Chapter Text
“Up and at ‘em, Rainbow!” Tommy’s voice broke through Ranboo’s sleep, the young soul groaning at the early hour.
He really debated pretending to be asleep but then the realisation came that Tommy would absolutely rip the blankets off so he sits up, rubbing his eyes. “Is it time for my shift already?”
“Not quite, you got an hour yet.” Tommy plops himself down on the edge of the bed on top of the constellation-patterned sheets, gold thread embroidered on deep purple. “Your Christmas plans have now changed, bitch.”
“What?” Ranboo scrambled through his brain to think of any commitments he agreed too before Tommy smirks.
“Oh I know they probably involved sitting sadly in this room alone until we dragged you to my parents house but luckily for you, a snowstorm is going to be hitting us hard tonight so everyone is staying here for the holidays.” Ranboo combs his thin fingers through his raven and cloud dyed hair, observing Tommy as he rambles on with sky blue eyes crinkled happily. “Christmas is in two days so Dad offered to host it here, he asked me to come let you know and make you choose your Secret Santa gift.”
The sunshine blonde holds out a beanie full of papers, rim open to the being still in bed. Ranboo reaches into the burgundy hat to grasp a small slip of white, pulling out a folded sheet to cup in his palms.
“Wait to open it. I don't want to know in case it’s me, if you see your own name let me know after, I will leave you to get ready.” Just as Tommy finishes speaking, Ranboo's alarm blares to life, Time by Pink Floyd providing the perfect bell instrumental to wake him up. He rolls his eyes before slamming his hand down on the button, stretching out his long arms with a few cracks. “Tubbo made you a tea already! It’s waiting in the kitchen.”
A small smile grew across his lips at the shorter brunette’s thoughtfulness, pulling his body from bed and walking to the dresser to pull out clothes fit to attend his shift in. Finding a shirt with Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon prism splashed across the chest, Ranboo walks over to the mirror after changing into that and denim jeans. Quickly cleaning the five silver hoops that adorn his earlobes, three up his left and two up his right, his heterochromic eyes brush over the skirt Niki gave him months ago where it sits folded in the pants drawer at the bottom of the wooden dresser.
He had tried it on a few times but had yet to leave the room with it, questioning more about how he wished to present himself each day. Braiding his long hair quickly after running a brush through it, he tosses the two toned strands over his shoulder, angling his body to notice it fell to nearly his mid back now. This was the longest he had ever worn it, nearly rivalling Technoblade’s hip-length lotus hair.
Their friends here had done wonders for him coming more out of his shell but lately more questions filled his mind than answers. Trapped in that small town he found escape from reality to be very appealing, but being here and meeting more people made him realise just how sheltered he was in that tiny hamlet.
Reminded of Eret’s kind eyes and confidence at being themself was inspiring, Ranboo was wondering just how that felt more often these days.
Looking over at his clock, he remembered the folded paper sitting on his nightstand and picked it up, opening the sheet. In Tommy’s messy handwriting ‘Purpled’ is scrawled across the middle of the paper. Ranboo liked the quieter blonde with a sassy attitude, he would have to think about what to get him.
Eyes trailing over his current crocheting project he has an idea, Niki had been teaching himself and Techno how to do the craft and the violet beanie he had been constructing would work well for this event. He wondered how intricate it would be to add a golden star to it, reminding himself to text Niki to see if she has any sunshine yellow yarn.
Picking up his phone where it lay charging on his nightstand, he slides it into his jeans pocket before taking one last look around, thinking if he needed anything else.
Opening his door he heads out to the main part of the apartment, he takes long strides down the hall to find Tommy and Tubbo lounging on the couch.
“Morning Boo!” Tubbo smiles as they meet eyes, Ranboo returning the gesture before yawning.
“Morning Bo and Toms. Sleep well?” He asks walking into their small kitchen area, finding the mug of cinnamon vanilla tea steaming on the counter.
“I did, how about you?”
Cupping it between his large hands he goes back to the living area and settles himself beside the smaller brunette, Tommy sitting in an arm chair across from the television while he scrolls through something on his phone. “Pretty well until Tommy woke me up.”
The excitable blonde gave a wide grin, shrugging. “I was like two minutes before your alarm, you’ll get over it. You don’t have to change out your Secret Santa right?”
Ranboo shook his head, taking a small sip of the piping hot liquid before responding. “No I didn’t get myself so we are good. Who all is planning to come?”
“The usual crew, everyone had to cancel due to the weather and Dad felt bad so we are putting together Christmas at the Cafe.” Tommy responds, selecting something on his phone screen so the television loads up a Youtube channel they all enjoyed. “You actually didn’t have any plans right? Just making sure of what I am forcing people to cancel.”
Ranboo shook his head, reflecting on the quiet Christmas he had with his Aunt each year growing up. They would cook breakfast then exchange gifts, she would often have some function to attend afterwards so he was left alone for the rest of the day. He didn’t blame her but she was really hands off, stories raising him more than she ever did.
“Only plan I had was to call my Aunt but I can do that another time, she never really made a big deal of holidays.”
“Good, good. Right now we are debating getting together both Christmas Eve and the day itself. Mom and Dad offered up the Cafe kitchen for baked goods and such, I believe Niki was already wanting to come over later this afternoon to begin preparing. Dad has all the arrangements written down, I just can’t remember the rest right now.” Tommy replies while watching the gaming video he put on the TV.
“Sounds like a ton of fun, bossman.” Tubbo smiles warmly.
Ranboo pulled his phone out to notice time was going by quicker than he realised, taking larger sips of tea as he stood up before speaking. “I gotta get down to the floor, nearly my time to clock in. See you both on lunch if you are still here!”
The pair of boys waved him off, Ranboo going back to his room to grab his wallet before leaving out the apartment door to the stairs down to the Cafe. He goes to the break room and punches his timecard, slipping the forest green apron he left there on as he walks up to the front part of the Crows Roost Cafe.
“Hiya mate.” Phil greets him with a gentle smile, Ranboo returns with a bit of confusion as usually himself and the twins work the weekends.
“Good morning Phil” He responds, as if reading his confusion aloud the older blonde chuckles.
“Wilbur and Technoblade went out with my wife to buy decorations and the ingredients for a big Christmas dinner. I offered to cover the morning as it would be slow with the snow coming in, we didn't expect too much business today.” Phil chuckles, before tapping on the paper in front of him filled with plans. “Speaking of, did Tommy tell you about it?”
Ranboo nods, peering closer at the paper to see it filled with names and tasks to accomplish over the next few days. “He did, that’s really nice of you guys.”
“Aw, it's nothing, mate. Christmas is meant to be spent with those you care about and we care about you.” The middle aged man gave such a kind smile Ranboo’s heart warmed, often finding here is where he felt the happiest he had ever been. It’s amazing and something he no longer could live without.
Just as Ranboo tries to think of how to respond, a customer walks in, Phil giving him a chuckle before moving to the counter to take the blonde woman’s order. She gives it in a tired voice, polite as Phil offers small talk while ringing it up before turning his blue eyes to the tall soul.
“Hey Ran, grilled cheese please?” Phil asked, the young soul giving a nod.
“Coming right up, boss!” The black and white haired man goes into the kitchen to wash his hands before making the order.
The rest of the morning hours passed the same, Phil was right, it was very slow as after the woman only three more customers came in before the rest of his family arrived. Just as Phil releases him for his lunch, Techno pushes open the door leading to outside laden with shopping bags from various stores, a blast of cold air washing across the floor. Wilbur and Kristin follow in before the curly haired brunette man pulls the door closed with a grunt, Phil peering outside at the blowing snow that was piling up as he walks to greet his wife.
After they exchange kisses and a few whispered words while the twins argue about something in sarcastic tones, Phil surprises them all by going to the front door to flip the ‘open’ sign over and lock it then faces the group.
