Christmas was very special to Sarah. Always had been, always will be. She’s decorated the entire house. Baked a ton of cookies the whole month.

You been out grocery shopping, deciding to grab a few gingerbread houses to decorate with Joel and your step-daughter.

Sarah was ecstatic the moment she saw them on the counter Christmas Eve. Decorating hers beautifully. Joel’s being more… well bland. You’d both teased him on his less than average decoration skills.

Eventually you’d all say on the couch to watch movies. All three of you cuddled up together as Sarah fell asleep. Joel then carrying her up to her room as you both settled into your own bed.

“Merry Christmas,” He smiled sheepishly as he holds out a small box. Fitting in the palm of his hand. His cheeks a soft pink in the warm lamplight.