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Doug stood in the doorway of the living room observing the scene in front of him. Jack was sat on the floor; wrapping paper spread out in front of him, clearly struggling with the tape. Doug smiled, watching the concentration on the other man’s face. Framed by the soft glow of the Christmas tree lights Jack was exactly what he was wanted to find under the Christmas tree come morning.
“Are you just going to stand there and stare?” Jack asked, not even looking up.
“I’m making the most of this moment of quiet and taking in the view,” Doug replied.
Jack smiled, adding a piece of tape to the awkwardly shaped gift he was wrapping before looking up and taking in the scene, loving how festive the house was looking. “It does look good in here.”
“I wasn’t talking about the room,” Doug grinned, moving further into the living room.
Jack rolled his eyes slightly, unable to hide his smile. “Are you planning on helping?”
Doug sat down on the couch behind Jack, reaching out and laying his hands on his shoulders, massaging them. “I was thinking that I would just offer moral support. Fetch drinks and festive snacks – that sort of thing.”
Jack leaned back a little, enjoying the feel of Doug’s hands on him. “Is Amy asleep?”
“I just checked on her. She went out faster than usual.”
“Maybe we should bribe her with the promise of Santa every night,” Jack joked, tilting his head back so he could see Doug, smiling as Doug leaned down and kissed him softly.
“You know it’s us that will have to buy the presents,” Doug reminded. “And wrap them.”
“Good point,” Jack nodded, straightening back up. “I’ll think of something else to bribe her with.”
“I thought all the presents were wrapped?” Doug asked, glancing over at the gifts already under the tree.
“These are the presents from Santa,” Jack replied. “I had to go out a get different wrapping paper. I’m not having the same fiasco as last year when Amy spent half the day asking how Santa had the same wrapping paper as us.”
Doug laughed, remembering it well. “We dropped the ball on that one.”
“I want this year to be perfect.”
“It will be,” Doug said softly, giving his shoulders a squeeze. “It already is.”
“I only have a few more to wrap,” Jack said, the relief evident in his voice. “And then I’m going to need a large drink.”
“I can make that happen,” Doug nodded, standing from the couch and heading towards the kitchen. “What would you like?”
“Whatever has the highest alcohol content,” Jack called back, once again fighting with the stocking filler in front of him. “Remind me next year to only buy gifts that come in boxes. Boxes are easy to wrap.”
Doug laughed pouring Jack a drink – about to return the bottle to the cupboard when he thought better of it and added more to the glass before pouring one for himself. “What is that?” Doug asked, carrying the drinks back into the living room, looking at the present Jack was currently wrapping.
Jack paused, lifting it up to show Doug. “It’s a…” Jack said looking at it more closely. “I have no idea,” he admitted. “But it has Tinkerbell on in and Amy went ballistic when she saw it in the store.”
“Is that really a good enough reason to buy something?”
“What I think you’re trying to say is, ‘thank you, Jack, for driving back to the store on your lunch break to buy the shitty piece of plastic crap that could potentially be our daughter’s favourite present tomorrow’,” Jack joked.
“Yes, absolutely – that’s exactly what I meant,” Doug laughed, placing Jack’s drink down on the coffee table next to him. “Shame Santa will get all the credit.”
“Christmas isn’t about getting credit. It’s about joy – regardless of where it comes from.”
“So should we tell Amy that Santa also brought her the doll’s house we have for her?”
“Hell no – that cost a fortune,” Jack replied quickly. “I’m not letting some fictional being take credit for that.”
“I thought it was about the joy; regardless of source?” Doug asked, raising his eyebrows.
“That’s when I was talking about some ten dollar plastic monstrosity. Not a doll’s house that took hundreds of hours and dollars to make.”
Doug looked at him sternly. “How many hundreds of dollars are we talking?”
“Did I say hundreds?” Jack smirked. “No, fifty dollars tops.”
“Amy’s dolls are going to be living in a house nicer than our own,” Doug laughed, taking a sip of his drink.
“That’s because it cost about as much as this house,” Jack teased. “I really hope she likes it.”
“She’ll love it,” Doug reassured. “It’s incredible. Just don’t be upset when she tells everyone that her favourite present was that mystery Tinkerbell thing.”
“I’ll prepare myself for the sting,” Jack smiled, continuing to wrap the present. With his free hand he reached and grabbed the glass Doug had left for him, noticing its contents for the first time. “Are you trying to get me drunk?”
