Ant and Dec One Shots

Christmas Struggles

It was early December, and usually, Dec would be the one dragging Ant out to Christmas markets, humming carols nonstop, and setting up elaborate decorations around the house before most people even thought about bringing their trees down from the attic. But this year, something felt different. Ant noticed it immediately.

Dec had been uncharacteristically quiet, barely mentioning Christmas and avoiding their usual holiday plans. Ant tried to ignore it at first, hoping Dec would come around on his own. But as another week passed and Dec seemed no closer to finding his festive spirit, Ant decided it was time to check on his best friend.

He drove over to Dec's place one evening, bringing along a thermos of mulled wine and a tin of mince pies he'd picked up from their favourite bakery. When Dec opened the door, he managed a small smile, but it didn't reach his eyes.

"Thought I'd bring Christmas to you since it seems like it's taking its time this year," Ant said, holding up the tin and thermos with a grin. Dec chuckled softly, letting him in.

They settled on Dec's couch, the familiar comfort of being with each other warming them both in a way the chilly evening air couldn't. But Ant couldn't ignore the slight crease in Dec's brow, the way he seemed almost lost in thought.

"Alright, mate," Ant began gently, breaking the silence. "What's going on? You've been quiet, and not in your usual Christmas mood. You know you can talk to me about anything."

Dec let out a slow sigh, looking down at his hands as he traced invisible patterns on the side of his mug. "I don't know, Ant. I keep trying to get excited, like I usually do, but every time I think about Christmas, I just... I feel anxious. And I don't even know why."

Ant's heart ached for him, seeing Dec struggling in a way he hadn't seen before. Dec was often the one lifting others' spirits, and it was clear he felt strange now, not being able to lift his own.

"Hey, hey, come here," Ant murmured, shifting closer and wrapping his arm around Dec's shoulder. "You don't have to be full of Christmas spirit all the time, you know. And feeling anxious - that's alright too."

Dec leaned into the embrace, his head resting against Ant's shoulder. He didn't say anything, and Ant could feel him taking deep breaths, slowly relaxing into the comfort and warmth.

"I think I just put so much pressure on myself to be cheerful. Everyone expects it from me, especially around Christmas," Dec admitted quietly. "And this year, I just... I don't feel like myself, and it makes me anxious, like I'm letting everyone down."

Ant squeezed his shoulder, his voice soft and understanding. "Listen, Dec, you're allowed to have off days. Heck, you're allowed to have an off season if that's what you need. Christmas will still be here, and I'll still be here, no matter how you're feeling."

Dec stayed silent for a while, his hand finding Ant's and holding it tightly. Ant let him have the time he needed, knowing Dec would open up when he was ready. Eventually, Dec spoke up again, his voice a little steadier.

"Thanks, Ant. I think I just needed to hear that it's okay to feel this way," he said, his voice laced with relief. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

"You won't have to find out," Ant replied with a gentle smile, leaning in to press a reassuring kiss to Dec's temple. "I'm here, no matter what. We'll take it day by day, okay?"

Dec nodded, a small, genuine smile finally breaking through. "Alright. Day by day sounds good."

They stayed there on the couch for a while longer, just holding each other. Ant rubbed slow, soothing circles on Dec's back, his words soft and comforting.

"You're not alone, Dec. We're in this together, always," he murmured. And with those simple words, Dec felt a weight lift, the warmth of Ant's reassurance finally easing his worries.