Epilogue

epilogue

Teddy

one year later…

I t was the best Christmas Eve I could remember. All because of the woman by my side. The woman who I’d married today. My wife. Ivy looked absolutely breathtaking in her white wedding gown, the same color as the snow. My mate.

There was no chance I’d ever forget a night like tonight. We’d talked about having our wedding during the warmer season—when the North Pole wasn’t completely frozen over—but Christmas was special to both of us. We’d had a tent put up, string lights above us giving the space a warm, cozy glow. Of course, given the freezing temperatures outside, we’d also had portable heaters throughout the room so all our guests could be comfortable.

It was magical, and I hadn’t even used my powers. Well, at least not much. I’d kept Ivy warm all night, though she never knew I used my abilities to keep her wrapped in a cozy bubble .

I’d never let her freeze.

The entire North Pole surrounded us to celebrate our wedding, which was held in the middle of town as the snow fell around us, and the entire world was a blanket of white. But all I could see was her. She radiated with happiness, practically glowing as she chatted with her best friend, Sarah.

She sipped from a glass of sparkling champagne as she chatted, her cheeks pink as she spoke excitedly about something.

In the last year, I’d gotten to know her even better. Her likes and dislikes, the way she loved to dance in the rain, and how every single time—without fail—her eyes lit up when she tried a new sweet treat. Lately, it felt like she couldn’t get enough of all desserts. I was pretty sure she’d had four pieces of wedding cake.

Who was I to tell her no? This was the North Pole, after all. Dessert was at the top of our food pyramid. And as long as she was getting her nutrition, and eating healthy, what did it really matter?

We’d traveled all over the world, spending the months after Christmas had ended going anywhere Ivy wanted to go. We spent two weeks in the Bahamas, soaking up the sun, and I was pretty sure we’d spent more time naked in bed than we had actually outside with clothes on. Not that I minded one bit. I couldn’t wait to get her into bed tonight, to peel that beautiful white dress off of her, and see what she had on underneath.

My mom slid by my side, patting me on the shoulder. “Congratulations again, Teddy.”

“Thanks, Mom.” I looked at my wife. Our dog was curled up at her feet, perfectly happy outside in the snow. She’d been a part of the wedding, carrying our rings up to the altar, and was now content to sleep next to Ivy. “I’m the luckiest man alive. ”

She laughed. “That’s true. She’s special.”

“I know. I’ve known it since the first moment I saw her.” Red faced and yelling at a disgruntled guest, and yet she never lost her composure. No, the only person she did that with was me. But we still liked fighting with each other. It was our foreplay, and there was nothing better than the make-up sex after we fought.

It was easy to see how obsessed I was with her. Even a year later, I couldn’t believe she was mine. That out of everyone in this world, I’d found her. My mate. My wife.

Putting that ring on her finger had been the best decision I’d ever made.

“I’m proud of you. Your dad and I both are. One day, you’re going to do such an amazing job up here.”

“Not for a long, long time,” I promised. “Because I have a lot of things I want to do first.” And my Dad was the best Santa the world could have asked for.

She laughed. “Hopefully, one of those things involves grandkids.”

I grinned. “We’ll see.” That was definitely on the agenda, though I wasn’t quite sure when.

Ivy had gone off her birth control a few months ago, but these things took time. Still, I couldn’t wait till she was pregnant. Picturing her with a baby in her arms just felt right . Our baby.

“Don’t try too hard,” she said with a wink.

My cheeks flushed, and I tried to hide my embarrassment. “ Mom,” I groaned. “Can we not?”

“What?” She acted all innocent. “I’m just saying.”

“Carol!” My dad wrapped his arms around my mom’s middle. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you. Did you get some cake?”

“Hm?” She looked up at my dad’s face. He’d cleaned up for tonight, putting on a tux—which felt like one of the first times I’d seen him dressed up in something fancy that wasn’t his Santa suit. “Oh, yes. I did.”

He pressed a kiss to the side of her forehead. “Well, good. Let’s leave our son to find his wife and get some more anyway.”