“Of course not,” Doug smiled. “I just figured the present wrapping was going so badly that this could only help.”
“Very funny.” Jack took a couple of sips before putting the glass down. “At this rate I’ll still be wrapping them when Amy wakes up.”
Taking pity on the other man, Doug moved from his seat on the couch to be joining Jack on the floor – sitting behind him, moving forward until Jack was nestled between his parted legs. “Pass me the tape. I’ll help.”
“You don’t have to. You relax. You’ve been at work all day.”
Doug shook his head, picking up the tape himself. “The sooner you’re finished, the sooner I can give you your Christmas present.”
“It’s not Christmas yet,” Jack replied.
“Maybe I want to give it to you early,” Doug smiled, leaning forward and kissing Jack’s neck.
“We’re supposed to be waiting until Pacey and Joey arrive before opening presents. You know how he gets.”
“Trust me,” Doug laughed against Jack’s skin. “This is not something you’ll want an audience for.”
“Oh,” Jack laughed, blushing slightly at the thought. “I see.” He picked up his drink and took another sip.
“So let’s finish wrapping these things and do the obligatory Santa drop so I can unwrap my present.”
“Wait,” Jack said turning round to look at Doug. “How has this gone from you giving me a present to me being your present?”
“Okay, fine, you’re not my present, but I still want to unwrap you.”
Jack smiled promisingly, kissing Doug before returning his attention to the next present. “Tape,” he said, reaching out his hand, waiting for Doug to hand him some.
“Yes, Santa,” Doug teased, handing him what he needed.
“You have got me an actual present, right?” Jack asked; the question in his head spilling out.
“Of course I have,” Doug replied, wrapping his arms around Jack’s body, shuffling a little closer until there was no space between them.
“Just checking,” Jack smiled, leaning back against Doug’s chest, feeling Doug’s hands moving over his body. “And it better not be another god awful Christmas sweater. I humoured you last year and I still haven’t lived it down with Pacey.”
“It’s not a sweater,” Doug replied, mouth moving to Jack’s neck once more.
“I don’t need socks either,” Jack teased.
“What do you take me for?”
“Just take this as my annual, thought probably slightly too late, reminder that Christmas presents are not meant to be practical. It’s about want; not need.”
“It’s funny you should put it like that,” Doug said huskily, his hands moving to the bottom of Jack’s sweater, lifting it up his body, his hands slipping underneath. “Because what I need right now is also something I really want.”
Jack groaned slightly, allowing Doug to pull his sweater up the rest of the way before removing it completely, knowing his task was about to become more difficult. “You’re not helping.”
“Sorry,” Doug said, sounding anything but apologetic. “How many more do you have to wrap?”
“Two more,” Jack said, relieved. “How many more years do we have before we can stop the whole Santa myth?”
“I think we still have a few more years,” Doug replied. “And don’t pretend you don’t love it.”
“I do,” Jack smiled, grabbing the next gift to wrap, realising that Doug had already grown tired to being his tape helper – his hands otherwise engaged, moving down Jack’s body.
“As much as you protest, we all know you’re a sucker for the holidays.”
“It’s feels different now. With you and Amy. It has meaning,” Jack confessed.
“I know what you mean,” Doug said, his hand sinking lower on Jack’s body, running up and down his thigh. “Hurry up and wrap,” he instructed, peering over Jack’s shoulder and noticing his hands had almost completely ceased wrapping.
Jack grabbed the tape, pulling off a large strip, wrapping it haphazardly around the present, holding the paper in place.
“Shall we tell her that Rudolf wrapped that one?” Doug teased.
“It’s better that telling her that her daddy gets extra horny at Christmas,” Jack laughed.
“Which one of us as you referring to?” Doug asked, his mouth moving to the area of exposed skin above the collar of Jack’s T-shirt.
“Not the one desperately trying to keep the Christmas magic alive,” Jack groaned, feeling Doug’s hand move higher up his thigh.
“Less talking, more wrapping,” Doug mumbled, pushing up against Jack’s body, his hand stopping on the very top of Jack’s thigh, thumb stroking him through the fabric of his jeans.
“How am I supposed to do this while you’re doing that?” Jack moaned, trying to focus on wrapping the paper around the final present rather than the feel of Doug’s hand, or his body pressed up behind him.
“I suggest quickly,” Doug replied, his hands moving to the button of Jack’s jeans, unfastening it before moving to the zip, creating enough space to slip his hand inside. He smiled as Jack moaned, pushing his head back, laying it on his shoulder. Doug’s mouth moved along Jack’s jawline, nipping gently as his hand continued its mission. “If you want me to stop just say the word.”
