Christmas Challenge 2001: The Challenge must have only Nathan and Kristin but other characters can be mentioned in passing. It must also have one, more or all of the following: 1. Mistletoe 2. Mulled wine or hot spiced apple cider 3. Snow 4. Nathan on the roof 5. A straw 6, Tinsel 7. Nathan and Kristin roasting chestnuts themselves or roasted chestnuts they've purchased somewhere 8. A game of truth or dare 9. Trimming the tree.

 

Kristin stood with her hands on her hips, a look of complete exasperation on her face. "Nathan, are you ever going to tell me where we're going?"

"Nope, it's a surprise."

"I don't like surprises." She retorted petulantly.

"Sure you do. Now, are you ready?"

"How the hell should I know? You won't tell me where I'm going. I have no idea what to pack."

Nathan emerged from her bedroom, carrying two large suitcases. "I told you, I've already packed for both of us. All you need to do is bring the little necessities."

"Little necessities like what? Hot, cold, wet, dry…?"

"Nice try Sweetheart. I meant, make-up, perfume… stuff like that."

"In that case I suppose I'm ready." She picked up a medium-sized hold-all and hooked it over her shoulder.

"Then let's go."

Kristin smiled involuntarily; he'd been excited for days about this. "What about Lucas?"

"He's staying with his dad, so it's just you and me."

********

They drove to the airport and boarded a UEO jet. "Courtesy of Bill." Nathan responded to her questioning look.

When they landed he led her out into the parking area and over to a four-wheel drive, which he'd rented for the duration.

"You really have got everything organised, haven't you?" She commented as he opened the door for her.

"I told you, I want to make this Christmas a very special one."

********

The car journey turned out to be quite a long one and Kristin fell asleep listening to the romantic music which Nathan had playing on the car stereo. A bump in the road woke her and she looked up at him sleepily.

"Welcome back." Nathan grinned.

"Mmm… Is it me or is it getting colder?"

"It's not you… We're up in the mountains."

"'kay."

"Go back to sleep, Sweetheart. I'll wake you when we get there."

********

Kristin shifted position slightly and snuggled into the soft warmth, her mind slowly registering that something was different. She was no longer in the car and it wasn't cold anymore. Someone had covered her over.

Opening her eyes she looked around and took in her surroundings. She was lying on a sofa with a throw-over on top of her, her head resting on a pillow. The only light was from a huge fire burning in the hearth. She stretched and moaned softly and Nathan was kneeling beside her in an instant, stroking her cheek with his thumb before leaning over and kissing her gently on the lips.

"We've arrived."

"Mmm… So I gathered. How did I get here?"

"I carried you."

"You should have woken me."

"Why? You looked so peaceful, I didn't want to disturb you. And anyway, the suitcases weigh more than you do."

"Thank you." She returned his kiss with equal gentleness.

"Would you like to look around?"

"Later." Kristin reached up and pulled his lips back to hers, the kiss growing more intense as it progressed. "I love you, Nathan."

"I love you too Baby, so much…"

His mouth captured hers again and he slipped his tongue inside to tangle with hers, only pulling away when the need to breathe became paramount.

Kristin slid off the seat and onto the floor before pulling him down beside her. They made love slowly and passionately.

Nathan eventually broke the silence. "Mmm… that was good."

"Yes, it was."

"Care to try again?"

"How about we find the bedroom this time?"

"Sounds good to me."

********

Kristin woke just after dawn. She glanced at the man who lay beside her, snoring quietly. Leaning down she kissed his back and heard him moan in response, but there were no other signs of life. She slipped carefully out of bed so as not to wake him, shivering in the unexpected cold and grabbing Nathan's discarded woolly sweater before going to explore.

********

Nathan was startled from his sleep, as Kristin practically, bounced on both him and the bed, and called his name excitedly.

"What? What is it? Is something wrong?"

"No. You have to come and see."

"See what?"

She didn't reply, but tugged at his hand to get him up.

"Okay, okay… I'm coming." He whined whilst groping around for something to wear.

"Here." Kristin threw him one of the spare blankets.

He wrapped it around himself and followed her into the living area and over to the huge bay window.

"Look."

"What?" Nathan questioned, still somewhat confused.

"It's snowing."

"Is that what you dragged me out of a warm bed for?"

"Yes. Isn't it wonderful?"

Nathan was considering a sarcastic comment when his eyes met hers and his breath caught in his throat. She looked…. Her eyes fairly shone with happiness. He slipped his arms around her and pulled until her back rested against his chest before wrapping both himself and her in the blanket. "It's beautiful… You're beautiful."

"Nathan, it's just like being back home. Thank you."

