Page 85 of Jingle Bells and Tentacle Spells

She pokes me in my tickle spot and I giggle, then she uses the opportunity to snatch a dumpling for herself.

Goddess Thekmis, I love her so fucking much.

“You do realize that next Christmas will be our one-year anniversary as a couple, right?” Gemma says.

My mouth drops open, and I stare at her in amazement. By all that is holly and jolly, she’s right. Since it’s nine Earth months away, I hadn’t thought about it much yet. Now Kheph’s idea is speaking to me more and more. A romantic Christmas, playing in the snow and cozying up naked in front of a fire…

Four of my tentacles start making figure eights. “We’re going to have the most amazing Christmas-versary ever! I’ll make sure of that.”

Already, my brain is whirring faster than a quantum warp engine.

“We’ll make that happen together,” Gemma agrees, kissing me softly.

Rambo appears out of nowhere beeping up a storm. Then he says, “Do, or do not. There is no try.”

Gemma laughs. “The fact that your droid knows lines from Star Wars films makes my nerdy sci-fi-loving soul happy.”

“Of course, he’s my super awesome brainchild,” I say. My appendages quiver with so many feels. “I’m glad he makes your soul happy, because you make my tentacles tremble and my hearts flutter like no one else.”

I’ll always bring out all the cheesy stops for Gemma.

She grins. “It’s official. We’ve got the others beat when it comes to being romantic.”

“Naturally,” I boast.

“I have to say,” she muses, “I’m a believer now. Finding one anotherwasa Christmas miracle.”

“I’m sure the magic of Christmas will continue to bring us new joy and happiness every year.”

Gemma kisses me and flashes that sassy smile I love so much.

“Strap in, my love, my heart’s ready to hyperdrive to eternal happiness with you.”

Swoon.

I couldn’t have put it better.