Jack turned his head, mouth finding Doug’s, kissing him with reckless abandonment, forgetting about his festive task, savouring the motion of Doug’s hand; pushing back against him – feeling the beat of Doug’s heart against his back. He lifted his hips slightly trying to find a more comfortable angle. “When have I ever asked you to stop?”
Doug smiled, his free hand moving to Jack’s stomach, resting against his firm muscle, feeling Jack lean back against him a little more firmly – his hands still clutching the last half-wrapped present. “You want to finish that off last one?” Doug asked teasingly, feeling Jack’s body squirm slightly under his touch. “Because this is your last opportunity.”
Jack moaned again as he felt Doug’s hand slow and stop – the lack of movement almost more distracting. He thrusted his hips a little, trying to replicate the movement that had been withdrawn, not wanting to give up on the sensation that had been entrancing him.
“You have approximately ten seconds,” Doug said in a low voice, his mouth poised by Jack’s neck.
Jack nodded, trying to get enough sense back to figure out what he needed to do. He quickly grabbed the tape, adding it to the present that had been firmly clutched in his hand, barely checking that the paper was properly fixed before tossing it onto the pile.
“That one was even worse than the last one,” Doug teased, his hand slowly starting its movements again.
“Shut up,” Jack groaned, his shoulders loosening slightly as he relaxed further into Doug’s body, his hands moving to the other man’s thighs either side of him. “There is no way you’re on the nice list.”
“It was never my intention to make the nice list,” Doug replied, mouth close to Jack’s ear, nudging his nose against Jack, inhaling the scent of the other man. “You can relax now – Christmas preparations are complete. It’s time to sit back and enjoy.”
“That’s my intention,” Jack replied, lifting his hips to assist in Doug’s attempt to push his jeans down out of the way – the pleasureful sensations only growing once Doug had the room to work over him more fully. Reaching out, Jack once again grabbed his glass, taking a long slow sip as he succumbed further to Doug’s will – reaching his free hand up over his shoulder; his fingers finding their way into Doug’s hair as Doug’s mouth continued to move over his neck.
“You really are getting into the Christmas spirit,” Doug laughed against Jack’s skin.
“You know teachers live for the holiday seasons,” he mumbled in response as leant is head further back against Doug’s shoulder; his hips lifting as his back arched slightly.
“As do their significant others,” Doug confirmed, his words vibrating against Jack’s skin. “The nights can be cold and lonely waiting for you to finish your grading,” he teased.
“I don’t recall you ever going to bed cold nor alone,” Jack replied, his hips rocking against Doug’s continued motion – pushing back a little more firmly against Doug’s body.
“True,” Doug conceded, using his free hand to pop the button on his own pants, trying to work out a way to free himself with Jack’s pressed so close against him. As though Jack was reading his mind, be began to shift forward, only for Doug’s arm to loop around his middle, holding him in place. “Don’t move,” he instructed. “Stay right where you are.”
Doug’s words sent a shudder through Jack’s body, realising that Doug clearly had a plan in mind. Without question, Jack complied with Doug’s wishes – having always loved when a little flash of the sheriff took over.
“Remove your pants,” Doug continued to instruct, feeling Jack lean back against his body more firmly as he struggled to push his clothing down his body before kicking his legs free of everything. “And your T-shirt,” Doug added; his hand moving a little more slowly over Jack as he watched Jack pull at the hem of his T-shirt and gracefully pull it over his head, masterfully working around Doug’s arm still looped around him – knowing full well that his movements were being studied.
Mouth instantly moving to Jack’s shoulder, Doug removed his arm from Jack’s middle, managing to unfasten the buttons of his shirt, pulling it open so his chest could be pressed against the skin of Jack’s back – instantly feeling the heat coming from the other man.
“Are you beginning to feel a little more relaxed yet?” Doug asked – his fingertips dancing their way up and down Jack’s arm.
“You could say that,” Jack replied, his voice sounding a little strained, his hands moving to the ground either side of Doug’s body, bracing his arms to keep him from falling back into Doug.
“If you can think of anything else I can do to help, just let me know,” Doug teased; laughing when Jack unconsciously lifted his hips once more, pushing back, virtually perching on Doug’s lap. “Funny; I was thinking the same thing.”
Jack moaned through clenched teeth, rapidly requiring more that Doug was dolling out, and Doug knew it.