“Ah fuck it, I would rather put the energy into decorating our Cafe.” He gives them all a smile, his sons stopping their chatter to trade looks before offering nods to their Dad.
“Are you sure Dad? We had that shift after lunch we were going to do before Niki came, then close up early.” Wilbur replies before Phil waves him off.
“We have had a total of four customers this morning, it’s fine.” The blonde rubs his hands together walking back closer to his wife, who was surrounded with many shopping bags. “Find anything fun?”
“Oh so many things.” Kristin responded enthusiastically, gesturing to a few of the bags as she spoke. “I found a bunch of ornaments and kits, plenty of ingredients for Christmas goodies and some various decor to spread around the Crows Roost.”
Ranboo looks at the many bags she brought, Techno and Wilbur finally placing the ones they were carrying down as well. With a small smile he walks to Techno’s side to look inside one by the pink-haired man, seeing a full parcel of flour and sugar.
“Niki should be here soon to help bake.” Techno mutters, pulling out his phone to check for updates. “Oh, she just left campus. Okay she will be here soon. Ranboo and Wilbur, mind helping me bring these into the kitchen?”
He nods, leaning down to grab some of the bags with food in them, Wilbur sighing before taking a few too. Ranboo wondered what was bothering the normally cheerful brunette, he seemed glum. The three of them walk into the kitchen together to place the things down on the island in the middle of the room before Wilbur mumbles something about going to check on Tommy and disappears upstairs.
Techno watches him leave with a raised eyebrow before beginning to unpack, using one hand to point to the radio.
“Can I ask for a song to be played?” He asks Ranboo who nods. “Frame of Mind by Tristam and Braken?”
Ranboo queues it up, listening to Techno’s instructions of what to leave out, as he does so he asks aloud what's bothering him. “What’s up with Wilbur?”
“He had a Christmas gig that got cancelled so I told him he should perform here for us but he didn’t like that response.” Techno gives a small smile, one reserved for those who have wormed the way into his walled heart. “He has no problem strumming that wonderful guitar in front of strangers but for us to see him? Never, far too embarrassing.”
Ranboo could see the brunette musician's side, it was completely different showing your passion to those you love compared to people he might never see again.
Niki walks in a few seconds later, cheeks flushed the same shade as her hair tied in a short braid today followed by Eret who was dressed in grey leggings and a large royal blue sweater. The woman had on warm cosy clothes, a green hoodie that looked suspiciously like Wilbur’s and denim blue jeans. Both had on winter boots below, still brushing snow from fabric as they walked over to where the other two stood.
“Greetings gentlemen.” Eret gives a polite nod, shoulder length chestnut strands pulled into a low bun resting against their elegant neck.
“Hallo Eret and Niki.” Techno returns with a bright face, both people in front had won their way into the usually gruff boy’s good graces. “Glad you got here safely!”
“Boy, those roads are getting covered fast.” Niki worries, chewing on her bottom lip before glancing at Eret. “When did Sam say he was leaving with Foolish and Fundy again?”
“About an hour ago. Nik, they will be just fine. Foolish is used to driving in this sort of weather.” Eret assures, catching Ranboo’s inquisitive look. “They went to get a spruce tree for the main area, Phil asked them to go before the storm really kicked up.”
“I’ve never seen a real Christmas tree.” Ranboo responded wistfully, growing more excited by the minute just how much had already been planned. The other three gave him a curious look, he sighed then explained. “My Aunt and I only exchanged one gift each year, we never actually decorated for the holiday.”
Niki shook her head, tsking with her tongue. “That just won’t do, I am glad the Crafts are going to this extent so we can give you a proper memory of one to begin a new tradition for you.”
Techno pulls a worn recipe book out from under the counter, the red cover well loved under multiple hands over the years. Quickly flipping through he opens it to a page with Gingerbread Cookies written across the top of the yellowed with age paper in neat, loopy handwriting. Niki pulls up an icing recipe on her phone; Eret starts to gather the other ingredients they would need which Ranboo helps with.
They decide to get the dough made first, saving the icing for later when they can recruit others to help design the gingerbread men.
Niki finds another bowl and adds the butter needed to it, two cups and four tablespoons later she requests Eret to slowly add the two cups of sugar as Techno locates everything else needed, beginning to cream the two together.
They send Ranboo on a mission of texting Tubbo to bring back down the cookie cutters, often all three would gather to make sweets and forget to return tools to the kitchen below. Techno breaks two eggs into the mixture when Niki asks, her caramel eyes dancing while she is clearly in her element. Eret adds four tablespoons of vinegar and Techno then adds two cups of molasses.
Trading out for a moment, Techno takes the bowl to keep mixing while Niki double checks the page laying on the counter. Locating the biggest mixing bowl, she measures out ten cups of flour before asking the others to add their parts, Eret placing three teaspoons of baking soda and Ranboo adding a teaspoon and a half of salt. For the last three pieces they each take one; Ranboo adding five teaspoons of ginger, Eret placing in two teaspoons of cinnamon and Niki puts in two teaspoons of ground cloves.
They slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the mixing bowl Techno holds, the spices all blending together well into a delicious aroma. Niki finds some plastic wrap to cover the dough after it's well mixed, placing it in the large industrial fridge near the backdoor.
“We can come back in about three hours then bake them, cooling them overnight should do the trick before I come back tomorrow to make the icing.”
Kristin sweeps in then, her raven hair tied back in its usual high ponytail with streaks of silver like falling stars, catching the tail end of the conversation. “As long as you don’t mind sharing the kitchen, I was planning to start on a feast for Christmas Eve quite early.”
“Of course not, it's your kitchen after all.” She giggles, giving a cheerful look. “I can help out with those preparations before we decorate.”
“When is everyone coming over?” Ranboo asked, Kristin turning to him with a gentle smile.
“Well we planned to treat you all to both a Christmas Eve dinner then Christmas Day feasts so both days.”
“How about we leave the cookie decoration until after everyone gets here on Christmas Eve and we can all make our own?”
“That's a great idea!” She compliments, her dark coffee brown eyes sparkling.
Phil takes a moment to poke his head in, opening the door to the main area just a tad. “The boys are here with the tree if you want to come help with placement, my love?”
Kristin gives her husband a nod, meeting each of their eyes. “I am so proud of you all, even though it’s sad you cannot go see your family I am selfishly glad I can steal you away for this holiday.”
Ranboo’s cheeks warm at that, still not used to such open affection. Soon the raven-haired woman leaves, only four in the kitchen once more. He suddenly remembers his gift, whirling around to a surprised Niki.
“Can you show me how to add a golden star to my current project? Tommy made me choose a Secret Santa and my current piece would work, I just want to add some personality.” Niki gives a nod, rubbing her chin.
“I should have some yarn that would match that description, I can bring it when I come tomorrow and we can do it before I help Kristin.” Ranboo agrees and the two decide a time, before being joined by the three boys from upstairs.
Tubbo places the container of cookie cutters on the empty counter, Tommy sticking close to a tired looking Wilbur. All seven decide to join the others out front, finding Foolish and Sam balancing a tree on a stand while Fundy secures it. Some of the couches had been pushed back to make this the centrepiece, Phil and Kristin pulling packages of ornaments out of the bags by the door.
“A little more to the left I think.” Foolish critiques which Sam gives him a withering stare with a teasing curve to his mouth.
“You have said the same thing three times, my friend. It’s fine, it’s a natural tree, it won’t be perfectly straight.”
“Who is?” Eret cracks the joke, each person joining their musical laughter.
“Oi, fuckers! You need to pick a Secret Santa!” Tommy zeros in on the three boys standing beside the tree, rushing back through the kitchen to get the beanie.
