pang of guilt. "No, really, it's great. I'm just — not used to all this," she gestured vaguely at the decorations.

Angel nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it's a bit much for us, but we appreciate the effort, Anne."

Anne's smile returned, though a bit forced. "Well, I just wanted to try something different in this house. Sa bahay kasi Christmas has always been a big deal. Maybe it will grow on you guys too."

Karylle and Angel exchanged awkward glances, both silently agreeing to support Anne despite their own reservations. "Yeah, who knows? Maybe we'll end up enjoying it after all," Angel said, her voice more sincere this time.

Anne hugged them both, her excitement undiminished. "Merry Christmas, you guys."

As they pulled back, Karylle looked around the room again, trying to appreciate the decorations despite her own lack of enthusiasm for the holidays. "Merry Christmas, Anne," she said softly, before stepping out of the house for work.

"Merry Christmas," Angel echoed, his voice warm despite the awkwardness, and followed Karylle.

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