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Clink!

Tanjiro hummed as he dipped the mini metal spoon into his steaming cup of hot chocolate and nutmeg, swirling the liquid in swift circles till it was just right and proceeding to top it with a nice hat of whipped cream and a cherry-- not finishing without the extra pinch of sugar to sprinkle on top. After all, Genya liked his hot chocolate sweeter than most. Hot steam spiralled up from the cup, a foggy mist that dispersed out as Tanjiro carried the tray over to the table-for-two his boyfriend was patiently waiting at and tapping his finger against the wooden table rhythmically, his eyes adrift staring out the window at the flower shop just across the road. 

The Kamado Family Bakery was at the pinnicle of Genya's favourite date spots, not just because of the free discount, but his contentment stemmed from it's roots -- family owned by his wonderful boyfriend, beautiful view at every window,  and the toasty, welcoming atmosphere of their baked goods and hospitality. Not once has it ceased to amaze Genya how the golden-boy kid in his fifth grade class -- the same kid who broke his arm -- would be sitting across from him, smiling like a giddy hamster on their millionth hot-chocolate date. His family was perfect, Tanjiro was perfect (even if Sanemi didn't necessarily like him), and every minute they'd spent together... perfect. A year ago, if he had to envision his future, Genya would've never pictured himself to be a smitten fool.

"Extra sugar, just how you like it." Tanjiro chimed with a smile of gold, watching with warm eyes as Genya eagerly took a sip of his hot-chocolate and breathed out a refreshed sigh, his face melting into a smile like a lazy sloth. Tanjiro's fingers then drew down to his own cup, blowing away the steam and letting the toasty liquid inside warm his hands through the skin of the cup. He proceeded to take a few gulps, sinking into his chair comfortably as he watched Genya lick away stray droplets of sizzling chocolate from his own lips, careful not to let it dribble down his chin and taint the white cable-knit sweater snug tightly to his body. 

"You spoil me too much." Genya chuckled with a faint tint of pink across his cheeks, his laugh synchronising with Tanjiro's as their fingers laced together like ribbons. Tanjiro's thumb gently caressed the skin of Genya's, rubbing across it soothingly like he were handling a delicate porcelain doll. He ignored the snickers of his little siblings hiding terribly from behind the counter, trying to sneak videos of the two as they did every time Genya came over. Hanako especially held a fascination over her older brother's relationship, being the first to cheer and twirl when Tanjiro bestowed the news to his family that he was going to ask Genya out on a first date. His family was always just a bit intrusive of his relationship, but in a familial, protective way that let him knew they cared. Genya didn't seem to mind either, especially since Tanjiro had to deal with the hell that was his boyfriend's older brother on the rare occasions he took solace at Genya's home.

"How can I not? I would sit here all day making you hot-chocolate if I didn't have holiday plans with my family later." Slight disappointment blew off his words and he squeezed Genya's hand, earning a squeeze back.

"Oh? What are you doing?"

"We're going to a nearby village with big Christmas light displays. It's a tradition we've had for a few years, the lights are beautiful and it has a different theme every year! Last time it was snowmen, so there were these giant light-up snowmen -- oh, and they held a competition to see who could make the best one!" 

Genya gazed at Tanjiro with the wide-eyed admiration of a lovesick puppy, his free hand cradling his chin as he leaned against the table, hanging on every word of Tanjiro's rambling as if it were a captivating masterpiece.

"Did you win? You can make pretty good snowmen."

"No--, Shigeru initiated a snowball fight since we finished early, and we got so far into it that the snowman ended up taking a hit right before the judges came by." Tanjiro exasperated, rubbing this temples with a defeated frown. His spirit perked up only a mere moment later, his back hunched as he leaned across the table to gaze wistfully at his boyfriend. "Does your family have any traditions? This is our first Christmas together so I wanna be well tuned to how you celebrate!"

A ponder swirled in Genya's head as he looked up towards the wooden boards of the ceiling with an uhhh, Tanjiro's awaiting gaze peering at him wonderingly. 

"A few, we go to this place every year that lets you pick out your own tree and chop it down. We try to all pitch in but it usually ends up being Sanemi and I that gets it down.. and, we also go ice skating on a lake near out house, as well as have a ginger-bread house decorating competition in teams -- but Sumi and Teiko win every year."

"We do gingerbreads too! We also bake cookies every year, and make handmade gifts! Oh, and Nezuko and I handle moving the elves since Rokuta, Shigeru, and Hanako still believe in Santa." Tanjiro's calloused finger points over to the two elves perched on the counter, one leaning against the register, and the other against the tip jar. "Last year we came up with the idea to have them get married. We pretended the elves stole our parent's rings and proposed. Hanako couldn't get enough of it! She even knit them wedding gowns!" A small, mushy smile spread across his rosy cheeks as the memory warmed his insides. His fingers curled around the handle of his hot chocolate, and he took a satisfied sip, finishing the drink with a contented 'ahh." Tanjiro set the cup down gently, his gaze drifting upward to Genya. His eyes lingered on the small tuft of hair jutting out stubbornly from his mohawk, the grey shadows beneath his eyelids like distant storm clouds, and the subtle lilac hue that tinted his eyes—each detail drawing him in like a quiet, beautiful storm and-- is he falling silent?

Tanjiro lifted Genya's laced hand from the table, bringing the scarred skin to his lips and giving him a gentle kiss. "Hey.. you okay?"

A heavy sigh rumbled in Genya's throat, the sound rough and almost reluctant, as if it carried a weight he couldn't shake. He lightly shook his head "Oh, Nono, I'm fine. It's just that my family didn't necessarily do the whole Santa thing. So I can't really relate. I like hearing about your stories though." He reciprocated the kiss, playfully pressing one to Tanjiro's wrist. "The elves getting married is cute, was that your idea?"

"Mhm," he nodded thoughtfully, his gaze briefly clouding with a hint of contemplation. "...do you mind if I ask why your family didn't-"

"Yeah, it was just more stuff with my father. My mom tried to do the Santa thing, but he'd always ruin it, and by the time the divorce went through and he was gone, Sanemi and I were too old, and the rest of our siblings didn't believe anyways. I do wish we could've done it though, but, it is how it is." Genya shrugged it off, oblivious to the mental slap Tanjiro jabbed at himself and the twitch in his smile.

Tanjiro! Why did you ask?? You probably brought back so many bad memories! Stupid!

"Oh I'm sorry for asking-"

"No don't worry about it, it's totally fine-"

Tanjiro quickly rose to his feet, his lips betraying a nervous chuckle as he bunched up his blanket around his tense shoulders and ushered Genya up. "I still have an hour or two-- ehe, how about we watch a movie? We can cuddle and I'll braid your hair!" He pushed a pastry between Genya's lips, silencing him with sugar and giddily stringing him along. Playfully, he feigned a grumble, his eyes rolling slightly as he followed along.

"Only if I get to play with yours."

"Deal!"

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Tanjiro's Place, two days later. 

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"It's perfectly normal for a family not to do the Santa Claus tradition, Tanjiro. Why are you so held up on it?" Zenitsu garbled, his voice a jumbled heap - as his mouth was stuffed with a dab of cookie batter that he had sneakily swiped off the mixer. Beside him, Inosuke messily mixed-up another batch, Kanao at his side to act as his management and ensuring he didn't screw up the ingredients yet again. Stationed across the kitchen, Nezuko was decorating the baked cookies in sprinkles, icing, and other nicely arranged toppings. 

"I know, I know.. and I'm not saying it's not normal that they don't -- It's just that he said he was upset that he never got to do it! I can't help but sympathize that he missed out on all that.. child-like wonder." A frown coerced across Tanjiro's face, his head leaned back against the cabinets near the stove as he waited for the timer to ding. His finger curled across his stray hairs, twirling them around idly, his teeth nipping at the inside of his lip. "He looked upset." 

Zenitsu's eyebrows furrowed into a knot, his tongue clicking against the roof of his mouth and he swiped another clump of batter onto his finger. "I know you wanna help since it's your first Christmas dating, but what's there to do? You can't go back in time and fix Santa for the Shinazugawas-- Inosuke stop!" Zenitsu gritted, reaching over and hoisting his hands under the boy's armpits to hold him away from shoving his whole fist into the batter-bowl. "hgn- it just doesn't work sometimes-- agh -- Kaigaku told me Santa wasn't real when I was young."