He held her tightly and began to kiss her neck, desire flaring in him once more. He was just about to suggest they go back to bed when she spoke…

"Let's get dressed and go outside."

"But I…"

"Please Nathan, it's been so long since I've left my footprints in fresh snow."

Finding himself unable to refuse her he returned to the bedroom to dress.

********

They'd been outside for almost half an hour and Nathan had watched in fascination as Kristin walked in various set patterns across the virgin snow. One in particular caught his eye. "Why the letter J?"

Her face took on a wistful look. "It's for James, my brother…"

Nathan said nothing, waiting for her to continue.

"We always did this when we were kids, it was a competition… We each tried to be the first outside in the newly fallen snow so that when the other came out they found an initial planted there. Either a K or a J, depending on who made it first. Silly huh?" She looked up and he could see the tears in her eyes.

"No… No Baby, it's not silly at all… You and your brother were close?"

"Mmm hmm."

"I'm so sorry Kris." He took her into his arms and held her as she cried.

After a few minutes she pulled away and moved to a pristine area where she proceeded to stamp out the letter N.

Nathan came up beside her. "You haven't made your mark yet. Where are you going to go?"

"Right here." She began to stomp at a forty-five degree angle. "How's that?" She had used the second upright of the letter N to form part of her K.

"Perfect."

"I like to have you close to me." She whispered.

Nathan kissed her tenderly and took both of her hands in his. "Let's go back inside and unpack, then we can trim the tree."

Kristin's face brightened visibly. "We have a tree?"

"Of course. What's Christmas without a tree?"

********

They'd eaten brunch and spent a very pleasant few hours hanging the decorations. When the last bauble was finally in place it was almost dark. Nathan asked, "Would you like to do the honours?"

"You do it, please."

"Okay, here goes."

He flicked the switch and the tree lit up in a myriad of twinkling colour. It looked amazing, but then so did Kristin… If anyone had asked him, there would have been no way that he could have accurately described the look on her face. Rapt, didn't seem to do it justice. He felt an intense wave of emotion surge through him. ~ God, he loved her so much. ~ He'd wanted to make this Christmas special for her… She'd been working so hard lately and they'd spent more time apart than together, since he'd taken the new boat to sea. Although she tried her best to hide it, he knew that she hated it when he was away, always worrying about him and whether he was safe. And lately he'd been doing the same thing over her.

Quietly, he stepped up behind her, holding her close as they watched the sequence of colours pulsing through the fibre-optics in the branches – it was almost mesmerising. He felt her hands slide up his arms as she tried to pull him even closer. He couldn't remember ever feeling the magic of Christmas as strongly as he did at this moment.

When he was growing up it hadn't been that important in their household. His parents had always considered it to be far too hyped and over commercialised. Then he'd joined the Navy and it was mostly overlooked. After he met and married Carol things had changed somewhat… She'd always made sure that there was a tree and invited all their relations over for dinner, which led in the end, to the inevitable arguments.

It had been better when Robert was old enough to understand what was going on and the celebrations were centred around him but there were always too many people around for his tastes. His ideal Christmas would have been an intimate affair. Then his son grew up and moved on… And after he died, well… then there was no reason for celebrations at all. He felt Kristin's hand on his cheek, wiping away a tear he didn't even realise had escaped.

"Are you alright?"

"Yeah, I was just thinking…"

"About Robert and Carol?"

"Yes." He rested his chin on her shoulder and she held him close. "I'm sorry."

"There's nothing to be sorry for, it's just the time of year for memories." She comforted.

"I know. But maybe it's time to make some new ones." He kissed her lovingly. "Would you like something to eat?"

"Okay, but not much. I'm still full from earlier."

"Sandwiches?"

"Sounds good." Kristin attempted to go to the kitchen but Nathan pulled her back. "You have to let me do something."

"No need. I'll get them."

"You're spoiling me."

"That's the idea." He gave her a quick peck on the cheek before heading off in search of food.

********

When he returned she was sitting on the sofa with her feet tucked up on the seat. Nathan settled down beside her while they ate and then he snuggled up, eventually ending up lying on his back with his head in her lap as she stroked his hair tenderly. He closed his eyes and allowed his mind to drift in contentment.

"Hey, are you going to lie there for the rest of the holiday?"

"Sounds good to me."

"Okay, just wondered."

"Actually, no. What time is it?"

"A little before 7:30."

Nathan stood up and pulled her to her feet. "Go get your warmest clothes on."

"What? Why?"

"'cause we're going out."

"Out where?" Kristin asked incredulously.

"It's a…"

"Surprise." She finished for him.

"Yep. Now hurry, we've got to be there by 8."

