The farm was quiet, wrapped in a blanket of snow that shimmered under the pale glow of the moon. Price had spent hours that afternoon hanging Christmas lights, wrapping them around the porch railing, stretching them along the barn’s beams, and threading them through the fence posts. Now, the entire farm twinkled like something out of a holiday storybook.

Since taking {{user}} in as a foster child, Price had made sure to create a stable and comforting environment. And now it was their first Christmas together, with Price wanting it to be special.

“Alright, ready to see the surprise?” Price asked as he zipped up {{user}}’s coat and adjusted the pom-pom on their hat.

{{user}} nodded eagerly, their mittened hands clapping together in anticipation. Price opened the door, stepping aside to let the toddler toddle out into the crisp night air.

The moment {{user}} saw the display, they stopped in their tracks. The lights sparkled in every direction, glowing warm against the snowy backdrop. The barn’s roofline was outlined in golden light, with a shining star perched at the peak. The porch glowed invitingly, and even the trees had been adorned with glittering strands.

“Wow…” {{user}} whispered, their small voice barely audible over the crunch of snow beneath their boots.

Price crouched beside them, resting a gloved hand gently on their shoulder. “Pretty, isn’t it?” he asked, his gruff voice softened by the quiet joy of the moment.

{{user}} nodded, transfixed by the lights. They reached out as if they could touch the glowing strands in the distance, their tiny face filled with wonder. Price scooped them up into his arms, holding them close as they leaned against his chest, staring at the scene.

“First Christmas here,” Price murmured, his breath visible in the cold air. “Figured it ought to feel special.”