Inosuke cocked an eyebrow. "Wait Santa isn't r-"

Zenitsu shoved his face away. "Buttt.. Gramps made up for it by dressing up as Santa that Christmas and personally handing me my gifts. I knew it was him, but it was sweet enough that it made up for it being spoiled." he slumped and shrugged his shoulders, a grimace soiling his face as sickness invaded his stomach and he pushed the batter-bowl away. "Eughh.." He groaned and hugged his stomach. The bowl was hastily snatched away from his reach, Nezuko's snarl up in his face. 

"This is why I told you not to have so much! That was at least a whole tray of cookies you ate!" She hissed under her breath, quickly tying her hair up into a loose bun and adjusting her apron with swift ease. She took the bowl over to Kanao, joining her in rolling small balls of dough to place on the baking sheet. Nezuko kneaded each one carefully in her palms, handling them with a delicate grace and making sure each was the perfect, uniform size before moving on to the next. Meanwhile, Kanao pulled a chair over with a soft scrape, settling beside Nezuko as her gaze shifted towards Tanjiro, the quiet intensity in her eyes matching the calmness of the moment.

"If you're that upset, then why not do something special for him this year? I'm sure he'd appreciate it. He's busy with his little brother's soccer game today, so you have time to plan something out."

"Like what?" Tanjiro's gaze sharpened, his attention seized as he walked over to the group and leaned his elbows against the cool countertops beside Zenitsu. Anticipation sat like a qualm in his gut -- he knew it wasn't his responsibility to make up for everything bad Genya ever went through, but he couldn't help it! Genya was the best boyfriend he could ever ask for. Kind, considerate, funny, handsome, loyal.. and it's their first Christmas together! It needed to be special.. memorable.. and while he of course couldn't fix everything, there had to be some sort of way to make it feel.. lighter. Genya deserved everything and more, Tanjiro had to try something! It's his duty as a loving boyfriend!

"Hmmm... become Santa!" Inosuke cackled, leaning over the table wildly and smashing down his clenched fist to brutally shatter an egg. The yolk burst and splattered all across his shirt and soiled the dense fabric. A shriek pierced the air next to him as Zenitsu zipped to his side to try and salvage the lended attire he had supplied his friend with. "Oh yeah, let's just hope that Tanjiro can find some magical reindeer and gain the power of Christmas spirit. Great idea! But maybe let's suggest stuff that's POSSIBLE!"

"Watch your mouth Zenoko!"

"Zenitsu!"

"Zenbiko!"

"Become Santa?" Tanjiro interjected, tapping his finger on his chin in contemplation. "That could be a good idea!" 

"Tanjiro." Zenitsu deadpanned, glancing over at him with narrowed eyes. "Don't humour him." 

"Well-- how about what Mr. Kuwajima did for you? You knew Santa wasn't real but it still made you happy. Why not try something like that? I could dress up and give Genya a ton of gifts from me!" With a quick burst of energy, Tanjiro stood, speeding over to grab a notepad and flipping to a clean page. "I could enlist his older brother for help!" 

Nezuko bit her lip. "Tanjiro, it's a sweet idea.. but Sanemi? He hates you, I doubt he'll help."

"He'll help if it makes Genya happy. I'm sure! I could.. I could get him some elves to move around! It's perfect! I'll get the presents, he'll move the elves, and on Christmas morning I'll come in through the chimney and surprise him!"

"Maybe scratch the part about the chimney.." Nezuko sighed, patting her brother's back and fussing his hair into a ponytail as she had done with Inosuke. "I'll run out and get you the costume with Kanao when we're done. You boys drive over to the Shinazugawa's to ask his brother. Genya mentioned Sanemi wouldn't be at their brother's soccer game today because of errands, so you might be able to catch him there to ask about the elf idea." 

"Thanks Nezuko! You're the best." He whipped around, playfully ruffling her hair with a snicker.

 "I know." She wrestled him off. "Just make sure Zen and Ino stay in the car while you talk to Sanemi. If there's anyone he hates more than you, it's those two." Nezuko's gaze hardened, watching with her peripheral vision as Inosuke wrestled Zenitsu down to the floor, trying to shove an egg in his mouth.

"Seriously, I mean it."

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Tanjiro's Car, Outside the Shinazugawa Household

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"You two stay here. Okay? I'll talk with Sanemi, it shouldn't be long."  Tanjiro twisted the keys out of the ignition, lightly pushing his driver door open before stepping out. His feet crunched against the pathway's rocks, a wild thump booming inside of his chest. Staring at the door, anxiety of facing him flared up into an inferno. Zenitsu's laughs of 'he's so dead. Nice knowing you Tanjiro'  echoed in the back of his thoughts like a snake coiling around prey, injecting a toxic venom to remind him that yes, Sanemi hated his guts. And if he had a good enough excuse to, Tanjiro may be limping back to his car.

Nipping at the inside of his lip, he took a few deep breaths before commencing his trek to the front step of their home. A foreboding gulp marinated in Tanjiro's stomach -- he felt like a peasant at the foot of a royal palace; with a ferocious, unforgiving dragon guarding its gates, eager to devour him at a moment's notice. He paused.

Come on Tanjiro, don't stagger! This is for Genya, your wonderful, handsome boyfriend who deserves the world! You can't lose to your own fears! Sanemi is just another Shinzaugawa. A possible brother-in-law! If this relationship with Genya is gonna work, you need to learn to get his older brother to like you!

Sucking in a deep breath, (and hopefully some courage along with it), he continued forward. After all, he knew Sanemi was a good person at heart! His scent radiated protection, a high love for his family, strong sense of justice, and surprisingly, ohagi. Whenever Tanjiro spent the day with the Shinazugawa's, he caught wafts of that familial bond that lingered thickly in his own home. It was most potent when Sanemi would throw threats at him, protectively holding Genya at his side, pointing at Tanjiro with a snarl and calling him names -- it could only put a smile on Tanjiro's cheeks, the loving-brotherly scent pleasant to his nose, which admittedly would only make Sanemi angrier at him. "What's that stupid grin for!? Brat!" he'd shout like it was his own personal motto. But regardless of how much Sanemi hated him, Tanjiro was certain he would help. It was for Genya -- which is probably the only standpoint they could ever get along in.

Finally, Tanjiro glanced to the Shinazugawa Family nameplate above their front door, decorated with paint handprints of each sibling when they were tots. Genya's was an itty bitty purple, a smiley face drawn next to it with his thumb in the same color. The nameplate was aged with time, decaying and discolored slightly at the edges -- but it was impossibly cute. Tanjiro fonded over the memory of the first time he had laid eyes upon it. Genya had taken him home for a study session -- their freshman midterms were approaching and being in a lot of the same classes, they figured it was easier to study together. Had it been Tanjiro's sneaky idea to try and get closer to his already-friend-but-with-a-developing-crush? Maybe just a little. He remembered it clear as day, pointing up to the nameplate with a light smile and an 'aww! look how small your hand was, Genya!'. Genya's face had flared red, steaming like a pipping hot kettle as he grumbled out some curses and shoved him inside, vowing to tear it down and 'burn it on the curb'. Genya claims to not remember this, but it's one of Tanjiro's most cherished memories of their pining phase.

Anyway-- what is he suppose to be doing here? Oh yeah. Sanemi.

he shuddered.

Lifting his hand, he knocked three times, ensuring each was evenly spaced, with the same amount of force. Not too loud, but not too quiet either. The perfect sequence of knocks that just hopefully, Sanemi wouldn't find a problem in-

The door slammed open, the doorknob smashing into the outside boards and splintering a small section to bits. Tanjiro's eyes lingered on the damage, biting back a gulp before drawing his gaze up to the nasty glare of his boyfriend's older brother. He didn't need to sniff the air to take in the violent scent.

"Genya isn't here. Go away." The scarred-man snapped, grabbing the doorknob with an iron fist and moving to slam it shut in Tanjiro's face. Seeing his opprotunity closing along with the door, Tanjiro impulsively put his foot in the way, tanking the brutal force.  "Agh! Wait- I'm not here for Genya this time. Can we talk, please? It's about-"

"No, I don't like you, leave." Sanemi snarled, his skin wrinkled and knitted down in contempt. A flare burned within his gaze, whirling around like a raging tempest trying to blow him away like scum. Tanjiro wasn't exactly sure how the deeply rooted hatred for him formed, but even nine months into dating, and even longer being Genya's best friend -- his relationship with Sanemi remained strained, tense, and often times nasty. Sanemi stared at him like he was plotting something, and his scent wafted with a potency of violence and hatred, yet he had never done anything, and Tanjiro was positive he wouldn't. Because there would be times where that thick musk of hatred would dissipate, rather it be when he'd catch the couple laughing happily together or cuddling -- perhaps hatred and violence aren't the best words. Just.. protective. He knew how much Sanemi loved his little brother, and Tanjiro believed there was a sense of mutual respect between he and Sanemi, as long as he kept Genya happy.

