It was late in the evening, and my birthday was almost over.

[Alice]: "I seriously wasn't expecting it to start bucketing down with rain like that!"

Ray: "Me either. Are you okay, [Alice]? You're not wet, are-- what am I saying, of course you're wet."

I'd stripped out of my jacket and held it over [Alice]'s head to try and protect her as we'd dashed through the rain.

But the sudden downpour had been so heavy that I might as well have been trying to protect her with a piece of paper.

We'd been on our way back from the gardens when the sky had clouded over, and moments later, the rain had come hammering down.

I sighed, running my hand through my damp hair, and then looked over at [Alice] again.

She was staring at my desk, and I realized her gaze was focused on the clock.

[Alice]: "There's only another hour of your birthday left, Ray."

I was always reluctant to say farewell to another day, and more so than ever on a day like this.

(Until I met you, my birthday felt just like any other day, and yet--)

(Today I want you here at my side until the very moment the day ends, even if that seems like a foolish wish.)

(What would you say, if I said that out loud?)

I wondered if the words would even come if I opened my mouth. But before I could try, she was speaking again.

[Alice]: "You know, maybe I should go and get us some towels, huh?"

[Alice]: "Oh, but it's almost midnight, and-- you're gonna fall asleep pretty soon, right? Maybe I should go back to my room, and..."

Ray: "[Alice], what's the matter?"

Her words were coming out in a stilted rush, and she sounded oddly flustered.

I reached out, touching her cheek gently, and her eyes moved to meet mine at last, her gaze capturing me and holding me prisoner.

[Alice]: "We're both soaking wet, and we're gonna catch a cold, and I know you always fall asleep before midnight, and--"

[Alice]: "I totally get that it's selfish of me to say this, but--"

[Alice] took a deep breath, then let it out again in a sound that was half-sigh, and her voice was softer and calmer as she continued.

[Alice]: "I want to stay here with you tonight. Is that okay with you?"

(What the heck, [Alice]!)

(I can't believe you just went and said exactly what I wanted to say, before I could even try and say it.)

I wanted to tell her it was more than okay with me, but my body was already one step ahead of me.

I grabbed hold of her upper arms, feeling the alluring warmth of her skin underneath her damp blouse.

[Alice]: "Oh!"

I spun her around and pushed her down against the bed, leaning over her as she blinked up at me, looking startled and amused all at once.

My wet hair hung in my face, water trickling down to drip against her collarbone, bare above the collar of her blouse.

Those drops must have been freezing cold, and yet she looked flush with warmth, her cheeks faintly pink as she smiled slowly at

me.

Ray: "Tonight, you're not going anywhere."

[Alice]: "But aren't you gonna fall asleep?"

Ray: "I might."

[Alice]: "That kinda ruins the fun, you know."

Ray: "Then all you gotta do is keep me awake."

Her smile widened, looking more like a grin now, and the look in her eyes set something burning inside me.

Ray: "No matter how tired I get, I reckon I can stay awake if you can convince my body it's worth it."

[Alice]: "Your body, huh?"

[Alice]'s gaze travelled slowly downwards, as if taking in the sight of me in all my damp, frazzled glory, and I swore I could feel her gaze against my skin.

[Alice]: "I guess l've got my work cut out for me, then. But I'll do whatever it takes to keep you awake."

Her eyes lifted to meet mine again, bright with laughter and hot with desire, and I almost groaned in response.

(How do you manage to turn me on so completely with just a look?)

Ray: "You're doing a pretty good job already."

I reached out towards her, and she laughed softly, catching my hand and lifting it to her lips to kiss the palm.

[Alice]: "Just 'pretty good'? Guess I'll have to try harder."

I was about to tell her she didn't need to, but she was leaning towards me, and her intense gaze and mischievous smile drove all thought away.

She kissed me, her lips warm in spite of the chill raindrops still trickling down her face, and I felt her hands against my wet shirt, caressing my chest.

Ray: "That's a lot more than just pretty good."

I whispered the words against her lips as I batted her hands away, reaching instead to tug at the buttons on her blouse and bare her soft skin.

(You don't really need to convince me of anything. One kiss, one touch, and I'm wide awake... and all yours.)

I peeled away the damp fabric hiding her body from me, my hands feasting on her skin as my lips feasted on her lips.

There was a desperation and an urgency to me that surprised even me-- all that mattered in that moment was getting as close to her as possible.

[Alice]'s clothes fell to the floor, and she fell back against the bed, gazing up at me with those alluring eyes again.

[Alice]: "Ray..."

Her voice was soft and filled with need, and yet it stopped me in my tracks, snapping me out of my daze.

Ray: "Sorry. I think I was getting carried away."

I pulled my thoughts together, my hands stilling against her bare skin.

For a moment, it felt like all I could see was my own hands-- as if everything else faded away.

(No matter how much I hate it, I always remember that day when I look at these hands.)

The day when l'd hurt so many people with my own two hands-- and when l'd regretted the fact that l'd ever been born.

But I hadn't wanted to hang my head in shame, so l'd lived my life focusing onwards and upwards, never daring to look down or back.

It was [Alice] who'd taught me that it was okay to look at those who stood at my side. She offered me her love, without hesitation or doubt.

(But that's why I don't ever want to hurt you, or lose control around you. No matter what happens, I can't ever let myself do that to you.)

Suddenly, I felt something warm and gentle enfold my hands.

[Alice] wrapped her hands around the hands I so despised, her fingers caressing my skin lovingly.

[Alice]: "Ray, there's nothing to apologize for. I was getting carried away, too, and I liked it."

[Alice]: "I want you. And I want you to touch me with these hands."

I gasped as she lifted my hands to her lips, kissing first one and then the other.

Her tender smile as she lowered my hands again was breathtaking to behold.

(Why are you always like this?)

It was like she was shining a bright, warm light into the darkest reaches of my soul, and then enfolding that darkness in a loving embrace.

(Why are you so good at saving me, over and over, before l've even realized I need saving?)

The darkness seemed to fade away into the background, and love and need surged up inside me to replace it.

I leaned down over her, my lips almost touching hers as I murmured.

Ray: "I want you, too. So let's make this a night to remember."

When at last our passion was spent and we lay curled in each other's arms, I finally noticed that the rain was no longer

pattering against the window.

(And it's almost midnight.)

[Alice]: "Are you sleepy?"

[Alice]'s warm body was pressed against mine, and her whole aura seemed to exude satisfaction as she gazed into my eyes.

Ray: "I'm still okay."

[Alice]: "You're just putting on a brave front, aren't you?"

Ray: "Shuddup."