“So do I, to be fair.” Niki said aloud, moving to the cafe owner’s sides. “Need a hand?”
“Sure, just feel free to start placing them on the tree. You all have a good eye for style, I can work with my husband to decorate the walls and such with what we bought today.” Kristin finds some hanging lights, moving away with the blonde man to begin doing just that.
Tommy rushes back in and thrusts the paper filled hat at those who hadn’t chosen yet, Eret joining them all. Each takes a turn to pick a paper and glance carefully, no one getting themselves surprisingly.
“Since we are all broke university students there is a firm limit of thirty dollar items or less, handmade is even better.” The sunshine blonde explains, meeting each person’s eye until they agree. “Creativity is encouraged though! Do what you want for the person you received!”
“Shall we adorn the tree?” Eret asks, Wilbur shuffling up to their side to pick up a box of ornaments. Ranboo sees the curious look the ethereal curly brunette gives to the other, giving a tiny shrug before picking up their own box.
The next few hours pass quickly, quips traded while the Crows Roost Cafe slowly becomes more festive. Strings of holly and lights hang from the walls with the tree nicely covered in bright ornaments. Purpled showed up in the middle of the event with Aimsey, carefully offering a realistic star from one of his classes to put on the top.
The piece ended up being too heavy for that placement, Techno offering the brilliant idea of hanging the model above the treetop. Soon they all stand in a circle around it, warm hearts all around as the lights twinkle across happy faces.
Phil yawns then chuckles, his wife shortly following suit. “I think that's our sign to call it a night, we have a long day of cooking ahead of us tomorrow. Shall we walk you all out?”
“Also message in the discord server when you make it home safely!” Tommy worries, before adding a snip. “Or don’t, I will just assume you have died then.”
Ranboo rolls his eyes, afterwards looking at each friend around them now. It was something unimaginable to his younger self, he wondered what else had changed since he finally left that tiny town of sheltered people. “Stay warm!”
Slowly each person filtered out, Tubbo locking up after the last one left before all three boys went upstairs.
They spend the evening together, watching dumb videos while laughter rings out, Ranboo loving spending time with his best friends. Soon Tubbo goes to bed, followed by Tommy after wishing the split-dyed boy goodnight.
Ranboo returns to his room after making sure everything is turned off, closing the door gently behind him and facing the room that had become his own quickly.
Taking a deep breath, he takes off his pants to slip on the skirt Niki gave him, finding a pair of soft leggings to put underneath before smiling in the mirror.
Somehow, this made them feel a bit more like themself. Maybe they can wear it to dinner tomorrow, knowing their friends were the most accepting people they had ever met.
Going to sleep with a smile on his face, he dreams of memories shared between himself and everyone he has met since leaving that damn town in his rear view mirror. Each person had unlocked a new understanding within Ranboo, carving out their own piece of his heart with kind actions.
His morning alarm hastened his awakening from the good dreams, startling him as he slammed his hand down on the clock attached to his phone. Rushing around his room he keeps coming back to stare at the skirt he left hanging over his desk chair, finally standing in a nice red sweater while staring at it with the leggings on too.
That’s how Niki finds him, knocking softly on his door upon her arrival. Someone had clearly let her in while he lost track of time, trying to convince himself to put it on to wear around the others.
“Good morning Ranboo! Oh, is that the skirt I gave you?” She notices right away and he nods, lowering his gaze to his sock-covered feet. “Are you okay?”
“No one would look at me weird if I wore this, right?” He runs a finger over the seams, which Niki catches in her own small, soft one.
“Ranboo, I don’t know how your town was growing up, judging by you being afraid they were not accepting, but here it’s different. No one would bat an eye if you wore it, in fact the others will probably compliment it. Put it on, sweetheart.”
They slip it up over their narrow hips, smiling while they look in the mirror standing beside their dresser.
“Your grin makes you look even more gorgeous.” She agrees, coming to their side. With their height difference she barely came up to their shoulder, caramel eyes soft as she met their mismatched. “You really can pull it off well. Do you want me to braid your hair a bit more fancy? I can do one that loops around the crown of your head that would really complete the nice look for dinner.”
They nod, blushing a bit. The pink-haired woman directs them to sit down on their desk chair, rhythmically brushing out the long cloud and coal strands before beginning to braid it.
“No one will say anything bad?”
“I promise Ranboo, they won’t. Eret walks around in new outfits all the time, fuck gender roles.” She curses, surprising him into a giggle at her harsh words.
Her adept fingers work their magic, leaving his long hair tucked into a tight braid encircling their head, looking gorgeous with how she styled it. She offers to text Eret to grab some of her earrings if Ranboo wanted, who nodded while looking in the mirror.
The outfit was something they never imagined wearing but it felt so good to do so, the jean skirt contrasting the knit cherry red sweater perfectly.
Soon she is showing him how to add the star to the hat he made over the past few days, the sun-gold yarn looking beautiful against the amethyst purple beanie. He quickly gets the hang of it, weaving the yarn into the project as Eret joins the two in Ranboo’s bedroom.
“Good day and Merry Christmas Eve, you two!” Eret greets, a messenger bag hanging across their chest. “Oh, that outfit is wonderful Ranboo!”
“Thank you.” He says softly, meeting their kind grey eyes as he places the crocheting aside, determined to finish it tonight before bed.
Both others in the room had clearly decided a similar thing to him, wanting to look their best for the Eve ahead. Niki wore a lovely grey blouse with several ruffles down the front, clean black slacks below where Eret wore a white high-collared shirt and a long brown knitted skirt. Eret digs into their navy bag to find the earrings, placing them in Ranboo’s open palm before following it up with a lovely flower crown of artificial holly leaves, berries and red roses.
Two bells hang from the end of golden chains, the gentle tinkling a lovely sound as Ranboo places them down to pull out two of his silver hoops, one from each side. Quickly slipping the backing on after placing it through the hole in his lobe, he looks at the image before him in the mirror. Slowly adding the flower piece to sit above the braid Niki wove in, he looks wonderful.
A smiling soul with a kind face stared back, looking festive and ready for a gathering of people. Niki opens her mouth to say something else before her phone rings, her answering quickly.
“Hello Kristin!” Between each sentence she pauses, the murmuring of the woman’s voice on the other end. “Are you ready to begin cooking? Okay, I will be right down, I was just upstairs helping Ranboo with something.”
She confirms a few more things while standing up, saying goodbye before slipping her phone back into the purple purse she carried. “Kristin said not to rush down, enjoy some time relaxing with the boys but come down at around noon with them. Phil asked for their help with some portions of the dinner that he’s in charge of, Eret you are with me if you don’t mind?”
Eret nods, walking to Ranboo’s side and offering a kind look. “You look wonderful, I promise. I am so happy for you, we shall see you soon!”
With that the pair left, Ranboo hesitating at his doorway until Tubbo came looking for him with a steaming mug of his favourite tea.
“Hey Bo, want to come watch some videos? A bunch of creators released specials this morning!” Tubbo didn’t even bat one green-blue eye at their outfit choice, Ranboo nodding quickly as the two left for the living room.
“Merry Christmas Eve Rainbow!” Tommy launches himself off the armchair, pulling the tall soul into a tight hug before stepping back. Running his sky blue eyes up and down he nods approvingly. “You are looking good, you bastard! Setting an example for the rest of us, why don’t you?”
“Toms is right, you really pull it off Bo!”
“Thank you both.” Ranboo accepts quietly, heart beating fast at showing this part of him he had questioned lately.
The sun slid across their windows as the boys traded video suggestions before Phil texts Tommy asking him to come down, both boys springing up to change into better clothes. Tommy emerges wearing a nice burgundy button-up shirt and jeans where Tubbo puts on a lovely yellow and black striped sweater, a gift from Ranboo for his birthday, and grey pants. All three descend the stairs to the blonde man who awaits them.