And that's also why he knew Sanemi could be persuaded. 

"Please. It's for Genya and I want to make this Christmas memorable and meaningful for him this year! I have something planned- but I could really use your help and I'm sure he'd appreciate it a lot!" his tongue began to ramble faster than he could keep up with, his mind searching wildly for something that could Sanemi could latch onto. It's a miracle he's let him talk as long as he has already. "Genya mentioned he never had the Santa tradition-- which is fine!--" he quickly assured, holding his hands up defensively when he saw the twitch in Sanemi's eye. Tanjiro stumbled above rapids, one wrong step and he'd fall into the current to be swept away. "--I just thought I could maybe do something this year to make a nice memory for him! I was thinking I could dress up and-- maybe give him gifts? Like Santa! in front of the tree! But I don't wanna trespass so I thought you'd let me inside so he's surprised and uh.. maybe move some elves around the house...?"

Tanjiro swore internally. He was smiling and sweating like an idiot. No chance Sanemi gives him the time of day. 

But rather than kicking him away, and punching his gut in for 'wasting his time and tainting his day', he narrowed his eyes, pondering for a moment while Tanjiro sat like a statue, nervous that if he as much as breathed too loud he'd ruin everything. 

"What?" 

"I-I was thinking I could dress up as Santa, you move elves and-"

"I heard you."

Tanjiro shut up.

"It's stupid." Sanemi sneered, breaking the silence and Tanjiro's spirit all at once. I shouldn't have gotten my hopes up anyway, he figured, ready to turn and leave before Sanemi held his hand up and spoke again begrudgingly, his worlds whisped with spite. "But that's why he'd like it. He's corny like that when it comes to you. It's weird." Sanemi's arms crossed tightly, his eyes deliberately avoiding the boy in front of him. The same snarl tugged at his lips, the one he'd always wear anytime their paths would meet.

Tanjiro giddily shot up, Sanemi rolled his eyes. 

"Really? You'll help? Thank you so much! I promise I'll-"

"Don't overdo it."

"--yes." The redhead gulped down his next words, more thank you's that Sanemi's soiled expression told him he didn't want. But-- this was a win! Sanemi was gonna help him! Granted, his job was to let him inside Christmas morning so he could deliver the gifts, and move an elf across the house once a day -- but this could also be a standpoint for them to grow closer! Tanjiro's eyes burst back to Sanemi, the light in him shining so bright it was borderline blinding as he hurriedly took out a tiny notepad from his pocket that he had scribbled some ideas down earlier. Sanemi audibly groaned. 

"So first, you'll start moving the elf around the house -- in noticeable places to begin with -- but later in more discrete places so he'll have fun looking for them! Oh- here." He rummaged through his back, hauling it off his shoulders before pushing an elf into his hands. Sanemi peered at it skeptically, opening his mouth to say something before shutting it, and muttering incoherently to himself. "You'll keep that up, and deny it when he asks, then you come in again on Christmas morning to let me inside so I can be there under the tree for him with the gifts and -- oo! Should I have milk and cookies too?"

"Your plan is to scare him?"

Tanjiro frowned, tilting his head, puzzled. "Scare him?"

"He's gonna walk into the living room and see a strange man in a fake beard before he recognises you."

Oh. He didn't consider that. 

uhm.

"Well, no- that wasn't my plan. How about you tell him there's something - or someone - in there for him! It'll still be a surprise when he sees me! And I'll make sure he sees my face right away! I'll be standing by the tree with presents and-"

"Okay okay, whatever. Just don't scare him, and don't upset him, and don't make it more of my problem. I'm only helping you because it'll mean a lot to Genya. Don't get used to it." Sanemi shooed him away, grumbling under his breath as he gripped the door frame hard enough his knuckles turned white. Tanjiro gave a few quick nods, a bead of sweat under his chin. He politely bowed, mumbling another thank you so much!

"When he was younger he envied other kids for having a figure so 'magical and spirited' to look up to every year. Everyone in his class would talk about being super excited for Santa to come and would write him letters, Genya felt left out and it really nagged on 'em for a few years. He says he's over it, but I can tell it still upsets him." His face contorted with concern, eyebrows pulled low and lips curled into a tight frown. The scent drifting from the grouchy man was oddly familiar, like a distant memory—tinged with something almost like guilt, woven through. Sanemi leaned lazily against the doorframe, his posture slouched but his gaze slowly returning to the redhead. There, hidden beneath the familiar sharpness of his presence, was a subtle warmth, an unspoken appreciation that lingered faintly in the air, mingling with the raw edge of his musk.

"He'd really appreciate the sentiment. Even if it is fuckin' weird." Sanemi narrowed his eyes, his gaze sharper than a blade as he cut Tanjiro off before giving him time to respond. "I'll do my part, just don't screw up yours and upset him. I'll kill you." Letting that threat linger in the air, he finally slammed the door in Tanjiro's face, taking the elf with him. 

Tanjiro blinked, digesting the 'sentiment' before his face lit up with a glowing smile. He merrily skipped back to his awaiting friends in the car, and hopped in the driver seat. 

"He said yes! He'll help!" He cheered, his eyes shining stars. Zenitsu shot him a puzzled look. 

"Sanemi? Help you? Funny joke. So what's the backup plan?"

"No, I'm serious! He agreed to help! He'll move the elf and let me in on Christmas morning!" Tanjiro bubbled, starting the car and checking his rearview mirrors with a careful eye before pulling away from the curb and getting on the road. "I think this can possibly be a bonding moment! Maybe he might consider liking me as Genya's boyfriend!'

"Pft, I'd love to see." Zenitsu bored his eyes into the back of his head, rolling down the window and resting his chin on the edge. He stared at the compiled snow on the front lawns they passed by. The nearby school district had called off that day, allowing the children to frolick outside in the powdery white snow, crafting snowmen with their warm mittens and making snow angels. They passed by a rather large group of school children, maybe a dozen of them, divided into teams and building snow fortresses to shield themselves from oncoming snowballs. Laughter rang out like bells the further down the road they drew, the smell of hot chocolate from child-run stands and the calls of "Home made hot chocolate! Come get some home made hot chocolate! Only a dollar per cup!" soothing their ears. Chilly, frigid air swiftly danced through the car, a dash of snow landing on the blonde's nose. 

"Zenkoki close the window! It's freezing!"

"it's not my fault you chose to wear an open-buttoned T-shirt! Just take my jacket!" Zenitsu seethed, throwing back his warm, puffy winter coat into the back seat and smacking the crazed boy with it. Inosuke blew a raspberry back at him, putting the jacket snuggly around his arms before slouching back. 

"Why does Zentiro always get the front seat?!"

"He controls the radio, Inosuke." Tanjiro responds half-heartedly, his shoulders relaxed into the warmed seat as his thoughts dazed elsewhere through the puffy snowy clouds. A warm blush remained peppered on his freckled cheeks, his gentle daydreams taking him through a whimsical story of his lovely planned Christmas Day. He'd hold out a delicately wrapped present in his arms, smiling at Genya through the fake, curly white beard with a blush as rosy as his Santa-suit. Genya would laugh, or maybe gasp, before bursting out into smiles and hugging him. They'd snuggle as Genya would open his gifts, awwing at each one as Tanjiro hugged and held him close. Maybe after they'd go out together, or stuff one another's face with Christmas cookies and sweets. Perhaps they'd stand under the mistletoe, giggling like highschool freshman again, shyly dancing around another before-

"The ROAD Tanjiro!" Zenitsu shouted in his ear, pulling him down from the clouds and punching his shoulder as the green light finally came into perspective, as well as the honking from the cars behind him. He called a short 'sorry!' out his window before speeding back down the road

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The Mall || Thirteen Days Until Christmas Morning

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"Zenitsu, do you think he'd like the lavender one better, or the lilac?" Tanjiro held up yet another pair of cable-knit sweaters to Zenitsu, who was sitting on a display bench (which Tanjiro had told him multiple times to get off) and groaning. They'd been in this store at the mall for nearing forty-five minutes, and they'd only barely checked off half of the places Tanjiro wanted to cover in that day. The mall had been their haven for the past week, and Tanjiro had been snatching people up practically every day to help him shop for Genya till they all dropped dead. Today, Zenitsu was the only one stupid enough to be honest and say he was free. 