I reached up and stroked her soft hair, letting the familiar sweet scent surround me, and in the distance I heard the sound of a clock tower tolling the hour.

As those chimes marked the end of my birthday, [Alice] and I smiled at each other, and my heart seemed to throb with an aching warmth.

Ray: “...[Alice]."

[Alice]: "Hmm?"

Ray: "Thanks for making my birthday a happy one."

Ray: "And... I hope you'll keep supporting me."

(Dammit, how come I can never find the right words at moments like these?)

I wanted to tell her exactly what I was feeling deep inside, and yet all that ever seemed to come out was stilted words that didn't suit the mood at all.

I felt sure she was going to laugh at me, but l lifted my gaze to meet hers, just the same.

[Alice]: "Hey, Ray..."

But her expression was gentle and vulnerable, and her eyes trembled with emotion as they met mine.

[Alice]: "Where have you been hiding my whole life?"

For a long moment I forgot to breathe, staring at her until my lungs were screaming for air.

[Alice]: "I don't think I'll ever find anyone else l could love the way I love you."

[Alice]: "And I don't want to, either. All I need is you."

Her eyes gleamed almost too bright with unshed tears, and yet she was smiling.

(Why do you look like you're about to cry?)

And yet I knew they weren't tears of sorrow, or pain. They were tears of joy. Of hope and promise for the future.

I wrapped my arms even tighter around her, pulling her close and just feeling the warmth of her pressed up against me.

I'd once believed these hands of mine were destined to bring nothing but pain, but now I knew they could bring love, too.

(I feel exactly the same way, [Alice].)

(All I need is you. All I've ever needed is you.)

The sky was blue on the day after my birthday. A brilliant azure that seemed to stretch on forever.

(If I don't hurry, l'm gonna be late for training.)

I stood up from my chair and reached for my gloves, pulling them on.

(Hm?)

It was only then that I noticed the letter sitting on the desk, hidden until that moment by my gloves.

The handwriting was all too familiar, and the words scrawled on the page said 'I'll keep supporting you'.

(When did you even manage to--)

I could almost see her in my mind, glancing over her shoulder as she snuck into the office to tuck the letter under my gloves, and I burst out laughing.

Ray: "You idiot. Could you possibly make me any happier?"

Underneath the words she'd drawn a little face, its lips curved upwards in a happy smile.

I realized my expression probably looked every bit as goofy and happy, and I quickly shook myself and tried to get it under

control.

Ray: “...Okay, time to go."

I slipped the letter into my pocket, and turned to step out into what I knew would be another bright, special day.

As I left the room, I swore to myself that I'd do whatever it took to make [Alice] even happier than she'd made me, every single day since meeting her.

Although I swore those words in my heart, I knew l'd never say them aloud. I'd never need to, because she already understood...

The birds were chirping outside on a warm and sunny afternoon.

Fenrir: "Ah, man!"

Ray: "Hmm?"

Fenrir and I had been discussing army matters when he suddenly spoke loudly.

Fenrir: "I just heard my stomach growling--"

Ray: "Yeah, I'm hungry too."

(We'd been in the office well past the usual lunch hour.)

Ray: "Let's stop here and take a break."

I stretched my arms to relieve the tension in my shoulder when I heard a knock at the door.

[Alice]: "I'm coming in!"

([Alice]? What's she doing here?)

She looked at both of us with a hint of concern in her eyes.

[Alice]: "Are you too busy with work now?"

Ray: "Actually we were just about to take a break."

[Alice]: "That's perfect, then!"

[Alice] went back out into the hallway and pushed a cart full of food into the room.

(She brought us tea and sandwiches?)

[Alice]: "I heard that you guys were skipping lunch so I brought these for you!"

Ray: "Wow, well you have great timing."

Fenrir: "Those sandwiches look super delicious!"

[Alice]: "I think you'll love them! Here, you get the chicken one without tomatoes, Fenrir."

[Alice]: "And the tuna sandwich with thin slices of lemons are for you, Ray."

Ray: "Thanks."

I took the sandwich from the plate and took a big bite into it.

(Wow, this is good and I was way hungrier than

I'd realized.)

Ray: "This is really tasty."

I said what I honestly felt about it without hesitation.

(Everything she makes is so delicious, and I always compliment her cooking.)

[Alice]: "And there's plenty extra too, so feel free to grab more!"

(She's so thoughtful to bring us more food than necessary.)

[Alice] smiled but looked at me quizzically while she poured tea.

I think she wants to talk to me about something, so I motioned for her to join me in the corner, away from Fenrir.

Ray: "[Alice], if there's something you wanna say, just tell me."

[Alice]: "Ah, well it's just that-- the day after tomorrow is your birthday."

[Alice] tucked some hair behind her ear as she spoke.

[Alice]: "And this year, I want to be the first person before anyone else to celebrate it."

[Alice]: "Can I go to your room tomorrow night, Ray?"

(How could I possibly say no when she looks at me with those gorgeous eyes of hers?)

She had whispered the question so quietly that it made my heart race and I wanted to embrace her in that moment.

Ray: "I'm glad you're able to be bolder now than you were in the past."

I lowered my own voice to match the volume of hers.

[Alice]: "Is that bold of me to ask?"

Ray: "Yes. And you should know that after you come to my room, you know what'll happen--"

[Alice]: "Of course. That's what I want."

Ray: "Good. Look forward to it then."

(I love that she is so brave now.)

lifted my hand to touch [Alice]'s hair when Fenrir came in between us holding a sandwich in one hand.

Fenrir: "What are you guys whispering 'bout?"

[Alice]: "Umm-"

Ray: "Sorry, we were talking about something private."

Fenrir: "Well, you are dating so that's fair, I guess--“

Fenrir's eyes had a hint of disappointment in them but he smiled and hid it quickly as he left.

(I'm sure he can tell from [Alice]'s flushed cheeks she's asking me something personal.)

[Alice]: "Oh, that's right! There was one more thing I wanted to ask you, Ray--"

Ray: "What's that?"

[Alice]: "Is there something special you want to eat on your birthday?"

Ray: "Are you going to make it for me?"

[Alice]: "Yep. I want to cook something for my boyfriend on his birthday."

(She always goes above and beyond for me.)

Fenrir: "Hey weren't you talking about how much you miss those sweets you used to eat when you were little?"

[Alice]: "From your childhood?"

(Oh, that. I'd forgotten that it had come up in conversation with Fenrir recently.)

Ray: "When I was a kid, my mom used to bake these amazing sweets for me on my birthday."

Ray: "I'd talked to Fenrir about it the other day."

[Alice]: "Hmm, do you remember what flavor they were?"

