A cozy winter’s tale

Some fireplace to sit in front of while the blazing snowstorm aches against the windows and cuddled into the arms of Thea, my love; how could my winter be more perfect? The fire makes her blonde hair sparkle, and ignites some embers in her otherwise blue eyes. She looks so beautiful just sitting there and playing with my hair.

You can really tell that Christmas is around the corner. Thea’s mum is feeling better currently, and put up some decorations in the living room: wooden XMAS letters on the counter, some garland with red ornaments on the table and above the fireplace, a big snowflake in the window. She left a big box for us to finish the living room and to use around the rest of the house while they are on vacation for the weekend. Therefore, Thea and I planned a cozy stay-in and bought some snacks.

“Okay, here we go!,” Thea proclaims as she returns from the kitchen, and I can smell the cocoa miles away, “Some sweet treat for my sweet girlfriend!”

She places the hot chocolate in my hand, and I let the warmth of the drink and Thea’s love rush through my body.

“I really won the lottery with you, huh?”

Thea laughs. She moves back into the kitchen and I can hear her say “Haha, you sure did!,” before she returns with some tiny little marshmallows to garnish the cozy drink.

“As you might know, I LOVE the Christmas season, so we always have them mallows around this time of the year.” She smiles, and it’s a smile of anticipation of what’s about to happen next. After a peck on my cheek, Thea starts the Bluetooth speakers and raises her eyebrows.

“Are we ready to blast some songs and bake cookies before we continue decorating?”

“Hell yes!” I take a sip of the hot chocolate and enjoy the sugar rush of the marshmallow and cocoa combination. Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas echoes through the living room as we start prepping the dough and laugh. I’m really not great at baking, but I’m trying. I’m just happy that Thea is so relaxed. Her mom’s depression must be a tough load to carry this year, so it makes me all teary to see her so laid-back.

“A bit of flour on your nose,” Thea starts to explain in a mocking voice and takes me out of my head, “is what you get, when you drift off like that!”

“Stop it!,” I shout laughingly and return the favor. It’s such a relief to see her happy like that.

“Thank you, Emmy.” I am a bit confused about what Thea might be thanking me for.

“I’ve always loved Christmas. It’s such a cheerful holiday with a lot of emotions and connections. However, due to mom’s sickness, I was afraid I couldn’t enjoy this season properly and would be dragged down a lot. You supported me a lot through all of that. Thanks for looking out for me, and thank you for being my girlfriend.”

“I will always be there for you, T. I love you.”