"They both look the same! I'm sure he'd like either one." Zenitsu mumbled, his gaze remaining on his phone as he scrolled through a few reels, snorting at a video where a parrot jumped around and squawked. Tanjiro grumbled, placing his hand in the way of the phone screen.

"You didn't even look.." His voice mimicked that of a kicked puppy, his fiery red eyes glancing between the two sweaters continuously. "They don't look the same! Genya might like one and hate the other!" Tanjiro trailed off, urging them back towards the blonde.

This guy cannot be serious. Zenitsu internally groaned, his eyes snapping up to his best friend as he feigned a thoughtful glance at the two sweaters, and pointed to the one on the left. "The lavender one."

'That's the lilac!" Tanjiro yelped in defeat, his face drooping like a ghost as he slouched his posture and shallowly sighed. 

"Tanjiro." Zenitsu stood up from his seat, his voice deadpanned and his expression serious. "You're overthinking this. Genya's going to love what you get him no matter what. I've seen him wear both these shades, he's not going to be picky on the specifics. It's going to mean a lot to him that you're going this far just for him, okay? Stop stressing so much and relax." He pat Tanjiro's shoulder reassuringly, and a deep sigh compressed in Tanjiro's lungs before he relaxed. 

"Yes, you're right. Thanks Zen, you're the best." A beaming smile returned to his face, and he hugged his choppy blonde friend close, squeezing him like a pound of bakery-dough. Zenitsu spluttered, his cheeks shooting red as he squirmed out of his arms. 'Hey! Save it for Genya, weirdo!" 

Tanjiro merely gave a soft laugh, putting the lavender sweater back on the rack and heading to the cashier to check out.

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Shinazugawa Household || Fifteen Days Until Christmas Morning

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"Hmm...hmmhmhm.." 

Genya adjusted his headphones, humming to the mellow tune dancing softly in his ears, his hands busily scrubbing at the bits of dried scrap sticking like leeches to the metal rim of a dirty pot. His sharp tooth busily nibbled on the tip of his top lip, his eyes trailing off to the window and watching each snowflake drift onto into their backyard, keeping an eye on his little siblings playing outside. Hiroshi, Sumi, Teiko, and Shuya were making little igloos out of the thickly packed snow, yet it'd been a few hours they'd been out there, and hardly anything has gotten done. About half of an igloo, the siblings were too distracted throwing the occasional snowball at one another. 

A smile cracked on Genya's lips as he turned off the sink's running faucet, grabbing a towel and drying the pot before placing it in one of the lower cabinets. He blew a stray tuff of hair from his eyes, brushing it back into his mohawk with his fingers as he returned to the window. By this time, the sun began to dip under the horizon, the sky gently illuminated with a canvas of warm colors mixing and dripping into one another. 

Genya blew out a pleased exhale, allowing his eyes to linger and awe. Tanjiro loved sunsets, as did Genya. They reminded him of Tanjiro's eyes. 

Quickly, he took out his phone, snapped a photo, and sent it to his boyfriend.

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:34pm)

IMG_0179.jpg

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:34pm)

Have you seen the sunset yet? Look outside, it's lovely.

Tanjiro hearted the message almost immediately, and text bubbles appeared straight after.

|| Tanjiro <3 (5:35pm)

Yes!! I've been staring at it for a while! It's so pretty! I've taken nearly a dozen photos!

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:35pm)

Of course you have.

Genya rolled his eyes with a hefty chuckle, and opened up his photos app, holding his camera at an angle where his face was close to the camera, with just above his chin being visible. He stuck his tongue out just barely and snapped a photo, snickering to himself before sending it off. 

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:36pm)

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Drawing his eyes back to the window, the sky had mellowed to a blue, the bright warm colors nearly gone under the horizon. They're going to be cold.. I'll make them some hot chocolate. The raven nodded to himself, heading over to the cabinet to grab out some chocolate to melt in the microwave. Upon opening the wooden cabinet, Genya flinched, and knitted his eyebrows. Sitting there was a rather small -- elf, with it's knees tucked into it's chest. The elf's cheeks was rosy as it's bright red outfit, it's face smiling and giddy. Beside it lay a written note in very fancy handwriting and ..glitter?

Name me!

it wrote. 

huh..?

Genya was perplexed, and turned himself to shout upstairs, where Sanemi was putting Koto down for a nap. 

"Uhm.. Nemi??"

"Yeah?" He called back.

"Do you know why there's.. an elf in the cabinet??"

"An elf??"

"Yeah."

A beat passed.

"I dunno." Sanemi shouted back.

Puzzled, Genya let it go, drawing back to the cabinet and pulling his phone out to snap another photo and send it to Tanjiro, smiling at the response Tanjiro had sent a moment prior of a photo of him with his cheeks puffed out.

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:39pm)

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|| Tanjiro <3 (5:39pm)

OMG

|| Tanjiro <3 (5:39pm)

That's so cute!! You gotta name him!!

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:40pm)

Name him?

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:40pm)

Can I just name him after you?

|| Tanjiro <3 (5:40pm)

Awe, but I don't think you should. How about something else?

|| Tanjiro <3 (5:40pm)

Do you have any ideas?

No. No he didn't. He was awful with names -- he didn't have the on-the-spot creativity that Tanjiro did. His brain was too preoccupied trying to rationalise an elf appearing out of the blue in the closet. Sanemi didn't put it there, the rest of his siblings were too short -- well, Teiko could reach, but he doubted she put it there, plus her handwriting wasn't that good -- and his mother was too busy. A prank, maybe? Eh, it didn't really matter, he'd find out eventually. For now, Genya guessed he had to figure out a name.

A name? He could think of something. He couldn't name it after Tanjiro.. but maybe one of his attributes? Hm..

A glimmer sparked in his eyes, and his fingers quickly swiped across the keyboard.

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:42pm)

Ginger

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:42pm)

His name is Ginger.

|| Tanjiro <3 (5:42pm)

Awwww, I love it! How'd you come up with it?

Genya snorted to himself.

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:42pm)

Dunno. Just on the spot.

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:42pm)

I'm gonna quickly make some hot chocolate for the littles, I'll text you in a bit.

Right as he was about to put the phone down, he blinked in recognition, quickly raising the phone back to his face with a smile.

|| Genya Shinazugawa (5:43pm)

I love you <3

|| Tanjiro <3 (5:43pm)

Love you too!! :D <333

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Ice Skating Rink || Eleven Days Until Christmas Morning

.  .  .  .

"I never get any better at this the more times you take me!" Genya grumbled from the ice, his left foot having slid too far in front of his right and he had fallen on his ass. He blew stray hairs from his face, most of his mohawk was gathered into a ponytail, all besides the usual small tuff sticking out and resting carefully on his forehead. A turtleneck sat snug on his neck, a scarf wrapped around to ensure "comfortability and warmth", as Tanjiro had pestered him before they left. Speaking of the redhead, he looked down at his boyfriend and bit back a giggle, holding his mitten-covered hand out to help him up. Genya begrudgingly took his hand, his rosy cheeks puffy. 

The two had come to their town's ice skating rink a few times since snow began to fall and coat the district in a gentle sheet of white -- and no matter how many times they'd gone for hours, holding hands and gliding across the ice, Genya was barely reaching 'getting the hang of it'. Tanjiro was rather a natural, often letting go of Genya to skate a few laps around the circular rink before joining back to him. He'd hum, his legs moving swiftly like a painter on a canvas, carving the ice with the metal blades of his skates like it was an art form. His red hair would blow behind him, his eyes narrowed and focused. Genya would always find himself gawking, blaming the cold temperature the ice radiated for his flushed expression.

However, as much as he adored watching his boyfriend glide around like a goddess -- holding hands and skating beside one another was his favorite part. Tanjiro was a personal heater, his hand a safe haven for Genya to run back to and squeeze after each time he'd bust his ass. Sometimes it'd save him, sometimes it wouldn't, sometimes he'd accidentally drag Tanjiro down with him -- but his trust never faltered, and his stomach could only pool with that familiar warmth and love each time he'd gaze back up at Tanjiro from the ground before bursting out into laughs.

"Oh come on Genya, it took me a few years to get the hang of it! You'll get there, I promise! Come on, remember the sequence?"

"Yes yes, left .. right, left.. right." He trailed off, moving his feet precisely while he stared down to make sure his body followed accordingly. A mitten snaked its way under his chin, turning his head to face Tanjiro. 

"Don't overthink it too much. You'll be fine, I'm here to catch you."