Ray: "I think they had some orange flavor in them but I don't remember that well."

[Alice]: "I see..."

(I know that look on her face-- She's going to try and bake something orange-flavored.)

Her eyebrows were creased deep in thought as I gently brushed my hand against her cheek.

Ray: "The sweets I had on my birthday are from my memories of the past. I know I'll love anything you make for me."

Ray: "So l'm looking forward to it."

[Alice]: "Me too. I'll do my best!"

After seeing [Alice]'s bright smile, I feel like I can push through the rest of the afternoon of work swiftly.

The next day I went to Blanc & Oliver's place on business.

Oliver: "Here is everything Fenrir ordered. Go ahead and check it over."

Ray: "Hmm, yep, it looks like it's all here."

Since Fenrir was busy with a different task, I'd come instead to pick up his order and I peered into the bag that Oliver had handed me.

As I checked the list Fenrir had given me and compared it to the contents of the bag, I heard a familiar voice.

(I know that voice well.)

I looked up and out of the window, I saw her.

Ray: "Wait, what is she doing here?"

[Alice] and Blanc were chatting happily about something.

Oliver: "Don't ask me. How would I know?"

Oliver: "Anyway, aren't you on the clock now? Hurry up and get back to headquarters."

(...He has a good point. Oh well.)

(I wonder what she's so excited to talk to Blanc about?)

After getting back to headquarters, I found it difficult to concentrate on work after seeing [Alice] unexpectedly.

And before I knew it, the sun had already started setting and the sky was a vibrant orange.

Seth: "Hey, Ray! I brought all of the documents you asked me to prepare!"

Ray: "Great, thanks."

Just as I accepted the documents from Seth, I heard that familiar voice again.

(Is [Alice] nearby again?)

I looked out the window and saw her chatting with Sirius and Luka.

Seth: "Ooooh, could that be jealousy I sense?"

Seth patted me on the shoulder but I pretended not to care that much about what [Alice] was doing.

Ray: "What are you talking about? I'm not the least bit jealous."

Seth: "You don't need to hide it from me!"

Ray: "I'm telling the truth--"

Ray: "I'm just curious as to why she looks like she's having so much fun now."

(She looks just as happy as when she was talking with Blanc earlier today.)

(I know I shouldn't think so but I wish she would smile only at me like that.)

Seth: "Okay, I'll let you in on a little secret--"

Ray: "I'm listening."

Seth winked at me and spoke in a slightly quieter voice.

Seth: "Alice only lights up and smiles like that when she's talking about you, Ray."

(Really? Is that true?)

Later that night, I was in my room waiting for [Alice] to show up.

It's almost midnight but [Alice] still isn't here yet--

(Where could she be?)

I left my room to see if I could find her.

(Hmm? This smells familiar--)

The sweet citrus smell filled the air and became stronger as I headed into the kitchen.

(Muffins, madeleines, and mini orange tarts were lining the counters on cooling racks.)

(Wow, there are numerous sweets, too many for me to count.)

[Alice]: "Oh, hi Ray!"

[Alice] looked over at me while holding a bowl with one hand.

Ray: "You didn't show up at my room so I came to find you."

[Alice]: "I'm sorry, I didn't realize it was so late already."

Ray: "It's alright. So are these all the treats you made for me?"

[Alice]: "Yep. I only knew the flavor of your favorite birthday dessert as a kid so I tried to make all kinds of baked goods."

[Alice]: "I asked Luka and Sirius for their recipes--"

[Alice]: "And Blanc seemed like he would also be knowledgable about sweets made with oranges."

(Oh, I totally get it now. That's why she looked so happy while talking to those other guys earlier.)

My mood completely changed in an instant and I felt the corner of my lips turn upward in a smile.

[Alice]: "I was planning to surprise you with these on the morning of your actual birthday but--"

[Alice]: "Since you've already found out, why don't we have tea and sweets together right now?"

(I'm glad she doesn't seem disappointed at all I ruined the surprise by barging in the kitchen like that.)

I playful twirled my fingers in [Alice]'s hair and gazed into her eyes.

Ray: "Let's do it."

We brought back the sweets and tea to my room and I took a bite out of one of the treats.

(Oh wow--)

Ray: "This tastes like the sweets I had as a kid."

[Alice]: "Really?!"

I had taken a bite of an orange and chocolate tart.

(I'm sure they'll all taste so good but I think this tart will be my favorite.)

I brought a teacup to my lips and sipped the tea.

[Alice]: "So it tastes the same?"

Ray: "It isn't exactly the same, but it's really good."

[Alice]: "I see. It's different then..."

I was trying to compliment her but she looked disappointed.

Ray: "Why such the long face?"

[Alice]: "W-well, it's just that, umm--"

I placed my finger to [Alice]'s before she could say another word.

(She has no idea what I really meant by that, does she?)

Ray: "I'm trying to say that I like what you made me even more than the sweets I had in the past."

[Alice]: "Oh--"

(There's nothing that could taste better than something she made for me by working so hard.)

Ray: "No matter how many years pass by, there's no way I could ever forget the taste of your sweets."

Her eyes widen and her eyelashes danced as she blinked several times in disbelief.

(When you gaze at me like that, I can't look away from you.)

I kissed her gently on the lips and then she whispered in my ear.

[Alice]: "Hmm, you smell sweet."

Ray: "Are you sure about that? Let me give you something even sweeter--"

I put my hand on the back of her head and brought her closer to me as I kissed her deeply.

[Alice]: "Nn-- Ah, Ray--"

Our tongues intertwined as the heat rose between us.

(I like sweets, but this is even better.)

[Alice] pulled away and looked at me seductively as I picked her up and carried her over to the bed.

Ray: "Earlier I told you that you'd know what would happen if you come to my room."

[Alice]: "Yes. And I said that I wanted it, too."

(Her words, her eyes, her body-- everything about her makes me crave to hold her tighter in my arms.)

I brushed the hair away from [Alice]'s face and our lips met again.

[Alice]: "Ahh-"

We took off our clothes and I felt the heat of her skin against mine.

[Alice] is definitely sweeter than any treats in the whole world--

During that night, I had a dream about my childhood.

Ray: "Hey, can I just have one more of those?"

Mom: "Oh, you usually don't ask for things that often. Do you really like these sweets that much?"

Ray: "Yeah, I like them soooo much!"

Mom: "Hehe. Did you know that these have a secret ingredient?"

Ray: "A secret ingredient?"

Mom: "Yes. And that is--"

I felt the sunlight shining onto my closed eyelids so I slowly opened them.

(It's been such a long time since l've had a dream about my past...)

[Alice]: "Good morning, Ray."

