21 comments/ 32199 views/ 17 favorites My Heart Belongs to Santa By: Lilin Penn "Mom, where are my shoes?" "Mom, I can't find my coat." "Mooooom!!! Cwooee hit me!" "Chloe Diane! Be nice to your sister!" "But she took my dolly." "So you come tell me, you do not hit your sister." Her brown eyes narrowed as she looked from one girl to the other. "Tell her you're sorry." The girls turned to face each other, identical in almost every way. "Sowwy, Cassidy." "Okay, Cwoee." "Good now would you two please stop playing and go get your shoes on so we can go to lunch!" "Yay! McDonalds!" The voices were in unison as they ran off to do as their mother asked. "Mom! Courtney's playing with my builder bear dog!" "Am not!" "Are too!" "Mom!" "Mom's not here!" Karen bellowed to the children yelling at her. Holding her head in her hands she shook as the tears were about to fall. Slumping into the nearest chair she clamped her eyes tight. You can handle this. Just a few more hours. "Mom, are you okay?" Her eyes rose to meet her son's worried hazel ones. "Yes, Collin, Mommy is fine." "Do you need a hug?" "From you? Always." He wrapped his arms around her giving her the biggest hug he could. "I'm going to miss you." "I'm going to miss you too, Bubby." She gave him an extra squeeze, "but I'll be home at the end of the week." "I know." Collin sniffled, then asked in a quiet voice, "Do you know where my shoes are?" Laughing she pulled back, "Did you check under your bed." He biffed his forehead, "Thanks, Mom." "You're welcome." She rose to clean up the kitchen before her meeting her friends for lunch. Her stomach was in knots. She glanced at the to-do list, everything was checked off, and everyone's suitcases were packed. There was nothing left to do. With a swallow she saw Mac, Collin's stuffed vulture who was the leader of Imaginary Town perched on the microwave. She reached for it cradling it to her chest as it hit home that in less than three hours she would be leaving her children for the first time ever. "We're all ready, Mom." Collin announce with his sisters in tow chattering behind him. She wiped the tears she didn't realize had escaped before facing her children with a fake smile, "Then let's go!" By the time she got to McDonald's her group was gathered in a corner waiting for them. The kids ran over to their "aunts", while Karen got their lunches. Once everyone had eaten and the kids were playing Zoë stepped out of the play area to call her aunt. When she returned she winked at Megan before sitting across from Karen. "My aunt and uncle were already up at the cabin making sure everything would be ready for you." Zoë smiled, reaching out to take Karen's hand, "It'll do you some good to de-stress and have some time to yourself. And Mike is excited about getting a week with a house full of kids!" Karen was still wrestling with the indecision of it all. Not so much Could Zoë and Mike handle the kids for a week? The question really was could she survive without her children for that week? "I'm just concerned. I mean, are you sure you can handle my eight year old, five year old and my three year old twins for a week?" "You've done it for this long...how hard can it be?" Megan draped her arm around Karen's shoulders. "Don't worry, Sweetie. Everything will be fine." Karen nodded as the first tears fell, "I know. But I already miss them and I haven't left yet." "What is it you're going to miss? Early morning wake up calls, having to sleep in p.j.'s, middle of the night potty runs, filling juice glasses and reattaching Barbie's appendages when they came off during a battle with the Imaginary Town warriors?" Megan's blue eyes chilled Karen as she thought about all that. "It's your decision. If you're going to go, go give some kisses and hugs out and then leave. If not...well then go get a refill of diet coke and I'll whip out my deck of cards for some rummy while the kids play." Zoë's voice was gentle, with a firm edge. Karen looked over at her children and sighed realizing that by going on this vacation she would be free from everything Megan said and more. "You know, rummy makes a better two player game." *************** Country music filled the car as Karen drove through the country roads; she was about a half hour away from the cabin according to the directions Zoë gave her. Reaching over she grabbed her cell phone and called Zoë. "Hello?" "Hey Zoë, it's Kare." "Are you okay?" "Yeah, I'm fine I was just calling to see how things are." "Jesus Christ! You've only been gone a little over six hours. The kids are fine, I just tucked them in. Don't call me again unless you're dying. Love you, bye." click. Karen pulled her phone from her ear and stared at it. "She hung up on me." After the shock wore off she put her phone away, stopped at a Podunk liquor store getting herself a couple bottles of wine, then smiling headed to Paradise. The moon was full lighting the way as the snow covered cabin came into view. "This place really is paradise." She hopped out of the car, got her luggage from the trunk and went in. The cabin was warm, and in an instant Karen felt at home. She carried her bags into the bedroom dropping them on the bed, and flopped down next to them. She glanced at the phone on the nightstand; before she could talk herself out of it she called Zoë. "Tom's Turkey Farm." "I'd like to get a small turkey." "Sorry, we're all out of turkey's. It was a virus of some sort and they all went foul." "Hi, Mike. It's Karen." She was trying to hold back her laughter so she could actually talk. "I know. How was the drive?" "Good, Zoë's directions were great." "There's a first." His deep chuckle filled Karen's ear. "Anyway...I was ah calling to ah..." "They had Oreo's and milk while watching some Disney film. We just tucked them in about an hour ago and they are fine." "Okay." "Karen, we know it's rough. But take this time and worry about you." "Is that her again? Is she dying?" Zoë voice resounded in the background. With a light laugh, Karen spoke, "Tell her I am safe, lonely and I love her. Hug the kids for me." "Will do. Have fun, Muffin." Karen laid the phone back in its cradle, curling up in a ball for comfort as she cried. Fat tears rolled down her cheeks as she shook with each sob. For the first time in over eight years she didn't have to hide her tears in the shower. Reaching out she pulled the phone onto the bed next to her, crying herself to sleep. ************************ Karen flipped over in bed, squinting her eyes at the bright light. Stretching out she felt her muscles fight the motion. "When did I get old?" groaning she turned her head to the side, pulling the phone closer. She waited for the sounds of giggles and chatter, heartbroken when she didn't hear them. She stared at it as she finished waking up, finally deciding to call the kids. The smile that spread across her face as the phone rang faded just as fast when the answering machine picked up. "They probably went out shopping." With another stretch, she put the phone back on the nightstand and debated getting up. "I