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Max locked the door to Pirate Photography, and carefully made her way over to her Subaru. The parking lot had been plowed, but it was still a little slippery.
Well, at least we got some snow on Christmas Eve. I probably should have kept the store closed, but I did have a couple big last-minute gift sales. I guess it was worth it.
Victoria was already sitting in the passenger seat, after Max helped her get into the car. Victoria’s walker was in the back seat, within easy reach.
Getting her into the car was not fun. I wish I had healing powers. That would have actually been useful.
Max hopped in, smiling at her soon-to-be wife. She said, “Are you ready for Christmas, Mrs. Caulfield?”
Victoria smirked at her, replying, “Certainly, Mrs. Chase.”
“Mrs. Caulfield.”
“Mrs. Chase.”
Max frowned, “I refuse to be called Max Chase.”
Victoria busted up laughing, leaning forward a little. After a few seconds, she glanced over, face red, and said, “But it’s an amazingly punny name. You should love it!”
Max shook her head no, “Absolutely not.”
I can just imagine how Chloe would react if she met me now, with that name. She’d probably die laughing.
Victoria grinned at her, reaching over and rubbing her shoulder. She smiled, saying, “Fine. I’ll be Mrs. Caulfield, even though we both know who the top is in this relationship.”
Max’s face got really red. She shook her head, saying, “You’re impossible.”
She started the car, shifted into gear, and slowly started towards the road. She glanced over, seeing Victoria sitting stiffly, with wide eyes and her hand clutching the seat.
Max softly said, “I’ll drive carefully. It’s only a couple miles.”
Victoria nodded jerkily, eyes glued to the road.
Damn, Victoria is still terrified of driving. I wish I could help her. This snow isn’t helping.
Max took her time, and they made it home in ten minutes. She pulled into the drive, looking at their cozy little ranch house. It had recently been renovated, courtesy of Victoria.
It’s definitely nicer now. No more dripping sink or peeling paint. Dog, that was so embarrassing when Victoria first saw my home. I tried to make it look nice, but there was only so much I could do. I didn’t have the time or money to fix everything. It’s all better now, though!
Max looked at Victoria, who had her eyes closed and was breathing slowly, trying to relax. She unbuckled her seat belt and leaned over, kissing Victoria on the cheek.
Victoria turned her head, surprised. She asked, “What was that for?”
Max smiled, replying, “Nothing in particular. I’m just so happy we’re together.”
Victoria smiled back at her, “Me, too.”
Max got out of the car and went over to the other side. She got the walker out of the back seat and helped Victoria stand up. She’d heavily salted the driveway and sidewalk this morning, so it wasn’t hard to walk. They made their way to the front door, Max close to Victoria’s right side, in case she fell.
Once on the porch, Max unlocked the door and stepped in, turning on the lights.
Victoria marched forward, using her walker for balance. She was still leaning a little to her right, but she managed.
She looks so frustrated, every time she uses it. I hate that thing, but without it…
Max hit another switch and the whole room lit up with Christmas lights, and the TV turned on, playing Christmas music. There were dozens of Christmas decorations, sitting on every shelf and table in sight.
Victoria paused, looking at her. She said, “I know you really like Christmas, but isn’t this a little much?”
Max shrugged, replying, “Nope. In fact, I was planning on shopping the day after for more!”
Victoria rolled her eyes, trying to act annoyed, but Max could see the smile she couldn’t hide.
Victoria headed towards the bedroom, shaking her head. Max stayed back, watching, a big smile on her face.
After reaching the bedroom, Victoria turned on the lights. She froze.
Max laughed, as Victoria turned towards her, smiling and a little embarrassed. They made their way in.
The bed was covered in rose petals, and a bucket of ice holding a bottle of wine was beside it. Two wine glasses sat next to it, ready to be filled.
Victoria looked at Max and asked, “How did you do this?”
Max shrugged, smiling, and said, “A little elf helped me out.”
Victoria looked at her, asking, “And who was that little elf?”
Max had an even bigger smile as she said, “I have no idea.”
Victoria turned and sat on the bed, taking off her coat. “Well, I didn’t expect this as a gift, but I like it!”
Max went over to help her, and said, “I thought you might.”
Max leaned down, placing her hands behind Victoria’s head, and pulled her close. She softly kissed the woman she loved. After a while, she stood back up, a little out of breath.
Victoria was blushing, and said, “Damn, girl.”
Max laughed, and took their coats to the hanger near the front door. Once she got back into the room, Victoria was already partially undressed, and looked right at her. Her eyes were intense, and she gave Max a predatory smile. She said, “Max, you had better hurry up. I’m not a patient woman.”
Max giggled, quickly removing her own clothes.
An hour later, they were sitting in bed, each with a wineglass in hand. Max looked at her lover and said, “Merry Christmas.”
Victoria looked back, satiated and happy, and replied, “Merry Christmas to you, too. This was the best present ever.”
Max leaned in and kissed her again.