“Merry Christmas Eve, my boys!” He takes the time to pull each one into a hug, his blonde son first then Tubbo, lastly Ranboo leans down to embrace the compassionate man with a sharp wit. “You all look so good! Go put on aprons, I don’t want to wreck your outfits with potato shrapnel.”
“Potato shrapnel?” Ranboo giggles at the word choice where Tommy gains this wicked expression of glee.
“Those vegetables will be pieces by the time I am finished with them!” He grinds a fist into his palm, Phil just giving him a raised eyebrow.
“You couldn’t even beat up a downed man, Tommy.”
More barbs are exchanged as Phil directs all three through their tasks, giving Ranboo the task of cutting up the potatoes as he was the only one the blonde man trusted with a knife. Tommy would immediately take to playful threatening and Ranboo had watched Tubbo drop many sharp things in the very few months they had lived together, he understood the caution.
The kitchen fills with delicious smells from the slowly cooking ham and all the sides Phil had them preparing, Niki stepping in quickly to claim part of the counter to make icing with Eret for the gingerbread men. The room was a bit on the small side for so many cooks but it didn’t feel cramped.
It felt loving.
Soon they are covering the hot sides to leave to keep warm in another oven turned on very low as slowly people arrive.
First Wilbur and Techno arrive, the curly brunette with more of a bounce in his step as he bursts through the front door while Techno follows with the tiniest smile at his brother. Both wear similar sweater vests, Wilbur’s butter yellow and Techno’s is emerald green over black slacks.
“Merry Christmas Eve all!” Wilbur pulls each into a hug, pausing just a moment longer with Ranboo. “I love the whole look, Ranbus, it works really well!”
Techno offers a more shy hug to the tall soul, giving them an approving nod before moving onto embracing Niki. Ranboo is practically in shock, each of the people seeing their choice proving those mean thoughts wrong. As the twins moved down the line, Niki could practically sense the worry and reached out to squeeze their large hand.
Tommy kidnaps the music control when none of them are looking, cranking the volume dial on Shake It Up Christmas by Train. Kristin, Niki and Eret team up to start laying the spread of food across the table set aside for a buffet style meal.
Fundy, Sam and Foolish arrive next, bringing some wine for all those of age to share in more formal clothes than Ranboo had ever seen them in. Fundy wore a ocean blue pressed button up, same as Sam but he wore gold, where Foolish wore a long sleeve with a v-neck, all above black jeans. The last to arrive is Aimsey, shortly after Purpled who arrived alone. Aimsey wore their usual red beanie, striped sweater and Purpled wore a nice lavender top above navy slacks.
Soon they were all loading plates to bring to the tables Tommy and Tubbo pushed together earlier, Niki spreading a lovely tablecloth she brought from home across the large surface. Ranboo ends up between Techno and Niki across from Eret, Wilbur and Foolish at one end of the table settings. Tommy, Tubbo, Phil, Kristin are the furthest from him, Purpled, Fundy, Sam and Aimsey between the groups.
Before anyone can dig in Phil stands up, holding his mug and clearing his throat. “Merry Christmas Eve to all of you, thank you all for coming to this meal! I am sorry you couldn’t go to your original plans but hopefully this is just as good or better!”
Laughter rings around the table before the man continues, meeting each of their eyes. “You all are good kids, I am so glad you all came here for school and I got the pleasure of meeting you all. You will always have a place at our table forever, whenever you need anything please let us know!”
His wife joins him in standing, her long purple dress beautiful in the soft golden light. “If you can, stick around after dinner. Niki, Ranboo, Techno and Eret teamed up to bake delicious gingerbread cookies we made decorations and icing for.”
“I will make the best design.” Tommy declares, Niki tossing him a playful look.
“Oh really? I think I will create the most beautiful one.”
“What if we all make one to show off then vote on it?” Eret offers gently, which is considered then agreement is made.
“Everyone writes down their top choice on a paper and whoever gets the most votes wins?” Ranboo adds on.
“What do we win?” Fundy’s competitive nature shows in those shining sapphire eyes, smirk across his handsome face. His red hair had streaks of white, a unique feature to the beautiful Dutch man.
“Free coffee for a month.” Phil offers with a mischievous grin, Kristin giggling at her husband’s antics.
“It’s Christmas, let’s throw breakfast in with that prize too.”
“What about us who work here?” Wilbur asked, his Dad narrowing his eyes staring at his son with a smile.
“An extra paid week off of vacation days.”
“Done deal.” Techno answers quickly, making the others laugh.
They enjoy the spread of delicious food with light hearted taunts and loud laughter, Ranboo’s cheeks hurt from smiling so much being surrounded by so much love. In each face he saw acceptance and care, all sharing conversations between one another with banter tossed in.
Soon the group works on clearing the table, preparing the cookie decoration competition. Several bowls of bright icing lay in a line down the table, boxes of edible decorations, candies and a bunch of different bottles of sprinkles. Each chair had a plate with a few cookies on it, butter knives lying beside.
“Are we all ready?” Phil says above the loud racket this room had descended into, people trading daring looks. “Ten minutes on the clock, GO!”
Ranboo grabs some icing from the container in front, beginning work on the cookie in front of him. Now that he has his hands on the icing he finds it more difficult to control, spreading it further than he wanted it too. Trying to make it look like clothing, he uses the tip of the knife for more detail on the cookie.
Somehow, it starts coming together the longer he works on one, noticing others around him have finished at least one cookie but there was no minimum. He felt more comfortable just focusing on the one, making a little farmer with blue overalls and a plaid shirt with squares of sprinkles. Hearing teasing around him, he looks to see Tommy and Wilbur exchanging increasingly heated words. Technoblade is looking at his brothers with annoyance while Fundy, Sam and Foolish keep making further bets while furiously decorating. Purpled is watching Tommy with a raised eyebrow occasionally while focusing on his own treat. Aimsey, Eret and Niki chat away about ideas for theirs while selecting specific colours and candies.
Phil’s phone beeps right when Ranboo finishes his best attempt at a straw hat, with sprinkles in a line pressed around the rim. Knives clatter against the plates beside completed projects, all trading glances at their neighbours.
Techno had made a pig gingerbread with a red cloak, the golden crown made of sprinkles and pastel chocolate treats for jewels. Niki made a classic cookie with cartoonish features and dramatic bright lines, a large smile across its face.
“Alright, everyone write your name on these papers and put it on the same plate as your submission.” Kristin passes out post-it notes and pens to each person, doing as she asked before standing up. “Alright, let’s all go around and look at each cookie before writing down your top choice. Yes, you may put your own but what’s the fun in that?”
Technoblade sticks close to Ranboo as they look at each one, starting off with where Tommy and Tubbo were sitting. Tommy had made some type of racoon abomination, the split dyed man thinks where Tubbo striped his like a bee with yellow and black frosting. The boy really likes bees.
“What hellspawn is that?” Techno comments, pointing to Tommy’s cookie.
“I think it’s supposed to be a racoon, or maybe a badger.” Ranboo tilts his head, narrowing his eyes at it. “Possibly a bandit? I don’t actually know.”
Techno smirks, quipping to Ranboo. “Well he was never known for his artistic talent, only his obnoxious attitude. Shall we?”
The pair moved around the table, discussing each entry with each other. Phil had made this magnificent one with a really detailed crow sitting on its shoulder with the pieces of another he broke and frosted. Kristin had given hers a long purple dress with a witch hat using similar methods to her husband, spiderwebs of black across the gown.
Ranboo liked a lot of the others, Purpled’s alienesque one was well constructed and Aimsey made this cute one with a daisy on its shirt, but his eyes kept going back to Phil’s creation. Eventually he ends up writing down the blonde man’s name and folding the sheet over. Placing it in the empty bowl near the head of the table, he ends up standing near Phil and decides to ask him a question he always wondered about.