could use a shower..." sighing, she took her glasses off to wipe away stray tears, "Who am I kidding? I could use my kids." Karen closed her eyes and pictured Zoë and Mike out shopping with her kids. "Stop this. You are here for a break." She took a deep breath and rolled out of bed. Water washes away the negative. Zoë's voice drifted through her head. "One hot shower coming up!" Once she was in the water, she noticed nobody was on the other side of the door waiting to barge in. She took her time showering, staying in the water until it ran cold. As she stepped out she wrapped as much of herself as she could in the towels and went to unpack. Taking her clothes out she noticed a pink bag sandwiched between some sweaters. "What the hell...." she recognized Zoë's handwriting and blushed as she read the note: Dear Karen, We know how much you love penguins and take pride in your collection. Megan and I found this one to add to your collection. We hope that it will bring you great pleasure! Love Till the kitchen sinks Zoë n Meg She opened the bag with a nervous hand. Inside was a pearly white vibrator, which had a penguin for clitoral stimulation and an iceberg shaft. The word waterproof was circled with a black marker, and it came with a sample of lube. "Oh my God." Karen felt her cheeks burning. "I can not believe those two!" Laughing she took her new toy out of the box and pressed the buttons to test it. The toy buzzed to life, the penguin bouncing up and down like it was on a caffeine rush and the shaft went in wide circles, for the purpose of massaging the whole pussy. Karen rolled her eyes, shut it off as she set it aside to get some clothes on and go for a walk. The air was brisk taking her breath away as she stepped out into it. The sun shone on the snow making it sparkle and shine. It didn't seem to matter what time it was she was in a magical place. She walked around the cabin to the backyard and then began to walk towards the woods. Taking out her digital camera she paused at the entrance to the woods, if pictures were worth a thousand words this one would leave people speechless. Snow covered each branch, even clinging to the tree trunks. This was a place she had seen as a child, and in the summer was lush, alive and green. Right now, with everything covered in snow, it was magic. Ahead of her were two deer, their heads were close together as if they were sharing a secret. Karen snapped the picture knowing that the kids would love to see it! When she pulled the camera away to review the picture, it was just of the snow and trees. She looked up and saw just snow and trees and no deer. "I am not crazy. I know what I saw!" She walked a little further when she noticed some bright red spots on the clean snow. "This can't be good." Karen looked in all directions trying to see what might've been bleeding. "Okay, you're out in the woods alone. Something is losing blood and if you keep waiting to see what it is you might lose some too." Backing up slowly, Karen began to retreat out of the woods. Once she was safe, she walked back towards the cabin, and caught movement in the corner of her eye. Turning she saw a big dog limping. Unsure if she should approach him, she stood in place to see what he was going to do. The dog tilted his head and gave her a wary glance before lying down in the snow, whimpering. Karen looked around before taking a step closer. He continued to lie there, only now his right paw was twitching. "I'm Karen," Her brown eyes were alert, and she pushed her glasses up a bit. "You seem to be hurting, if you'll let me, I can try and help you." She continued walking closer to him, nervous that he might attack, but she couldn't let the animal freeze to death in pain. "I'm going to pet your head and then see if I can lift you." One hand was down near his nose so he could scent her, as the other began to pet the dog's head, scratching a bit behind the ears. A quick glance showed no blood, so she thought it might just be a hurt paw. Without waiting, she found a way to lift him, Jesus, this is like carrying Collin! and carried him the short distance back to the cabin to let him get warm and hopefully feel better. ************************* "Chow time!" Karen called out to her furry roommate. The large dog came to her and sat waiting patiently for his dinner. "Hey Handsome." She scratched behind his ears before setting down the bowl of rice, chicken broth and some chicken chunks. "I know this is getting old for you, but Zoë said it would be best for your tummy since we don't know what you're used to eating." He dropped his head and began to eat his food. Just as Karen was ready to dig into her the phone rang. "Shit!" She jumped startled since she was getting used to the quiet and ran to get the phone. "Hello?" "Hello, Kare-bear!" "Hey, Zoë!" "I have four special people that want to talk to you." "Hi, Mom!" "Hello, my ladybug Courtney!" Karen spent over an hour talking to each of her kids, before finally getting to eat her own lunch. The weather was warmer today so she was ready for that hike. Maybe she would even see those elusive deer again. Karen hugged the dog before putting on her coat. "You stay here and relax, I'll be back later." Grabbing up the bag of scraps and bread she put together Karen went to feed some animals in the woods and see what she could before she froze to death. The sun was shining high in the sky, warming her cheeks as she began to walk the same trail that led her to her new friend. It seemed that last nights dusting of snow refreshed the beauty of the woods. As she walked along she watched for any tracks she could find so she would know where to leave a small deposit of food. Every few minutes she would pause and take a deep breath of air then leave a handful of food for whatever creatures were around and wanted it. There was nothing but bread left when she reached a clearing; there at the bottom of the hill was another cabin. I wonder if they're home... While she stood there contemplating she heard heavy breathing. What the hell is behind me? She turned around slow, not knowing what to expect and was face to face with a giant deer. "Oh God." The deer tilted its head and sneezed on her. "Bless you." Karen took a step back, then another. The deer thought this was a great game and followed. The more steps Karen took, the more the deer did, until her last step caused her to trip on a stick, falling on her ass and sliding down the small hill. "Shiiiiiiiiit!" Her decent was brought to a sudden stop by the tree that stopped her. She laid still looking to see the stump, Trees don't wear boots. looking up she followed the boots to jeans and those up to flannel parka and further up to a set of lips that were full, cheeks that were rosy and eyes that were so brown they reminded her of milk chocolate. "Trying to leave a trail so you can find your way home?" "What?" Karen laughed not believing she fell down a hill to land at a man's feet. He nodded to the bread bag in her hand. "Trying to leave a trail?" "Oh! No, I hate wasting food