********

Nathan stopped the car at a little parking area just outside the local village and they completed the journey on foot, arms around each other's waists. As they turned the corner Kristin gasped. Ahead of them lay the village-square, in the centre of which, stood a huge tree, lit with Chinese lanterns and decked in tinsel. The shops and houses were covered in coloured lights and decorations and off to one side, the local band was tuning up, all were dressed in Dickensian garb.

"A carol concert." Kristin whispered delightedly.

"Yes. I hope that's okay?"

"It's more than okay."

Nathan noticed the glint of happy tears in her eyes and pulled her closer. He was learning new things about Kristin Westphalen every moment – surprising things - and the more he learned the deeper he fell.

When the concert was over they stopped in a little teashop for some hot soup and rolls before making their way back up the mountain.

********

Nathan went to put their coats away and when he returned Kristin was once again sitting in the dark and watching the twinkling lights of their tree. "Tired?" He asked solicitously.

"A little."

He sat down beside her and enfolded her in his arms.

"Thank you for today Nathan, it was wonderful."

"You think so? Then you just wait and see what I have planned for tomorrow."

"Really?"

"Really."

"Are you going to let me in on it?"

"Nope."

"Not even an 'ickle' clue?" She wheedled.

"Nope."

"You are mean." She said in her best sulky voice, her mouth in a mock-pout.

"And don't look at me like that, it won't work."

"No?"

"No!"

"Then how about this?" As quick as lightning, Kristin's hand darted under his jumper, finding the ticklish spot on his side.

"Stop it Kris, please…" He gasped out when he could catch his breath.

"Not unless you tell me."

"No."

Her other hand slid around him and found the same spot on his other side in a two-pronged assault until it was a struggle for him to breathe.

Kristin hesitated for a fraction of a second and that proved to be her undoing. In a flash Nathan flipped them until she was pinned beneath him but she wasn't ready to quit just yet. She struggled and fought until they both fell off the sofa, landing in a heap on the floor almost in hysterics. Her, on top of him, straddling his hips…

As she continued to laugh her lower body rubbed against his and he could feel himself reacting to her closeness. The laughter died on his lips and his hand snaked around the back of her neck as he pulled her down until her lips were only inches from his. "I love you, Kristin. I love you." Then his mouth was on hers in a passionate, almost desperate, kiss. "God, I want you, Baby."

"I want you too Nathan. Take me to bed and lose me forever."

********

Kristin opened her eyes to take in the early morning light of Christmas Eve. She felt the warmth of Nathan's body against hers and snuggled up to his back, sighing contentedly. This was turning into the best Christmas she'd had in a long, long time and last night had been incredible.

They'd made love long into the night and Nathan had been both gentle and intensely passionate. Although they had made love many times, she couldn't ever remember it being like that. This was a different Nathan… A Nathan away from the stress and strain of building and commanding a submarine… Free of all the responsibility that it entailed. He was relaxed and at peace with the world and himself. This was the Nathan that she desperately wanted to know better, share everything with. She'd loved him so much even before last night, but this morning… This morning she felt it more than she ever had before.

Reluctant to wake him, she slipped quietly from the bed and headed for the bathroom, emerging twenty minutes later. He was still asleep and so she made her way to the kitchen to make herself a cup of coffee. He had to be tired after last night's activities, she'd be lucky if he got up before midday. But what the hell… It was Christmas, they were on holiday and he needed the rest.

She picked up her mug and moved into the living room, taking a few minutes to build up the fire before going to the window. It had snowed again last night and she was half-tempted to go outside and make her mark, but instead she drank her coffee and just stared at it.

Finally, the temptation was just too great and she quickly pulled on her boots, catching sight of herself in the mirror as she walked across the room. ~ God, it was a damned good job there was no one around to see her. ~ Her hair was still tousled from her shower and she was wearing a long dressing gown, boots and not much else. She looked ridiculous! Still, she'd only be out there for a couple of minutes…

She stepped outside, shivering in the cold, before hitching up her robe and stamping out the letter K on just about every square inch of ground. So intent was she on her task that she didn't hear Nathan until he exploded with laughter. "You are the craziest person I've ever met, do you know that?"

"I… I…" She stammered in embarrassment, but his laughter was infectious and she soon joined in as she stepped into his open arms.

"God Kristin, you're frozen."

"Then you'd better warm me up, hadn't you?"

"And how do you propose I do that?"

"I'm sure you'll think of something."

"I'm sure I will." Nathan concurred with a smile on his face.

********

As it turned out, the snow showers became more and more frequent and, in the end, they decided to stay in for what was left of the day, only venturing out to gather more wood for the fire. Nathan spent most of the afternoon in the kitchen preparing the food for the next day and Kristin, finding herself banished, had settled down with a book.

