A Love Story in Art

Chapter 20

The chill of December wrapped the city in a festive mood, with twinkling lights adorning every street corner and wreaths hanging from doors. For SJ and Karina, this Christmas was particularly special, it was their first as a married couple. They had been looking forward to this for weeks, eager to make new memories in the home they had lovingly built together. To mark the occasion, they invited a few close friends over for dinner, Pauline, Earl, Andre, and Shelvi.

Karina stood in the kitchen, humming softly as she stirred the pot of stew, the savory aroma filling the air. SJ was nearby, arranging the last of the Christmas decorations, silver and gold garlands that shimmered against the soft glow of their twinkling tree. Everything felt perfect, like a dream come to life.

"Do you think we've gone overboard?" SJ asked with a grin, stepping back to admire the decorations.

Karina shook her head, laughing lightly. "Not at all! It's Christmas, and besides, it's our first one together. I think we deserve a little extra sparkle."

The doorbell rang, and SJ's heart skipped with excitement. "They're here!" he called out, rushing to the door.

Standing on the other side was Pauline and Earl, both wrapped in warm coats and carrying gifts. Pauline's eyes lit up as she stepped inside, taking in the festive atmosphere. "Wow, you two really outdid yourselves!" she said, glancing around at the decorations.

"It's beautiful," Earl added, his voice deep and warm as he handed SJ a bottle of wine. "Merry Christmas, you guys!"

"Merry Christmas!" Karina echoed from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a towel as she came to greet them.

Pauline pulled Karina into a tight hug. "I've missed you!" she exclaimed. "And wow, this place looks so cozy! You've made it feel like a real home."

"Thanks," Karina said with a smile, clearly proud of how everything had come together. "It feels like home, especially with you guys here."

As they settled into the living room, the doorbell rang again. This time, it was Andre and Shelvi, wrapped in scarves and coats, their cheeks flushed from the cold.

"Ho ho ho! Look who's here to crash Christmas!" Andre announced dramatically as he stepped inside, carrying a brightly wrapped box.

"Don't let him fool you," Shelvi laughed, giving a wave as she stepped in after him. "We're here to bring good vibes!"

SJ chuckled, helping them with their coats before leading them into the warmly lit living room where Pauline and Earl were already sipping on mulled wine. The room was now alive with laughter, the flicker of candlelight reflecting off the ornaments, casting a golden glow over the group.

Once everyone had settled in, SJ called them to the dining table, which Karina had artfully set with a mix of holiday colors, deep reds, rich greens, and shimmering gold accents. The meal was ready, and the smell of roasted vegetables, spiced meats, and warm bread filled the room.

As the meal progressed, the conversation naturally drifted toward their shared history, high school days filled with memories both embarrassing and endearing. Pauline, Andre, and SJ had been especially close back then, a trio that could take on anything.

"Remember that time SJ got stuck in the school gym?" Pauline suddenly recalled, laughing so hard she nearly spilled her drink.

"Oh no, not this story again," SJ groaned, though he couldn't help but smile as the memory resurfaced.

Andre leaned in, grinning mischievously. "How could we forget? You thought you could climb the basketball hoop to impress... who was it? Jaslyn?"

SJ covered his face in mock embarrassment. "I swear it wasn't just to impress her! I was dared!"