so I put it all together so I could feed the animals in the woods." "That's nice." "Thanks." Karen smiled and tried to get up. "Ouch." "Where are my manners? Are you okay?" "I think I pulled my back a bit." "Here, let me help you up." He offered his hands, as he bent to help her stand. "Thank you." Karen smiled and took the offered hands. Once she was upright she realized how tall he was. "I need to get back to my dog." "What kind?" "What kind of what?" "Dog." "I don't know. I found him." "Do you need some help?" "With the dog?" "No." He laughed, "Getting back up the hill." "Oh. Yes, that would be nice...ummm, what's your name?" "Nick." He wrapped an arm around her for support. "And you are?" "Karen." "It's a pleasure to meet you, Karen." As they walked up the hill together, Karen felt her muscles tense. Jesus, he smells so good. Like fresh cut pine trees and gingerbread cookies. "How did you end up falling?" "I'm not sure. I think I tripped on a stick when the deer kept following me." "Deer? Deer are people shy." "This one wasn't!" She used her hands to express her words, "He had a huge set of horns and was huge himself! Just like the two I thought I saw yesterday." "That is weird." They made it up the hill and back to her cabin. Once they stepped in the door the dog was all over Nick. "Cupid!" Nick roughed up the dog's fur a bit and knelt down to see him. "You're a dog!" "Cupid?" "Uh-huh." "So you know him?" Laughing Nick stood up, "Yes, he belongs to my Dad. I brought him with me and he took off. I thought maybe he just ran back to my Dad's place." He gave the dog warning glance. Cupid flopped over and whined, causing Karen to forget her back and drop to the dog's side. "Are you okay, Handsome?" she stroked his fur with small loving strokes, making sure his paw was okay. Nick knelt down with her, "What's wrong?" "His paw was injured when I found him. Maybe the excitement of seeing you and jumping on it got to him." Nick was silent as he watched her tend to his dog. He leaned over to look at the wound and Karen was bringing her head up to look at Nick. "Crack." "Ow!" Both of them reached for spot that was injured and then asked, "Are you okay?" After a few deep breaths and some giggles, Karen reached over to check Nick's chin. "No permanent damage seems to be done." "Maybe you should kiss it?" "Kiss it?" "Yes. A mom's kiss always makes boo-boo's better." "How do you know I'm a mom?" His brown eyes were warm and in them Karen could see herself, "I can just tell." She leaned in, pressing her lips against his chin, feeling the stubble from a five o'clock shadow. "All better." His hand came up cupping her cheek, his thumb stroking her lips lightly, "All better." When they pulled away from each other, they both looked to Cupid. "Maybe he should stay here one more day before you take him home." "Would you mind?" "No! He's been great company." "Do you miss them?" "I missed them before I left." Nick gave Karen a smile that warmed her to her toes. "I'll come check on him tomorrow." "Sounds good. If you'd like we can have dinner together." "I can't wait." "Thank you for helping me up the hill." "Thank you for taking care of Cupid." He leaned in and kissed her lips before getting up and heading home. Once the door closed behind him, Karen crawled to the window and watched him walk away. Cupid crawled over and gave her hand a juicy lick. Knowing what he wanted she began to pet him. "He's something else." "Bark!" "I think this calls for a little me time." Karen got up and went to get her penguin fleece robe. She had been dying to try out the hot tub and now was the perfect chance. Looking to the nightstand her new penguin toy beckoned to her. "If I'm ever going to try using it, it's going to have to be on this trip." laughing she stripped down, got her robe and vibrator before getting a glass of wine and heading to the hot tub. Giggling like a sixteen year old, Karen found herself feeling liberated as she stepped naked into the cold. She moved quickly to uncover the hot tub so she could get in before her tits froze off, then tossed her robe where it could be within reach when she was ready to get out. She lifted her glass of wine up and wielding her vibrator like a sword she yelled into the backyard, "I am woman, hear me moan!" Leaning her head back, she hit the switch for the jets, letting the tension drain out of her body. Each jet was turned to hit just the right way feeling like a strong pair of hands massaging her. Karen began to think about Nick as the water pulsated against the bottoms of her feet; she sipped her wine pretending it was him using his hands to rub out the aches when she came home from a long day at Wal-Mart. Arching her back she noticed the water working on her legs, massaging away the rest of the ache. She downed her wine and focused on the rest of the jets. In her mind she went from having one lover to having a network of helping hands, expert hands that knew just where to be, and just how to touch. Her breasts bobbed in the water and she found herself wishing there was someone there to massage another ache she was having. Sitting up she scanned the yard to make sure no one was around. Seeing nothing but the gentle fall of snow, Karen relaxed and began to massage her breasts herself. My Heart Belongs to Santa Feeling daring alone in the hot tub she slid her hands down her stomach until her fingers came in contact with hair. She let her fingers trace the slit, feeling how puffy her nether lips were from the hot water. Biting her lip to stifle a moan, she stopped and laughed. "Karen, you are alone." She waited for an answer and when no reply came from anywhere she decided to stop feeling guilty, and being paranoid someone was going to burst in. "I need this." Karen laid back, closed her eyes and conjured up her fantasy man. She moaned out loud and let her hands get back to work. Again her fingers began to massage and knead her breasts. Taking her time her fingers found their way back to her pussy. She slid one finger in, then slide her other hand down to open her lips. Using her middle and ring finger she found her clit and traced little circles around it. After she teased her clit her fingers would slide into her feeling the slippery wetness of her own juices. No longer shy her voice was bold as whimpers and moans of ecstasy emerged from her lips. When her fingers came back up to tease her clit again she freed one hand to reach for her new penguin buddy. "Time to find out how waterproof you are." She gave a low laugh as she lowered the toy into the water. Reaching down she spread her lips again, then placed the shaft at her entrance. It didn't look all that big in the box or when she held it. But as she began to push it in it felt like a log! Taking in a deep breath, Karen willed herself to relax and not think about how long it's been since she was with a man. The iceberg shaft stretched her out, letting her feel every bump and ridge it had. Licking her lips she pushed the buttons down and let it get to work. The penguin's beak began to