“How did you come up with the name for this cafe?” He asked the light blonde man who gives his signature laugh, trading dopey glances with his wife.
“Kristin came up with it. I’ve always had a love for the night-feathered species and feeding them. At each place we have lived I have befriended the local flock to the point they bring me shiny trinkets they find. We played around with some ideas and landed on ‘Crows Roost’, so it stuck.”
Eret gathers the post-it notes and tallies it quickly, handing the list over to Kristin, everyone’s eyes landing on her. “So with a pretty large majority, Phil wins!”
“I am taking off the first week of next semester.” He announces, each employee groaning as that is the busiest time. “I will sit at home playing so many video games while you all get overrun.”
“Of course you will.” Wilbur sasses with a glint in his eye, his Dad smirking in return.
The rest of the evening passes with light conversation and continued cookie decoration, Niki, Eret and Techno bringing out the rest of the cookies. Tommy ends up going wild and unhinged, frosting bloodstains on his creations like they had been murdered. Purpled makes lovely ones with beautiful stars and after completing a few really pretty ones, then helps Tommy make more victims with chuckles traded between. Niki and Aimsey draw flowers onto their remaining pieces while Foolish keeps making Undying Totem themed gingerbread. Eret figures out a way to make flower crowns and frosts those on with a wrinkled brow, steady hand while they work diligently on the cookies.
Everyone has so much fun making the treats look so unique, stuffing themselves full on far too much sugar. Eventually people begin to yawn, time passing quickly while they all enjoyed the activity set out for them.
Too soon Kristin stands up to go grab containers, insisting they all take some food and desserts home for later. Wilbur follows her after a moment, offering his help.
Each person who attended the event begins to help clear the table, Tommy going to the kitchen to grab a garbage bag for all the packaging. Ranboo helps Niki stack the plates and decoration tools to wash later, Tubbo promising to do it after the others leave.
“Let me help!” Ranboo insists, which Tubbo accepts with a smile.
“I would appreciate it Boo.”
“You are crazy if you think you are doing both dinner and dessert dishes alone.” Techno cuts in with a raised eyebrow. “Count me in too, we can get it done faster.”
Ranboo gives a happy look, smiling towards the lotus haired man. “Thanks, Techno.”
“Anytime, kids.” He moves away to grab a shovel when Phil brings them out, intending to clear the sidewalk so people don’t fall as they leave.
“Let me do it, I didn’t get a chance to go to the gym today and could use the exercise.” Sam goes up to the blonde man, who hands it over after a moment's hesitance.
“Got a third?” Foolish joins the boys at the door, Phil says he does before going to get it.
Many hands make light work, in half an hour they had cleaned up everything before Phil and Kristin said good night and left. Techno shoos them off assuring them everything was under control, Niki also signing herself up for dish duty with that stubborn will she wielded like a weapon, the pink haired boy relented to that demand.
“And me!” Eret looks quickly at Wilbur before returning their grey eyes to Techno’s mahogany, who nodded with a perplexed look.
Shortly after more people leave, the only task left being dishes and the others mention they still have to put together the gift for their Secret Santa. They leave in small groups out the door before it's finally just the six left, Wilbur and Fundy being the last to go with hurried goodbyes as the snow falls heavier.
“Shall we?” Ranboo asks the others who nod, all leaving the main area to the kitchen.
Techno follows him closely and after they enter he whirls to raise an eyebrow at Eret, the graceful one looking slightly confused.
“You know six people is a little much for dishes and I saw you frequently looking at Wilbur tonight. What’s really on your mind?” Techno was a quiet yet extremely observant bystander at large gatherings, able to guess most of their emotions from body language alone.
“What’s wrong with Wilbur? He won’t talk to me.” They worried, biting their lower lip.
Techno smirks before shaking his head, placing a careful hand on their thin shoulder. “He’s just upset his gig was cancelled, probably blaming it on himself somehow. Give him time, he will talk when he is good and ready.”
“Let’s offer to host it here tomorrow!” Tommy declares which Techno chuckles before responding.
“You know he would refuse plus the rest of his band left before the storm, Wilbur’s too nervous about hearing judgement from us. I have barely ever heard him play lately, especially when he started writing his own music.”
“What if we join him on stage?” Tommy straightens up, a daring look on his face at his older brother. “You with your violin and I can play piano for him.”
It’s Ranboo’s turn to look confused, having no idea the whole family was musically gifted. “You two also play instruments?”
Tommy nods with a proud face, Techno’s cheeks turning slightly rosy. “I am a grade five Jazz pianist and he used to sit in the first chair in an orchestra in a closeby city for a few years.”
Ranboo’s eyebrows nearly hit his hairline, looking between the brothers. “Wow, that never came up. That’s super cool!”
“Tech you should, I haven’t heard you play in years!” Niki chimed in enthusiastically, the boy meeting her eyes with a tired but accepting gaze. “Please?”
“I will text Wil later about it.” Techno gives in grumbling, Tommy cheering.
“More people could join too or do a piece of their own, take some of the pressure off of Wilbur.” Tubbo offered, Ranboo looking his way with a questioning look. “I also play piano, same with Fundy.”
“Wow, I am just surrounded by talent.” Ranboo says with a tinge of awe, Techno waving it off with more rosy cheeks.
“Ah let’s move on, c’mon. I will wash and you can dry.” He pulls an elastic off his wrist to wrap his braid in a tight circle around itself.
The split-dyed boy grabs a towel, Tubbo offering to put things away. Techno insisted Eret and Niki sit down at the island on the stools tucked under, promising it was okay for them to rest. After all, they helped with the main portion of dinner, the chore going quickly between Ranboo, Tubbo and Techno.
Ranboo grabbed a few things that were stored on higher shelves than Tubbo could reach, teasing him while the brunette’s eyes sparkled, launching pointed words right back.
Having so many around him would have stressed him right out if he still lived at home, but here Ranboo found acceptance and love. People like him who cared about his goodwill, who stepped up to help those who needed it.
Eret connects their phone to the radio sitting on the counter that was connected to the main music system, playing The Moss by Cosmo Sheldrake through the whole restaurant. Ranboo hummed along while working smoothly with Technoblade, the pink haired man looking more comfortable now that the focus was off him. The split dyed soul could relate, all that attention was exhausting for overthinkers.
They wrap up quickly, speeding through the pile of dishes as Tommy lounged around with Eret and Niki. Techno hangs up his cloth after draining the sink, Ranboo doing the same with his towel.
Techno stretches his arms above his head then touches his forehead with a salute. “That’s my queue to go before we get snowed in, I will come by early in the morning to clear the walkway. Tommy, I am dragging you into this too and if you aren’t down by nine A.M. I will call you. Repeatedly.”
“Put my phone on do-not-disturb mode tonight, got it.” Tommy snarks back with a wild glint, his brother returning with his own.
“Fine, I will call Tubbo and tell him to dump ice cubes in your bed.”
“Happily, bossman!” Tubbo adds, Tommy whipping his head around with bouncing sun curls to glare at the brunette.
“Betrayal of the highest order, you are supposed to be on my side, you bitch!”
“Worth it.” Tubbo replies while Ranboo chuckles at their antics.
That night Ranboo goes to sleep with a smile on his face, a lovely thing that keeps happening the longer he lives here.
Christmas morning finds Ranboo furiously trying to wrap a beanie and realising how lacking his skills are in this department. Leaving his room he goes searching for Tubbo, the boy adept at the chore he was failing at right now.
“Bo, where are you?” He isn’t afraid to be a bit loud, Tommy leaving in a wild huff this morning after his screams awoke Ranboo.