She laughed, waving goodbye, and then I turned to find Ivy walking over to me, her hips swaying with each step in her wedding dress.

My mouth was dry as I took all of her in. God, I loved her. I loved her more than I’d ever thought was possible. Her strawberry blonde hair hung in loose curls down her back, and her eyes looked bigger than ever, those brilliant blue irises locked on mine.

“There you are, Mrs. Claus,” I said, planting a kiss on Ivy’s cheek.

“Well, hello, Mr. Claus.” She wrapped her arms around my neck.

Placing mine on her hips, I rocked us in a small circle. “Are you having fun?”

“Mhm.” She rested her head on my shoulder. “So much fun. It’s nice having Sarah here. And I’m glad Scarlett and Jack could bring the baby.” Her cousin and her mate were in the corner, bouncing their baby girl in their laps. Ivy’s grandmother sat next to them, her eyes shining with happiness at seeing her great-grandchild. “It’s nice having them here. My family.” Her eyes locked on mine. “Thank you.”

“Of course.” I gave her a small peck on the nose. “But you have an even bigger family now, you know?” She had me, and now, she had my family too.

“Our family,” she whispered, a small smile spreading over her face. “That’s my favorite.”

“Mine too,” I murmured back. “It’ll always be my favorite.”

Swaying to the music, Ivy rested her head on my chest, and I knew there was nowhere I’d rather be than right here, right now, with her.

ivy

Snow flurries fell around us as the reception music continued, and I stopped to look at Teddy. He was as handsome as ever in his tuxedo, a bowtie around his neck, and a wedding ring on his finger.

My husband. My heart clenched as I looked over at him, finding a dopey smile splitting his face. Sometimes, it still didn’t feel real. That this was home—that I was here. That he’d found me.

But I was grateful for all of it, and I couldn’t imagine tying the knot any other time of year. Christmas was always magical—and now it was extra special.

We danced, toasted, and cut the cake while greeting practically everyone in town. It was like no one wanted to be left out of the celebrations today. My family was here: my grandmother, who had made me feel so loved I couldn’t believe I hadn’t known her my whole life, and my cousin, who was more like a sister at this point, and all of the extended family I’d met in the past year. Everyone had come out to congratulate us.

Even Coco was here, my big puppy who couldn’t bear to be parted from my side. Whenever I sat down, there she was, laying next to me or draping her head into my lap. Her nose brushed against my torso, and I ran my hands over her little brown eyebrows.

Finally, though, Teddy collapsed back in the chair next to me at the head table. I needed a break, my feet aching despite my comfortable shoes. No fancy heels needed for a wedding here.

After he’d proposed last year, I knew there was no other time I wanted to promise my everlasting love to him. Even if it was busy season. Soon, though, we’d be on an extended honeymoon, enjoying some place warm and tropical, drinking beverages out of pineapples and coconuts. I gave a happy sigh of contentment.

Teddy leaned over, a curious expression on his face. “What was that for?”

“Nothing.” I shook my head, playing with the tulle veil still pinned into my hair. But I couldn’t help but smile as I rested my head against his arm. I’d barely been able to go five minutes all night without touching him in some way, but he was the same way with me. His palm rested on my knee, a possessive hold that made a shiver run down my spine. “Just happy.”

“And to think, a year ago, you hated me.”

I scrunched up my nose. “Hate is a strong word.”

“Merry Christmas, my wife,” he murmured, placing a kiss to my forehead as we stared towards the giant Christmas tree in the town square, all lit up in dazzling colors. This whole place was a spectacle. Having our wedding out here, in the same place as the Christmas Ball, was the perfect decision.

“Merry Christmas, husband,” I said back, interlacing our fingers.

It was a beautiful place for a wedding reception. Even as the snow fell around us, I didn’t feel it at all. My beautiful white gown was lined, and though it didn’t have sleeves, the velvet cape I wore around my shoulders kept out the chill.

As did Teddy’s hand on my lap, even as he pulled me into his arms.

“I love you,” he said, kissing my lips this time as the snow fell around us. Magical. But that was him. My husband, every bit of Christmas magic I’d ever wanted or needed. “My Poison Ivy.”