jackhammer her clit. Wincing a bit she pressed the other button which slowed it down to a comfortable sensation. With a sigh she began to move the toy in and out, nice and slow. In her mind Nick was working her good. His pecks would flex with every thrust, his hair would be a bit shaggy hanging in his face. His peppermint candy breath would make her high. Karen's breathing picked up and she began to buck in the water, splashing some over the side. "Harder! Fuck me harder!" she cried out, pistoning the toy faster, letting it linger on her clit longer. Her chest rose and fell with each gasp of air she took, her whole body began to tense and she screamed as loud as she could when the orgasm hit full on. Karen let her thighs hold the toy in place as she stretch and let the feelings overtake her. She jumped when a cold nose pressed against her neck and she felt the toy fall out. She spun to look at Cupid and laughed. She fished around the water for her toy, shut it off and set it aside. Karen relaxed for a little while more, before getting out and cleaning up. She loved her vacation so far...the only thing missing were her children. But if her children were there this moment wouldn't have happened. ***************** "Megan, I have a date." "No shit? Where did you manage to find a man on a secluded hill?" "I fell down the hill." The phone was full of static and snorts. "Meg?" "I'm..." snort "sorry. You fell down the hill?" Megan cleared her throat, "Were you hurt?" "I pulled my back a little, but Nick helped me back up the hill to my cabin. Turns out I have his dog." "Well, well, well...the plot thickens." "What plot? I didn't plan this." "Calm down, Muffin. So out with it. What's he look like?" "Well he's tall, a little chubby, dark wavy hair, which looks thick. Brown eyes, smells like pine trees and gingerbread cookies with a hint of peppermint" a soft sigh left Karen's lips, "seems to love animals and has this uncanny intuition." "Sounds yummy." "I'm going to make dinner for him tonight." "Really? Are you going to make some of your famous chocolate chip cookies too?" "I thought about it if I have time." "Just bring some home. I'll let you go so you can get ready and bake. Call tomorrow and tell me all the details. I'll call Zoë and let her know." "You do that." "Love ya, girl." "Love you too, Meg." Karen hung up the phone and began to cook. Her nerves were on edge again. What if he tries to kiss me? Karen sliced the fresh vegetable up for a salad, them into a bowl. What if he makes a move on me? Tossing Cupid a few scraps she got out the necessary ingredients to make cookies. What if he only agreed to dinner to be nice? Once everything was ready she went to take a quick shower to freshen up. Leaving the door open since it was a novelty she began to sing some of her favorite songs. When she got to some Christmas ones Cupid was doing some form of a howl/bark to sing along. "City sidewalk, busy sidewalks dressed in holiday style. In the air there's a feeling of Christmas. Children laughing, people passing, meeting smile after smile, And on every street corner you'll hear: Silver bells, silver bells, its Christmas time in the city. Ring-a-ling, hear them ring, soon it will be Christmas day." "Barooooooo" With a laugh she launched into the next song, "Here comes Santa Claus! Here comes Santa Claus! Right down Santa Claus Lane!" "Bark! Bark!" "Vixen and Blitzen and all his reindeer are pulling on the reins. Bells are ringing, children singing; all is merry and bright. Hang your stockings and say your prayers, 'Cause Santa Claus comes tonight." "Woof! Bark! Barooooo!" "Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring ting tingling too. Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you, Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling 'Yoo hoo,'" "Bar-roo" "Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you." Still laughing, Karen stepped out of the shower and put on her robe. She wrapped her hair in a towel and went to go give dinner a quick stir before getting dressed. Walking into the living room she found Cupid stretched out on the couch with his head in Nick's lap. "Oh my." Karen's hand came up to cover her mouth, as if that would hide the blush that was taking over her face. "I, uh, let myself in." "I see this." "I'm sorry." "Don't be. I'll go get dressed." She pointed towards the bedroom as she turned to head there. She dressed as quick as she could, taking minimal time to do her hair and make-up. So much for making a good impression. When Karen came back from the bedroom she found Nick in the kitchen, eating a cookie. "Those are for after dinner." "Wow, if I hadn't known you were a Mom before I know now." "You'll ruin your appetite!" "There's no way!" Nick walked over and kissed her cheek, "These are better than my Mom's and that's saying something!" A blush tinted Karen's cheeks, "Thank you. I learned the recipe from my Mom." Their eyes locked on each others and for a brief moment time stood still. The silence was broken when Nick's stomach made a loud grumbling. "Well I guess it's time to eat." "That would be nice." "I hope you like chicken." "I do." "This is one of my favorites. Its garlic chicken alfredo over rice." "Smells wonderful." Karen served Nick, got their drinks, made sure everything was on the table and was about to go get extra napkins when he reached out capturing her hand. "Sit with me. Don't let your dinner get cold." "I'm used to cold dinners. After I make four plates, I have to make sure everyone is in the right spots, especially the twins. They will not eat unless they are sitting in their seat. Courtney has to be able to get her own drink and Collin is just trying to tune out his sisters that I have to remind him fifty times to eat." "So you're raising them alone?" "Yes. Well no. My Mom is a huge help, she watches them while I work. If something comes up and she can't there's always Zoë and Megan. Like this week to give both me and Grandma a break Zoë and her husband have them." "Where's their father?" "He left. The twins were three months old, he decided this wasn't the life he wanted and he left. What the hell is wrong with you, Karen? Spilling your guts to a stranger! So it's me. I manage, but it's nice to have some time alone, but this whole week is feeling like too much. I miss the middle of the night potty runs and the early morning wake ups and reattaching Barbie's appendages when they come off during a battle with the Imaginary Town warrior's." "Imaginary Town? Your boy must have a great imagination." "He does. Sometimes I worry he's in that world too much, but I don't know what...how did you know it was my boy?" "Well I didn't think your girls would create a place where there are warriors." "Oh. You're right. They like to play house and dress up and Barbie's. All of my kids love to draw and read and cuddle." Nick reached across the table to hold her hand, "It's okay to miss them and be homesick, Karen." Nick got up and went to kneel by her. His warm hand lifted her chin. "Would you like to go for a