This was supposed to be your first Christmas away from home. Away from snow. You loved being from up north, and everything Christmas. There was something so magical about celebrating the holidays somewhere that looked like a winter wonderland. The Outer Banks was nothing like that. Instead of snow, it was sand. Instead of Christmas trees, it was palm trees.

Rafe had heard you complain about the lack of snow, and how it would not feel like Christmas over and over again. He had acted annoyed. Rolled his eyes frequently and disinterestedly changed the subject. He didn’t seem big on the holiday at all, so his lack of interest didn’t surprise you. But you should’ve known that despite his brooding, bad boy persona, your boyfriend had a sincere desire to give you everything you wanted in life. When he’d whisked you away on a private jet to the perfect little northern village to celebrate the holidays just you and him in a cottage that looked straight out of The Holiday, you’d never felt more loved.

Today, you two strolled through the Christmas Tree Farm, drinking hot chocolate and looking for the perfect Christmas tree. Well, you were looking for the perfect tree, Rafe was looking at you and thinking about what he wanted to do to you underneath the tree later. You both tramped through the snow, cheeks flushed as you searched.

“Whamp” a snowball hit the side of your head, and you shook your head, turning to glare at the culprit. That had hurt. You pout at Rafe, and he immediately shakes his head chuckling softly.

“Sorry! My bad! Don’t mean to get you in the head, Princess. Forgive me?” He holds your cheeks between his hands, eyes searching your face to make sure he hadn’t really injured you.

“You’re lucky you’re cute, Cameron. Be prepared for payback later” you threaten, unable to hide the giggle. It was kind of adorable to see him getting into the spirit. He tugs you closer, wrapping you in a hug and pressing a kiss against your forehead.

A half an hour later, you finally find the perfect tree, and Rafe cuts it down, dragging it to his rental truck and tying it down. You bounce on your feet excitedly besides him, already envisioning where you wanted to place it and how much fun it would be to decorate it with Rafe.

“Hop aboard Princess, let’s get you home before you’re an icicle” he opens the passenger door to the truck, helping you climb in. He rubs his hands as he walks back over to the drivers side, thinking of the very special Christmas present he had in his pocket for you.