I wound my arms around his neck, not caring who saw as I kissed my husband. “I love you more.”

He snorted. “Not possible.”

“No?” Curling my fingers in his hair, I tugged his lips down so they were hardly a breath from mine.

“No,” he agreed. “Because every time I see you, my chest fills with so much love I think it might burst.”

I smacked his chest, laughing, though that smile stayed plastered to my face as he kissed me deeper.

“How are you feeling?”

“What do you mean?” I bit my lip. I’d been hoping he hadn’t caught the amount of times I’d run to the bathroom over the course of the evening. “I’m great.”

Teddy nodded. “Okay. You want another glass?” He tilted his head at my empty champagne flute.

I shook mine. “No, I’m good.” Probably had something to do with the fact that I hadn’t even drunk the first one. I’d had Scarlett slip me sparkling cider instead.

“Okay.” He kissed my forehead. “I’ll be right back.”

I smiled up at him. “Don’t be too long. I don’t like to be kept waiting, husband.”

“Oh, I don’t plan to make you wait, wife.” He winked, and my heart did a little flip in my chest.

Usually, he was the one surprising me, giving me the most perfect gifts of all. But tonight, I had one more surprise for him. I couldn’t wait to see his face.

We curled up on the couch in our living room, staring up at the Christmas tree. After we’d gotten home, he’d stripped my wedding dress from my body, taking the time to appreciate the white lacy undergarments I’d gotten just for our wedding night, before making me come three times—once on his tongue, and then twice with his cock. But I wasn’t complaining.

And now, we were curled up in our matching pajamas—snowmen, this year—watching the fire crackle and enjoying the warm ambiance of the lights.

“You know, I always wished for this,” I murmured, turning my head to give Teddy a small smile.

“What?” He asked, so quietly, tenderly. Teddy brushed a finger over the tip of my ear, like he still couldn’t believe I was real. That this was real.

I couldn’t stop the tears from trickling down my face. I was just so happy. “Christmas with a someone who loved me. A family surrounding us. A life full of happiness.” My hand curled over my stomach, thinking about that word. Family .

Our little, growing family. Coco was curled at our feet, fully grown now. She was the perfect dog, keeping me company always, especially when Teddy was working at the workshop.

He placed a gentle kiss against my lips. “I always wished for you. So I guess we’re even.”

I laughed, though the sound came out garbled through the tears. “Maybe.”

Above all, I was glad for moments like this. The Christmas season wouldn’t always be like this for us—and I knew it, just as much as he did. One day, he’d take over for his dad, and Christmas Eve would be me sending him off into the world, a sleigh full of gifts for one impossible night each year.

But for now, I had him.

And the little secret I’d been keeping all day .

“So… I have something for you,” I murmured, standing up to grab the little box I’d stashed behind the tree this morning, when I’d taken a test to confirm what I already knew. “Merry Christmas, Teddy,” I said, placing the box in his hands.

“I thought we said we weren’t doing gifts this year?” He asked, looking up at me with a furrowed expression. “With the wedding, and all.”

I shrugged, a secret smile on my face. “Just open it.”

The box was tied with a pretty red ribbon, and after untying it, he pulled open the lid, grabbing the wrapped item from inside. It was practically a tradition now in and of itself, us making each other ornaments for our special occasions. It had been, ever since he’d proposed with one.

“An ornament?” He asked as he delicately peeled back the tissue paper, a look of interest on his face. Which then morphed into surprise as he read the words on it.

Baby’s First Christmas , the ornament read, with next year’s date written underneath.

“Ivy?” He looked up at me, eyes wide—brimming with unshed tears—and I just smiled because I was happy. So deliriously happy.

He pulled out the test that I’d stashed underneath. “You’re?—“

I nodded. “Congratulations, Daddy,” I whispered into his ear. “I’m pregnant.”

“Holy shit.” He pulled me onto his lap, and in the blink of an eye I was straddling him, my hands on his shoulders as his held onto my hips. “We’re having a baby?”

I nodded, sliding a hand over my abdomen.