“Reach into my pocket,” Doug said, mouth pressed against Jack’s ear.
“What?” Jack chuckled; being no stranger to following Doug’s direction, but not having heard that one before. “Is that where I’ll find my present?” he joked.
“It’s more of one of those want/need situations I was talking about before,” Doug replied, pushing his nose into the hair on Jack’s head, breathing in his lover as their bodies continued to move.
Jack reached behind him, his right hand slipping into the pocket of Doug’s unbuttoned pants, smiling when he recognised what his fingers were wrapped around, carefully removing the small bottle of lube from where Doug had had it hidden, without dislodging the cap and spilling its contents.
“How long has that been in your pocket?”
“Maybe it’s always in my pocket just in case,” Doug joked – his hand slowing his movements over Jack before stopping completely.
His hands moved to Jack’s hips, holding them still as he pushed against him a little more firmly, hearing moans pour from Jack that twinned his own, Jack’s head once again pushed back against his shoulder, giving him greater access to the lightly stubbled patch of skin that ran between his jawline and his neck – kissing his way along it in way that always made Jack melt.
Doug’s hand traced its way from Jack’s right hip, towards the inside of his thigh, continuing to travel downwards; gently gripping Jack’s thigh, lifting his leg to be looping it over the top of his own, encouraging Jack to rest his foot flat against the floor. Once he was satisfied with the position, his hand returned to Jack’s hip, as he mirrored the movement on the other leg.
Still holding the bottle tightly in his hand, Jack allowed his body to be shaped and molded around Doug’s, having faith that whatever Doug was imagining was going to feel incredible for the both of them. With Doug’s hand on his hips once more; finger gently kneading into him, he felt Doug lean into him once more – mouth returning to his ear – preparing himself for his next instruction.
“Lift on to your knees,” Doug instructed, holding Jack’s hips more tightly as Jack had to raise up a little, moving one leg at a time until his was on his knees, shins against the ground as with his feet pushed behind him – finding the position much easier to maintain as Doug drew his own legs together between his own, making the width of Jack’s straddle more manageable.
“You’re lucky I’m flexible,” Jack laughed, feeling Doug’s hands pull him back down against his body.
“That thought had crossed my mind on many occasions,” Doug teased; more than satisfied that he had managed to pull off his plan without having to let go of the man he craved. No longer able to ignore his own discomfort, he managed to unfasten his pants more fully; this time not stopping Jack from lifting a little to allow his clothing to be pushed down enough to relieve his discomfort. Lifting his hips enough to get his clothing out from underneath him, his erection brushed against Jack’s ass, heightening his urgency. He wriggled his legs, grateful when Jack assisted from the other side of his body, pulling the clothing down enough that Doug could get free. He quickly shrugging off his shirt.
Deciding to make the most of Jack’s slightly raised position, Doug wordlessly reached around and found the item Jack was tightly grasping – feeling Jack push backwards in anticipation of the unspoken promise left lingering between them. Removing the cap, Doug quickly and skillfully coated his fingers, dropping the bottle down close by before returning his attention to the man he loved.
Once again looping an arm softly around his middle, pressing a kiss against his shoulder blade, his positioned his fingers against Jack’s muscle, waiting for Jack to take a deep breath before pushing one finger inside. The sound that escaped Jack’s mouth caused his stomach to feel like he was freefalling – the whole time with the comfort of knowing he was completely safe. He waited for Jack’s body to relax around him before introducing the second finger, feeling Jack’s stomach muscles tighten against his hand as he continued to move inside of him, alternating between long strokes and tracing circles; listening closely to Jack’s reactions – not wanting to take him too far. He brushed the tip of his middle fingers over a spot he had grown used to manipulating, knowing that Jack knew it was coming when he bit down against his lip the moment before a long and needy moan emerged from him – his thighs lightly trembling at Doug’s sides.
Doug’s hand moved to Jack’s chest, feeling the pounding of his heart against his palm; feeling the same sensation from the other side as he rested his forehead between Jack’s shoulder blades, kissing him softly – a silent apology for the loss of sensation as he gently removed his fingers.
“You good?” he asked softly, once again reaching for the previously discarded bottle, and opening it once more.
“No,” Jack moaned, sounding less than impressed with the sudden emptiness he was feeling. “I need more.”
“Christmas should be about getting what you want, not what you need,” Doug mocked – trying to breathe steadily as his hand worked over his erection; preparing to give Jack what he wanted.
