#gladiator edit

“What do you mean you never put out stockings?” Marcus exclaimed, looking at you as if you'd lost your marbles. You sighed as your hand ran through your hair.

“My parents went all out on the gifting part; they didn’t see the need for stockings for my siblings or me.” You found this honestly ridiculous. Marcus wasn’t the first one to find it odd that you never had a stocking.

“This just doesn’t work. We are going to the craft store and decorating a stocking for you.” Marcus walked to where you stored your guys' shoes and started to pull on his winter boots.

You looked out the window where big snowflakes were falling from the sky, making it look incredibly cold outside. The idea of going out in that didn't sit well with you.

“Can we just order one? I’m really not up to whethering this weather.” Marcus followed your gaze out the window and sighed.

“As long as we can order ones for Nightengale, Archie, and Abbey,” Marcus asked adamantly. You weren't about to say no to him. After all, if you needed one, so did your cat and dogs.

“Also, we are watching White Christmas and cuddling by the fireplace while we wait for the order to arrive.” You definitely were not going to say no to cuddling.

“I’ll make the popcorn and hot chocolate while you queue the movie.” You got up from your spot on the couch as Marcus pulled his boots off.

Marcus helped you boil the milk and shave the chocolate for the hot cocoa, while on the other side of the stove, you popped the popcorn, shaking the pan. You guys worked well together, side by side. Just as the last kernel popped, Marcus was pouring the hot cocoa into matching Grinch mugs.

You met Marcus in the living room, where he lay out on the chaise. He patted his spot next to him. Placing the popcorn in his lap, you curled into his side as he hit play. You couldn't help but think you both had won, and perhaps this was the start of a new tradition for you both.

❛ you’re worth more,