[Cherubmas] Time of Togetherness

Vasi had never been one for the holidays; for the most part, she was far too busy with her career or hobbies, and often said holiday was over in the blink of an eye before she’d even realized what day it was. So when the streets around Burrowgatory were suddenly lit up in colors of whites and golds, it simply seemed like yet another Tuesday.

It wasn’t until her best friend and littermate, Lana, had reached out to her to celebrate the coming of Cherubmas - the delightful little holiday the Cherubuns brought with them, full of gift giving, sweets, and bright decorations. Something about baking a bunch of treats for the young ones still at the Bunnery, or some such… Vasirija never had much in the way of skill with cooking, but she was always happy to accompany Lana on her ventures, especially where a taste tester might be needed! So a date was set up for later today, where they’d crash at Lana’s place and bake the day away - and afterwards? Only time would tell.

Vasirija spent the morning with a cup of coffee in hand and a frown on her brow as she flipped through her wardrobe, wondering what she might wear. This gown was far too formal, this dress simply too short and not the best for baking in… so she finally settled with comfort in mind, grabbing a warm set of leggings and an oversized turtleneck sweater. Finishing her coffee and twisting her hair into a messy bun, she scooped her purse off the sofa and headed out, feeling a smile on her lips and a warmth in her heart; though the holidays might not pull at her, the very idea of spending time with her dearest heart certainly did.

She arrived at Lana’s place a few minutes before the originally agreed arrival time, knocking daintily on her door. She could hear the scuffle of feet on the other side and a myriad of colorful language as Lana no doubt dodged stacks of books and other things before finally making it to her door.

“Vasi darling!” She chirped, throwing the door wide and greeting her best friend with a tight hug, lifting the smaller woman off the floor by several inches. “Oh, I’d hoped you’d make it; it’s so good to see you! Come in, girl- I’ve got coffee on for you and everything. Nothing but the best for my best-ie!”

With that, Lana relieved Vasi of her bag, using it as bait to lure her friend into her flat with a mischievous grin. Not that Vasi needed the prompting, mind you; oft, Lana’s home felt more… well, homely than Vasi’s own place; books as far as the eye could see, comfortable chairs and a sofa, and the aroma of coffee and some manner of sweets was always around to soothe the senses. Vasi stepped forward and closed the door gently behind her, jumping slightly when a small remil covered in flowers dashed over her toes before speeding off to gods-know-where.

“I see Daisy is as active as ever, hmm?” Vasi smiled, crouching down while holding her hand out, hoping to coax the imp back from hiding. “Come here, little one. I know it’s been awhile, but surely you haven’t forgotten me already~?”

The remil peeked from behind a table leg before skittering back over, sniffing at Vasirija’s extended fingers before scampering up her arm to hide just under her ear, cradling into her neck. Even this small thing - this tiny little rat imp - brought her a source of joy that was, for all intents and purposes, simply indescribable. Careful not to disturb Daisy, Vasi picked her way through the entryway and into the living room, where her bag had been set on a chair with utmost care. 

“Cream, sugar? I mean, darling - sugar as well, of course - oh, shoot. I know you like it sweet!” Lana appeared from around a corner with mug in hand, full of a delectable steaming liquid that, at first glance, seemed more a hot cocoa than a caffeinated beverage. Vasi accepted it with grace, bringing it up to her nose first to enjoy the steam and smell before finally indulging in taste.

“You always make the best coffee, Lana,” Vasi said, taking another delicate sip before cradling the mug close. “Have you ever thought of opening your own shop, sometime? Surely with coffee and treats like yours, you would have buns lining up for blocks. Good food like this deserves to be shared!”

Lana smiled and shook her head, resting her hands on her hips. 

“Perhaps some day,” she began, glancing out the window to the rest of the city. “But for today, I think simply sharing my talents with loved ones is enough; I don’t need the money, anyway, and I would much rather be paid in smiles any day of the week!”

And that’s how it always was, with her. Vasi couldn’t help but smile to herself, taking a small step forward until her body was in line with Lana’s, pressing close and enjoying the other woman’s warmth as they watched the city together. 

“Thank you,” Vasi whispered quietly, nuzzling her cheek to Lana’s. “For everything. For sticking with me when we were little, to looking out for me even now. No matter where our lives take us, I sincerely hope that we’ll always have each other. I don’t know what I’d do without you, truly.”

Lana slid an arm around her waist, hugging her close before ruffling her hair free of the bun.

“Oh, don’t you start with that, sugar. I’m not going anywhere, you know that; you couldn’t get rid of me even if you tried! Now, you and your cute ass need to get in the kitchen with me before I get all snuffled up with feelings and sentimentals. We’ve got cookies to bake!”