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The light snow fall sprinkled the streets, passersby not stopping to pay any mind to the snowflakes as they fluttered down to earth. Each unique and each with its own radiance. No one paid any attention to them as they hustled past, caught up in their holiday shopping. He, however, saw things differently.

He sat there on a bench on the sidewalk, first watching the people hurry past, talking on cell phones, texting, hurrying to get their holiday shopping finished, before he turned his attention back up to the sky. It wasn't clear blue like the summer sky was, but it didn't have to be. Winter had its own beauty, just like summer. He watched as the soft, tiny flakes of white seemed to magically appear out of thin air, and gently make their way down from the heavens to the earth below.

He stuck out his tongue, and tasted the cold flake as it landed upon his taste buds. A soft cold feeling, which instantly disappeared as the flake melted away from the warmth of his tongue. His eyes resumed their position upward, watching the beauty of winter. As he watched, he paid no mind to the people, the honking of horns or the ringing of phones that could be heard outside of the park occasionally. No, he just sat there and watched it snow. All was quite. All was calm. Nothing else existed.

Or so he thought...

Unbeknownst to him, he had been watched. His attention had been drawn so much to the snow that he'd failed to notice the person eyeing him with just as much fascination and contentment as he held for the snow. It wasn't until she spoke that he was made aware of her presence.

"Hello."

A soft, sweet, affectionate voice. The only thing he could compare it to was honey, but even then the purest honey couldn't compare to the sweet sound of her voice. Rather startled, he turned to see the origin of the voice, and was struck by something even more beautiful than the snow.

She was a mouse like him, obviously either the same age as him or younger, with onyx skin, a cream face, and the warmest deep brown eyes he'd ever seen. A smile to match her eyes graced her lips, yet it contained a hint of playfulness and curiosity, of wonder and hope. Behind her, her little tail gently and slowly moved side to side. She wore a white bow on her head, and had a little piece of holly leaves and tiny berries in front of her left ear. The long-sleeve dress she wore came to just above her knees, but was also white, with soft white faux around the bottom hem and around the wrists. White pumps also covered her feet. She tilted her head a bit, in a cute fashion, obviously wondering if he'd say anything. Her sheer beauty made him forget completely about the snow, heck, about everything, and he had to think fast and hard to made his mind work again.

"Oh, uh, h-hi." Dang it. He mentally scolded himself for sounding like a doofus in front of her, but they were the only words his mouth could form.

She made a gentle gesture - a slight tilt of her head - to the bench upon which he sat. "May I join you?"

He could only nod, and scooted over to allow her some room. Though in his mind, he contemplated highly on not scooting over too much, as it would make her have to sit closer to him. He couldn't help but watch as she gently and gracefully sat down on the bench beside him, thankfully rather close to him, and noticed her little tail again as it curled gently up and down at the tip. He tried to steady his heart as he adverted his gaze away, not wanting to unsettle her, and redirected his attention back up to the sky. Though now with her next to him, the snow had lost most of its luster. Suddenly, he saw her, out of the corner of his eye, watching him. He pretended not to notice, and waited a couple of seconds before turning his head. But when he did, she also adverted her gaze upward, and he swore he saw a soft pink tint to her cheeks. Was she blushing? Man, was she cute.

"The snow's beautiful, isn't it?" she said softly, watching the falling flakes before turning her warm gaze to him, her soft, lightly tinted rosy cheeks adding to her already adorble-beyond-measure features.

He looked back up to the sky, blinking as another flake landed on his nose. "Yeah. It really is. Some people hate th' snow, but I think it's beautiful." He glanced back to her, surprised to see her still looking at him, apparently having listened to and taken in every word he'd said.

She turned her gaze back up to the sky, a playful, child-like innocence to her nature. "Amazing how something so tiny can be so beautiful."

He continued to watch her. I know, he thought, the snow never crossing his mind.

She turned back to him, and blushed and shyly adverted her gaze away from him when she found him watching her. She reached over to her side and after he heard the rattling of a paper bag, she held up two cups with lids on them. "Cocoa?"

He blinked, and slowly reached for one of the cups. "Oh, um... Thanks." The twinkle in her eyes as he accepted her offer made his heart jump. That and the adorable smile on her adorable face. He took a sip, and watched as she did the same. As the nearly hot liquid flowed down his esophagus, he relished the feeling as it warmed his whole body, which the cold had tinged since he'd first stepped out in it moments ago. He found it hard to actually focus on the snow with the beautiful creature sitting next to him, yet he didn't want to seem like a creep either. So he restrained himself from looking her way and kept his eyes focused upward. A few seconds of silence past, both looking up to the sky, neither saying a word. Until one did...

"I'm Minnie. Minnie Mouse," she spoke, glancing back to him, still bearing her radiant smile.

Forcing his brain to work, he held out his hand. "Mickey. Mickey Mouse."

Her eyes seemed to sparkle as her smile widened. She accepted his hand, placing her smaller one in his. As he felt the warmth of her hand connect with his, he felt a jolt go through him unlike anything he'd ever felt. Though he chalked it up to it just being his heart exploding in his chest.