“I want more,” Jack corrected; feeling a spark when Doug’s hands returned to his hips – immediately beginning to lower himself back onto his partner before Doug even initiated the movement.
Jack once again felt pressure against him; a heat far greater than just having Doug’s fingers inside of him. He inhaled deeply, grateful for Doug’s hands on his hips, slowing his movement; knowing that his desire was making him too eager to feel Doug inside him once again. He felt Doug’s forehead rest against his shoulder, he felt is lips against his skin – his fingers now pressed into him so firmly that the ache they created was enough to distract from the minor discomfort of his movement.
“Slow,” Doug whispered, knowing that Jack did not really need reminding, but saying it for his own piece of mind. “Relax,” he urged, feeling Jack’s body tensing around him without any sign of him pausing.
“I’m good,” Jack assured, his arm reaching backwards over his shoulder – hand finding Doug’s hair.
Lowering his hips the rest of the way, Jack could feel the gentle hum against his skin of Doug trying to maintain composure. He stilled, leaning into Doug’s body; loving the feel of Doug’s arms raising protectively across his body; forming a bubble around him that only consisted of him and Doug.
“I love you,” Doug said softly, the volume barley more than a whisper as he kissed his way along Jack’s shoulder.
Leaning carefully to the side, Jack turned his head, able to find Doug’s mouth with his own, kissing his deeply; feeling the heat between them continuing to grow, allowing his tongue to join in as he slowly began to move his hips – suddenly filled with the vibrations of Doug’s deep moan. His fingers continued to comb through Doug’s hair; gripping tightly as Doug joined in with his movements – the friction creating an intense spark between them.
Pulling his mouth away, Jack straightened up, pushing back against Doug’s chest; feeling Doug’s arms hold him even more tightly, keeping them pressed together as their bodies moved in unison – Doug’s breathing growing increasingly heavy against his ear. Removing his hand from the other man’s hair, Jack found Doug’s hand against his chest; laying on top of it and lacing their fingers together.
Doug’s mouth travelled along the base of Jack’s neck, leaving behind a trail of kisses as his upward thrusts continued to be met with the equal and opposite force of Jack’s body – having always loved how their bodies moved together with an intrinsic knowledge of the other. He loved the way that simply being in the same room as Jack made him feel energized; the gentlest of touches made him feel more alive; Jack’s body reacting to his in the same way making every moment of doubt or tough decision he had experienced in his life seem worthwhile; knowing now that it had all leading him to Jack.
Jack closed his eyes; sure that he could still make out the colourful glow of the Christmas tree lights – grateful for the holidays and time off of work. As much as he knew Doug was joking about him neglecting him for his work; knowing he meant nothing by it, it was something Jack always hated – always preferring to choose quality time with Doug over his workload that seemed to have grown exponentially over the last semester. It was something he intended to make up for over the holidays; even though Doug had far fewer days off that he did – feeling that Doug had initiated the perfect start to the time they had.
His fingers curled around Doug’s a little more tightly as Jack pushed back against Doug’s body more firmly than before – his eyes squeezing more tightly closed as his lips parted, but no sound formed. He felt as shiver run through him as Doug responded with more pressure – his arms around Jack’s body helping to assist in maintaining the rhythm he wanted. Long, deep, pressured strokes beginning to drive Jack crazy; feeling a frenzy build inside of him – concerned that the next time he opened his mouth he would not be so quiet.
Jack was too lost in the sensation of Doug’s body, to notice his free hand loosening slightly from around his middle, moving lower – the palm of his hand and thumb making contact with Jack’s arousal before his fingers masterfully wrapped around him too. The tiny amount of restraint that has been there before, suddenly disappeared; leaving Jack’s a moaning wreck in Doug’s hold – a sound of pure pleasure escaping from between clenched teeth as Doug worked him inside and out.
“Doug,” Jack moaned loudly, causing the other man’s lips to smile against Jack’s shoulder as he continued to move his hand, just like he had been doing earlier, only this time with far more focus; his thumb moving provocatively over the sensitive tip – instantly rewarded by Jack’s more forceful thrusts.
Doug’s teeth grazed over Jack’s skin; his mouth moving to Jack’s neck; kissing and sucking with enough pressure to mark Jack’s pale, winter skin – fighting the urge to do so. Finding it so much more difficult as he felt Jack’s body begin to tighten around him as his breathing grew louder and more jagged; feeling the pace of Jack’s chest rising and falling against his forearm – Jack’s fingers so tight against his own that it felt like their hands were merging into one.