“When did you find out?”

“This morning, but with the wedding, and everything, I didn’t want anyone to find out before you. And it’s still early, so…” I brought my hands to his face. “Are you happy? I know it’s soon, but…”

It had only been recently that I’d gone off birth control. We both wanted kids, but I had no idea how quickly it would take. Trust Teddy’s super sperm to knock me up this soon. The man could do anything he set his mind to, I swear.

“I’m so fucking happy. God, Ivy, you don’t even know how ecstatic I am. I love you so much.”

I thought I could guess. The same feeling ran through my veins. Feeling his emotions wasn’t always easy, but the bond that flowed between us had only grown stronger with time. And it made all of this worth it.

“Thank you for finding me,” I said, resting my forehead against his. “For giving me all of this.”

A house, a home. A life I’d never imagined but always dreamed of. A family. Our family.

“I love you,” he said, placing a reverent kiss to my lips before sliding a hand on top of mine. “And our little Christmas gift.”

“Guess this means all of my drinks on our honeymoon will have to be virgin.”

He barked out a laugh. “That’s why you didn’t want more champagne earlier.”

“Guilty. I had Scarlett slip me sparkling cider instead for the toasts. So… she might suspect.” My cousin was my best friend now. I’d had a hard time not telling her my news as soon as I’d seen her this morning, getting ready in the bridal suite.

“Everyone’s going to be so excited.” His green eyes lit up. “My parents—fuck, they’ll be so happy.” He cups my cheek. “This is the best present. But I, uh, actually got something for you too.”

“You did?” We really had said no presents because of the wedding, but here he was, surprising me anyway. He loved to surprise me, that much hadn’t changed.

“It’s nothing too big.” His cheeks turn a little pink. “Nothing like, well…”

“A baby?” I smiled.

He laughed. “Yeah.” Teddy held out a hand to me. “Come on. It’s upstairs.”

I raised my eyebrows. “This house has a second floor?” How had I lived here for a year and not realized that?

He laughed. “Technically, it’s an attic, but dad and I worked on finishing it.” He squeezed my hand. “That’s not the whole surprise, though. Come on.”

Taking my coffee out of my hands, he placed the mug on the side table, guiding me over to a door I’d never noticed before. He hefted me into his arms, carrying me up the stairs.

“Teddy.” I poked his stomach. “Put me down.”

“No. I’m carrying precious cargo.”

I laughed. “I’m barely even pregnant. I can walk up the stairs.”

He hummed in response, finally setting me down when we reached the top and he clicked on the light.

Tears filled my eyes again. Dammit, I was emotional. I was blaming it on the pregnancy, even though it was just that he was so damn thoughtful.

“What is this?” I surveyed the room. “How did you…”

“I thought that maybe…” He swallowed roughly. “You’d like a studio of your own. You know. For your office.” He looked over at me. “For whatever you want it to be. For your crafts, if you’d like. I know you love living here, but I wanted to give you a place to work on your own projects too.”

I’d been fine over the last year—partially because we’d spent a lot of time traveling and he’d kept me so busy I hadn’t even had time to think about my hobbies. But I loved this. I loved how thoughtful it was. Like he wanted to make sure I always had a way to follow my passions.

“How did you do this?” I finally finished my question.

He clicked his tongue. “A good magician never reveals his secrets.”

“I’m never going to be able to figure you out, am I?”

Teddy laughed. “No, I don’t think so. That’s the whole point, wife. I want to spoil you. To give you everything good in the world. And if I can’t use a little bit of Christmas magic to do that, what’s the point?”

“I love you,” I murmured, wrapping my arms around his neck.

“I love you too, Ivy Claus.” He pressed a kiss to my lips. “And don’t you ever forget it.”

I wouldn’t—because he reminded me of that every day. How he was the perfect man for me. That golden thread of fate, tying us together, sparkled more and more every day.

If someone had told me a year ago that this would be my life, living in the North Pole, married to the son of Santa Claus, and that I was the daughter of an elf—I never would have believed them. But that was my reality.

And I was the luckiest woman in the world that he’d found me.

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