delicate (tayvis one shots)

in the blink of a crinkling eye (one shot)

It was Christmas Eve, and the Swift house was full of life. The smell of freshly baked cookies and pine filled the air as the Christmas tree lights gently twinkled in the living room. The fireplace was lit, warming the cozy atmosphere, and Taylor's family had gathered, as they did every year. But this year, something was different.

Taylor, 18, with a sparkle in her eyes, was in the kitchen, stirring the dough for more cookies while chatting with her mom, Andrea. Her eyes would occasionally drift to the hallway, where Travis's laughter could be heard coming from the living room. He was here with her, and that made everything even more special.

"Hey, Tay, can I lend a hand?" Travis appeared behind her with a mischievous smile, bringing with him the cheerful spirit of the season. He was wearing a Christmas-themed t-shirt and comfortable pants, making his relaxed demeanor even more charming.

"Sure, but be careful with the dough, alright?" Taylor joked, gesturing for him not to mess things up. He grabbed a wooden spoon and started stirring the dough with dedication, laughing as he leaned over to grab a piece of chocolate from the counter.

Taylor's parents, Andrea and Scott, were in the living room, where Austin was having fun with the decorations, laughing at some inside joke. The atmosphere was joyful and full of anticipation, a good feeling enveloping everyone there. Taylor watched Travis from afar, noticing how comfortable he was with her family. They always had an instant connection, but now, it seemed that the bond was even stronger.

When Travis looked at Taylor and saw her sweet smile, warmth spread through his chest. He still remembered when they were teenagers, with those first shy moments and furtive glances. Now, seeing how radiant she was, surrounded by her family, made him realize just how much he loved her. Being here, on this Christmas, felt like the culmination of something he couldn't quite explain, but he felt it in every beat of his heart.

"You look a little distracted there," Travis commented, tossing a bit of flour into the air, making Taylor laugh.

"I was just thinking about how perfect all of this is," she replied, her tone soft and sincere. "Not just Christmas, but us. You and me."

Travis smiled, walking up to her and gently touching her shoulder. "Me too, Tay. This is the best Christmas."

They moved closer, and Taylor couldn't help but smile once again, feeling the familiarity and calm he brought. Time seemed to stop there, with them together, sharing that intimate moment amidst the festive chaos. Their eyes met, and for a moment, the rest of the world disappeared.

(...)

The dinner was served, and the house was full. Laughter and conversations flowed as everyone gathered around the table. Travis's mom, Donna, was excitedly talking about how he always had a smile on his face and how much he loved Christmas with the family. The conversation flowed easily, and the energy was contagious.

Travis's parents were there too, laughing at Jason's jokes, his brother, who was having fun teasing Travis about the amount of food he was taking. Austin was sitting next to Abigail, chatting with her about some new project he was trying, while Taylor and Travis enjoyed exchanging knowing glances and smiles.

"I still can't believe I'm here with all of you, on Christmas," Travis said, more to Taylor than anyone else. "I've always felt like part of your family, Tay."

She smiled, gently touching his hand. "You are part of our family, Trav."

"You two are so cute," Abigail commented as she approached them, laughing quietly. "I hope you don't start exchanging secret gifts or something." She laughed at her own joke, and everyone around her joined in the laughter.