The pace of Jack’s thrusts against his body became more desperate, both of them breathing like the air around them was void of oxygen – gasping noisily as the need for release continued to build. Doug’s hand began to move more rapidly, feeling how close he was to climax, and loving the feel of Jack’s orgasm triggering his own – hoping he could time it right. Fingers still entwined with Jacks; he lowered his arm from Jack’s chest, down across his hips – using it as leverage, shifting ever so slight beneath Jack until his moans turned to gasps. With Jack’s head once again pushed back against Doug’s shoulder; his back arching, causing another small shift of angle – this time Doug’s thrust caused Jack to cry out in pleasure; his body tightening and tensing around Doug as he thrust a couple more times. His hand continued to move as Jack let out a long, thick cry of pleasure – heat spilling from his body – within seconds triggering Doug’s own release as Jack’s name poured from his mouth in worship of the man he would be forever in awe of.
No longer able to hold much weight on his knees, feeling them quiver as his body rode the waves of orgasm, Jack collapsed back against Doug’s body more heavily – feeling Doug’s arms once again wrap lovingly around him. He closed his eyes for a moment, trying to control his breathing – hearing Doug’s attempts to do the same.
“Merry Christmas,” Doug whispered against Jack’s ear.
Head still against Doug’s shoulder, he turned to the side; lips softly finding the other man’s, kissing him slowly. “Merry Christmas,” he replied, laying another single kiss against Doug’s lips – taking a moment to admire the sparkle of Christmas tree lights reflected in Doug’s eyes.
“Everything okay?” Doug asked, noticing a look wash over Jack’s face.
Jack nodded in response; basking in the feel of Doug’s arms. “This semester has been a whirlwind. I’m glad it’s over,” he explained. “I’m looking forward to spending a couple of quiet days at home with you.”
“Me too,” Doug confirmed, kissing Jack again.
Reaching out, Doug found Jack’s discarded T-shirt, using it to clean up a little – wiping it over Jack’s front after cleaning his own hand. Balling it up, and placing it back down on the floor, his hands moved to Jack’s hips; his mouth once again against Jack’s shoulder and their bodies separated – instantly mourning the heat of Jack wrapped around him. Assisting the movement of Jack’s body, Doug parted his own legs enough to allow Jack to sink down into the space created; pushing his legs out in front of him as he relaxed back against the man behind him.
“I was thinking of maybe extending my leave,” Doug said softly, causing Jack to turn in his hold – instantly seeing his smile.
“You can do that?” Jack asked, trying to hide his excitement in case it was not possible, but he knew Doug had seen it.
“I think I can make it work,” Doug assured. “I want to be able to spend as much time with you as possible before school starts back.”
“That sounds like the best Christmas present,” Jack sighed happily.
“Better than a Christmas sweater and socks?” Doug teased.
“Miles,” Jack confirmed, feeling a shiver run though him as his body cooled.
“Here,” Doug said, reaching for his shirt on the floor, leaning back enough to lay it over Jack’s shoulders.
“That’s yours,” Jack said knowingly.
“It looks better on you,” Doug replied. “And I wouldn’t recommend wearing yours right now.”
Jack slipped his arms into the sleeves, wrapping the front closed around him; having always liked how the fit of Doug’s clothes felt against him – often choosing one of his T-shirts or sweaters on night that Doug had to work late.
“Are you not cold?” Jack asked concerned.
“No,” Doug replied, pulling Jack even closer. “I’m perfect.”
“Perfect, huh?” Jack smiled. “Maybe we should hold off describing you as such until I know what you’ve bought me for Christmas,” he joked.
“I’m still feeling confident,” Doug replied, leaning forward to look over Jack’s shoulder at his watch. “Though it’s getting late, and we still have some festive business to attend to before bed.”
Jack groaned; reminded of his wrapping – glancing at his pitiful efforts piled up to the side. “Do I need to re-wrap those?”
Doug laughed softly, observing the mess of paper and tape – pretty sure he could make out exactly what one gift was through the gaps in the wrapping. “She’s four – that paper will be torn off so fast that it’s barely worth it.”
“I don’t want her to be disappointed.”
Doug smiled softly, kissing Jack’s cheek. “Trust me, disappointment is waking up and finding that Santa got a little too drunk on Christmas Eve and passed out in front of the TV without delivering the stockings to the four hopeful children asleep upstairs. With you as a dad, Amy will never be disappointed.”
