The snow fell softly outside, blanketing the world in a pristine layer of white, while inside, the warmth of the decorated home radiated a cozy glow. Strings of twinkling lights danced across the walls, reflecting off the shimmering ornaments that adorned the tree. A festive wreath hung on the door, welcoming their close friends with open arms.
Xanthos and Shoji bustled around the living room, arranging the last of the decorations and setting up the table for their small gathering. The scent of gingerbread and cinnamon wafted through the air, mingling with the sound of cheerful laughter as their friends began to arrive.
Zani entered first, her eyes sparkling as she took in the festive atmosphere. “This place looks amazing! You guys really outdid yourselves!” she exclaimed, stepping inside with a bright smile.
“Thanks! We wanted it to feel special,” Shoji replied, a blush creeping up his cheeks at the praise. He adjusted the Santa hat perched on his head, his excitement palpable.
Mika followed, carrying a large platter filled with cookies, her arms barely able to hold it. “I brought treats!” she announced, placing the platter on the table with a flourish. “These are my grandmother’s secret recipe. You’re all going to love them!”
Danil entered with a playful smirk, a mischievous glint in his eye. “I hope you saved some cake for me, or else I might just have to start a food fight!” he joked, throwing his arms wide as if to emphasize the point.
Rayne was last to arrive, his expression a mix of amusement and curiosity as he took in the cheerful scene. “This is quite the setup,” he remarked, stepping further inside. “I didn't think you two had it in you.”
As they gathered around the table, Xanthos and Shoji placed a beautifully decorated cake at the center, its frosting glistening like fresh snow. Everyone leaned in as they lit the candles, their flames flickering in the soft glow of the room.
“Ready?” Xanthos asked, grinning as he glanced at Shoji, who nodded eagerly. They all counted down together, voices mingling in excitement, “Three, two, one!”
With a collective cheer, Shoji blew out the candles, his face lighting up with delight. “Make a wish!” he encouraged, the warmth of the moment wrapping around them like a soft blanket.
The laughter and chatter filled the air as they cut into the cake, generous slices being passed around while the sweet flavors mingled with the atmosphere of joy. Stories were exchanged, jokes were shared, and the worries of the outside world faded away, leaving only the warmth of friendship and love.
As the evening wore on, the group settled into comfortable conversations, a sense of belonging wrapping around them like the soft throws draped over the furniture. The sound of laughter echoed through the home, each chuckle a reminder of the bond they shared, fortified by moments like these.
When the clock struck midnight, the group leaned back, content and happy. Shoji, feeling the warmth of the festivities, looked around at his friends and smiled. “This is the best Christmas ever,” he whispered, his heart full as he soaked in the joy of the moment.
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As the laughter settled and the last bites of cake were enjoyed, a soft rustling came from the adjacent room. All eyes turned toward the sound, and a tiny figure emerged, clad in adorable red and white Santa clothes. A small ponytail bobbed with each movement, and a makeshift beard mask hung adorably from the baby’s face.
The room fell silent for a moment, captivated by the sight. The baby’s unique eyes—a hazel left and a grey right—sparkled with mischief as they crawled toward Shoji, their small hands patting the floor in eager anticipation.