walk?" Karen looked down and then back into his eyes, "Yes, that would be nice." "Leave the dishes we'll do them when we come back." Smiling Karen rose and went to get her coat. Once they were ready Nick took her gloved hand in his and together they walked in the moonlight. The few snowflakes that fell shimmered in the moonlight. "Oh, I wish it would snow." A soft sigh left her lips. "How much?" "Just a little. It'd be so pretty." "I think it might do just that. Forecast called for it anyway." Before his words had quite registered in her mind, the first snowflake floated down just in front of her nose. With a gasp, she turned her eyes skyward as dozens of snowflakes floated down from the clouds above. "Guess the weather man was right for a change," Nick noted with a shrug. "Did you used to catch snowflakes on your tongue when you were kid?" Karen asked as she glanced towards the moon. "I still do." "Really?" "Sure." He stuck his tongue out to capture a flake. Marveling at his playfulness, Karen stuck her tongue out to join him. With both of them wandering about, heads cast towards the night sky, they bumped into one another. Gasping, Karen looked up those few inches into his chocolately eyes. Catching a whiff of fresh pine. He leaned in speaking quietly, "This is my favorite time of the day." "Mine too. It's when I get to be with my kids." "Kids are wonderful." "Not everyone thinks so." "I do." His voice was firm as he said those two words. "There's a gazebo just up the path, would you like to see it?" "I'd love to." "It was built by my great – great – great – great – great - great...well you get the idea Grandfather." "How many greats was that?" "Eight. Give or take." "So, roughly a hundred and fifty years or so?" "Yes. Give or take. Although our family has been here much longer." "Much longer?" Karen tilted her head in thought, "I'm not too great with history but, Europeans weren't here until when; eighteen hundred?" Nodding, he pulled her gloved hand to his lips kissing her knuckles. "We've been here a long time." Using both their hands he motioned ahead of them, "There it is." Ahead of them Karen saw a white gazebo, each panel of each side was decorated with a different pictorial of Santa. "This whole trip has taken my breath away. I can't think of any words that would do it justice. It's like magic." Karen let go of his hand to examine each panel. "It's like a bunch of Christmas songs painted to show the magic of Christmas." She reached for Nick's hand, "Look there's each of the reindeer!" "Did you notice the snowflakes are different?" She gasped, smiling as her eyes leapt to each tiny frosted image. "They are!" "My parents were married here." Karen's mouth opened and no words came out. "As a matter of fact all the weddings in my family have taken place here since it was built." Tears formed in Karen's eyes, "What a beautiful tradition. When was it built?" "Back in the eighteen hundreds." Karen turned to face him, awe spreading over her face. "The story is that Poppa Kris built this as an engagement gift to his love. He presented it to her on Christmas Eve, and they were married here the following night under a full moon." He pulled Karen to him as he continued the story. "So that was how the tradition began, and since then all of our family has had weddings here. The last was my older brother Tito." "Tito?" Karen chuckled. "I'm joking; it was really my sister Noel." "Have you ever been married?" "No." He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Would you like to go in?" His voice cracked on each word. "Are you okay?" Nodding he opened the door allowing Karen to enter first. Their bodies brushed together as she entered, Nick took a deep breath before following her in. Her head was tilted up to look through the frosted glass in the roof, "Tell me about the ceremony." "The ceremony is short," he began, "The groom stands here." He paused to point. "And the bride?" "There." With her chin high Karen leapt to where his finger pointed. Nick swallowed. With his eyes locked to hers, he took the step necessary to place him in the groom's position. "Then what?" she asked. Nick leaned in a breath away from her lips. "I do." His voice came out in a whisper just as his lips cover hers. Frost rose from their lips as their hot breath met the cold air. Their warm lips seem to melt together, parting only for a second to open further. Nick suckled in her bottom lip, nibbling just a bit before covering her mouth again. His arms wrapped around her holding her steady. Oh God...he tastes so good, like peppermint. Karen brought her hand up to cup the side of his neck, letting it roam into his hair. His hair is so soft, he tastes too good to be true! As his lips came to a close to pull away, Karen waited a moment before opening her eyes. "Wow. That's a short ceremony." A giggle escaped as she opened her eyes to see Nick. "Our engagements are usually pretty short." "Really? And then what?" Without waiting for a reply, Karen took off toward the cabin. Nick chased after her in hot pursuit, catching her in the path. "And then this." His lips claimed hers, his tongue pushing against hers, waiting to gain entry. "Nick." Karen said his name on a sigh as she parted her lips, eager to taste him again. A gush of wind came up sending chills through Karen, when she shivered against Nick, and he pulled away. "You're cold. We should go inside." He took her hand walking with her back to her cabin. He opened the door for her not waiting for it to be closed as his lips found hers again. Hands fumbled in the darkness to unzip coats, remove gloves and find their way back to touch each others face. Nick pulled away scooping Karen up. "Put me down, I'm too heavy." "If you were, I wouldn't have picked you up." He covered her lips again, to cut off her protests, as he carried her to the couch. He set her down, balancing on his knee between her legs. He was busy unbuttoning her shirt, "We need more light." his voice was barely audible as the room began to brighten. Once he had her buttons undone, he opened her shirt to reveal her bra. A strange look crossed his face as he bent down to look at the extra hooks. "What are these?" "They are clips, so you can open the cup of the bra when you're nursing." "Are you still nursing?" "No." "Are you planning on nursing?" "No." Karen blushed as she tried not to laugh at the perplexed look on Nick's face. "I found from my pregnancies that nursing bra's offer more support. So even though I am no longer nursing I still wear them for support." She unclipped one to show how it opens, then clipped it closed. "Easy access?" Nick's eyes lit up with wonder. "Yes, it is." Nick sat back on the couch, and helped Karen sit next to him. He removed her shirt then let her take the reigns. She reached out to unbutton his shirt, her hands trembling with each button. Once unbuttoned she pushed it off his shoulders and down his arms. He's so pale. Karen's hands reached out to stroke his furry chest, leaning in to taste his lips again. I could get drunk on his kisses. So