My blurred vision began to focus on [Alice]'s gently smiling face in front of me.

[Alice]: "And, happy birthday!"

Ray: "Thanks."

(Waking up with her like this in the morning makes me so happy.)

I sat up in bed and twirled [Alice]'s hair in my fingers.

(Last night, I let [Alice] borrow my shirt to sleep in, and seeing her wearing it in the morning is very arousing.)

Ray: "I didn't think you'd wake up before me."

[Alice]: "Yeah, I was surprised you were sleeping so deeply, too."

[Alice]: "What was your dream about?"

Ray: "My dream?"

[Alice]: "You said 'I like them soooo much!' while you were sleeping."

(T-that's rather embarrassing she heard me say something so childish.)

Ray: "...It's a secret."

[Alice]: "Hey, no fair!"

Ray: "Anyway--"

I lifted [Alice] up onto my lap and rested my chin on her shoulder.

Ray: "Hearing your alluring voice really wakes me up in the morning."

[Alice]: "Nn--"

I unbuttoned the top button near her neck and after tracing my finger along her exposed collarbone, she shivered in my arms.

[Alice]: "Hey, that tickles!"

Ray: "I know."

(I hope this will distract you enough so that you'll forget what I said in my sleep last night.)

I began unbuttoning the shirt further down and when I got near her chest she gasped.

[Alice]: "Oh! Your shirt is all I'm wearing right now so I should probably keep it on--"

Ray: "What if I want you to take it off?"

[Alice]: "I-it's embarrassing--"

Ray: "Why? I saw you wearing nothing at all yesterday."

[Alice]: "It's too early in the morning for that, silly..."

(When you get all flustered and say cute things like that it really turns me on.)

Her cheeks had turned crimson and I placed my lips on the nape of her neck.

[Alice]: "Nn--"

Ray: "You're so soft, warm, and you smell really good, too."

(I don't ever want to leave this bed.)

My hands moved down to her thighs and I caressed her gently.

[Alice] moaned with pleasure and then looked straight into my eyes.

I could feel how much she cared about me with just that one look.

(Oh, that's right. I remember now.)

Mom: "The secret ingredient is that you make them while thinking of someone special."

Mom: "You think about how you can make the recipe even better for the person you care about."

Mom: "The more love you pour into your baking, the more delicious it will be."

(Anything that [Alice] makes will always be delicious.)

And that's not because of the type of sweets, but that she put love into baking them.

Ray: "Hey, [Alice]."

Ray: "I didn't say it yesterday but... I definitely like all of your cooking."

[Alice]: "You do?"

She turned around in my arms and embraced me.

Ray: "Will you make sweets for me again sometime?"

[Alice]: "Yes, of course!"

Seeing [Alice]'s expression of love on her face made me feel like the best morning is one spent with her and always will be.

It was a bright and sunny day and the flowers were in full bloom.

Ray was finally off for the day and we decided to go on a picnic.

We had just finished eating the sandwiches and chocolate banana muffins I had brought in a picnic basket.

Both of us lay side by side on the blanket and looked up at the clouds in the sky.

(The weather is nice and warm so I'm feeling sleepy...)

I was just about to drift into la-la land when Ray spoke.

Ray: "Are you thinking about taking a nap now?"

I was startled at how well Ray knew me.

[Alice]: "Hey, how'd you know?"

Ray: "Because you look sleepy."

The flowers swayed in the breeze behind us and Ray's jet black hair moved as well.

His innocent smile made my heart sing with happiness.

(Ray has been pretty busy recently so we haven't had much time to spend together.)

Ray: "Hey, [Alice]."

[Alice]: "What is it?"

Ray: "Come closer."

[Alice]: "Oh?"

Ray held out his hand towards me.

Ray: "I won't do anything you don't want me to."

His sweet voice was like music to my ears so I sat upright and shifted closer to him.

And then--

Ray: "Gotcha."

(Oh, that surprised me!)

He wrapped his arms around me and put my head on his muscly chest.

[Alice]: "I didn't expect that since you said you wouldn't do anything!"

Ray: "I said I wouldn't do anything you don't want me too. Do you not want this?"

Ray caressed my bottom lip with his thumb and stared at me with his shiny emerald eyes.

Ray: "And recently l've been busy so I haven't been able to touch you like this."

[Alice]: "Ray..."

I was captivated by his eyes and lost myself in them--

(I've wanted this too--)

I hugged Ray back and felt his heart racing even faster than my own.

[Alice]: "Ray, your heartbeat is really fast!"

Ray: "Of course. It's because I'm holding you."

[Alice]: "Even now, your heart races when you're with me?"

As Ray and I held each other I felt as if time itself had stopped.

Ray: "Yeah, it does."

He pulled away slightly to stare deeply into my eyes.

(Oh--)

I closed my eyes and he kissed me.

[Alice]: "Nn--"

As our kisses became more passionate, Ray shifted to be on top of me and squeezed my hand.

I couldn't tell which heartbeat was his and which was mine.

A strong breeze carried flower petals on the wind behind Ray.

(That's so beautiful--)

Ray embraced me even tighter.

Ray: "I want to hold you while you sleep, [Alice]."

Ray stroked my hair and looked at me with pleading eyes.

Ray: "So I can see your sleeping face."

[Alice]: "Really? Why?"

Ray: "Well at nighttime, I'm always the first to fall asleep."

[Alice]: "Haha, that is true, you're not a night owl."

Ray couldn't stay up late at night and always fell asleep before midnight.

(I think it's adorable and I love that about him.)

Just thinking about it made me laugh, and Ray gently tapped my cheek.

Ray: "Hey, don't laugh at me."

[Alice]: "But I can't help it--"

(Ray is just too cute for words!)

Ray: "Okay let's sleep now."

Ray offered his arm as a pillow.

I took him up on his offer and rested my head on his arm.

(I wonder why the scent and warmth of the one you love is so comforting...)

I suddenly became sleepier by the minute.

After I awoke, I realized that my back was turned to Ray.

And he had been holding me in his arms the whole time.

(I think we slept for about an hour.)

As I started to sit upright, Ray stirred as well.

Ray: "Nn--"

His embrace around me tightened and his breath on the back of my neck tickled.

Ray: "You feel so nice."

[Alice]: "I do?"

I reacted to Ray's words but realized he was still sleeping.

(Oh, he must have been talking in his sleep?)

I turned towards Ray as he continued to sleep deeply.

(Maybe he's dreaming about Belle?)

I reached out to stroke his hair when--

Ray: "Are you trying to tease me?"

Ray slowly opened one eye.

[Alice]: "Oh, you're awake!"

