Outside, the snow is steadily falling, wet and heavy; the kind of snow that could be packed tightly together to form snowballs, the kind of snowballs that can leave bruises. When on the ground, you can jump in, bury yourself, and feel the snow at first protecting and warming you, but feel instantly cold as it starts to seep into your boots and sneak into your mittens.

It’s cold in that dinky little apartment. Spencer gently pulls the covers off and quietly as she can, sits up, wincing at first in reaction to the cold hardwood underneath her feet. Wrapping her robe around her, she heads into the kitchen. She can’t sleep. She hasn’t ever since three nights ago when she realized what this present day signified. She walks over to the cabinet and shushes the cupboard door as it creaks noisily at the touch of her hand. Spencer sets the wine glass down on the counter as she grabs a bottle of red. With a full glass of wine she starts to head into the living room, thinking twice she turns around and goes back for the whole bottle.

Fully armed now, the blonde walks through her living room, passing the coffee table that’s decked out with holly, red and white candles, and even a miniature reindeer. Using the soft glow of the stringed lights all around to guide her, Spencer brushes past the tree stocked full of ornaments and presents and opens up the door to the balcony. A brisk 2 a.m. gust bites at her, but it quickly dies as she sits down. It’s beautiful out, she watches the snow fall as she enjoys the silence.

“Come with me,” Ashley grabbed her hand excitedly.

“It’s snowing Ash, and it’s freezing.”

She just grinned as she pulled Spencer out onto the balcony. “Isn’t it great?” Ashley said almost at a whisper level to her girlfriend. Spencer watched the puff of white breath come out of her mouth and smiled. She had never taken advantage of the balcony until Ashley always insisted they go out and enjoy the view, rain or shine.

“I’m freezing! I’m going inside.” Spencer started to turn around when she felt a tug on her arm. Ashley spun her around and kissed her softly on the lips and held her tight.