As they withdrew hands, she leaned back, crossing one leg over the other. "So what're you doing out here? Taking a break from Christmas shopping or just watching the snowfall?" A playful and contagious smile graced her peach-colored lips, which he just knew tasted like peppermint.

He exhaled as he looked back up to the sky with a slight shake of his head. "Nah, not taking a break. Thought I'd come out here and just admire the snow." He turned to her. "How 'bout you? How come you're out in the cold?"

She looked back up at the sky for a brief moment before looking down at her cocoa, a light smile playing across her lips. "Same." She looked back up to the sky. "I love the snow. I wanted to see the flakes. So I came out to watch." She turned to him. "Glad I'm not the only one who enjoys it."

He smiled. "Must be the only two people on earth watchin' it right now." He coughed.

"Yeah." She took a brief glance around, and sure enough, he was correct in his assumption. There were fewer people in the park now, but she didn't see anybody else around them. So it did feel like they were the only two people on earth watching the snow together. She smiled fondly at the thought as she looked back down to her cup of cocoa. "Too many people get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. There's beauty in winter, you just have to look around to see it."

He glanced at her. He thought he knew what beauty was, but now she had contradicted his thoughts with her own radiance. His thoughts vanished as she spoke again.

"People often forget about what this time of year really means, about what it's all about." She smiled as she looked back up to the sky, then cast a glance toward him. "Love."

The way she said the word while looking at him sent his heart into a series of flips and spins, and the way she looked at him as she said it made it go into overdrive. At this point, she'd looked back up to the falling snow, and he noticed her tail curl up close to her on the bench and, thinking she must be cold, removed his jacket. "Here."

She turned to him just as he drapped the garment around her shoulders, and her cheeks flushed. "N-No, I can't take your jacket!" she protested, not wanting him to be without the warmth it provided.

He smiled gently as a chuckle escaped him. "It's cold out here. And yer wearin' a dress. If yer gonna sit out here, ya need it. I don't mind."

She stared into his eyes, which were the same brown as her own, seeing the sincerity of his words. And the warmth from his smile seemed to warm her like nothing she'd ever felt. His eyes were like summertime. As her cheeks remained a soft rosy pink, she smiled as she curled up inside his warm jacket. "T-Thank you..." Her smile suddenly faded. "But what about you? I can't take your jacket. Don't you need it?"

He shrugged. "Don't need it. I'm warm enough. 'Sides..." His eyes twinkled playfully. "I'm not the one wearing a dress in December."

She smirked, and nudged him playfully. Then she relaxed once more, curling up inside the warmth of his jacket as she gave a soft, content smile and sigh. "Thank you."

He shrugged, returning her expression. "You're welcome."

She couldn't help but notice, however, that when he'd placed his jacket around her, he'd left his arm laying across the bench behind her. Be it intentional or unintentional she didn't know. But she didn't care. And took the opportunity to scoot a little closer to him, nuzzling him gently as she leaned into him.

This set his heart and brain into a frenzy. Behind him, and unknowing to her, her action had caught him off guard so much that his tail had shot out straight, and was now as stiff as a metal rod. However, as the tiny young girl mouse relaxed next to him, he found his heart began to beat again, and he slowly moved his hand down to rest on her arm. In response to this, he swore he felt her move closer. No, he knew he felt it. As a smile found his face, he began to relax as well, letting her rest against him. He didn't know how he'd went from sitting on the park bench alone to now having a beautiful angel sitting cuddled up to him, but right now, he didn't care. If this was a dream he never wanted to wake up. And anyone that woke him up wouldn't live to see another day.

A few more minutes passed in silence. Neither mouse spoke, but then they didn't need to. There was something in the air that couldn't be explained. A sense of calm, serenity, and joy that neither had felt until that very moment. A sudden euphoria that was unlike any other. And amidst the peaceful silence, each young mouse would secretly steal glances at the other.

"Thanks again for the hot cocoa," Mickey finally said, his voice a relaxing vibe within the air around her.

"You're welcome," Minnie replied, looking up to him. "Thanks again for your jacket."

He shrugged. "No prob." He took another sip of his cocoa, and paused for a moment, thinking. "Say..." She looked up to him once more as he spoke. "How did you know I loved hot chocolate?"

An impish smile crept to her lips as she looked down, trying to hide her pinkening cheeks. "Who doesn't love hot chocolate on a winter day?" She looked back up to him. "How'd you know I was feeling chilly?"

He grinned playfully. "I seen yer tail curl up around you."

Her cheeks flushed once more as she looked back down again. "...Oh... Heh... ...Right..." She looked back up again, and for a few more seconds, neither spoke. Until an idea came to mind. "Did you ever try catching a snowflake?" she suddenly asked, her eyes a glitter.

He chuckled, a little confused by the sudden random, out-of-the-blue question. "Don't really have much luck catchin' 'em..."

