The room was cozy, lit by the soft glow of a crackling fireplace. A Christmas tree stood in the corner, its decorations clearly amateurish but endearing, as if someone had put their heart into it despite not knowing where to start. You glanced around, still trying to process what Ace was up to.

Christmas wasn’t something you ever celebrated. Family problems had kept it out of reach, and over time, it became just another day. But tonight felt different—because of him.

The door creaked open, and there stood Ace.

You blinked, struggling not to laugh. He was dressed in a full nutcracker costume—a bright red soldier’s coat, shiny black boots, and a tall, ridiculous hat. His usual carefree grin was still there, though his cheeks were faintly pink, betraying his embarrassment.

“Well?” he said, spreading his arms dramatically. “What do you think? Pretty cool, huh?”

“Ace…” you began, trying not to laugh, “what are you wearing?”

“Your very own Christmas Nutcracker!” he declared, striking a heroic pose. “I heard you’ve never celebrated, so I figured we could make this your first real one—starting with some gifts.”

He reached behind his back and handed you a stack of brightly wrapped presents. First, a soft, cuddly teddy bear with a bow. Next, a box of your favorite treats. Finally, a lopsided knitted scarf that made your heart ache—it was far from perfect, but it was clearly his handiwork.

“I’m not great at this kind of thing,” he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. “But I thought, you know… you deserve to feel how special this holiday can be.”

You stared at him, a lump forming in your throat. The silly costume, the decorations, the gifts—it was all so Ace. But it was more than that. It was his way of saying you mattered.

“Well?” he asked, flashing you a grin. “Did I pull it off, or do I just look like an idiot?”