Now they were sitting on the floor in front of the hearth.

"What did you used to do at home to pass the time?" Nathan asked curiously.

"Played games, mainly."

"What kind of games?"

"Board games, card games…"

"Mmm… Well I'm afraid that's out of the question, I didn't pack any."

"How about 'Truth or Consequences'?"

"Isn't that somewhere in New Mexico?" Nathan asked confused.

"Not the place you idiot, the game."

Nathan gave her a blank look.

"Sheesh! We take it in turns to ask a question and you can either answer truthfully, or take the consequences."

A light bulb flashed on in his brain. "Oh! You mean 'Truth or Dare'."

"My God, they were right, you know."

"Who?"

"Whoever it was that said, 'America and England were the only two nations *divided* by a common language'."

********

"I'm sorry Kris, really I am." Nathan apologised to her back for what seemed like the hundredth time.

"You're an idiot!"

"Hey, it wasn't all my fault."

"No?"

"No."

"You're the one who didn't have the guts to answer the question."

"And you're the one who issued the dare."

"All I said was, 'do your best impression of  Santa Claus...'"

"I did." He replied defensively.

"I expected a 'ho-ho-ho' or a present or something, that's all."

He sounded contrite now, "It was the first thing I thought of."

"And you called me crazy!" She shook her head and grabbed a towel.

"Kris…"

"Who in their right mind would clamber up onto the roof in the dark?"

"I would. Come on, you thought it was funny at first."

"Mmm, but there's something about having an avalanche of snow raining down on your head that dampens your sense of humour."

"It was an accident, honestly. My foot slipped, the snow was loose… and…"

"And I'm wet and suffering from frostbite! You might at least be gentleman enough to get me warm again."

"That, I can do." He moved up behind her and enveloped her in a bear hug. "Christ, you are cold, aren't you?"

"I told you."

"Okay, hang on a sec." He let go and made his way to the bathroom, reappearing about ten minutes later.

"Madame, your hot bubble-bath awaits." He indicated the door with a flourish.

"Thank you."

"Can I...?"

"Don't even think about it." She threatened as she closed the door in his face.

Nathan shook his head and wondered how on Earth he was ever going to make amends.

********

Kristin left the bathroom almost an hour later. She had to admit that she did feel a lot better and in retrospect, the whole incident had been pretty funny. But there was no way that she was going to let him off the hook that easily.

Walking into the living area she saw Nathan sitting in her favourite spot and staring at the tree. He was so lost in thought that he didn't notice her come up beside him. She studied his face intently… He looked downright miserable and she relented immediately. He'd gone to so much trouble to make the holiday special and she could see that he had convinced himself he'd ruined everything. She knelt down in front of him and took his hands in hers.

"I really am sorry Kristin, it was a stupid thing to do." He confessed sadly.

"Yes it was, but it was done with the best intentions. I'm sorry I overreacted, and it was pretty funny when you think about it. I'm just glad there was no one around with a video-camera."

"Does that mean I'm forgiven?" He asked hopefully.

"Of course, on one condition…"

"What?"

"When we were in the village last night I noticed that they were holding a Midnight Service at the church tonight, will you take me?"

Nathan was silent for a few minutes… He hadn't set foot inside a church since Robert died. Somehow he'd always associated religious services with people who had something to give thanks for and he'd hadn't had for a long time…

Kristin watched, as one emotion chased another, across his features. She sensed that some sort of inner struggle was taking place and she remained quiet as she awaited the outcome. Whatever decision he made, she would respect it.

He looked down into the eyes of the woman looking up at him and realised that suddenly, he had a lot to be grateful for and what better time to go to church, than now? "Go get dressed."

"Thank you."

"No… thank *you*."

********

Kristin took off her coat and hung it away while Nathan stoked up the fire. "Thank you for taking me, I haven't been to Midnight Mass in years."

"Me either."

"You used to go?"

"You sound surprised." He countered.

"No… Yes… Sorry, it just never occurred to me that…"

"Carol, Robert and I went as a family every year until he… After that I didn't…" He stopped suddenly, not wanting to talk about it. "I just didn't."

They fell silent for a while, each lost in their own thoughts and then Nathan rose and went out into the kitchen. When he came back he was carrying a tray with two wine goblets on it.

"What's this?"

"I hope I got it right. Be careful it's very warm."

Kristin took one and sniffed it cautiously, her face lighting up when she recognised the aroma. "Mulled wine! I don't believe it, how did you…?"

"I had Lucas look up the recipe for me. It's not something we have that much, our traditional drinks are eggnog and spiced apple cider."

"I've had eggnog, but ours usually has vodka in it. It's a little too rich for me. I've never tried spiced apple cider."