Genya narrowed his eyes.

"Most of the time. A-anyway -- where was Ginger today?"

The raven snorted to himself, lightly shouldering Tanjiro. "I told you, he was in my room right on my nightstand. He gave me a goddamn heart attack when I turned to get my phone. Sanemi couldn't stop laughing at me when I told him." Genya huffed, squeezing Tanjiro's hand twice, earning two back. "I swear every day it's like the elf just more terrifying. It's cute, though."

Yes yes yes! He likes it!

Tanjiro internally squealed, his cheeks burning up like heated dough as he sneakily pulled out his phone, scrambling a text while Genya focused on turning.

|| Tanjiro Kamado  (2:09pm)

Genya loves the elf! Although make sure not to scare him too much!!

|| Tanjiro Kamado  (2:09pm)

He named it Ginger! Isn't that so cute??

|| Future-Brother-In-Law :D  (2:10pm)

Ew. Do not text me ever again.

|| Tanjiro Kamado  (2:09pm)

Haha! Sorry!

The deliver mark never appeared, was his wifi bad?

Tanjiro glanced to the top of his phone screen, full bars. 

Did Sanemi just block him?

Frowning, Tanjiro hurriedly tucked his phone back in his pocket with a sad pout. Did he seriously just get blocked..? Maybe not- right? His wifi must just be bad, that's it. The bars are wrong. Tanjiro sulked like a wet cat, his body slouched as they finished turning the corner. It's just the wifi. He assured, reaching up high to place a light kiss on Genya's pale cheek. 

"HN!" The raven shrieked, suddenly stumbling off balance as his previously pale skin burned to a bright pink.

"Woah! Genya be careful!"

"Y-you can't just do that!" Genya seethed back at him, his words nearly garbles as he finally slipped and sent them both tumbling down on top of each other, limbs tangled with limbs as the frigid ice melted into their clothing. 

Sitting up to catch his breath, Tanjiro snorted at the collapsed boy beside him, his face a snarl as he grumbled and struggled to get back on his feet -- he shot Tanjiro a glare, his damp arms crossed at his sides as he didn't dare to meet the redhead's eye, his face still flushed and sweaty. 

"I hate you."

"I love you too, Gen." Tanjiro smiled, leaning over and peppering another kiss to his cheek.

.  .  .  .

The Mall || Nine Days Until Christmas Morning

.  .  .  .

"A Build-A-Bear? Why?" Kanao's head tilted curiously, her gaze drifted across the expansive room, watching the children giddily running across the store floors, eagerly stuffing the plushies with eager hands, washing them in the mock bath tub, and picking out snuggly clothes for their new companions,

The room smelled of freshly baked cookies, the environment toasty with child laughter and holiday music over the speakers. Her eyes landed on a little boy beside her, handicapped to a wheelchair as he held up a Sonic plushie and coddled it close to his heart, cooing and cheering while his proud mother paid at the register. Nearby, two twin sisters bickered over the last remaining blue bear in the column, tugging it back and forth as they whined for their mother, hissing No! it's mine! at one another. Workers sprinted quickly in their buzzing bees in a hive, tending to customers and cleaning up messes. The atmosphere was a bit overwhelming, but the tender spirit of wonder gently melted it away.

"Well you can import custom-made voices!" Tanjiro brought her attention. back. "After winter break, we'll both be back at college and I want him to squeeze it and hear how much I love him when he misses me!"

"Aren't you two on the same campus?"

Tanjiro blushed. "Well, yes- but we can't move in together until I'm freed from my lease." The two walked over to the first station, an abundance of bears, characters, and other critters sitting, waiting to be picked up by a loving toddler, teenager, or grown-up. The variety was expansive, from regular, tan bears to a jumbo-sized Bluey. 

"Whatever you think he'd like. I'm just surprised you're still shopping for him. How much have you even spent?" 

A bead of sweat broke on the back of Tanjiro's neck, and he trailed off with an awkward chuckle. "Ehe.. price isn't the point. I didn't mean to get so much, I was heading for quality and thoughtfulness over quantity.. but I just kept getting ideas! B-but I promise these are all thoughtful and not cheap outs!" 

"Hey hey," Kanao smoothly interrupted, lightly patting his shoulder. "I know, you're the best gift-giver of the group. I'm sure he'll love the bear." She turned to the selection. "Now what are you thinking of getting?" 

The redhead pondered, tapping his finger against his scar.

"Would it be weird if I got him a bear that looks a bit like--me?"

Kanao chuckled. "No, not at all. He'd adore that. If you want, Nezuko and I could knit It some green-and-black checkered PJ's. It's your signature pattern." Her gaze landed on a stubby marroon bear, a careful array of freckles coating its cheeks -- with a lighter shaded belly, blush marks, and a wide, happy smile. She picked it up, examining it in her hands and wow. It's like it was made for him.

"Really?? You two would do that for me? Thank you so much! That'd be perfect!" Tanjiro's eyes bulged at the bear in her hands, His heart thumping like a drum in his chest as he swiftly took it into his own and inspected each stitch and cranny. A gentle hmmmm.. left his lips, eyes narrowed before they suddenly shined with stars. "Great find, Kanao!" he squeaked, hustling her over to the sound-station. She lightly rolled her eyes and followed along. Tanjiro quickly pressed a few buttons, and a timer appeared, counting down before he spoke into the microphone, his face so close to the speaker his cheek nearly grazed it. 

"I love you soooooo much Genya!! I couldn't ask for anyone more lovely in the world. I miss you, you're the best boyfriend ever. I love you! Mwah!"

With a beading, cheeky grin, he turned for Kanao's approval, the dimples on his face deep. 

"Adorable." She merely replied with a thumbs up, watching with content eyes as he imported it into a small, paw-like shaped button and carried it with him over to the stuffing station, practically prancing across the store with higher elation than the toddlers. They had only a few more stores to visit afterward, as their hands were nearly full, and the sun had begun to set over the horizon. Kanao had been the most frequent partner in his shopping sprees, and yet she'd never witnessed him stumped, or lacking creative and thoughtful gift ideas for Genya. As exhausting as it was, she couldn't help but find it tooth rottingly sweet, especially when her eyes landed on Tanjiro giddily doing some sort of ritual with the small heart he'd been offered to put in the bear. 

Of course.

.  .  .  .

Kamado Household || Six Days Until Christmas Morning

.  .  .  .

"Tanjiro I can't find it!" Zenitsu yelled with a strained voice from the Kamado's basement, his tone grouchy and laced with tidbits of indignation. The blonde had been down there checking boxes and bending over to look under shelves for nearly ten minutes -- all in search of what's probably the hundredth roll of wrapping paper that Tanjiro's requested. 

Stupid Tanjiro! Who waits until they're in a time crunch to wrap all the gifts?! Idiot! I thought we were meeting up to bake more COOKIES! Not stumble over wrapping paper like his own personal worker elves!

"Zenitsu I told you it's in the green box at the back, near the breakers!"

"Green?? You said blue!"

"Oh.. sorry! I meant green!

"UGH!" Zenitsu spluttered, scoffing to himself and mumbling a mocking "my name is Tanjiro and I can't give basic directions!' under his breath. His eyes peered to an obvious, big orange container and popped off the lid, his eyes bulging out of their sockets as he landed his gaze on near a dozen rolls of watermelon-themed wrapping paper. The watermelon slices all wore little Christmas hats on them, some even sporting antlers or a red nose to appear like Rudolph. 

This is ridiculous. Zenitsu deadpanned, grabbing as many rolls as his arms could carry and heading up two flights of stairs to where Nezuko, Inosuke, Kanao, and Tanjiro were all piled into his room busily wrapping gifts with the same wrapping paper for each. Tanjiro worked with the more personal gifts -- a homemade bow for his archery classes, decorated in Genya's signature purple with trinkets of his favorite things laced through the design. They all had been exhausted with that gift, having a whole research day on how to build it efficiently, since Tanjiro would've rather strangled himself than 'taint their relationship by gifting something falty' because it would 'send the wrong message.'

Beside him, Nezuko dealt with the more delicate presents -- jewellery for the most part that Genya loved to wear. A necklace with GT written in a lovely cursive font, small earrings of all sorts -- watermelons, arrows, basic circles or stars --, and a load of rings. Inosuke was.. sort of helping. He was wrapping the impossible to damage gifts. Plushies, clothing, blankets, and other soft, non-fragile presents. However, he'd put it into a pile, where Kanao would rewrap them to look nice. Zenitsu thought that was stupid, but Nezuko had pulled him aside, whispering "it's so he feels occupied and included.", so Zenitsu kept his mouth shut.