Ray: "I just woke up now. I was having a great dream."

[Alice]: "About Belle?"

Ray: "Why do you think so?"

[Alice]: "While you were sleeping you said 'you feel so nice'."

Ray: "Yeah that's right. I was dreaming about petting a cute kitten."

(Wow he must really love cats more than I thought to even see them in his dreams.)

And then Ray looked at me with a sly grin on his face.

Ray: "Actually, I was dreaming about you."

(Me?)

The slightly cool breeze tickled my face.

[Alice]: "B-but I'm not a cat."

Ray: "You're just as cute though. No, you're even cuter."

I kissed Ray's fingertips and looked up into his eyes.

Ray: "Here kitty, kitty."

He whispered seductively in my ear.

[Alice]: "Ah--"

Just a whisper from him caused my cheeks to flush.

Ray: "You get embarrassed so easily."

[Alice]: "There's nothing wrong with that!"

The sky was gradually changing hues from blue to orange.

(I'm sure Ray will make my heart race even more in the future...)

I thought about that as we walked hand in hand back towards headquarters.

No matter where I look, surely there isn't love as strong as this.

It was a beautiful spring afternoon, and the sun was just the right amount of warm without being too hot.

Ray had the day off, and we were enjoying a quiet picnic together, talking and laughing and eating sandwiches.

Ray: "Everything tastes better when you eat it outdoors."

[Alice]: "I know!"

Ray's smile was dazzlingly bright, and I grinned over at him, but then I noticed that something didn't seem quite right.

[Alice]: "Oh!"

Ray: "Hmm?"

[Alice]: "Ray, there's dandelion fluff stuck in your hair."

(Your hair's already so soft and fluffy, but--it's adorable that even fluff gets stuck in it like that.)

Ray: "Well, stop grinning at me and take it out."

[Alice]: "Okay!"

I reached out and caught the piece of fluff between my fingers, lifting it free and letting the breeze carry it away again.

[Alice]: "There, it's gone."

Ray: "Thanks."

I grinned at Ray and then looked around us again, loving that we were completely surrounded by flowers, all swaying gently in the breeze.

(It's so beautiful.)

[Alice]: "There's so many dandelions here, too. And so many of them that are already giant puff-balls!"

[Alice]: "With this many dandelions, I bet everyone in Cradle could tell their fortune a dozen times over!"

Ray: "What do you mean, tell their fortune?"

[Alice]: "It's something we all did as kids. You blow on the puff-ball, and if you can make all the seeds fly away in one go, the person you love will love you back."

Ray: "Do you really need to do that? I mean, you already know I love you back."

[Alice]: "True. I guess I was just being nostalgic."

(After all, we wouldn't be enjoying a quiet picnic like this if we weren't in love with each other!)

I looked around at the dandelions, remembering all the times I'd played with them as a kid, and then I realized Ray was smirking at me.

Ray: "I just had a great idea. Instead of telling your fortune, why don't we make a bet?"

[Alice]: "What sort of bet?"

Ray picked one of the dandelions that had already turned into a full puff-ball, and handed it to me.

Ray: "If you can make all the seeds fly away in one go, I'll give you a kiss."

[Alice]: "And if I can't?"

Ray: "You have to give me a kiss."

[Alice]: "Right."

Ray: "What, you don't want to?"

[Alice]: "It's not that."

(I mean, this is a win/win wager, really. For both of us. I just wasn't expecting you to suggest that!)

I looked down at the puff-ball in my hand, and suddenly I was grinning, too.

(Well, I guess it's time to find out who's kissing who!)

[Alice]: "Okay, I'm ready. Let's do it."

Ray: "Let me give you a countdown, then. 3, 2, 1...go!"

Even as Ray spoke the final word, he leaned in close, so close his cheek was pressed up against mine.

(What the--?!)

I was already blowing as hard as I could on the puff-ball, but it took me a moment to realize he was blowing on it with me.

The seeds scattered under the force of our combined breath, and the wind caught them all, carrying them up towards the bright blue sky.

[Alice]: "Ray? What the-- I mean-- why did you help me?"

Ray: "The bet was that if they all flew away in one go, then I'd give you a kiss, right?"

His smile was both triumphant and sneaky all at once, but there was no time for me to be charmed by it.

(Waaah!)

He pushed me down against the soft grass, flowers dancing all around me, and I stared up at him, feeling bemused.

[Alice]: "You know that was cheating, right?"

Ray: "Neither of us said it was against the rules for me to help you."

His eyes were dancing with amusement as he leaned in closer, and closer still.

His lips were still curved into a smile as they pressed against mine, and I closed my eyes.

His lips were warm, his kisses sweet, and I gave myself over to the sweet sensations as we kissed again and again.

(You're so sneaky sometimes.)

A part of me wanted to be annoyed at him for playing a trick on me, and yet I couldn't really complain, not when he kissed me like that.

And when our lips parted at last, I realized that I was grinning just as much as he had been.

Ray: "What's with that face?"

[Alice]: "What face?"

Ray: "Are you annoyed, or are you happy? You need to pick one."

[Alice]: "It's your fault I'm struggling with that."

[Alice]: "It's your fault I'm struggling with that."

Ray: "Why?"

[Alice]: "Because I was doing my best to blow all the seeds away on my own."

Ray: "Well, they still all blew away, so what does it matter that I helped?"

[Alice]: "I don't know..."

(You make your argument sound so reasonable, and yet --)

Ray: "Did you want me to kiss you that badly?"

[Alice]: "Well…. maybe."

I pressed my lips together, not wanting to give him the satisfaction, and he leaned close to murmur in my ear.

Ray: "Want to do it again?"

[Alice]: "Nope!"

(I loved the kisses, but l'm not sure I can handle you being this smug for much longer!)

I pulled a face at Ray, and his grin widened as he reached out, catching my chin in his hand.

Ray: "That's a shame, but never mind. Let me give you something that has nothing to do with our bet."

[Alice]: "Ray--"'

He kissed me again before I could say anything more, his lips as soft and gentle as the puff-balls, and I closed my eyes, focusing on his warmth.

He tasted like sunshine somehow, bright and soothing, and as I sighed softly into the kiss, his tongue slipped between my parted lips.

Our tongues twined together in a heady dance that left me trembling and aching for more. A lot more.

(You're still way too smug, and yet I can't help but love you for it.)

No matter how much time went by, every kiss was as beautiful and as captivating as the very first kiss we'd ever shared.

The sounds of our soft sighs and moans seemed out of place in that field of innocent dandelions, and yet I couldn't bring myself to care.

All that mattered was the warmth of his lips, and the taste of him, and the passion flowing into me, and the way my heart pounded in response.