sweet, first he tasted like peppermint, now crème de menthe! Nick's hands slid up her back, scratching with a touch so light it could be considered tickling. Karen moaned into his mouth. I must be dreaming. He unbuttoned her bra, sliding his hands up the rest of the way to pull it from her shoulders, down her arms and pulling away just a bit his right hand slipped between them to remove it. Now they were skin to skin. Nick wrapped his arms around her back, getting his fingers caught in her long hair. Giving her a push he laid them back on the couch and then rose above her, "I can't get enough of your lips, but I wanted to see the rest of you." He leaned over her pressing small kisses to her chest, all over one breast then the other. He took his time working down to her nipples, moaning as one filled his mouth. Nick let his tongue go in teasing circles around the nipple, while he suckled. His hand slide over to massage the free one, getting that nipple hard and ready for his eager mouth. Karen let her hands get buried in his thick dark hair, using her nails to scratch his head lightly. Nick lifted his mouth from her breast, leaning in to kiss her again. It was a brief kiss, before his mouth locked on the dry nipple. Karen's hands ran down to his shoulders, using her nails to tickle him the way he had her back. Goosebumps rose from his skin as he began to take his kisses lower. When he came to her jeans, he undid the button and the zipper, getting a good hold on both the jeans and her underwear pulling them down. The light from the fireplace cast a golden glow to her skin. Nick slid off the couch kneeling by Karen. "How's your back?" "My back?" "From your fall...does it still ache?" What the hell??? "A little bit." "Be right back!" Nick jumped off and disappeared into the other room. What the fuck is going on? Karen sat up, noticing the fire in the fireplace. When did he light a fire? "Alright, Love." Nick came back with the comforter off the bed, his jeans missing and a smile. He moved the coffee table and spread the blanket out. He offered his hand to Karen. He is too good to be true. Karen took his hand, letting him pull her to him. Nick wrapped his arms around her swaying her to a tune he was humming. I know this song...but what is it? She laid her head on his chest, when the tune sank in. "I'll be home for Christmas...You can count on me. Please have snow and mistletoe and presents on the tree." "Christmas Eve will find me...where the love light gleams. I'll be home for Christmas. If only in my dreams." Nick's tenor voice rang out with hers, creating a perfect harmony. "Here, let me rub your back for you." Nick's hands were already working on the tiny knots of tension in her muscles. Together they went to their knees and he helped her lie down. His hands are made of magic. He moved her hair to the side, settling in on her thighs. His hands were busy rubbing and massaging her whole back. Starting with her lower back, he worked his way up in gentle circular motions. When he reached the top, he leaned over to kiss her neck before adjusting his hands for the path back down. Once he felt her relax, he rolled off to lie beside her. Karen rolled on her side to face him. "That was wonderful." She leaned over and captured his lips with hers. Her hand began to stroke his side, toying with the band on his boxers. Do I dare? My Heart Belongs to Santa Nick's hand came up to cup one of her breasts, while the other was busy playing with the ends of her hair. Taking a deep breath, Karen sat up and gave him a playful push onto his back. Her hands slid under the band and she gave a tug. Nick cooperated lifting his hips so she could pull his boxers off. She giggled a bit noticing the reindeer all over them. "They glow in the dark." Nick admitted in a quiet voice. Karen tossed them on the couch, straddling his thighs. "I like that. I know then I wouldn't lose you in the dark." She tossed her hair over one shoulder as she leaned down to kiss his chest. Her lips bounced from place to place pressing gentle kisses on his torso down to his hips. Sliding down his legs, she planted lingering kisses on each side of his erection, before nuzzling his balls. Her tongue darted out to lick the base of his cock, then licked up the side. Her mouth opened, encompassing his head. Karen suckled it before sliding down the shaft a ways. Nick exhaled deeply reaching for her head. "Can I play with your hair?" he asked trying to take breath. Karen sucked her way back up, pulling off him with a "pop". "Yes." Her attention was diverted back to the task at hand. He tastes as sweet as he smells. She gripped his cock at the base, and put her mouth to work. Licking and nibbling around the crown, before suckling the head back into her mouth. Her hand began to stroke his shaft, and she felt his legs tensing. At the same time she felt him tapping on her head. Karen lifted her mouth from his, continuing to stroke with her hand. "Yes, Love?" "Your mouth is wonderful." "Thank you." She bent her head to take him back in her mouth. "Wait!" She paused, locking eyes with him. "If you keep doing that, I'm going to .... You know." "That's the idea." She took him back in her mouth stroking him faster, sucking just a bit harder. "Oh God." Nick shivered beneath her. It's been so long since I've tasted a man. Without relenting she bobbed her head faster on him. With each breath she suckled him in deeper. I want to taste you. Nick let out a groan, "So taste me." With that, he erupted in her mouth. The first burst took her by surprise. It's thick and creamy and sweet...like butter cream. Moaning Karen sucked harder. I want it more! Nick pumped her mouth full almost four times before she felt him begin to soften between her lips. When he fell limp from her lips she rolled over still wowed by the taste of his cum. He reached for her hand, bringing it to his lips, pressing a small kiss into her palm. Nick then moved down between her legs, "My turn to taste you." His breath was warm on her open lips; he parted them more exposing the pink inside. He mouth opened covering what he could, lapping from her perineum to her hood. Once at the hood, his tongue probed for the hardened bud that he could suckle. A soft sigh of contentment escaped her lips, This can't be happening. as she felt a finger slide within her wetness. He slid another in just to hear her gasp again. Nick's mouth sucked, his tongue massaged and his fingers probed to find the spot that would drive her mad. Using his free hand he massaged and applied pressure where it would connect his hands, if her flesh was not in the way. When he pushed, Karen jumped. "Nick! Oh!" Her body spasmed and she tried to get away from him. "Did I hurt you?" His eyes were covered in worry. "God no." she took a breath, "But I want you." She sat up facing him. "Deep inside me. Now." Nick smiled lying back on the floor. "Ride me?" Without hesitation Karen was straddling his hips. I love to be on top. She slide down him letting him feel her wetness. No man has ever worked me up this