Love in the Spotlight

First Christmas

The smell of cinnamon and freshly baked cookies filled the air as Gianna carefully placed the final ornament on the Christmas tree. She stepped back, examining her handiwork with a satisfied smile. The tree shimmered with warm white lights, colorful baubles, and an assortment of quirky ornaments, many of which Hana had insisted on adding. A tiny T-rex with a Santa hat dangled proudly near the top, courtesy of Hana's love for all things dinosaur-related.

"Okay, but seriously, how cute is this?" Hana said, holding up a small gingerbread man with a lopsided grin. She had just finished decorating the last batch of cookies and was clearly proud of her work.

Gianna turned around, leaning against the armrest of the couch, and grinned. "It's almost as cute as you."

Hana's ears turned pink at the compliment, and she set the cookie down with exaggerated care. "If you keep talking like that, I might have to kiss you before dinner."

Gianna laughed, her cheeks warming. "Who said that's a bad thing?"

Hana crossed the room in a few strides, wrapping her arms around Gianna's waist. The two swayed slightly to the holiday music playing softly in the background. Gianna rested her head on Hana's chest, feeling the steady rhythm of her heartbeat.

"This is perfect," Gianna murmured. "You, me, Christmas... I've never felt more at home."

Hana tilted Gianna's chin up gently. "You are home, Gigi. Wherever we are, that's home for me."

The kiss they shared was tender, filled with the quiet joy that had been building all day. When they pulled apart, Gianna playfully tugged Hana toward the kitchen.

"Come on," she said. "We need to finish setting up before my parents get here. Mom's been dying to try your gingerbread cookies."

"Are you sure she's not just coming to critique my frosting skills?" Hana teased, but she followed willingly.

The kitchen was a cozy mess of flour, icing, and sprinkles. A tray of freshly baked cookies sat cooling on the counter, while a pot of mulled cider simmered on the stove. Gianna handed Hana a festive apron, which Hana tied around her waist with a smirk.

"Do I look domestic yet?" Hana asked, striking a ridiculous pose.

Gianna rolled her eyes, laughing. "You look like someone who's about to get flour in her hair again if she doesn't focus."

The evening passed in a whirlwind of laughter and holiday cheer. Gianna's parents arrived just as the sun dipped below the horizon, bringing a flurry of hugs and presents. Her mom fussed over the decorations, while her dad made himself comfortable by the fireplace, sipping cider and telling stories about Gianna's childhood that had her blushing furiously.

Through it all, Hana fit in seamlessly. She charmed Gianna's parents with her quick wit and easy smile, even winning over Gianna's dad when she admitted she was a fan of his favorite football team. Gianna couldn't stop herself from watching Hana with a mix of admiration and affection. She'd never seen someone connect so effortlessly with her family.

Later, after the guests had left and the house was quiet again, Gianna and Hana curled up on the couch together. The tree lights cast a warm glow over the room, and a light snow began to fall outside the window. Hana pulled a blanket over their legs and held Gianna close.

"Best Christmas ever," Hana said softly.

Gianna looked up at her, her heart full. "You're the best gift I could've asked for."

They stayed like that for hours, wrapped up in each other and the magic of their first Christmas together. It was simple, sweet, and perfect—a moment they'd both treasure forever.