What was Zenitsu doing? ERRANDS!

Having picked the short straw, his job was to get them anything they needed (including wrapping paper since they ran out every four seconds) and bring it with a big smile like a SERVANT!

Seriously, remind him when Tanjiro's disgustingly smitten-ness towards Genya became his problem!!

But.. if it made Tanjiro this happy- he could manage.

Thump!

He dropped the rolls in the middle of their circle, plopping down next to Nezuko and slumping against Tanjiro's dresser for support, letting out a drawn-out, dramatic groan. Nezuko giggled softly beside him, her voice as warm and comforting as their matching sweaters. She placed her finished gift gently on the ground before turning to him with a smile.

"Tired from a hard day's work?"

"Yeahhh.." Zenitsu pouted, squeezing his eyes shut as he let his head slump onto her shoulder, finding solace in her presence. Inosuke's snickers echoed in the background, but Zenitsu stubbornly tuned them out, letting the noise fade away as he closed his eyes, content to rest until his attention was required again. Nezuko's fingers combed through his golden threads of hair, giving him a light pat before turning to her brother. "Tanjiro, now that you're wrapping everything, does this mean you're finally done shopping? You're blowing through all your savings.." she trailed off. Tanjiro was hastily packaging a print of a bonsai painting, a bead of sweat dripping from his forehead to his cheek and his tongue slightly sticking out of his mouth in focus as he chewed his lip and murmured out a response.

"What?"

"I said are you done shopping."

"..well- sort of. There's just a few last things coming in the mail tomorrow, then I'll have everything. I can't wait to see his face when he opens them!" Tanjiro smiled to himself, his head tilting down to hide the heat rising to his cheeks. His hand instinctively brushed against his face, feeling the warmth spread. "It'll be worth it to see him so excited."

"I'm sure it will be," Nezuko replied with a soft chuckle. "You're so good to Genya, and he's lucky to have you." She ruffled Tanjiro's hair affectionately, drawing out a laugh from his stomach. "And if he's not, I’ll make sure he regrets it." Nezuko's grin widened as she added, her tone playful but fierce. Tanjiro gave her a light shove, laughing along with her.

"Okay okay but don't-"

"THINK FAST!!" 

"-Hng!" Tanjiro yelped as he narrowly dodged Inosuke’s barrage of pillows, the soft thuds echoing as they hit the wall and tumbled to the floor with a muffled puff. He shot Inosuke a glare, opening his mouth to protest—only for Kanao to tug sharply on Inosuke's ponytail, eliciting a startled yelp and a snarl from the boar-headed boy.

"Inosuke." She scolded. "Stop it. The sooner we finish the sooner you can see Tanjiro try on the Santa outfit. Okay?"

"But we've been doing this forever! You all need to pick it up! I'm the king of wrapping presents!"

"Of course you are, Inosuke." Nezuko affirmed, turning back to continue in her wrapping. "Keep it up, and as Kanao said you can see Tanjiro in the funny red costume."

"HAHAH!" Inosuke's hands greedily grabbed for another blanket, yet instead of wrapping it, he hurled it at Zenitsu's drooling face. Three scowls shot his way, yet it did nothing to repel him from falling over, laughing and pointing as Zenitsu shot up, grabbing a roll of wrapping paper before running at him -- ending up in him chasing Inosuke down the hallway.

"GET BACK HERE YOU STUPID BOAR!"

.  .  .  .

Shinazugawa Household || Two Days Until Christmas Morning

.  .  .  .

Thud, thud, thud - thud, -- thud, thud-

"Grrrnhfff.." 

Thud. Thud thud. Thud. Thud thud thud-

"hnnnnfffg!" Sanemi shot up from his blankets, his messy bedhead falling into his eyes as the rhythmic ticking of the nightstand clock pierced the silence. He swiped the strands of hair away from his face, squinting at the small clock on the table, the digits reading 07:15 AM.

The hell? Who's awake that early?  It wasn't their mother, she had worked a late shift that night, and she'd be sleeping in past noon at the earliest. Hardly any of the Shinazugawa's were early risers, and by hardly any, he meant nobody except maybe himself. If 8:30am counted as 'early'. Perhaps it's merely outdoor construction. Teiko had told him yesterday that they were building a fancy playground at the nearby park and that Shouya and Sumi would absolutely gush over it. But, no. It wouldn't be that loud-

Thud. Thud thud.. thud-

That's definitely from inside -- and were they rushing? What the hell is so important at seven in the morning that-

Ugh. Just go check it out before they accidentally wake up mom. 

Begrudgingly, Sanemi lifts his legs out of bed, sliding them into some hot-pink slippers (given to him by Sumi, he wasn't strong enough to refuse her puppy eyes), and stretching out his back, listening to the cracks and pops at each twist. His mother described it as the sound of shattering glass, astounded by just how many bones he had to crack. 

He lazily dragged his feet over to a mirror at the corner of his room, quickly brushing a comb through his scraggily, messy hair then heading to the door and quietly bursting it open with a scowl. As he half-expected, his gaze landed on Genya running around downstairs, looking on top of shelves, opening cabinets and drawers, closets-- like a crazed psycho. A beat of what in the actual shit is he doing passed in the male, before a flicker of recognition sparked in his eyes. A snicker spit from his lips as he trudged down the stairs, crossing his arms as he stood behind his little brother.

"Genya."

"WAGH! Ah, oh- Nemi! Don't sneak up on me.." Genya hissed in a hushed whisper, his eyes narrowed, dark circles gathered underneath like shadows as he adverts his attention back to mindlessly searching across their living room. Sanemi bit back a laugh.

"What are you doing?"

"Nothing." Genya shot back.

"Are you looking for the elf?"

"No."

"Have you checked everywhere?"

"Yes. --shit, I'm not searching for the elf!"

"Even the bathrooms?"

"..." Sanemi was met with a scowl, the same one Genya had given him countless times when they were kids after Sanemi had teased him one too many times. Genya held his gaze for a brief moment, his eyebrows furrowed in annoyance as he muttered something under his breath. Without another word, he turned and headed toward the bathroom to check it out. A few seconds later, Sanemi heard a muffled gasp followed by the sound of rustling—Genya probably pulling out his phone. Then came the unmistakable shutter of a photo being taken.

And just for a moment, an itty bitty thought assaulted its way into Sanemi's mind, coiling around it like vines and squeezing out the blood. An idea that maybe he isn't that bad. Maybe he really Is good enough for Genya. he does know how to make him happy. Maybe a hatred born from events nearly a decade ago wasn't still relevant now, as Genya's arm had healed long ago. Maybe he repeatedly making him ohagi as a peace offering wasn't that annoying. Maybe Sanemi could tone it down, unblock him, thank him for the effort he put in to make Genya happy -- and just maybe Sanemi could let him seep his way into their family as an honorary member. 

Maybe. Maybe he wasn't so bad. 

"Nah." Sanemi snickered to himself, whistling a freestyle tune as he walked into the kitchen to prepare breakfast, his eye glancing to the Christmas Day countdown sitting on the counter.

.  .  .  .

Shinazugawa Household || Christmas Morning || 5:30am

.  .  .  .

Tap.. Tap.. Tap..

"Hnnn.. g'back to bed, Genya.." Sanemi grunted to himself, his words slurred from sleep as he buried his head back into the haven of his pillow, basking in its solace. He had put the elf away before going to bed anyways, since 'elves leave after Christmas Eve'. Genya wouldn't find it.

Tap. Tap Tap Tap. 

"Genya- quit it- t's so.. early.." A yawn stretched out from his lips, his eyes blinking blearily before he once again rested back down in his pillow.

Tap Tap Tap Tap Tap-

"Genya I said to quit it!" Sanemi finally snapped up into a sitting position, his seething like a whirlwind as his voice wretched across the room in a harsh echo. The tapping came to a harsh halt, ceasing entirely for a few beats as Sanemi glared at the door with a slit eye. "Five in the goddamn morning.." he mumbled to himself, turning back to his pillow to lay back down and rest.

Tap.

His eyes shot to the window, the newfound source of the tapping.

and oh. my god.

Oh. My. God.

Tanjiro.

Tanjiro. Fucking. Kamado.

Was at

His goddamn window.

What.

What in the actual hell. 

Breathe, Sanemi.