"I'll make you some tomorrow."

Kristin set her glass down on the hearth and taking his hand, pulled him down beside her. "Nathan, you are the dearest, sweetest man but this holiday should be for you too, not just me."

Nathan's expression turned serious. "It is for me Sweetheart. I wanted to do this and it makes me happy to make you happy."

"But…"

He silenced her with a kiss. "It's been a long time since I even acknowledged Christmas, let alone celebrated it – I've had no reason to… But now I do. I wanted to make it special and what better way than to make it special for the person who's made it special for me again."

When she didn't reply he continued, "I know that I could have put that a little better, but you do understand, don't you?"

She raised her head to look at him. "Yes, I understand."

Nathan cupped her face in his hands. "I never thought that I would find someone who could make me see the wonder in life again, but you've done that for me. That and more… I was attracted to you from the first moment we met but I fought it. I didn't want to love anyone again. I couldn't bear the thought of having to go through the pain of losing them. But somehow, you managed to penetrate my defences and slowly but surely I fell deeply and hopelessly in love."

"I love you too Nathan… I love you."

Their lips met in a passionate kiss, which deepened as Nathan began to unbutton her blouse.

********

Some time later they were cuddled together in front of the fire, Kristin held securely in Nathan's embrace. "So," he whispered in her ear. "Are you happy Kris? Is this the kind of Christmas that you remember?"

"No." She felt him sag against her. "No, it's better than I can ever remember and better even than I could have imagined." She tilted her head slightly so that their lips could meet.

"Nathan, if you could have one wish come true, what would it be?"

"Only one?" He teased.

"Yes. What would mean the most to you right at this moment?"

"I have all I want right here." He squeezed her tightly. "Except sometimes I wish…"

"What?"

Nathan knew what he wanted to say but was afraid of spoiling what he already had. "No, no… It doesn't matter."

"Yes it does." Kristin said softly. "Tell me, please."

"Sometimes I just wish… I mean…" He took a deep breath and tried again. "Kristin, I know that you love me, God knows you've shown me in so many ways… But there are times when…"

"Yes."

"I don't know. There's just a place deep inside you that I can't seem to touch. Not when we laugh or kiss or argue… not even when we make love. I want to see that place Kristin, if only once, but I don't want to have to fight my way in. I want you to trust me enough to open the door and let me inside. He looked into her eyes and saw the sadness there.

"Nathan, I…"

"It's okay Baby. I hope that one day you'll let me in but until then I'm content with what I have… What you're willing to give. It'll be dawn soon… shall we go to bed?"

"Okay."

He got to his feet and then helped her up.

"Nathan, can I ask one more thing?"

"Shoot."

"There's one tradition that I can definitely live without."

He raised a questioning eyebrow.

"Sprouts with Christmas dinner. I hate sprouts!"

********

It took her a long while to fall asleep. She kept going over and over in her mind, what Nathan had said… He was right, of course – there was a place that she kept locked up tight. She'd been hurt so many times that she'd built a wall to protect her innermost feelings. There had been too much betrayal and so much pain in her life, inflicted mainly by the men she had loved.

In her heart she knew that Nathan was different, he'd confided so much of himself to her in the last couple of days. It must have been difficult for him, but taking that first step and opening herself up to him completely was a hard road to tread and she wasn't sure that she was ready.

********

The sunlight streaming in through the curtains woke her from a restless sleep. She reached out for Nathan but found his side of the bed empty. Getting up she moved to the window and practically doubled over with laughter when she was greeted by the letter N for as far as the eye could see. Grabbing her robe she made her way to the kitchen.

"Hey, no fair!"

Nathan knew exactly what she meant and turned in her direction, a huge grin on his face. "Well, if you will sleep the day away…"

"I have not! What's the time anyway?"

"A few minutes after 12."

Kristin's hand flew to her face. "Oh Nathan, I'm sorry. I really did sleep the day away, didn't I?"

"You did. Anyway, Merry Christmas Sweetheart."

"Merry Christmas, my love."

Nathan kissed her soundly. "Why don't you get dressed and check the fire. Dinner will be ready in about an hour."

"Yes sir, Captain, sir." She gave him a mock salute and turned on her heel.

********

The dinner had been completely traditional, for her anyway. The small goose was cooked to perfection, along with the roast potatoes, chestnut stuffing and other sundry vegetables. By the time they had finished the main course it was growing dark outside, which was perfect timing.

Nathan poured the hot brandy onto the pudding before setting it alight and carrying it to the table. They waited for it to die out then helped themselves to a small portion, which they laced with brandy butter.

"I don't know about you but I couldn't eat another thing." Nathan sighed.

"Me either. But there is something I am going to do."