Techno and Tubbo followed through with their threat, the blonde boy leaving to clear an entrance to the Crows Roost front door mumbling promises of some type of revenge. Tubbo didn’t look the least bit worried, smirking as the tall lanky one left.
“My room!” Tubbo’s voice comes from behind his half-closed door, Ranboo pushing it open to find him working on his PC.
The computer is in bits across his desk, the brunette intently working on installing the new parts he bought with his Christmas money. “What’s up, Boo?”
“I cannot for the life of me wrap this hat neatly, can you help?” Ranboo asks helplessly while Tubbo giggles as he nods.
“Course! Mind helping me install this CPU then I can?”
“Sure!”
Doing what the brunette directed, Ranboo helped him attach the part to where it was going to stay. He quickly shows him a good way to neatly wrap the handmade hat in paper, tying the red ribbon with a flourish.
“Wanna see a cool trick?” Tubbo held up scissors, Ranboo looking a tiny bit concerned which he waved off.
“You always look so worried when I hold anything with a blade.”
“How many scars do you have on your hands from them?”
“...shut up and watch this.” He presses the ribbon to the blade with his thumb, drawing it carefully through and the coloured string curls.
“Pretty.” Ranboo compliments Tubbo, who proceeds to do it to the other end.
Grabbing the next part, they trade a few more words before Ranboo leaves to get dressed for today, placing the steel-blue package on his dresser. Playing with his phone he finds himself hovering over Eret’s contact, taking a deep breath as he presses the call button.
“Good morning Ranboo!” Their pleasant voice greets the split-dyed boy, who smiles.
“Morning Eret, I hope I didn’t wake you!” He replies which the brunette chuckles at.
“Wilbur has been pacing our dorm room since sunrise, muttering about the idea Techno brought up.”
“No I am not!” Wilbur’s voice came through the phone and it’s Ranboo’s turn to giggle.
“How can I help you, my friend?” Eret asks kindly in that warm deep voice, rich like a campfire night spent with friends.
“I was wondering if you had a dress I could borrow for today.” Ranboo bit their lip, internally shaking.
“I do in fact, I have a lovely forest green sweater dress that would look great with those leggings you wore yesterday.” They respond, rustling on their end. “I am nearly ready to go and can be at the Cafe in about half an hour. Once I convince Wilbur he can actually do this and he’s a talented musician.”
“Lies and slander!” Wilbur adds, Eret huffing as his brunette roommate doubted himself.
“Wil, I swear to God, I will bring your guitar with me when I go. Also that was a compliment, you dunce.”
“You might need longer than half an hour.” Ranboo responds, which Eret lets out a hearty laugh at.
“I’ll see you soon, friend!” Eret ends the call with that, Ranboo giving their own goodbye then hanging up the line before walking over to the mirror.
Picking up the soft golden bells, they chime as he slips them through his earlobes, reminding himself to ask Niki how to do the braid she did yesterday. Slipping the flower crown back on, Ranboo thinks about ordering himself one. Maybe of purple and blue flowers, he always did love cooler colours.
Slipping it back off, he spends the time before Eret’s arrival tidying his room. His head was a lot quieter when less mess was around, hitting shuffle on his phone as he did so. Privately Owned Spiral Galaxy came dancing from his bluetooth speakers, humming along to the rise and falls as he organises his desk.
The clock reads ten thirty when Eret arrives with a gentle knock, a beautiful smile on their regal face. They wore a royal blue dress that brushed their ankles, hair drawn into a half up style with a bow, the lower chestnut strands looped to the top of their bare collarbones. A white sweater draped from one arm, clearly Ranboo wasn’t the only one who wanted to look their best.
“Merry Christmas, Ranboo!”
“Merry Christmas Eret!” Opening his arms, they hug together with wide smiles. Ranboo takes a moment to soak in what this caring embrace felt like.
It felt like a sanctuary and acceptance, like the home he never had.
Eret steps back to reach into the bag they wore, drawing out this wonderfully soft forest green dress. Ranboo slips it over their head and stands in front of the mirror, nearly giddy with how good it felt. The edges were lined in a jade green shade, the hem falling to just above their knees. The tall brunette found Ranboo’s brush, meeting their mismatched eyes with their own grey ones.
“I am an amateur at hair compared to Niki but I do know a few tricks, Techno taught me them in fact.” Ranboo smiled in surprise, picturing Techno diligently studying a hair styling video to master it while practising on his own lotus mane.
They pull over their computer chair and sit down, crossing one leg over another while Eret rhythmically draws the bristles down the cloud and coal strands. The tips nearly brushed the bottom of their ribs now, Ranboo grinned in the mirror at their hair. They loved it, it felt so freeing to finally show more of themselves.
Using steady fingers they do an artfully loose braid using the two different colours of hair, finishing the look with pulling a flower crown Ranboo immediately fell in love with.
“I did want my other back but in exchange I have this one I never really use.” Placing it gently above their temples, Ranboo’s mouth fell slightly open looking at themself in the mirror.
A circlet of three types of flowers rested above their awed face; purple roses, blue forget-me-nots and green hydrangeas wove a pattern of cool colours that looked really good with the forest green sweater. Their braid dangled down the right side of their neck, brushing the lowest part of their chest.
“Gorgeous!” Eret compliments, smiling lightly as they met their eyes. “I take it you didn’t do this back home?”
“I was never sure how to bring it up and not get immediately judged.” They admitted, which Eret nodded with an understanding expression.
“I’m sorry.” They say simply, before laying a warm hand on Ranboo’s shoulder. “You will never be judged here, not if any of us have anything to say about it.”
“Who’s ass do I have to kick?” Tommy bursts through the door, clearly misreading the situation.
Ranboo chuckles, the sunshine blonde flushed with rosy cheeks. “Toms no one, it’s okay. I’m better than okay.”
Tommy gives a wide grin at that, straightens up with a sharp nod. “Good Rainbow, I am glad to hear. If you do ever need someone taken out though, you let me know.”
“I’ve seen enough crime shows to know how to hide a body.” Tubbo chimes in from the doorway, the other three giving him curious looks. “What? Just offering my support.”
“That's…mildly concerning but moving on.” Tommy announces, holding his phone up. “Mom says everything is ready and get your butts downstairs before the brunch gets cold. Everyone else is already here.”
All four leave the upstairs after that, Tubbo offering a compliment to how Ranboo looks. The brunette cleaned up well himself, same as everyone around him, wearing a handmade sweater while clutching an unmarked envelope. Each person carried a gift with them, in various states of well wrapped. Eret’s looked perfect, all clean edges and neat tape with a bright cornflower blue bow. Tommy’s looked like he attacked it with gift paper and taped everywhere he could reach, the rough edges sticking out.
As they arrive downstairs cheerful chatter echoes through the kitchen, Kristin snagging their free hands to bring delicious smelling food out front. Niki also stood there, both with their makeup done perfectly with gold flecks bringing out their coffee eyes above similar red blouses.
The Crows Roost Cafe glinted with joy when Ranboo walked through that kitchen door, all their closest companions laughing and chatting together. They had pushed the furniture further back and someone had pulled back the curtain off to the right of the room. A shining grand piano stood proudly there, with a few guitars on black stands and music cases scattered across the edge of the stage.
“Ran!” Aimsey shouted happily, bouncing across to throw their tiny body in his long arms. They lean back, whistling. “Just showed up to outdo us all huh. You look incredible!”
Fundy walks over with a large smile, Sam following behind with Foolish. All wore nice shirts with jeans, all three offering encouraging words to the split-dyed soul.
Ranboo breaks away for a moment to place his present down on the table where the others were piled, Wilbur standing there fidgeting.
“Wilbur, are you alright?” Ranboo asks, his friend's liquid chocolate eyes were wide when he met theirs.
