Work Text:
Snow fell outside, creating a white haze outside of the window. In contrast, the lamps filled the hotel room with a warm yellow glow.
Rusty Rose sat on the couch, sipping on some hot cocoa. Most of her body was metallic, but the organic parts still felt cold from her time outside earlier in the day.
The races were suspended for the day as it was Christmas Day, but she decided to practice anyway. She had never thought much about Christmas, but was told you were supposed to exchange gifts with those you enjoyed the company of.
Metal Sonic sat on the other side of the room, back faced towards Rusty. A small clicking sound could be heard, but Rusty chose to ignore it.
As she drank her cocoa, she started to warm back up. It felt nice, as she hadn't registered just how cold she had been.
As she finished her cocoa, she got up to take care of her mug. It had been a gift from Nine earlier that day. It was pink and grey, with a gear shaped base. It was a practical gift she was very thankful for.
As she went to return to the couch, Metal approached her. He stood in front of her for a few moments before holding out a box. It was a dark lavender color with a sky blue bow.
“Is this a Christmas present for me?”
Metal gave a short but affirmative nod, so Rusty took the box.
Removing the lid revealed a bright cherry red knitted scarf. As she pulled it from the box, she noticed the stitching. It was precise but a bit uncertain. Had Metal made this himself? Was that what she had heard?
Rusty set down the box, putting the scarf around her neck.
“It is very practical…thank you. I have something for you too.”
Rusty went over to her bed, pulling a small box out from underneath it. It was a beige color with orange polka dots on it.
As Rusty handed it to Metal, he seemed uncertain. His grip was initially loose before tightening as he opened it.
Once opened, it was revealed to be a container of top of the line metal polish.
“I thought it would prove useful.”
Metal examined the gift before nodding his head. He seemed more enthusiastic than before as he went back to examining the packaging.
Rusty still didn't fully understand the point of Christmas, as why couldn't you just buy yourself what you want instead of exchanging with someone else who may not be pleased, but watching Metal’s excitement made her happy.