"What's that?"

"The washing up." She stated in a voice that brooked no opposition.

********

When she finally made it back, Nathan was dozing in front of the fire. "You forgot something."

"What?"

"These." She handed him a Christmas cracker. "Wherever did you find them?"

"Believe me, it wasn't easy."

She crouched down so that she could pull it with him and it went off with a resounding crack. The paper ripped apart and she toppled backwards, landing on her butt – the contents flying in all directions. They spent a good ten minutes trying to find the novelty gift before repeating the process with the second cracker.

When they finally settled again, Nathan said, "Okay, I have two Christmas questions."

"Mmm… I just hope I know the answers."

"Number one. When do we give presents? And number two… What in Heaven's name is Boxing Day?"

Kristin breathed a sigh of relief, these she could answer. "Believe it or not, those questions are inter-related."

"Tell me how."

It surprised her just how interested he was in the whole idea of a typical British Christmas and how much work he had put into it. She smiled softly; no one had ever cared enough for her before, to go to all this trouble.

"Kris?" There was a hint of concern in his voice.

"Sorry, I was just thinking. Second question first. Boxing Day was originally the traditional day for dispensing gifts to the poorer people. The landowners and gentry spent their Christmas Day locked up in their big houses partying and feasting. They ate and drank to excess, but there was still always a lot left over. To save it from going to waste the servants used to put it into boxes and after lunch the younger members of the family would visit the various tithe cottages on the estate and distribute the leftovers – hence Boxing Day.

"Over the years that tradition was eroded and it became the norm to open the presents after dinner on the 25th, which Santa had kindly left under the tree. But most recently they're opened on Christmas morning. I think it's partially because not as many people go to church as they used to and also the children were always too excited to sit at the table and eat quietly when they knew what was coming next."

"So the presents are always placed around the tree?"

"I know that that's what a lot of people do, but when James and I were children, Santa would always leave the presents in a pillowcase/sack at the bottom of the bed, so they were there when we woke up in the morning. Probably so that our parents could get some extra sleep before the guests arrived for dinner." Kristin laughed suddenly.

"What?"

"James and I always tried to stay awake so that we could catch Santa, but we never did."

At Nathan's old-fashioned look she added. "Of course we knew that it was Daddy but we never did see him leave the presents. He was very astute, my father… he knew that one or other of us would always wake up at the crack of dawn so he always made sure that one of our presents was a torch."

Kristin's face had taken on a faraway look and Nathan reached out to stroke her cheek. "Hey."

"Mmm…"

"You still with me? It's getting very lonely here."

"I'm with you."

"So, when would you like your present?"

She indicated the room with her hand. "I thought that this was…"

"No, this is just the setting. You still have a present."

She caught his gaze and the tenderness in his eyes threatened to overwhelm her. "Later." She whispered. "Let's just sit for a while first."

"Okay." He patted the seat next to him and she got up from the floor and slid into his welcoming arms before they fell asleep.

********

Kristin opened her eyes and found herself looking up into Nathan's face. Somehow as they slept, she'd shifted position until she was stretched out on the sofa with her head resting on his chest and shoulder; his arms still wrapped around her.

Nathan opened his eyes sleepily. "Mmm… is it present time yet?"

"I guess so." She grinned.

"Me first." He reached down the side of the sofa and handed her a velvet drawstring bag, inside which there nestled a jeweller's case.

"Oh my…" She lifted it out and carefully opened the lid revealing a gold ring of an intricate design that she recognised immediately. "Nathan, it's beautiful."

"It's a Claddagh ring. There's a leaflet inside the bag that tells you all the ways of wearing it and their meaning."

Kristin took out the piece of paper and studied it closely.
 
 

The ring, depicting two hands clutching a heart, complete with a crown,
epitomises the expression of lasting love and eternal friendship.
The heart symbolises love, the hands friendship
and the crown loyalty and fidelity.
 

Wear this ring on your right hand with the heart facing outwards
and the world will know your heart has not yet been won.
Wear it on the right hand with the heart facing inwards and it
shows you have friendship and love under consideration.
But worn on your left hand with the heart turned inwards it means
two loves have joined forever.

After some careful thought she decided on a compromise, slipping it onto the middle finger of her left hand but leaving the heart facing outward. If Nathan was disappointed he didn't show it.

Kristin crossed to the tree and picked up a small, brightly-coloured package. "It seems that our presents have an Irish theme tonight." She commented as she handed it to him.

He eagerly unwrapped it and found a jeweller's box of his own. Opening it, he found a golden medallion, on the face of which was etched the likeness of a Saint he didn't recognise. "Kris?"