“What if I mess up?” He worries, Ranboo reaches out to grab one of his callused hands, long fingers perfect for strumming his guitar wrapping around their own.
“Wilbur, you are human .” They comfort, continuing as they squeeze his hand. “We make mistakes, we aren’t perfect. But we want to support you and show we care.”
“Shouldn’t I be giving this speech to you Ranbus?” Wilbur attempts to redirect, which they giggle at. “You look great, I am happy you trust us enough to be yourself.”
Ranboo feels his cheeks warm, offering a happy look. “When I walked in those doors all those months ago I never imagined I found a family who cares so much for each other. Which includes you, I know you will do amazing. I have declared my love enough for your music, but I can do it more if you need reinforcement. For example, The Fall literally changed my life and has its own playlist of it on repeat nine times.”
“Alright, I believe you.” Wilbur assents, meeting their gaze once more. “If I get nervous I will just look at you or Eret. Goodness knows they were about to beat it into my skull that I was going to do just fine.”
“The offer is still open.” Eret jokes, walking to place down their present and overhearing the last few sentences.
“Food is ready!” Phil’s voice breaks the conversation, drawing several hungry growing beings to the table laden with incredibly appetising food.
One by one, they load up plates and walk back to the tables from yesterday. Today Ranboo ends up near Purpled, Aimsey and Tommy at the far end of the table. Phil took his spot at the other end with his wife, everyone else filling in spaces between.
Purpled wore a nice coffee brown button up with a red bow tie, looking dapper. Aimsey wore something similar but their bow tie was baby blue, black beanie over their straight brunette hair. Tommy had on another sweater vest but this one was rose red, a lovely contrast to his golden hair.
They all chew away for a few moments before Purpled breaks the silence between them four, the rest of the table being swept up into their own discussions.
“Having a good day so far?”
Ranboo nods, swallowing the egg quiche they had just taken a forkful of. “Yes, it's been lovely. Christmas is such a warm affair here, it feels so cosy.”
“You weren’t the one who had to wake up at the crack of dawn to shovel.” Tommy grumbles, sounding very much like Techno.
“Nine A.M. is hardly dawn, Tommy.” Aimsey laughs, his ocean blue eyes landing on theirs.
“You do it next time then!”
“Nah, I had a long sleep in my warm bed and didn’t drag myself out of it until ten. A perfect morning.”
“Damn dorm dwellers.” Tommy curses, Aimsey rolling their eyes.
“I love that advantage, I hate hearing people constantly.” Purpled says, picking up his piece of toast with strawberry jam. “We thank god for noise-cancelling headphones.”
“Amen to that after living with Tommy.” Ranboo jokes, the blonde smirking as he met their mismatched orbs.
“I light up every room I enter and you all are lucky to be in my presence.”
As usual, the conversation turned to them all bantering between one another. Purpled and Tommy end up descending into an argument about who is the better Skywars player while Aimsey and Ranboo commentate on the exchange, teasing.
When they have all cleared their plates Phil and Kristin tell them to bring the plates into the kitchen then come back to the main area. When each returns, the adults hand them a holly-red stocking with soft white fur lining the top. Stuffed full of trinkets, the kids all descend into chaos seeing what they had been given.
The parents had gone a bit overboard and gave them all a bunch of candy, snacks and various school supplies depending on their major. Ranboo got a beautiful set of ball point pens and a leather-bound notebook with ‘Plans for World Domination’ embossed on the cover in gold. Meeting Phil’s sparkling blue eyes, he had an idea who stocked his, loving each new thing he found. At the very bottom below his favourite chocolate he finds two bottles of nail polish, a vibrant purple and a glossy night black.
Everyone in the room gave their thanks to the couple, all giving wide smiles while uncovering their goodies. Niki grabs Tubbo’s hand and drags him off to the kitchen to clean dishes, all of them taking a moment to chat and relax before the rest of the festivities.
Ranboo has a moment of homesickness and whispers to Kristin he will be right back, waving to the pair washing up as he goes upstairs. Walking quickly to his room, he sits heavily on his bed and picks up the picture frame holding the photo of him and his mothers.
Trailing a finger across the cool glass, he sighs. Every passing day he looks at this and wonders if they would have approved of where he found himself.
Somehow in those few blurry memories he has of them, he imagines they would. They were wonderful and kind, always encouraging of his creativity and expressiveness. Placing the frame back down, he takes one more look before returning to his friends.
Picking up a necklace of amethyst mala beads, he drapes the cool orbs around his neck. Returning to the floor below he finds Niki hanging her washcloth, her and Tubbo clearly doing the dishes in double time.
All three walk back out to find the others grabbing their Secret Santa gifts, returning to the circle of couches. Ranboo ends up sitting beside Techno who offers a small grin, wishing him a Merry Christmas which he says back.
“Who wants to start?” Tommy commands all the attention, before shrugging and continuing before anyone can speak. “Just kidding, I will, I want to go first.”
Picking up his gift off the floor while the others laugh, he hands it to Niki who takes it with joy shining on her face.
“Merry Christmas Niki! Thank you for being the best mentor and putting up with my shit.” He says honestly, the woman letting out a musical laugh.
“It’s my pleasure.” She says, using red nails to dig into the messily wrapped gift, Tommy awaits eagerly.
Several packages spill across her wool skirt covered lap, chuckling while Wilbur beside her helps pick them up. She holds up one package with a wide smile.
“Thank you Tommy, I have been looking for some of these varieties forever.”
“I heard the complaints and started keeping a list, it’s nothing.” Tommy looks a bit embarrassed when Niki holds out her arms for a hug which he takes.
Next, Tubbo stands up when Tommy settles and drops the envelope in his lap. With a raised eyebrow he opens it up to find a card, scanning what’s written inside while reading aloud.
“Dear Tommy, thank you for being the best friend I have ever had. For your gift I offer a day of adding those damn PC parts gathering dust in your room to your rig, redeemable once.”
Tommy’s eyes glint, a little watery looking up at the brunette who gives him a look filled with so much meaning. “Merry Christmas Toms!”
“You didn’t have’ta, Tubs.” He stumbles over his words, standing to draw him into a hug. “I appreciate it.”
Ranboo follows suit, fidgeting a bit as they stand before walking to where Purpled sat beside Eret across from them and Techno. “I hope you like it, Purpled.”
The blonde takes the gift and opens it efficiently from where the tape fastened it shut, the knitted beanie spilling out into his lap. Ranboo added a few smaller golden stars around the hat, loving how it turned out. The boy gave a rare smile and slipped it on, meeting Ranboo’s worried gaze.
“I love it, thank you.”
He sits back down beside Techno who goes after him, clearing his throat as he places a square gift on Ranboo’s lap.
They rip open the packaging with glee, finding a copy of a book Techno had talked about many times. ‘The Princess Bride’ was scribed upon the bark-coloured cover, the volume well loved by other hands.
“I found it in the second-hand store a few doors up the street for a bargain and wanted to give you a copy of my favourite story.” Ranboo pulls the shy boy in for a tight hug, whispering thank you to him.
The next few people on the couches get up to give their Secret Santa to the recipients they drew from the hat. Phil gave Kristin a photo album he had spent many hours on, adding pictures of the people who joined them today from when they had taken photos spending time together. Kristin gives Tubbo a bunch of baked goods, cookies and squares piled high in the aluminium tin he protected from Tommy’s hungry gaze. Niki gifts Technoblade a rose-red knitted scarf, warm and soft. Aimsey gives Sam a set of measuring cups, besides Niki he was the most active baker in the group who enjoyed treating friends. Fundy presents Foolish with a tshirt with a shark printed on it, the cheerful raven-haired boy thanking the redhead while giggling.