much before. She slid his length in slow. Jesus, he's thicker then the toy. Nick's hands held on to her full hips. Letting Karen set the pace. Once he was sheathed within her, he let his hands go up to play with her breasts. "I love the way they spill over in my hands." Nick gave each nipple a tweak before running his hands down her full figured curves. Karen rocked her hips on him, arching her back and squeezing her kegels. Her hands were braced on his chest for support. They were in constant contact at all times. If one was rubbing with their hands, the other stayed still. The found a rhythm that worked for them. Soon Nick ran his hands down her arms and took her hands in his. His hands are so strong. Karen sat up straight and tightened her grip on his hands riding him faster. Nick's voice came out as a hushed whisper. "You're so beautiful." And in the firelight he could see the blush spread across her cheeks. "Nick. Mmm, Nick." "Say my full name, please." "Nicholas." Her voice was airy as she whimpered and her pace slowed. "I'm going to..." "I got you." His hands took over setting in on her hips, as he rocked her harder and faster on him. "Karen!" "Nicholas!" Karen cried out collapsing on his chest. Nick's cock erupted inside her, and his hands continued to move her. Her pussy was milking him and it felt too good to stop. Heaven. His arms enveloped her as they lay spent together before the fire. The room didn't have the normal smell of sex, rather smelled like homemade cookies and cocoa. The finally stretched out on half the blanket, covering up the other half, falling sound asleep snuggled together. ******************* "And then what happened?" Megan implored. "Nothing, I didn't see him again." "He couldn't have just disappeared." Zoë grumbled with a sigh, "Did you check his cabin?" "I went and knocked, but no one was home." "What a pig!" Meg stabbed her salad with vengeance. Karen nodded and watched her kids playing. "I need to take them to see Santa at the mall." "Mind if I join you? I have some last minute shopping to do so I can surprise Mike." "Not at all. You coming too, Meg?" "Of course!" Collin came running up to Karen, wiping sweat off his brow, "Is it time to go yet?" "Go get your sisters and cousin." "Yes!" He raised a triumphant fist in the air as he ran off to gather the others. ************ "Jesus! That is one hellatious line." Meg's eyes were popping out staring at all the kids there to see Santa. "That's what happens when you wait till the last minute." Karen shrugged. "The twins are still snoozin a bit, Collin and Courtney are making friends, time will go quick." "If you say so." Meg glanced around at the last minute shoppers. "Karen, I'll be right back. I'm going to run in Sears and get some manly tools for Mike." "We'll be here." "I can't believe people wait till the last minute to shop. Don't they know that the stores close early tonight?" "Megan, not everyone can get out and shop before tonight." "I know. I know." Megan rolled her eyes, "Hey you want some cookies? I can run to Mrs. Fields and get some snacks and drinks." "I'm thirsty, Mommy." "Sounds good to me." Karen hugged Courtney, "Aunt Megan will be back with something in a moment." "Yay!" Courtney jumped up and down a few times before turning to talk with another small girl in line. The wait in line was longer than Karen anticipated, but more than worth it to get the kids pictures with Santa. Chloe was first to go sit on his lap. "Ho, ho, ho. What's your name?" "Cwooee." "And what would you like for Christmas, Chloe?" "A wand for my Tinkerbelle costume. I'm gonnbe Tinkerbelle for Halloween." "I bet you need a pretty wand." The young girl bounced her head enthusiastically. "I will make note of that on my list." Santa narrowed his eyes, "Have you been good all year?" "Yes!" Santa offered her a candy cane as she climbed off his lap. She ran to hug Karen as Cassidy climbed up. "Lookie here! You look just like your sister." "She's Cwooee. I'm Cassdee." "And what would you like for Christmas, Cassidy?" "Hmmmm I want a Barbie pessus." "The purple Pegasus?" "Uh-huh." "Have you been good all year?" "Yes!" Cassidy giggled accepting her candy cane and joining her Mom and sister. "Hi, Santa." "Hello. What's your name?" "Courtney." "And what would you like for Christmas, Courtney?" "Bella Dancerella hip hop dance set." "Practicing for when you're older?" "Yep." "Have you been good all year?" "Yes!" She gave Santa a small hug before taking her candy cane and stepping aside. Collin walked up and eyed Santa before taking his place on his knee. "And what's your name?" "Collin." "And what would you like for Christmas?" "Well there's two things really. But they're not both for me." "Well what would you like for you?" "The new Batman movie, Batman Begins, on DVD." "OK, and who is your other request for?" "My Mom." "And what would you like for your Mom?" "I heard her tell Aunt Zoë she wanted someone to go to dinner with once in awhile. So I would like that for her." "Have you been good?" "Yep, I'm even doing great in school." "Very good then." Santa handed Collin a candy cane and looked at the woman with the children. Patting his lap he motioned for her to come over. "Go Mom...You can tell Santa what you want." Collin bounced a little, taking Karen's hand and pulling her along. At Collin's insistence Karen went and took a place on Santa's lap. "And your name?" "Karen." "Tell me, Karen, what do you want for Christmas?" Karen closed her eyes. Nick. Fresh pine and gingerbread. Great I think about him and can smell him. "Someone to spend the holidays with...and the rest of my life." She looked into Santa's eyes, It's him. It's Santa who smells like Nick "Do I know you?" "I don't believe we've met." "I'm sorry you just seem so familiar." "It happens. We Santa's all seem alike." Karen laughed, and kissed Santa's cheek. "Thank you, Santa. I've been good all year." Skipping the candy cane she went to her children and friends and then they all headed out hoping to miss the Christmas Eve traffic rush. *************** The house was quiet. Too quiet. Karen rolled over and glanced at her clock. It's ten in the morning and my kids must be abducted by aliens. Rolling over she stretched out, taking a deep breath. Mmm, French toast and cocoa. Karen sat up in bed. The kids can't cook. She threw back the covers letting her "My heart belongs to Santa" nightgown untwist when she stood before walking through her house. The kitchen smells like warm French toast! Karen rounded the corner into her kitchen to find her twins in their chairs eating French toast and Courtney watching animal planet while eating. Leaning against the wall she saw a dark head of hair on one side of the table and her blonde headed son next to him. Together Collin was making drawings, explaining how Imaginary Town worked. "You see when Mac was a baby vulture he had to save the nest. So he called on Bruce Wayne and Peter Parker and together they all saved Mac's family." "So Peter and Bruce elected Mac to be the head of Imaginary Town." "Exactly. They