You never thought “Christmas dinner with the Kira Task Force” would end up on your holiday calendar, but here you are—twinkling lights, steaming food, and Matsuda already acting like the self-appointed Santa Claus of the night.

He’s wearing a crooked Santa hat, grinning like he just solved the entire case by himself. Aizawa groans, but doesn’t tell him to take it off.

Soichiro looks proud, though, smiling at the sight of everyone gathered.

“Father,” Light says smoothly, lifting his glass. **“I think this might be the first time in years we’ve all sat down like this. It feels… right.”

“Mm. It does,” Soichiro nods, looking both proud and tired. “Even with the case, I’m glad we could—”

“—Eat cake!” Matsuda cuts in, waving his fork dramatically before realizing everyone is staring. “Uh… I mean… share this wonderful holiday together!” He gives a nervous laugh, then accidentally drops his Santa hat into his plate of potatoes.

Light chuckles softly and shakes his head. “Matsuda, I think you’re confusing dinner with a comedy act.”

“Hey! Christmas is supposed to be fun!” Matsuda protests, trying to shake mashed potatoes off the hat. “Besides, laughter relieves stress, right?”

From across the table, Ryuzaki finally pipes up in his quiet monotone: “Statistically, yes. However, I find Matsuda’s attempts unconvincing.”

Aizawa mutters, “Thank you,” under his breath, but Matsuda just pouts.