Frazel: Come home for Christmas

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It was a cold and snowy Christmas Eve at Camp Jupiter, where the Zhang household stood as a beacon of warmth and festivity amidst the wintry landscape. The cabin was adorned with an array of decorations, from sparkling fairy lights that twined around the wooden beams to colorful garlands that draped over the fireplace mantle. The crackling fire cast a cozy glow across the room, filling it with a sense of comfort and joy.

Hazel sat nestled in the plush armchair, a cup of steaming cocoa cradled in her hands as she gazed into the flickering flames. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of pine from the Christmas tree standing proudly in the corner, adorned with ornaments and twinkling lights.

Little Saphire played happily on the floor, her laughter ringing out like silver bells. She was a bundle of energy, her chubby cheeks flushed with excitement as she toddled from one toy to the next. Hazel couldn't help but smile as she watched her daughter, her heart swelling with love.

As the evening wore on, Hazel found herself drawn to the letters scattered across the coffee table, each one a precious reminder of Frank's absence. He had been deployed overseas for what felt like an eternity, and the holidays felt emptier without him. With a heavy heart, she picked up the most recent letter and began to read, her fingers tracing the familiar curves of Frank's handwriting.

"Mommy, da-da?" Saphire babbled, toddling over to Hazel with outstretched arms.

Hazel's heart clenched at the mention of Frank, her eyes filling with tears. "Yes, sweetheart, that's your da-da," she whispered, pulling Saphire into her lap. "He's far away, but he loves you very much."

Saphire gazed up at her with wide, innocent eyes, her chubby fingers reaching out to touch the photograph of Frank on the mantelpiece. "Da-da," she repeated, her voice filled with wonder.

Just then, there was a soft knock on the door, causing Hazel's heart to skip a beat. Could it be?

With Saphire still nestled in her arms, Hazel made her way to the door, her pulse quickening with anticipation. As she swung it open, her eyes widened in disbelief. Standing before her was Frank, his weary face breaking into a tired but radiant smile.

"Frank!" Hazel gasped, her eyes brimming with tears of joy as she threw her arms around him. "You're home!"

Frank enveloped her in a tight embrace, his heart overflowing with love and relief. "I couldn't bear to spend another Christmas away from you two," he murmured, his voice filled with emotion.

Saphire, sensing the excitement in the air, reached out to Frank with chubby arms, her face lighting up with joy. "Da-da!" she babbled, her laughter filling the room.

Frank scooped her up into his arms, holding her close as tears of happiness welled up in his eyes. "Hey there, little one," he whispered, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "I've missed you more than words can say."

Hazel watched the tender reunion unfold before her, her heart swelling with gratitude and love. This was the moment she had been dreaming of ever since Frank had left for war.

As they settled in for the night, snuggled together in front of the crackling fire, Hazel couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over her. Their little family was finally reunited, and nothing else mattered in that moment.

The hours slipped by in a blur of laughter and joy as they exchanged stories and caught up on lost time. They shared memories of Christmases past and made plans for the future, their hearts filled with hope and happiness.

As midnight approached, they gathered around the Christmas tree, the soft glow of the lights casting a warm and magical ambiance. They exchanged gifts and shared hugs, cherishing each moment together.

As they bid farewell to another Christmas, Hazel knew that their love would carry them through whatever challenges lay ahead. For in each other's arms, they found solace and strength, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. And as they embraced under the twinkling stars, surrounded by the love of family and the beauty of the holiday season, Hazel couldn't help but feel that this was truly a Christmas to remember.--------------------


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