knew that they could trust him with Imaginary Town and Robotic Imaginary Town." "Robotic?" "Well Mac had an accident and fell out of a tree. So they replaced one of his wings with a robotic extension." "Very clever." "Mommy!" The twins called out in unison. "Good morning, girls." "Hi, Mom." "Morning, Court." "Hi Mom, me an Nick were just discussing Imaginary Town." "I heard." "Good morning, Karen." "Good morning." "Are you hungry? I made French toast, and there's hot cocoa." "Sounds yummy." Karen took a seat at the table watching Nick move through her kitchen. How did he find me? Who let him in? "Collin was playing in the porch when I knocked. He was really just looking for a toy, but I explained I was a friend of yours and he let me in." "Oh." "Mom, he had a special gift for you." Collin shrugged as his hazel eyes pleaded for his defense. "Look, Mommy! Nick bringed me a wand!" Chloe held out her new treasure. "That's very pretty." "I got a pessus!" Cassidy chimed in pointing at the buffet counter. "I got Bella Dancerella, but Nick said I had to wait until you got up to play it." "Yeah, and I need the teevee in your room, Mom, so I can watch my Batman Begins special edition!" Nick served her breakfast, taking the seat next to her. "I like your nightgown." "Thanks." This is all too much. "Can I go watch my DVD?" "Go ahead, Collin. Girls, you can go play too. After I eat breakfast and talk with Nick, we'll open gifts." "Yay!" The voices sang all running in different directions. "Are you okay?" "Would you be if you woke to find a near stranger in your home?" "If I was in love with them, I would be overjoyed." A ghost of a smile spread across her lips. "I can't believe you're here. It's like a dream. How did you find me?" "You asked for me." "So that was you in the mall?" her tone rose a notch. "No. That was one of my older brothers. His name is Mark." "I don't understand." "My name is Nicholas Klaus. I am the youngest of twenty. Before you ask, no, my mom didn't give birth to us all. Some were adopted. But I am of Klaus decent. My father is Santa. He inherited that title when my grandfather retired. As will one of us boys one day. It will depend on...." Nick saw the bewilderment in Karen's eyes. Nick shook his head. "Never mind, we can discuss that later. Anyway the tradition began in the fourth century. Saint Nick's wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while he was still young. He took all the money and items and went around donating it to people who needed it. The sick, the hungry and the poor." Karen's head leaned to one side. "So the very first Saint Nick was real?" "What do you mean was?" Nick asked with a smile. "We all are, Sweetheart." Karen's eyes narrowed. "Are you telling me you're Santa?" "I am...kinda...My dad is Santa. I will be one day." Karen took a few bites of her breakfast. "So you're telling me that there is a network of Santa's?" "Yes. My whole family works for nothing but this time of year." "Is that why I can't remember buying a few of the gifts each year?" A boyish grin passed over Nick's lips. "Yes." "And they're always my children's favorites too." Nick shrugged, "It's not too hard when you know what they want." "And you do this for every child?" "Only the good ones. Too many children these days only get gifts from their parents. No wonder no one believes anymore." "It used to be different?" "Sure. I've heard stories about back in the depression, for instance, hardly anyone could afford gifts for their children. Back then, everyone believed." A tear formed at the corner of his eye. "Except the rich kids. They're always the most unfortunate of all." "Money. It can be a curse sometimes." "Too much always is." "So your brother told you I was there?" "Yes and that you wanted me for Christmas." "I never said you. I said, someone to spend the holidays with...and the rest of my life." "But your heart called out my name." The bite Karen was lifting to her mouth dropped off the fork as it fell from her grasp. "So now you're telling me you and your family have some form of ESP?" "It's a gift." Nick's voice was soft. "Gift? You can hear people's thoughts and all you can say is it's a gift?" "Well if I said magic, you might freak then too." "Magic?" "Duh! How do you think reindeer fly? How do you think we can take care of all those families?" "Now I am dreaming. You're trying to tell me you can do magic." "Yay! It's snowing!" The kids yelled from the living room. Karen looked past Nick to the window above the sink. It was a bright sunny day, not a flake was falling. Her eyes grew wide as she leapt from her chair to go around the wall into the living room. "Oh my God!" her hand covered her mouth. "Look, Mommy!" Cassidy stuck out her tongue to catch a flake. "I had to take Cupid in to make sure his legs were okay. I know we missed each other that last day, and if I wouldn't have had to get to work I would've been there before you left." "Is he okay now?" Karen's eyes filled with concern. "Yes, it was just a small sprain. That's what he gets for playing with a reindeer." Nick reached for her hand, as the snow slowed to a stop. "I hurried up and got my part of the world done, so I could be here to make breakfast for you and the kids. Then I let you sleep in just a bit. You took care of my family. I wanted to take care of yours." He brought her hand to his lips, kissing it gently. "This isn't a dream?" "No." Karen watched as her kids were playing happily, and her heart began to smile. "Thank you for taking care of them." "It was a pleasure." Nick reached into his pocket and pulled out a snow globe. "This is for you." "Thank you." Karen accepted the gift shaking it up a bit to see the snow fall. "This is beautiful." "It plays our song." Nick's eyes lit up as he reached over to wind it up. I'll Be Home For Christmas began to play. Karen set the gift down on the room divider behind her, taking a good look inside. "Oh my! It's the gazebo." Tears filled her eyes, "It's so detailed!" Nick got down onto one knee. "Marry me?" "Marry you?" Her brown eyes looked down into his. "Tonight." "Can I be the flower girl?" Courtney ran over and hugged Nick. "Me too! Me too!" The twins came over for some love. "Mac and I can be the bestest men." This is has to be a dream! Karen's hand reached out to cup Nick's cheek. "I love you, Karen. And your children." Collin smirked. "So you'd be marrying us all?" "We would be a family." Nick opened his arms to hug the boy. "Could we do it now?" Courtney eyes bulged, as a grin spread from cheek to cheek. "Courtney, don't be silly. His family has a tradition that they all get married inside this gazebo." Karen showed her the snow globe. "There would be no way for us all to get there and back in time for Christmas dinner with Grandma and Grandpa." "I've got the sleigh and reindeer. Dad said we could borrow it." He winked at her. "Yay!" the kids cheered in unison. Tears filled Karen's eyes. "So, ummm, Kare-bear. Will you marry me?" "Talk about short engagements." Karen giggled capturing his lips with hers.