(Back when I didn't know if you cared for me, l used to get so worked up over the way you'd act around me.)

(But now that I know you love me back... well, now I get even more worked up by every little thing you do.)

Ray: "What is it?"

Our lips parted at last, and as he gazed down at me, I realized that even his gaze and his voice were making me crave him.

[Alice]: "I was just thinking about what a tease you are."

I looked away from his handsome face, trying to calm my racing heart again, but not before I saw him smirk.

Ray: "Oh, really?"

He flopped down on the grass next to me, placing himself right in my field of vision again, and I stared into those glimmering emerald eyes.

Ray: "But you love that about me, right?"

[Alice]: "Ray--"

(Ahh, who am I even trying to kid here?)

He knew the answer as well as I did, and yet I wanted to say it aloud all the same.

[Alice]: "Yeah, I do."

I knew everything had gone exactly the way he'd planned it, but when he smiled at me like that, it made me want to smile back at him.

In my world, the dandelion meant 'oracle of love' in the language of flowers, but I wasn't in my world anymore.

So long as Ray was offering me bets far more satisfying than any fortune-telling, I knew I'd always be happy to take him up on them.

And as I shifted forwards to kiss him again, the dandelions around us bobbed and bowed in the breeze, as if nodding their agreement...

I'd gone into town to do some grocery shopping, and now I was on my way back to the headquarters with a grin.

[Alice]: "Hi, Ray! I'm back!"

Ray: "Looks like someone's in good spirits today."

Ray looked up at me from the sofa he was sitting on with a curious grin on his own face.

[Alice]: "Sure am. Guess what I just heard?"

I put the groceries on the table and plopped down next to Ray.

[Alice]: "Wait, I have to back up first. I met some ladies at the store. The ones who teach me new recipes. Remember them?"

The ladies had been living in the Black Territory for a long time now, and they'd also helped Ray when he was just a child.

[Alice]: "And they told me tons of stories about what you were like as a child! It was great. I had so much fun."

Ray: "Hmm. What kind of stories?"

[Alice]: "Like how you read a lot of difficult books even when you were little,”

[Alice]: "and how you used the knowledge you got from those books to play pranks."

Ray: "Oh, yeah. Good times."

[Alice]: "I also liked the story about how you were boasting to them."

[Alice]: "that you could eat green peppers, and when they complimented you, you said--"

Ray: "If I'm picky, father will tell me that I won't get bigger, so I'll eat it."

[Alice]: "Isn't that just adorable?"

Ray: "Sure..."

[Alice]: "But my favorite one's this one!"

[Alice]: "You were playing with stray cats in the neighborhood, so they asked if you liked cats."

Ray: "They're all right, I guess. They're cute...and fluffy, but I only come to pet them four times a week."

[Alice]: "I wish I could've been there to hear that. Oh! Another story I liked is--"

Ray burst out laughing then, cutting me off.

Ray: "You're so strange. How can you be that excited about me as a kid?"

[Alice]: "Strange? Why's that?"

Ray: "All the stories are…..well, pretty trivial."

(That's true. I guess they are about small, everyday life kind of things.)

(So why am I this excited?)

I leaned against the sofa, deep in thought.

(Any story I don't know about Ray would be interesting, though. Ah, that explains everything.)

[Alice]: "It's because they're memories about my favorite person in this universe."

Ray: "...Is that so?"

[Alice]: "Of course I'd be excited to hear them."

Ray: "Hmm..."

Ray gave a noncommittal nod, but then turned his head around to look at me.

Ray: "Then maybe if I got to hear stories about you as a kid, l'd be that excited, too."

[Alice]: "HUH?"

Ray: "That's how it works, right?"

Ray brushed his hands against my cheek, making me swallow.

His emerald green eyes seemed take me in, drowning me in their dark pools.

Ray: "After all, you're MY favorite person in this universe."

[Alice]: "I-I am?!"

I was more surprised at his actions rather than his words, but I ended up yelping all the same.

Ray: "So tell me stories about you."

[Alice]: "R-Right.”

(Why am I getting so nervous about just telling him about my childhood?)

I breathed in slowly to make myself relax and started with a story involving a book and some cake.

He smiled gently as he listened, and we spent the afternoon that day telling each other all kinds of nostalgic stories.

Some time had passed after Ray had been chosen as the Charismatic winner of the Cradle Awards.

As I went into the hallway one morning, the Black Army headquarters was bustling with activity.

Black Army Soldier 1: "King Ray! More packages have arrived for you."

Ray: "Alright, do you mind putting them in my room?"

Black Army Soldier 2: I must report to you that your room has no more space left!”

Ray: "Hmm, okay then put them in the lounge."

Black Army Solider 1: "Understood! I will do that for all future packages that arrive for you."

The solider was balancing a stack of packages that was taller than him and precariously made his way towards the lounge.

(It's like a mountain of packages, and all of them are addressed directly to Ray.)

Ray: "Good morning, [Alice]."

[Alice]: "Oh, good morning Ray! Why are there so many packages for you today?"

Ray: "It's all because I won the Charismatic category of the Cradle Awards."

Ray: "And it seems that many people are sending me congratulatory gifts."

(Wow, there must be hundreds of people who adore Ray...)

(And I don't think those gifts are just from those in the Black Army, which means that he's loved by the townspeople too.)

Ray: "I'm going to go do my rounds of headquarters now but what are your plans for today, [Alice]?"

[Alice]: "Luka asked me to pick up some ingredients for a new recipe he wants to try, but other than that, no plans!"

Ray: "Well, why don't you come with me then?"

[Alice]: "Okay, sure!"

Just as I started to follow Ray, I heard him chuckle to himself.

[Alice]: "What's so funny, Ray?"

Ray: "I was just thinking that you really can't hide anything."

[Alice]: "What do you mean?"

He leaned towards me and pinched my cheek slightly.

Ray: "Like how when you're happy, it immediately shows on your face."

[Alice]: "Well, I'm just honest with my emotions!"

Ray: "Haha, yeah you are. Okay, I'm going to go get a horse so wait here for me."

Ray turned around and headed towards the stables.

(I do tend to let my feelings show often, especially when it comes to Ray. He makes me so happy, I just can't help it!)

As I was watching him walk away, he stopped in his tracks and spun around.

Ray: "By the way, I forgot to tell you something."

[Alice]: "What is it?"

Ray: "I actually already knew about your plans today."

Ray: "That you only had to go shopping for Luka."

[Alice]: "Really? How did you know?"

Ray: "Alright, let's get going!"

(Hmm, he's avoiding the question. Anyway, I guess he knew I would accompany him today, even though he asked about my plans.)