The scarred man stood, his feet kicking themselves into his bedside slippers as he quietly walked over to the window, unlocking it with a click, and opening it swiftly and soundly. Sure enough, there he was, his big red eyes beaming up at him with a giddily smile stretched across his face, large dimples sinking into his cheeks as he opened his mouth to speak. "Sane-"

Sanemi grabbed him by the collar, hoisting him up on the balls of his feet and nearly slamming his face into the window. Whiteness burned into his tightly gripped knuckles, bringing Tanjiro's face close enough to his that the redhead could feel the steam seeping from the man's mouth. His pupils were bloodshot, his scent so rotten and violent it made Tanjiro want to gag. Sanemi shook him repeatedly, his brain racking around in his head. 

"What in the HELL. Wh- WHY. Why the hell are you AT MY WINDOW." While his voice dripped with contempt and indignation, he maintained a harsh whisper, his voice light enough not to wake his sleeping siblings in the other room. "Are you KIDDING me. You- you're at my WINDOW at FIVE IN THE MORNING." Tanjiro nervously chuckled, sweat collecting on his forehead as he struggled to maintain balance on a few stacked boxes -- having used it to reach the decently high-up window. Sanemi gripped his collar tighter. 

"It's Christmas morning! Merry-"

Tighter. Tanjiro cut himself off.

"You-- you need to let me in for the presents, remember? I was going to text you but.. you blocked me." 

It was then that Sanemi finally let his eyes drift down from his stupid, ugly face. Lord. He was actually dressed head to toe in a Santa outfit, even clutching a fake, curly white beard in his left hand. The hat, the red suit, the belt, the only thing he didn't do was stuff his stomach full of pillows. Sanemi stared dumbfounded, his mouth agape as he slowly released his grip, unsure whether to point and laugh at him, or take a photo and shame him. 

This is for Genya. Even if it's weird. 

Gritting his teeth, Sanemi finally backed away from the window, grumbling a small 'go to the front door' before satisfyingly slamming it in his face. Tanjiro peered up, before nodding and rushing away from the window like he was a gleeful, skipping toddler. Sanemi internally gagged.

Yet, he forced himself to trudge to his door, opening it quietly and moving downstairs. He glanced to the front door, seeing the brat's face jumping every few seconds to get a look through the window above it.

God.

He begrudgingly opened, glaring at the redhead as he walked past him with a few presents tucked under his arms. He headed straight for the decorated tree, placing them under in an organised fashion in a sectioned off pile. 

"All of this for five gifts?" He scoffed, Tanjiro shook his head.

"Oh no, I have a lot more in my car! It might take a minute, that's why I came early!" A toothy smile gleamed at him, he rolled his eyes and looked away whilst the kid went outside, returning a moment later with another few presents and continuing the process. 

Sanemi went to go make some coffee. Genya'd be up around seven to help him bring up the gifts for their little siblings like every year.

.  .  .  .

Shinazugawa Household || Christmas Morning || 7:15am

.  .  .  .

Beep! Beep! Beep! B-

A weary finger searched in the darkness, waving around aimlessly until it had found the blaring alarm clock and shut it off. A long yawn left the raven-haired boy's lips, his head turning to blearily peer at the clock, reading 7:15am. Time to help Nemi with the gifts.. his mind slurred, his thoughts mushy with sleep as he stretched his arms beside him before sitting up in bed. Genya rubbed his eyes, turning to look out the window, gazing up at the moon still high up in the sky, illuminated and glistening with the shining stars. His eyes lingered, pupils dilated as a light smile cracked on his lips.

Tanjiro's probably up already. He smiled, pulling out his phone and shooting a text.

|| Genya Shinazugawa  (7:17am)

Goodmorning Tanji, Merry Christmas. I love you <3.

Part of him expected an immediate display of typing bubbles, but even after a moment, none appeared. He was probably busy with his family. They're all early risers. Genya laced a finger under his chin, cracking his neck both ways and standing up, his feet hitting the cold wooden floors. He grabbed a pair of fuzzy purple socks, decorated with black checkers and left his bedroom door. Flicking on the bathroom light, the mirror's gaze met his own, and shit was he messy. His mohawk might as well be spiked up with Gell. Normally, he'd hastily reach for the brush in horror, but-- nah. It's Christmas morning. Who cares. It's just Nemi downstairs to see it. 

The faucet started, the water hitting the sink as he squirted out a peanut-sized glob of toothpaste, running it under the sink for a moment before scrubbing it rather violently against his teeth --  which happened to be one of his older brother's strongest pet peeves. He claimed he'd be out 'at least once a month' buying Genya a new tooth brush, since the old one was 'splintered beyond recognition'. Their mother says it's because of his slightly pointed canines -- Sanemi believes it's because Genya brushes like he's killing the plaque. 

Genya spit out the paste from his mouth, gathering some faucet water into his hands and sloshing it around for just a few moments and once again spitting into the sink, repeating the process until the toothpaste had all dribbled down the drain. He gulped down a small cup of mouthwash (yuck), and finally stomped down the stairs.

"Nemi?"

"Yeah?" He called from the kitchen.

"Did you start bringing stuff up?"

'Oh yeah, I finished."

Genya furrowed his eyebrows, quickly hurrying over into the kitchen where his older brother was leant against the counter sipping from his coffee mug. Genya scowled. "Sanemi! Why did you do it all by yourself? You know that takes forever - how long have you been up??" A groan followed his tone, a heavy frown on his face as he opened up the cabinet containing their breakfast cereals, he shuffled through a few, his fingers curling around a box of Cheerios and pulling it from the cupboard, Sanemi snatched it from his grasp. The younger cocked an eyebrow. "...Why did you take that..?"

A finger pointed to the direction of the living room, a slurping sound through the dimly lit room as Sanemi took another sip and sighed. "You've got something waiting in there for you." was all he said, his gaze shifting to the window, where the sun just barely began to peak out from the horizon line. 

"A surprise? What do you mean?"

"I dunno."

"You dunno? When do you ever say that?"

"Mmm.. just go check." He waved his hand dismissively, shooing his little brother off to return to his coffee. Genya slumped defeated. A qualm in his stomach wanted to pry, but prying from Sanemi was like trying to fight against strong winds. 

"..Fine." he lamely replied, staring for just another moment to see if he'd budge -- but he didn't, and Genya dramatically turned to walk towards the living room, the shine from the Christmas lights glowing onto  his face with a bright array of warm colors. Ever since their father had left the picture, the holidays solidified as Genya's favorite time of year. The baking, the activities, the presents, his mother getting days off work, and the time with family and friends that he didn't get back then. It was nice to make up for it now.

When he was around, Kyogo didn't allow Genya to spend time with friends, let alone celebrate in any way besides hiding in his room and covering his ears as his father and mother fought -- she never won. The semblance of a normal family, however, was important to him- so they'd get each other gifts -- but only one's he'd approved. They'd send out a Christmas card that took hours to take -- it was never perfect how he wanted it. Behind closed doors, his ideal Christmas had been sitting on the couch drinking, and assuring his family was obediently sat in the house with him. 

'Traditions were stupid. Decorating was ugly. Believing in Santa was idiotic. Celebrating was a waste of time and money.' 

Genya tried his hardest not to let the bitter storm clouds consume him when the holidays came -- and he did rather well. As stated, he loved the holidays -- yet he couldn't help that feeling that sat in his stomach like a leech. A jealousy, maybe, that he missed out on the childhood Christmas', where they'd go to mall to get a family photo, where he'd run downstairs to find the presents under the tree, where he'd write letters and send it off to the 'North Pole', where he'd exchange gifts with his friends, where he'd watch movies snuggled up with his family on the couch, where they'd have dinner together and just enjoy the wonderful time. 

Sanemi had tried his best in the past years, trying to make the time magical and try and do everything they didn't when they were younger, but Genya felt like It wasn't worth fixing. It upset him, but so what? The younger ones had it worse. 

A deep breath travelled through his lungs, and he inhaled -- waited -- and exhaled the thoughts. It was a new Christmas year, Kyogo had been gone for years. Who's he to taint the day? He stepped into the living room, the day already playing through his head. He'd open gifts with his mother and siblings, go out to breakfast, play games back at the house, then he'd drive over and see-

"-Tanjiro?"

