White Deer's Winter Romance

Xavier's POV

I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment with Aaliyah sleeping on my shoulder. She was so peaceful, so trusting, and I felt honored to be the one she felt safe with.

After a while, I noticed her breathing slow, and her body relax even further into mine. I smiled, realizing she had fallen asleep.

I gently lifted her into my arms, cradling her like a child, and carried her to her bedroom. I laid her down on the bed, and pulled the blankets up to her chin.

As I looked at her, I couldn't help but feel a surge of protectiveness. I wanted to make sure she was always safe, always happy.

I tucked her in, making sure she was comfortable, and then sat beside her for a moment, watching her sleep.

"Aaliyah," I whispered, my voice barely audible. "You're so strong, so brave. I'm so grateful to be a part of your life."

I brushed a strand of hair out of her face, and then stood up, looking down at her with a smile.

"Get some rest, beautiful," I said, my voice a little louder now. "You deserve it."

Just as I was about to close the door, Teddy appeared out of nowhere and jumped onto the bed, landing with a soft thud beside Aaliyah. I chuckled and shook my head, smiling at the mischievous dog.

"Looks like someone wants to keep her company," I said, laughing.

Teddy snuggled up beside Aaliyah, his tail wagging softly, and his eyes closing contentedly. I smiled at them.

"Alright, you two," I said, my voice low and soothing. "Get some rest. I'll be right outside if you need me."

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Christmas mornings were usually hard for me. It's been 9 years since my dad passed away on this day. He was a dedicated and respected lawman who served his community with courage and integrity. One fateful day, while responding to a call, he was fatally shot by a suspect.

I remembered the day my dad died like it was yesterday. I  had always looked up to my dad, who was a pillar of strength and justice in their small town. When his deputies told me that dad had passed I felt like my world had been turned upside down. I struggled to cope with the loss, he was my only living parent. I later decided to follow in my father's footsteps and become a law enforcement officer, determined to make a difference and keep dad’s memory alive.

Christmas had never been the same since his passing. My mind began to wander back to the last time I had a truly jovial Christmas...

It was with my ex-wife, Sarah. We had been married for just a year, and that Christmas was one I'll never forget. She had decorated the entire house with lights and garlands, and we spent the day cooking and laughing together. The smell of freshly baked cookies and the sound of Bing Crosby's "White Christmas" filled the air. We exchanged gifts, and I remember the sparkle in her eyes when she opened the small box containing a silver necklace with a tiny snowflake pendant.

As I lay there, lost in thought, I heard the sound of "Jingle Bells" drifting from the living room, followed by the laughter of Aaliyah and Teddy. I couldn't help but smile, remembering the joy that Christmas had once brought me. Maybe, just maybe, this year would be different. Maybe Aaliyah and Teddy's presence in my life would help me find some of that joy again. Maybe the storm brought something good in my life.

I threw off the covers and got out of bed, feeling the Christmas spirit that I hadn't felt in a long time. I made my way to the living room, eager to join Aaliyah and Teddy and start the day.