Matthew Gray Gubler Short Stories - Christmas Edition

Sleigh Ride #3

"Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you."

Keeping an eye out for Matthew's car out of the window, you paced across the floor of your shared bedroom. He had called you in the morning, telling you to prepare yourself to go out when he got back causing you to be nervous all day. Although the rainy New York weather didn't really permit any fun, outdoor activities, he had been adamant that you were to dress up for the cold and to make sure you were ready to leave as soon as he got home. As soon as his car pulled into your driveway, you made your way down the stairs to the front door where your coat and shoes were waiting for you on the clothes/shoe rack. Pulling on your coat, you saw the front door open and Matthew peek his head around it.

"Ready to go?"

You nodded as you slipped on your shoes, "Where are we going?"

His eyes twinkled as he put his finger to his lips. "Can't say; it's a surprise." His head disappeared and then reappeared as he checked something outside.

You tried to follow him out of the door but he stopped you before you even got near it.

"You need to close your eyes."

You gave him a pained look. You hated surprises at the best of times.

"Do I have to?"

He nodded his head, "Close your eyes."

You did as instructed and let him guide you outside, keeping them closed as he locked the door behind you. He stood behind you, covering your eyes with his hands and walked you forward a few steps. The smell was the first thing that hit you.

"Matthew what the -"

You were cut off by him removing his hands and yelling "surprise!"

Your eyes took a little while to adjust to the bright light. The man had only gone and hired a horse and cart.

"I know it's not much of a sleigh ride but is it a good compromise?" He asked referring to a childhood dream of yours. You looked at him questioningly. He seemed to know what you were talking about.

"Don't worry; this horse only works for an hour or so a day and he's really well-treated – I've seen so myself."

You nodded and let him help you get into the carriage. There were blankets scattered on the seats across from them, ready to keep them warm and even a small picnic basket. He had thought of everything.

He settled into the seat beside you and you laid your head on his shoulder as he covered you over with a blanket. "Merry Christmas, Love."