"It's Saint Brendan – the Navigator. He's the Irish patron saint of all men of the sea, be they sailors, mariners or just travellers. It seemed more fitting than a St. Christopher."

"Thank you Sweetheart, I'll wear it always."

"Turn it over."

On the reverse was engraved, 'To bring you safely home.'

Nathan found himself at a loss for words so he pulled her into his arms for a few minutes and held her tightly while he fought to regain control of his emotions. As he let her go, he whispered "Stay there," and moved to the CD player to turn it on before returning to her arms. "Dance with me?"

She nodded and slid her hands up his back, pressing herself against his body as the music began to play; the message in it, crystal clear.
 

The first time ever I saw your face
I thought the sun rose in your eyes
And the moon and the stars were the gifts you gave
To the night and the empty skies my love
To the night and the empty skies

The first time ever I kissed your mouth
I felt the earth turn in my hand
Like the trembling heart of a captive bird
That was there at my command my love
That was there at my command

The first time ever I lay with you
And felt your heart beat close to mine
I thought our joy would fill the earth
And would last 'til the end of time my love
And would last 'til the end of time

The first time ever I saw your face
I thought the sun rose in your eyes
And the moon and the stars were the gifts you gave
To the night and the empty skies my love
To the night and the empty skies
 

The song continued on and then moved to the next track but they didn't notice. They were completely caught up in the moment, just staring into each other's eyes. Finally Kristin seemed to surrender and she pulled his head down to hers, their mouths meeting in a long, lingering kiss. Nathan stroked his tongue along her lips before sliding it between them to search for its mate.

Their passion escalated and she slipped her hands inside his shirt to caress the bare skin of his back, hearing him groan as he pulled her even closer. They began to sway to the music once more, until the disk finally ended.

"Make love to me Nathan."

Without a word he slid his arm around her waist and led her to the bedroom.

********

They were huddled up together under the duvet, both reluctant to leave its warmth to light the fire.

"Kris…"

"Mmm…?"

"Is there anything traditional left that we haven't done?"

"You're crazy, you know that?"

"I seem to have heard it mentioned." He smiled

"Uh-huh, probably by me."

"Frequently. Well, is there?"

"I'm thinking."

"No you're not, you're falling asleep in my arms."

"Is that bad?"

"Under normal circumstances no – but it's Christmas."

"Amazing. Under the calm efficient, sea Captain exterior there hides a big kid."

"Well they say Christmas is for kids." He countered.

They lay in silence for a while and then he said, "Have you thought yet?"

"Okay, okay… since you are a big kid, how about we build a snowman? We haven't done that yet."

"Great idea!" He threw back the cover and jumped from the bed.

"Hell Nathan, it's bloody cold!" Kristin grabbed the duvet and pulled it back over herself and up to her chin.

"Oh no you don't. Get that beautiful butt out of that bed now."

"Will not."

"Don't make me come in there."

"Or you'll what?"

Nathan lifted the bottom edge and began to crawl up the bed straddling her body, then he gently began to nibble his way up the inside of her thigh.

"You keep that up and I won't want to get out."

She heard an indecipherable noise from somewhere under the duvet and felt him inch higher, gasping when his mouth reached its final destination. "What did you say?" She panted.

His head suddenly emerged level with hers. "I said, my mother always taught me never to speak when my mouth was full."

"I thought you wanted to build a snowman."

"Later." He muttered as he disappeared from view once more.

********

He stood back admiring his handiwork. "Looks pretty good, I think."

"Well, it's definitely different. I can't say I've ever seen a snowman wearing a UEO cap before… On second thoughts though…"

Nathan laughed and began to add the finishing touches, not noticing what Kristin was up to a few yards away.

"Nathan…"

"Yes?"

"There's one other tradition that we haven't covered."

"What's that?"

When she didn't answer he turned to face her, his question dying on his lips as he was hit squarely in the chest by first one snowball and then another.

"Oh, now this means war."

"I thought the UEO was a peacekeeping force?"

"Only until it's attacked."

He bent down and picked up a handful of snow, throwing it and hitting her on the back as she turned to avoid it. He watched as she reached behind her and picked up another ready-made missile.

"Stockpiling weapons is a violation of the UEO charter you know."

"So, what are you going to do about it, arrest me?"

"Looks like I'll have to."

"You'll have to get to me first."

The skirmish escalated into a full-scale war until Nathan managed to sneak up on her while she was re-arming.

"Hey, no fair!"

"Do you surrender?"

"Absolutely not."

She managed to wiggle one hand free and grabbed at the snow, meaning to shove it in his face at the first opportunity, but with lightning reflexes he grasped her wrist and forced her to let go. "Now do you surrender?"

"What are your terms?"

