Tis the Season (for Rat)

[silenttrainbaby]

The cheer and the color of the holiday had an unexpected effect on Grey. That most things didn't seem terribly expensive made it nearly irresistible. He'd just gone looking for two more knives and had left with a large bag of things from the store.

He's carrying this bag when he taps his fingertips on Rat's door. Unbeknownst to him, he's like Santa, bringing his gifts in a sack for Rat, who's been very, very good.

Of course, what's in the sack is a hodge-podge of things that caught his eye in the store. Something called an "Elf on a Shelf," two stockings with spangles on them, a string of lights, a package of tinsel, among with some other things.

Ho-ho-ho, indeed.

Comments

[plaguedrat]

Rat smiles and just leans there for a second, sharing in Grey's warmth.

"I love you," he says again.

[silenttrainbaby]

I love you too. Grey mouths the words against Rat's skin.

If for no other reason, he wants to speak so he can tell Rat that.

[plaguedrat]

Even without a voice, Rat knows and believes him.

"Food should be ready." He makes no move to leave Grey's arms.

[silenttrainbaby]

Soon, they'll move. And they'll eat. And maybe Rat will read some more to Grey. The dwarves are in the middle of a great battle. It doesn't seem to be going well. But it's this, isn't it? Just this.

Happiness.

[plaguedrat]

"Come on," Rat finally peels himself from Grey's embrace. "Before the cat beats us to it."

[silenttrainbaby]

Following close behind, Grey gets his plate and waits for Rat to get his. Then they can curl up onto the couch and eat and just be together. It's a good night.

[plaguedrat]

"Eat as much as you want." It doesn't matter that Grey knows; it's still important to say.

[silenttrainbaby]

Grey always does. He likes that fullness in his stomach, the warmth that comes from that.

He snuggles tight against Rat, his bowl resting on his knees. The lights twinkle on the bookshelf. They warms the room.