He made it seem so casual and nonchalant that we'd met up in the hallway.

But it probably wasn't just a coincidence…

(Geez, why are you always one step ahead of me, Ray!)

I have to admit that is something I like about him, though.

(Okay, I have to think of something I can get Ray for a congratulatory gift!)

(I wonder what he'd like? Maybe I'll be inspired while we're making the rounds together today.)

I went with Ray to visit Black Territory, but it wasn't anything like what l'd expected.

Black Territory Resident 1: "King Ray! Have a celebratory cookie!"

Black Territory Resident 2: "Here's a bottle of wine, go ahead and take it!"

Ray: "Thanks. But I can't eat all of this by myself so l'll share it with everyone at the Black Army headquarters."

No matter where we went, everyone was giving Ray congratulatory gifts!

Even though it was rather disruptive of his duties, Ray was a gentleman and thanked each and every person who gave him something.

(It's such a small thing but I really like that Ray cares about the townspeople and is kind to them.)

(Unfortunately, I still have no idea what to get him though.)

People gave him sweets, flowers, wine, and even household items such as soap and shampoo!

(What could I possibly get Ray that he didn't already receive from someone else?)

Just then, Ray came back from talking with some townsfolk and whispered in my ear.

Ray: "We're going home, [Alice]."

[Alice]: "Oh, already?"

Ray: "Yep, I can't really make sure everything is okay when people keep stopping me, so I'll let my troops finish patroling the rest of Black Territory by themselves."

Ray: "I do appreciate everyone wanting to celebrate though, and I know that they mean well."

[Alice]: "Yeah, your troops probably won't be stopped as often if you aren't with them."

(It actually makes me want to join in the celebration too but--)

Ray did not seem to be in that kind of mood-- in fact, he seemed very calm.

(Ray really is such an amazing guy... So much so that I'm starting to feel less confident.)

(Am I really good enough to be the one by his side?)

After arriving back at headquarters, I was making my way towards my room, when Ray came up to me.

Ray: "Hey, what's been on your mind?"

[Alice]: "Hmm? Was it that obvious, again?"

Ray: "Well, I could tell because I know you. So what's bothering you?"

[Alice]: "A-actually, it's a secret!"

Ray: "Are you really going to try and hide something from me?"

Ray: “...You've got courage, I'll give you that."

Ray narrowed his eyes at me, took my arm in his hand and urged me to walk in a different direction.

[Alice]: "Hey, what are you doing?"

Ray: "Be quiet, and follow me."

(What's going on?!)

I still didn't know what was happening but we arrived at Ray's room.

And as soon as we entered the room, Ray pushed me down on his bed--

[Alice]: "Hold on a sec, Ray!"

Ray: "This is what you get for trying to hide something from your boyfriend."

[Alice]: "Wa-- Hahaha! Stop, that tickles!"

He was on top of me and tickling me all over so I couldn't help but laugh.

Ray: "I won't stop until you tell me what's bothering you."

[Alice]: "O-okay, okay, I give up! I'll tell you, so cut it out."

Ray: "Good."

He stopped tickling me, but stayed on top of me and stared deep into my eyes.

[Alice]: "Um, I want to give you something to celebrate your victory, but I didn't know what to get you."

[Alice]: "That, and-- I was wondering if I'm still good enough to be by your side."

Ray: "What?! Why would you think that?"

[Alice]: "When we were together today, I was reminded that so many people adore you."

[Alice]: "I love you, Ray, but I couldn't think of anything to get for you."

[Alice]: "So that's why I felt anxious about being good enough for you."

Ray: "You really don't have a clue, do you?"

[Alice]: "Huh?"

He sighed and his face came even closer to mine.

Ray: "No matter how much everyone else cares about me,"

Ray: "I already have someone I want all to myself and to give myself to."

Ray: "You're the only one for me, [Alice]."

(Oh, Ray-- why do you always know how to make all of my anxieties disappear?)

Ray: "You're special to me, so you have to be by my side."

Ray: "Actually, l'd be a mess if you weren't."

[Alice]: "Thank you, Ray."

I put my arms around him and heard him laugh softly close to my ear.

It almost sounded slightly child-like and brought a smile to my face.

Ray: "Hey, so will you give me anything as a celebratory gift?"

[Alice]: "Yes, whatever you wish for."

Ray: "I want you."

[Alice]: "Wait, but aren't I already yours?"

Ray: "Already?"

[Alice]: "I thought that I was already your girlfriend so--"

Ray: "You are."

Ray: "And I think you have more charisma than I do."

[Alice]: "Me?"

Ray: "Yeah, you have the power to make me fall in love with you over and over..."

I saw passion light up in his emerald eyes as he came even closer to me and gently bit my ear.

[Alice]: "Ahh--"

Ray: "Since you said you're mine,"

Ray: "Give yourself to me, [Alice]."

He embraced me and I felt his warmth surround my entire body as he kissed me deeply.

I couldn't even count how many times we kissed after that.

His touch filled me with so much happiness that tears came to my eyes--

Ray and I had enjoyed a magical Christmas date in the night sky over Cradle, riding around in a very special sleigh.

But it seemed a distant memory as we tumbled down on the bed together, Ray having already stripped off his snow-drenched shirt.

He kissed me again and again, and as his kisses consumed me, I was suddenly grateful for the bed-- I was sure l'd have fallen over without it.

(Your lips were so cold a moment ago, and yet now they're so hot l almost feel like I imagined it.)

[Alice]: "Ray..."

I looked up at him as our lips finally parted, and I caught my breath at the tenderness in his eyes.

Ray: "Christmas is only just beginning, you know."

I grinned at him as I nodded, and he rewarded me with another kiss, and then another, each a little deeper than the last.

My breath came in ragged gasps between kisses, and my thoughts were a jumbled mess.

(I still don't understand how you can drive me so crazy with just a few kisses.)

(And I want so much more-- I want you to touch me all over, and--)

His hands roamed across my body, caressing me teasingly through my clothes, and as I trembled in response, he grinned suddenly.

Ray: "Now there's an expression that screams impatience."

Ray: "Didn't I say we were gonna snuggle up nice and close?"

Ray: "We can't do that if you don't strip. And I wanna touch you."

[Alice]: "Okay, okay."

I reached up and began to unbutton my blouse, and there was something gratifying about the way his eyes followed my every move.

But at the same time it felt wrong somehow that his hands were just resting on the bed instead of against my skin, and I hesitated halfway down.

(What if I want you to do it, after all?)

Ray: "What is it? You don't want to?"

[Alice]: "It's not that. It's just-- would you do it for me?"