“Please tell me that’s not a true story?” Jack said, looking a mixture of shocked and sad.
“That wasn’t as bad as the year I woke up to find that Pacey had woken up early and ransacked everyone’s presents – the joy is slightly removed when someone else opens everything for you.”
“Would you like me to spit in his dinner tomorrow?” Jack joked, shuffling out of Doug’s hold and reaching for his underwear – handing Doug’s to him before standing and partially redressing.
“That won’t be necessary,” Doug laughed, also standing; wrapping his arms loosely around Jack’s waist. “But thank you for offering.”
“Any time,” Jack grinned, kissing the other man.
“Come on,” Doug said, loosening his hold and finding Jack’s hand. “Let’s go upstairs.”
“What about this mess?” Jack asked, glancing over his shoulder at the discarded clothing and pile of presents that were not yet filling Amy’s stocking, as Doug was already leading him away.
“I’ll come back,” Doug offered. “It’s time for you to relax now. It’s your Christmas too.”
“But…” Jack tried to argued as he was pushed up the stairs. “It will only take a minute,” he added weakly.
“Exactly,” Doug agreed. “So leave it to me.”
“Fine,” Jack grumbled, knowing there was no point arguing.
As they reached the landing, Jack was pleased to hear silence coming from Amy’s room; glancing through her partially open door as he passed, seeing the stars from her nightlight projected onto the ceiling. Continuing towards the soft glow of light coming from his and Doug’s door, Doug’s body was close behind him, hands of his waist; guiding him – as though he was worried Jack would attempt to go anywhere but to their bedroom. Jack glanced over his shoulder, giving Doug a questioning look; growing more suspicious by the smile Doug returned to him.
Walking through the door to their bedroom, Jack suddenly stopped in his tracks – feeling Doug’s body pressed firmly against his back as a result of the sudden halt. His eyes scanned the room, trying to take in the scene in front of him. Rose petals laid a path from the doorway all the way up onto the bed; Christmas lights twinkling over the headboard – on the bed, a Christmas sweater than was undeniably uglier than the one he had received the years before, position next to some matching socks. But Jack’s eyes only focused on those for a moment before moving to a box – a very small box – resting in the middle of a heart on a hand-drawn poster – clearly decorated by both Amy and Doug. He felt his breath catch as he read the words – once, twice, three times. Wondering if he was dreaming.
“What…” Jack exhaled, feeling Doug’s arms wrap around his waist as he stood speechless – grateful for Doug’s body providing him with the support he needed.
“It looks like Santa has already been,” Doug said playfully, resting his chin on Jack’s shoulder, observing the same scene Jack was. “Though I should probably clarify that the question on the poster – the one I really hope you say yes to – is most definitely from me, and not Santa.”
Jack’s eyes continued to scan the words ‘will you marry me?’, finding himself become more breathless with each read.
“Are you serious?” Jack said shocked.
“Do you really think I would have asked for help from Santa on his busiest night of the year if I wasn’t serious?” Doug replied, feeling Jack turn in his hold. “Jack,” he said softly, now face to face with the man he loved. “There’s nothing else I want more than for you to say yes, and for us to spend every Christmas together for the rest of our lives.”
Jack glanced back over his shoulder at the scene laid out for him – still stunned.
“If you want me to get down on one knee, I will,” Doug smiled, desperately wanting an answer, even though there was never a single doubt as to what that would be.
“Yes,” Jack exhaled, looking back at Doug – his smile growing, as his eyes clouded.
“Yes – you want me on one knee?” Doug asked.
“No,” Jack laughed, gripping hold of Doug’s elbows, preventing him from moving. “On two feet is more than enough,” he added – nodding. “Yes,” he grinned. “There’s nothing more I could want.”
Feeling his vision blur a little, Doug leaned in; lips finding Jack’s, kissing him in a way that he hoped conveyed everything he was feeling – in a way that he hoped told Jack exactly how he felt about him. He felt Jack’s arms wrap around his shoulders, his own shirt on Jack’s body hanging open – their chests pressed together as each beat of their hearts came as a reply the beat of the other man’s. Relief washed over him, having not wanted to accept the nerves he felt as they had walked up the stairs. He had always had faith in Jack’s response; having known for a long time that they were on the same page when it came to the future, but having wanted to do something to show Jack how serious he was when he used the word ‘forever.’
