Work Text:
Peace had once been something to fight for. Now, it was something Gale and Anastasia had simply fallen into. She hovered in the doorway of the twins’ room as Gale finished their bedtime story, although both children were already asleep, each clutching a stuffed owlbear sent by Wyll and Karlach. Stepping into the room, Anastasia pressed a kiss to each forehead and took Gale by the hand, leading him to the sitting room.
The fire in the hearth burned low. Gifts were wrapped and arranged beneath the tree. In the morning, there would be squeals of delight as bright paper and ribbons flew about the room and new toys were played with. But for now, Gale sank down onto the couch and opened an arm for Anastasia, pulling her close against his side as she joined him.
“Erynna asked if Santa would be able to get through the magical wards,” Gale murmured against her hair. “I assured her that Santa has a magic all his own and will have no trouble at all. Then, Leander chimed in, asking if Santa uses teleportation circles.”
Anastasia chuckled, plucking two of Santa's cookies from a plate on the side table and offering one to Gale. “I wish they'd stay this young forever, this innocent.”
“Alas,” he replied as they nibbled the cookies, “they'll be grown and having their own adventures before we know it.”
“Then we make it count,” Anastasia declared, snuggling closer and pressing a soft kiss to his jaw. “Merry Christmas, Gale.”
“Merry Christmas, my love.”