Ray: "Geez, you don't ask for much, do you?"

But he was grinning as he reached for my blouse, and the remaining buttons came undone quickly under his deft touch.

I trembled each time his fingers brushed against my skin, and then he was pulling my blouse wide open, and leaning in to kiss me.

The night air was cool against my skin, but it only made his lips seem warmer than ever, and I writhed and twitched as he trailed kisses up and down my belly.

Ray: "You're freezing."

Ray: "But don't worry. I'll warm you right up."

He kissed his way up to my bare breasts, his hair tickling them gently as he lapped teasingly at my nipples, and I whimpered as pleasure sparked through me.

(Every little thing you do is turning me on so much more than usual-- and I don't even know why, I just know I want more of it.)

Each kiss and caress set me on fire, burning through me until the cold I'd felt earlier that night seemed like a distant dream.

Then Ray slid his hands lower still, and I groaned as they slipped under the hem of my skirt and teasingly stroked my inner thighs.

Ray: "You warmed up awful fast."

[Alice]: "Well, who do you think is to blame for that?"

I pulled a face at him, looking pointedly away, but he gently caught my chin, turning me back to face him.

Ray: "Hey, c'mon, I want you to look at me."

His gaze was so intense and demanding that it was impossible to look at anything but him, and I stared at him in wonder as he leaned closer.

(Ray-- I love it when you look at me like that, and I want--)

I closed my eyes as he drew closer still, lifting my chin as I waited for him to kiss me again.

But the moment dragged out, and the kiss didn't come, and I caught my breath.

(What are you doing?)

I opened my eyes, only to find him grinning roguishly at me.

Ray: "Did you think I was going to kiss you?"

[Alice]: "Well, yeah."

Ray: "Then don't look away, okay?"

Ray: "I wanna see your expressions. All of them."

(You were never planning to keep that promise, were you? You're not a good boy at all.)

But in spite of that teasing grin, his gaze was tender, and I found myself grinning as well.

[Alice]: "And here I thought you swore to stop teasing me."

Ray: "I'm only doing it because I know you love it."

His grin widened, and then he finally gave me the kiss I'd been waiting for, and I sighed with pleasure.

(I'm still awed sometimes by just how happy I feel in these moments.)

(All you have to do is smile for me, and kiss me, and I feel completely satisfied.)

(I think maybe these moments might actually be the best Christmas present you've given me tonight.)

[Alice]: "Ray."

Ray: "Hmm?"

I reached out, cupping his cheeks with my hands, and then lifted my head and kissed him full on the lips, a kiss full of all my love and happiness.

Ray: "Hey--"

[Alice]: "That's payback for teasing me so much."

Ray: "You really know how to do my head in."

(All I did was kiss you! But then again, when you kiss me-- hey!)

He sat up suddenly, pulling me up with him, and a moment later I found myself straddling his lap.

[Alice]: "Ray, what--"

Ray: "Put your arms around my neck."

I did as I was told, and he slid one arm around me, pulling me closer and pressing our naked bodies together.

I shivered as his warm breath tickled my neck, but I forgot all about it a moment later as he slid his hand between my legs, stroking me lightly.

Sudden, intense pleasure sparked through me, and I cried out softly, my voice hoarse with need.

Ray: "You did my head in."

Ray: "And now I want you even more."

He was unrelenting, stroking and teasing me in just the right way, and I bucked and writhed against him, clinging helplessly to his naked body.

A deep, desperate ache was building up inside me, until it was all I could think about, until even my voice sounded distant and strange.

[Alice]: "Ray--"

Ray: "[Alice]--"

(All you're doing is saying my name, and yet--)

The sound alone filled me with happiness, my heart burning up with love and joy.

All he was doing was touching me, and yet I felt as if my entire body was suffused with bliss.

(And you're the only one who makes me feel this way.)

I loosened my grip enough to pull back and stare into his eyes, wanting to see the intensity in his gaze.

And as he kissed me once more, an intense euphoria flooded my whole body, leaving me weak and trembling as we fell back against the bed again…

(Nnnnn--?)

I slowly drifted back into consciousness, only to find the room still dark around me.

I glanced over at the clock, and saw that it was close to dawn.

(My throat's a bit dry.)

I rolled over and found Ray lying right next to me, sleeping peacefully.

I watched him quietly for a while, admiring his gorgeous face and how calm and relaxed he seemed.

(You look like you're so deeply, happily asleep.)

I tenderly brushed his hair back from his face, and then turned and began to slip out of bed, but strong arms wrapped around my waist, stopping me.

[Alice]: "Ray?"

I turned back to look at him, but he looked exactly the same.

(You're still sound asleep.)

He clung to me like a little kid, and it was so sweet that suddenly I couldn't stop smiling.

(Oh, and I almost forgot--)

[Alice]: "Merry Christmas, Ray."

A few days later--

Ray and I headed into town so that we could visit the sweets store Ray had been going to since he was a little boy.

[Alice]: "I'm so happy they'll be able to stay open now."

Ray: "Yeah, me too."

They'd continued to get new customers every day, and we'd heard that they were planning to keep the store open now, so long as the customers kept coming.

We soon reached the store and stepped inside, only to find the place already very busy.

(This is amazing! Look how many people are here just to buy your sweets!)

Old woman: "Ray, [Alice]! Welcome, welcome! It's good to see you."

[Alice]: "Good afternoon!"

Ray: "You're really busy today."

Old woman: "It's a blessing, I tell you."

Old woman: "Apparently Santa Claus gave our sweets out to people all over Cradle on Christmas Eve."

Old woman: "And thanks to his kindness, we'll be able to keep the store open after all."

Ray: "Really? That's great to hear."

(Ray, you sound so happy!)

He was wearing his usual calm expression, but I could clearly hear the gentle happiness in his voice.

Old woman: "And it looks like Santa Claus paid you a visit, too."

The old woman smiled as she nodded towards the bright new scarf wrapped around Ray's neck.

Ray: "Yep. It was on my pillow when I woke up on Christmas morning."

Old woman: "Well, I'm sure that's because you've been a good boy."

Ray: "I don't know, someone keeps insisting l'm a tease."

[Alice]: "Hey."

(You really are a tease, you know?)

But I also knew that he'd worn that scarf every single day since Christmas, from the moment he woke up until the moment he went to bed.

(You're hardly ever honest about how you really feel, and you tease me non-stop... and I love every single thing about you.)

He was my one and only teasing Santa Claus, who'd given me the best Christmas presents I could ever have hoped for.

And as I reached out and took his hand, squeezing it gently, I found myself hoping every Christmas would be as wonderful as this one had been...