Furnished in a puffy, red suit, his startled gaze met Tanjiro's big, warm eyes. A light blush dusted the boy's supple cheeks, his face puffy and half-covered by a curly white beard strung to his face and held up by his ears. The cuffs of his sleeves were white and fluffy, matching the hem of his coat and the puff on the end of his long red hat. A big black belt held up his pants, a shiny gold buckle locking it together. A small stomp echoed across the floor as Tanjiro stepped forward with his black boots, the shine from the sunrise outfit beaming through the windows and accompanying the glow from the rainbow-colored lights laced around the tree. The color melted into Tanjiro's tanned skin, his hair laying comfortably at his shoulders, loose instead of slicked back and neat. Strands poked out, the red color beautiful in the warm illumination. His hands raised, a present resting atop his palms as he held it out to Genya, his smile visible through the beard, familiar dimples sinking into his cheeks as he spoke, softly like the voice of an angel. 

"Merry Christmas Genya." 

"..."

Genya doesn't know what to say, not an utterance on his dry lips as his mouth cracks agape and all he can manage to do is stare like a deer in headlights. What is Tanjiro doing here? Why's he dressed as -- Santa Claus? And are all those presents from him? How long's he been here? Why??

An effervescent chuckle sang out from Tanjiro's lips, the euphonious sound sweet as honey. "You mentioned you were sad you never got to do the Santa Claus tradition.. so I dressed up, and I got you presents!" A twinkle glinted in his eye, as he quickly put the gift down and instead picked up a plate of half-eaten cookies with a small glass of milk. "I even got the cookies and milk!" He grinned, a smile stretched widely on his cheeks. "I was thinking we could open presents together, and then maybe go out together?" 

But Genya was still quiet. Tanjiro bit back a frown, did he do something wrong? Did he forget something? Oh wait!

"..ho ho ho?" he internally cringed, a dribble of sweat on the back of his neck. Oh god. Did he think this was stupid??

Sniffle.

What?

Tanjiro's nervous eyes shot to Genya's face, his nose twitching as he latched onto a scent.

Tears had welled up and stung in Genya's puffy eyes, threatening to spill out and pour down his cheeks. He bit his lip, gasping slightly as he gulped down a sob into his throat. Stiffly, he remained stationary, his fists clenched at his sides as his lip quivered with each small squeak that slipped from his mouth. Tanjiro's eyes nearly bulged out from his head, a worried gasp on his tongue as he quickly put down the plate of cookies to run over and-

Genya's body collapsed into a hug, burly arms wrapped tightly at Tanjiro's sides, and Genya's face buried into his hair, a few gasps escaping his gritted teeth. Without uttering a word, Tanjiro hugs him back, squeezing him close and gently rocking him side to side, whispering small, sweet nothings as his hand raised to pet through his hair. He expected a few sobs, maybe the scent of salty tears but- Genya laughed.

"You look- ridiculous- it's cute." Genya snickered out, his voice scratchy with small occasional hiccups as he pulled back from the hug with teary eyes. He swiped them away, a smile stretching across his face as he looked his shorter boyfriend up and down, taking in the outfit. "Where did you get that?"

Tanjiro paused. "Wait- are you okay? Did I upset you-?"

A hand was shooed in his face. "No, absolutely not, Tanjiro. I love it, I love you. You did all this for me?" He pulled him in again. "..You did all this for me?"

Tanjiro spluttered, a half-smug smirk on his lips. "Of course I did! You deserve nothing less! I planned it a few weeks ago! The outfit, the gifts, the surprise, the elf-"

"That was you??" Genya snorted.

"Well, Sanemi moved it but-"

Genya pulled back, bending down to eye level as he grabbed Tanjiro's cheeks with either hand. "You and Sanemi?? Really??" 

The redhead nodded, a giddiness in his movement. "Mhm! He let me in the house too, and helped me bring in the gifts!"

"No way."

"I'm serious!" Tanjiro playfully shoved him away. "I told you I'd crack him eventually!"

Genya scoffed, tugging at the fake beard still strung on Tanjiro's face, his cheeks were puffy from repressed laughs. "I think this might have done it, he couldn't resist the charm of your beard." He snickered, taking it off and tossing it onto the nearby couch. "You- hehe,  look amazing." 

They lazed in a comfortable beat of silence, finding solace in the tender shared contact, their fingers laced together as Genya nuzzled his cheek, earning a quiet giggle from his partner. Sunlight beamed through the windows, soft rays shining across their faces as lidded eyes turned to the Christmas tree, stocked full of presents, ornaments, and lights. Tanjiro nudged him. 

"Sooo.. did you like your surprise?"

Genya turned him around to face him, cupping Tanjiro's cheek in his palm. He leaned into the touch.

"It's beautiful, Tanjiro. I love it. I seriously don't deserve you- you're so thoughtful and caring and-" He paused, sniffling back another tear. He laughed it off, and Tanjiro laughed with him. 

"Hey, don't kiss me up too much. It was only fair considering you're the world's best boyfriend."

"You're so cheesy."

Tanjiro playfully rolled his eyes, lightly tugging Genya down to his level.

"I love you."

"I love you too." 

With a careful step forward, and raising onto his tippy-toes, Tanjiro leaned in, capturing the raven-haired boy in for a loving, tender kiss. Genya's heart stirred wildly in his chest, blood shooting to his cheeks as his hand tousled into Tanjiro's hair, and gently reciprocated, allowing his lips to delicately kiss him back with a soft hum.

...

"EW! KAMADO! Don't you DARE kiss my baby brother!" A voice boomed from the opening in the wall, a violent stench assaulting Tanjiro's nose and traveling like homicidal winds, triggering a fight or flight reaction to roil inside of Tanjiro's stomach. He gulped the bile down, nervously laughing it off and deciding to not turn around and face his doom. Instead, he leaned back in to pepper light kisses all over Genya's face. 

"Haha! Hey- stop!" Genya laughed, weakly 'trying' to push the onslaught off of him as he grabbed Tanjiro's hips. Tanjiro mumbled a quiet 'neverrrrr..', peppering more kisses on his boyfriend's face, blissfully unaware of the pillow hurling towards his head from behind.

.  .  .  .

Epilogue

.  .  .  .

"Tanjirooo!! This is so cute! Thank you so much!" Genya pulled his ear away from the Build-A-Bear's speaker box, his heart absolutely gushing as he fawned over the knitted green-black checkered pajamas. "And I can take it to college! I love it, thank you so-"

"Open the next one!" Tanjiro gushed, pushing another present to Genya's chest with stars beaming in his widened eyes. 

'Woah woah woah," Genya put his hands out. "Tanjiro I want time to enjoy and appreciate each one. I don't wanna rush through." Tanjiro quickly nodded back, bowing his head with a small embarrassed pout as he retracted his arms, yet cracking a light smile as Genya hugged the bear close, admiring it's features and laughing at it's goofy face. 

"Aw, Genya that is adorable." His mother cooed from the couch, her face in her palms as she held up a small camera to once again snap a photo of the two of them with the gift stationed in the middle. "You're such a sweetheart, Tanjiro." 

"Ehehe, thank you Ms. Shinazugawa!" Tanjiro nearly shouted out, bowing his head respectfully with a nervous tremble in his stature. Genya's mother was the nicest woman alive, he knew that -- but with Sanemi sitting right beside her, glaring daggers into his soul every time he spoke to her or Genya -- he couldn't help feeling a bit pressured, like he was walking over needles. 

"Oh stop it with that, call me Shizu."

"Mom-" Sanemi whisper-hissed, and was firmly cut off.

"Sanemi, knock it off. He's a part of the family! Look at how happy your little brother is, aren't they just the cutest little things?"

He didn't respond, just silently glaring while the rest of the Shinazugawa siblings exchanged their own gifts in the background. 

"Oo!" Genya gasped, opening up the intricately wrapped box and pulling out a cable-knit sweater. He held it up to his chest, sizing himself as he tugged Tanjiro over and into a squeezed, tight hug. "I saw this exact one when I was at the mall with Nemi last week! I wanted to get it soooo bad! And it's lavender too!"

"Lavender? I thought that was the lilac one.." 

"They're basically the same color."

Tanjiro opened his mouth to speak, and snapped it right back shut. He owed Zenitsu an apology later.

"Oh.. whoops."

Genya playfully rolled his eyes ruffing Tanjiro's static hair (from the hat) and pulling him to rest against his lap. Tanjiro giddily obliged, sitting comfy and close as Genya placed a light kiss to his temple.

"I love you."

"I love you more!" Tanjiro flicked his nose. Genya flicked him back, shoving a hand in his face with a chuckle.

"Thank you, Tanjiro. I mean it. This means a lot to me."

"Sanemi said it would. He said it was weird, but you'd love it!"

Genya smiled, looking down at his boyfriend and cuddling him close.

"I do love it."

.  .  .  .

End