“When did you do all of this?” Jack asked, resting his forehead against Doug’s – not wanting to move his lips too far from the other man’s.
“After Amy went to bed. While you were wrapping presents,” Doug replied. “I was going to wait until tomorrow, but I couldn’t wait any longer.”
“You couldn’t wait one more day?”
“Tomorrow is going to be taken over with Amy’s excitement over her doll’s house, and whatever that Tinkerbell thing is,” Doug joked. “And she deserves her time to be four and in awe of the magic of Christmas. I wanted to give you a little bit of the same. Because you deserve it too.”
“You were right,” Jack said, kissing Doug once more. “You are perfect.”
“You’ve not seen your present yet,” Doug said, encouraging Jack towards the bed, taking hold of his hand as he picked up the box. “If you don’t like it, or you’d prefer something else…”
“I won’t,” Jack interrupted, making Doug laugh.
“But if you do,” he continued, “you just have to say.”
Jack’s eyes were fixed on the box as Doug masterfully opened it one-handed, not once letting go of his hand; their fingers lacing together as Jack’s eyes fell on a ring – simple by striking – causing Jack’s smile to grow. Doug let go of Jack’s hand long enough to remove the ring from the box, comforted by the genuine smile on Jack’s face. Lifting Jack’s hand, he positioned the ring on the end of Jack’s finger; about to slide it on, when Jack’s expression suddenly changed.
“What’s wrong?” Doug asked.
“If I wear the ring, does that mean I also have to wear that sweater?” Jack asked with a playful smile.
“Yes, it’s a package deal,” Doug teased. “What do you say?”
Jack exhaled loudly as he rolled his eyes dramatically. “Fine,” he groaned, before smiling widely. “But only because I love you.”
“What better reason is there?” Doug replied, kissing Jack as he slid the ring along his finger – having fantasized about it for so long
“Even if it’s going to be another year of Pacey ridicule,” Jack joked.
“So have fun with it,” Doug suggested. “See how long it takes him to notice what’s on your finger. I’m sure once he notices that, it was take the limelight away from the sweater – at least I hope so, because one cost significantly more than the other.”
Jack’s eyes widened, looking down at his hand and the ring that was going to take some getting used to seeing there. “How much are we talking?”
“How about you don’t ask me about the ring, and I won’t ask you about how much Amy’s doll’s house really cost?” Doug replied, raising his eyebrows.
Jack nodded, trying to hide his grin. “I’ll take that deal.”
Doug laughed, shaking his head. “Why don’t you try on your sweater and I’ll go finish up downstairs?”
“Absolutely not,” Jack said, wrapping his arm around Doug’s waist, pulling him close. “There are rose petals on the bed, and a ring on my finger – I’m not going to just let you walk away like something magical didn’t just happen.”
“Something magical, huh?” Doug smiled, not for a second contemplating resisting Jack’s will.
“Very,” Jack nodded, kissing Doug once more. “Like every Christmas wish; past, present, and future all came true at the exact same time.”
“Wow – that’s pretty magical,” Doug nodded, allowing Jack to pull him on to the bed. “And to think, this isn’t even your actual present.”
“It’s not?” Jack said excitedly, pulling Doug down on top of him.
“You really think I’d leave you with nothing to open on Christmas morning?” Doug continued, feeling Jack’s hand moving to his hair as their bodies moved against each other.
“If this is the beginning of some role play where you’re wanting me to call you Santa, it’s not going to happen,” Jack teased.
Doug laughed, kissing his way across Jack’s exposed chest. “Tonight I will happily settle for just being your fiancé.”
Jack felt his smile turn into a grin so big that his cheeks ached. “Fiancé? That has a nice ring to it.”
“It does,” Doug confirmed. “But don’t get too attached to it,” he added, receiving a questioning look from the man lying beneath him. “Because this time next year I’d rather you call me your husband.”
“That quick?” Jack teased.
“Why wait?” Doug asked, his lips finding Jack’s, kissing him a little more deeply. “You’ve already found perfection.”
Jack laughed; rolling his eyes. “How can I argue with that logic?”
“Exactly,” Doug nodded – his hand finding Jack’s, lifting it against the pillow next to Jack’s face – admiring the ring he had just placed there. “This is just phase one of giving you the best Christmas ever.”
“You’ve already succeeded,” Jack replied, his head sinking deeper into the pillow beneath him as Doug’s mouth played over his neck. “It’s looking like a very merry Christmas.”
Doug smiled against Jack’s skin. “This year and always.”
The End