Nathan eased his grip for fear he was hurting her and that proved to be a fatal error as she scrambled out from underneath him and ran towards the house, before stopping to stand directly behind the snowman, her arm around its neck.

"One more step and the snowman gets it." She threatened.

"A hostage situation, huh?"

"Yep."

"Okay, then you give me no choice."

"You give up?"

"I didn't say that."

Her arm-lock on the snowman tightened.

"Alright, alright you win. I know when I'm beaten."

He was up to something, he had to be… Nathan Bridger just didn't succumb that easily.

"Take your hands off my snowman, Kris. No decapitating the hostage." When she didn't move he added. "I promise that I won't throw another snowball at you."

"I have your word as an Officer and a Gentleman?"

"As an Officer – yes. I can't vouch for the Gentleman."

"I don't believe you."

"Let go of the snowman."

"No!"

"Do you remember the other day when I was on the roof?"

"How could I forget?"

"Well…" He produced an extra large snowball from behind his back.

"You promised."

"I promised I wouldn't throw it at you." He took aim and threw it until it crashed against the roof.

She could hear the rumble behind her and immediately let go of her hostage and began to run, tripping on something and falling down onto the snow to lie there unmoving.

"Kris?"

Nothing…

"Kris, this isn't funny."

Still no response…

Nathan's heart began to thump in his chest and he ran over to where she lay and knelt beside her. "Kris please…"

She had intended to get him close and then drop the snow she held in her hand down his back, but when she heard the panic in his voice and saw the fear in his eyes, she relented. "It's okay Nathan, I'm fine."

"God Kris, I thought I'd hurt you. I could never live with myself if…"

Their gazes locked and something inside her clicked. The door, that had been so tightly shut, flew open.

Nathan could see the change in her eyes, recognising it for what it was. "Now?"

"Now."

He nodded, too choked to speak and lifted her up into his arms, carrying her back inside…

********

He lay in the afterglow, completely exhausted but unwilling to sleep, wanting to hold on to the feeling for as long as possible. He had known that she was holding back from him; had felt it from the beginning. But not this time… Not this time.

Nathan had no idea why she would choose that moment, but he was so very glad that she had. He'd never had any complaints about their lovemaking, quite the opposite in fact, but this had been so much more. She had given herself over to him completely and it had been indescribable. And even if it never happened again, he would treasure this gift for the rest of his life.

A sudden sadness assailed him… This would soon be over and then what? She would go back to her home and her life and he to his. He had always respected her wishes but he wasn't sure that he could live that way anymore – not now. Waking up with her beside him every morning had been wonderful. Spending time with her… Laughing and making love whenever they felt the need and not just when they could find the time to fit it in. He shook himself mentally to banish the thoughts from his mind. That was tomorrow, they still had a few hours left.

"Nathan?" A sleepy voice sounded beside him.

"I'm alright Baby. Go back to sleep."

"Sure?"

"I'm sure." He pulled her to him until her head rested on his chest and stroked her back as she slept.

********

By midday they were all packed up and ready to go. Kristin stopped to take one last look around, leaning back as she felt Nathan come up behind her. "It was wonderful wasn't it?"

"Yes it was."

"Thank you Nathan, for everything."

"Thank you for putting the sparkle back into my Christmas."

"I just wish you'd let me do more to help."

"Kris, you're being here with me was enough. I'll treasure this time for the rest of my life. And yesterday was…"

She silenced him with a kiss. "For me too. Shall we go?"

"Okay." Nathan replied sadly.

"What are you doing for New Year?"

"Nothing… You… Do you have plans?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact I do."

"Oh…" He tried hard to mask his disappointment. "You'll be spending it with Cynthia, I suppose. New Year is the time to be with those you love."

"Yes, it is." She reached up and caressed his cheek. "So I thought maybe, we could spend it on your island, if that's okay?"

Nathan's face lit up. "If it's okay! Of course it's okay, but…"

"I called Cynthia before we left and told her I'd see her as soon as I could, she's gone skiing with her friends."

"Well in that case, we could…"

"Oh no you don't Nathan Bridger. I have all this planned out."

"Really?"

"Really."

"And how do you know I'll agree?" He was feeling better by the second.

"I think you will."

"Tell me."

"Well, I thought we could go back to my place from here, so that I can pick up some suitable clothes."

"Yes."

"Then go to your island and stay there until after New Year."

"Yes…"

"And then perhaps we could spend the last week of your leave sorting my stuff and moving what I need into your beach house, since it's bigger than mine."

Nathan's heart skipped a beat. "You're sure about this?"

"If it's what you want?"

"More than anything else in the world."

"Then I'm sure." She raised her left hand and turned the Claddagh ring until the heart was facing inwards.