Chapter Text
“Well, that’s Christmas over for another year.” Jubal sounded both happy and disappointed as he placed a mug of tea on the coffee table in front of Dana.
“Just gotta get through New Years and we’ll be back to normal.”
Jubal sat down next to his girlfriend, the kids had long gone to bed and he felt like this was the first time he’d been able to spend some time with Dana since the schools closed for winter break.
Dana shifted a little closer, resting her head on Jubal’s shoulder, reaching for her mug of tea, enjoying the few moments of silence. She loved the kids, she loved the festive season, but at times with the whole extended family together, it was nice to just enjoy the lights on the Christmas tree without being asked about food, batteries or asking the mass of children to just quieten down a little.
“Any wishes for next year?” Jubal asked.
Dana shook her head, “The usual, you know, just hope we all get through it okay. Hope we’ll be okay, that the kids will be happy and healthy, you know,” Dana shrugged, “the usual.”
“Well, that certainly makes my wish of a couples vacation seem really selfish.”
Dana laughed a little. “Okay, so maybe that’s on my list as well.”
Jubal leaned down a little to kiss the top of her head. “How are you?” He hadn’t asked her, much like he felt he hadn’t spoken to her properly in a few days.
Dana moved a little, lifting her head off his shoulder, looking at him with a smile that felt genuine.
“I’m happy. We’re in a good place, the kids are good, work is good. I am happy, Jubal. Are you?”
Jubal nodded without hesitation. “I am. You know, when we met I really wanted to get to know you, you were just that kind of person who I wanted to have around. I never thought in the beginning it would be like this, but, I am really glad it is. With the kids, I feel like I have so many ups and downs, and work, I love my job, but it can take so much out of me, and then I have you.”
“So, you like me then?” Dana asked with a grin.
“Yeah, Dana,” Jubal pulled her back into him, wrapping his arms around her. “I like you.”
They were both happy, really happy.
“I love you, Dana, and I am thankful you’re here.”
Dana leaned up to kiss him, smiling as she did so.
“I am happy I am here too. I love you, and will, I think, for a very long time.”
They were both happy, content and in love. They were both going to be okay, they had each other, and that was always going to be enough.