" . . . Ma's actually gonna be home for Christmas for once--she even promised to spend it with Dad and me!" Touma said, grinning from ear to ear. This was a rare treat for him, seeing both his parents at the same time. He could hardly wait.

"Kanami-'niichan and Toki-'niisan promised to be in town for Christmas this year, instead of staying with 'Niisan's family," Shin babbled. Christmas always made him happy. He could hardly wait to start cooking!

Shuu leaned back in his chair, balancing on the back legs and folding his arms behind his head. "Ah, we're just gonna do the same old thing--go to China and spend a couple weeks with Ojiisan and Obaasan. Pretty boring--at least they give good presents. WAHHH!!" He toppled over backwards when Nasutei kicked the leg of his chair.

"How many times have I told you not to do that!" she scolded, glaring down at Shuu. "My furniture's gone through enough already, thank you!"

Shin rolled his eyes and tried to help Shuu up. "So what are you doing, Nasutei?" he asked, trying to distract her from yelling at Shuu more. It worked beautifully.

"I'm going to spend some time with my cousins and my aunt on Kyushu," she replied. "It's been a long time since I saw them last."

Ryo sighed softly to himself, listening to them all talk about family. He'd been lying through his teeth when he said he didn't care about it. He could still remember Christmas when his parents were alive. It made him want to cry, thinking about it.

"Ryo?" Ryo started at the light touch on his shoulder. He glanced up to see Seiji looking down at him. "Why don't you come to my house for Christmas? Mother's always complaining she's never had a chance to meet you, and I'm sure my sisters would love to have someone new around."

Ryo blinked, floored. He'd never expected an offer like that! His tiger-blue eyes brightened, and a brilliant smile spread across his face. "Arigato, Seiji. I'd love to," he replied softly.

Seiji smiled back, for once. "What are friends for?"