He turns to where Eret sits, holding a small box wrapped in light blue paper with snowflakes. “Here you go, my friend!”
With an arched eyebrow and a happy smile, they peel open the paper to find a box of tea. Foolish lets out a laugh before continuing while their grey eyes light up. “I know it’s your favourite.”
“You are the one who keeps buying my tea in the morning!” They point, giving such a happy face.
“Guilty!”
“Now I have to return the favour!”
“Wait, that's not how this works.” Foolish waves it off while Eret glares with a half smile.
“Kristin, put Foolish’s tab on me for a week, please!”
“Aye, aye!” She chuckles, Foolish taking a few more moments before sighing, slumping forward.
“As long as we can go back to something even afterwards.”
“We can negotiate the terms later.” Eret gives a look which Foolish laughs while shaking his head lightly.
“You never give up, do you?”
“No.” They say simply, a few others laughing.
Purpled gets up to walk over to Aimsey and hands them a purple envelope with silver stars, offering a small grin. “Merry Christmas Aimsey!”
They rip open the paper with haste, reading quickly as their smile gets wider. Eret also looks to the small brunette, awaiting their next words. “Use this towards a night of stargazing with Eret and I in the spring! Aww, Purpled, thank you!”
“No problem, just let me know when! Preferably spring, it's a bit snowy right now.” The drifts piling against the outside walls told them all enough, those warmer temperatures were a while off.
But here they were safe and cherished, within the snow covered city surrounded by friends.
Eret stands up and walks over to where Wilbur sits and hands him that beautiful gift with a cornflower ribbon, each giving the other a look full of many meanings. All around could tell these two were close, they had a bond that would continue long into the future.
“Merry Christmas Wil!” Eret says with a flourish, eagerly awaiting the opening.
Wilbur tears into the pretty present with a giddiness, a buttercup sweater appearing in the shreds of shiny paper. “Awww a new sweater, thank you!”
“Give us all a gift and throw out your old one right now.” Eret declares that Kristin laughs at their actions. “Wilbur, you have to let it die, I got you a new one to wear many holes into. You literally moved in with it three years ago .”
“Thank you Eret.” Wilbur blushes, Phil joining his wife’s chuckling. He then turns to his father, offering a hesitant look. “I wasn’t sure what to get you so my brothers offered to be my band and I play you some of my own music live?”
“I could ask for nothing better, Wil.” Phil gives a proud look, standing up to embrace his son before his mother follows suit. “I love you, son.”
Tubbo and Fundy go around to each person gathering up the wrapping remains, tying the garbage bag shut when the task is complete. As a group they spend a while longer chatting before people’s stomachs start to growl.
Wilbur, Techno, and Tommy go to help their parents bring out the Christmas dinner on the same table. Ranboo’s mouth watered at all the tempting aroma’s of a hearty feast. Conversations flowed so easily between them all, this time they sat with Sam, Fundy and Foolish. The four spent dinner talking about the Minecraft server they had started in September, discussing how to develop it next.
Saturday was their recurring night to play, all joining one another at the Crows Roost Cafe for many hours of grinding and building. Players dropped in and out depending on other responsibilities but would return the week later, determined to make up for lost time.
After dinner; Fundy and Foolish team up to wash up, Kristin and Tommy joining to pack up the leftovers. As the four disappeared to do that Wilbur walked up to the stage and picked up a well loved acoustic guitar with a few colourful stickers on it.
First was a royal blue, cloud white and blood red striped flag with accents of golden yellow, a few inches wide and it sat right by the neck of the wooden instrument. A small fox, a tree, a crown and a diamond Minecraft sword joined the bright flag. It was the first time Ranboo had seen his guitar, enjoying seeing it up close.
Wilbur hummed as he tuned the stings, peering at his phone screen while warming up. Technoblade follows his twin over with a smile, he reassures the worried brunette while adjusting his own instrument. Tommy rushes out at the music and slides onto the piano bench with a dramatic yell of excitement, quickly playing a scale while Niki winks to Wilbur, accepting Eret’s hand to step onto the stage.
“I have listened to your music enough to be your backup vocalist if you want?” The pink haired girl beams a radiant smile, which Wilbur returns.
“Course Nik, thank you.”
Tubbo messes with a few of the wires before the microphone groans to life, Sam adjusts the volume after everyone flinches to the screeching feedback.
Kristin comes back with enough hot chocolates for everyone, the group shoving the couches to surround the stage along the right wall of the Cafe. It was a smaller one, but Ranboo was still impressed as he had no idea it was there. With the curtains pulled back it showed enough space for a live band, drums pushed to the back of the wooden platform.
Ranboo settles beside Eret, who looks up with an encouraging look to their roommate. Aimsey sits on the other side of Ranboo on this three cushion couch with an obnoxious flower pattern, cuddling into their side. The split dyed soul had noticed their way of showing affection was doing so, they lifted an arm to put across their small shoulders.
Wilbur clears his throat while looking to all his friends gathered, taking a deep breath before a confidence floods through his stance. Niki lowers the stand to her height, looking to Wilbur for her queue, same as Technoblade and Tommy.
“Merry Christmas to all of you. Though it was unforeseen circumstances that led us to be here, I am very glad it happened. You all mean so much to me in different ways, please enjoy my musical compositions with the help of some close family.” Wilbur strums a few chords, saying smoothly into the microphone with his wonderful sonorous voice. “Let’s start off with One Day! If you know the lyrics, join me!”
Music blasts from the speakers and Ranboo finds themselves happily singing along while Wilbur sinks into his element of an entertainer and draws all the attention to him and his band. Niki harmonises perfectly with him, her pink hair sticking to her forehead as she belts the words out. Techno has his eyes closed as he pulls the bow across the violin, looking every bit like he belongs joining his twin in his performance. Tommy dances around way more than any piano player Ranboo had ever seen but he knew how to command a crowd, loudly joining the vocalists with the lyrics from where he sat on the cushioned bench.
They run through a few of Wilbur’s songs that night; Your New Boyfriend, Perfume, The Fall, Since I Saw Vienna and Jubilee Line before they all stand up to bow. Roaring applause follows the act then Eret surprises them all by going to get their own violin.
Fundy gets up with a smile and joins them on piano, Niki staying on stage to sing a few more. Clearly not many others knew these three had practised together, covering some classics like Sweater Weather by The Neighbourhood and Hayloft II by Mother Mother.
Tommy and Tubbo get up next with a reinvigorated Wilbur; best friends sitting side by side on the piano bench. They reach further back into history to play Pianoman by Billy Joel then Crocodile Rock by Elton John.
The night ends with Techno and Eret joining them for the final performance, all uniting to play Tonight, Tonight by the Smashing Pumpkins. Ranboo sips at their hot chocolate until its completion, enjoying the rich atmosphere they found themselves surrounded with.
Niki joined them and Aimsey on the couch directly in front of Wilbur, smiling while she watched. Phil and Kristin looked so proud switching between looking at the audience and performers, the couple clearly having fun. Fundy, Sam, Purpled and Foolish enjoying themselves where they sat, dancing along to the beat.
If they had a thousand more nights like this, it would never be enough. Months ago if you told them this is how their life went, Ranboo wouldn’t believe it. For the first time they had friends they could call on for any number of favours, happy to help wherever needed.
He moved in with two excitable boys who brightened the rooms they stood in. He worked at a place that truly felt like family to him now.
Ranboo was finally home and loved.
You saved my life, not once but twice
You keep me free from falling
You saved my life, make it all alright
When I don't feel like talking
You make sure I always see the daylight
(Have faith that you're not alone)
(Have faith that you're not on your own)
(Have faith that you're not alone)
(Have faith that you're not on your own)
It's amazing what the hard times can reveal
(Have faith that you're not alone)
Like who shows up, who walks away, and who's for real