She quickly sat down her cup before she jumped up. "Hee hee! Well, then c'mon! Lemme show you!" She grabbed his hand, and he barely had time to set his cup down before she pulled him up and out into the snow. She pulled her arms through the sleeves of his jacket and grabbed his hand once more, her steps bouncing as she excitedly pulled him near the hill. When they got there, she turned to him with that same childlike excitement shining in her eyes. "You can't enjoy a snowfall and not be tempted to catch a snowflake." She gave a cute tilt of her head. "It's like... the law of winter, ya know." She let go of his hand and took a few steps back. She looked up and within three seconds, caught one in her gloved hands. "Ha ha! See? It's easy!"

He watched her, as she giggled gleefully at having just caught a snowflake in her hand. She continued to giggle as she did a twirl, the bottom of her dress flaring out around her as she spun once, then stopped, looking back at him. By now his heart was pounding, and he was fascinated by this girl. By how easy going she seemed, and heart attack inducingly cute she was. With her white attire, she looked like a beautiful snowflake.

"Come on, Mickey!" she beckoned with a giggle, waving a hand for him to join her. Her merriment was contagious, and he found himself smiling and his heart twirling from her evident joy.

That giggle. That melodious giggle. His heart was barely withstanding it. That soft, sweet, innocent, charming little giggle. He'd found a new favorite harmony. "Alright, hang on!" He closed the distance between them and placed his hands on her slender - and as he felt, soft - sides and lifted her up in the air. She first squeaked with surprise at his action, but she giggled happily as she was hoisted into the air, her arms out wide as he held her. He turned around, allowing her to catch several flakes in her palms, before gently lowering her to the earth.

As her pumps rested in the snow, their eyes locked. In that moment, each realized something; He was taller than her, he realized how soft she felt and she realized how warm his hands felt. They stood there, him with his hands on her sides, staring into each others eyes. Suddenly, a flake landed on the tip of his nose.

"Hee hee, looks like you caught one," Minnie giggled, then stepped back a bit. "Here. Just hold out your hand." She took his hand and held it palm up, holding his gently with her own. He was glad she couldn't feel his heart, otherwise she'd swear he was having a heart attack right now. But then, sure enough, a flake landed in his palm. "See. It's easy."

He stared at the flake, or at least what of it wasn't melted yet, then back up to her. "Huh. I actually did. Thanks."

She gave a soft giggle. "You're welcome." Then her cheeks flushed pink again. "Thank you for helping me catch a snowflake."

"You're welcome." Suddenly, he coughed again. But this time, he couldn't stop at just one. He coughed four times. And each cough became more fierce than the last. So much, in fact, that it concerned her.

She placed her hand on his back as her eyes widened in concern. "Are you alright?"

He coughed again before managing to speak. "...Yeah... Yeah, I'm okay. Nothin' t' worry about. Jus' got choked a little." He cleared his throat and smiled it off. "I'm good."

"You sure?"

He nodded. "Yeah. Don't worry."

"Okay... If you're sure..." Just then, a rumble broke through the silence, and Minnie knew where it had come from. "Hee hee, sounds like you're getting hungry."

"Heh, guess I am," he said with a sheepish smile, rubbing the back of his neck. Truth was, he barely had any breakfast. Just a couple pieces of toast that morning.

"Well, then, come on." She grabbed his hand and gave it a light tug, urging him to follow. "I'm gettin' kinda hungry too. So where should we go?"

He thought for a second. "How 'bout the diner?"

She stopped walking as she tilted her head. "And that is... where?"

He looked at her, confused. "You don't know where it is?"

She shook her head. "I'm new here."

It dawned on him. "I knew I hadn't seen ya 'round before. So ya just moved here?"

She nodded, a little smile creeping to her lips. "Yup. Guess you could say I'm like a snowflake; just passing through."

He knew of one place that everybody in town enjoyed. "Well, the diner on 34th Street has really good grilled cheese sandwiches," he suggested.

"Ooh, I love grilled cheese!" she said, her eyes brightening up.

"No way..." What were the chances? His favorite food at the diner had long since been their grilled cheese, and now her favorite was also the same? Yep, if he'd died and gone to Heaven, then man, what a Heaven this was. "Ha ha! Then you'll love theirs! Trust me, you'll love the place!"

"Then let's go! You lead, I'll follow."

The two young mice made their way down the street to nearby diner. It was a modest setup; a simply decorated little diner that was clean and decorated with lights, tinsel and wreaths for the holidays.

At the door, Mickey held it open for Minnie. She blushed and gave a cute curtsy. "Why thank you." As she entered the diner, she was stunned. "Wooow," she said, looking around.

"Heh, toldja you'd love it," Mickey grinned as he stepped up alongside her. He spotted a table in the back and stepped forward. "Care to join me?"

She smiled as she nodded. "I'd love to."

The two sat down opposite of each other at the table. The seats in the diner were comfy red leather. The table had a shine to it and in the center was a small wreath with a lit cinnamon candle in the middle. Inside the diner, the smell of fresh pie and cinnamon candles filled the air. People talked amongst themselves as soft Christmas music played over the speakers. On the window the frost and snow had nestled themselves on the bottom of the sill, and outside was a view of the snow-covered park, along with the streets and houses.

Minnie took off the jacket and held it out with a sweet smile. "Here's your coat. Thank you for letting me use it."

He gave a wave of his hand as he leaned back in the seat. "Keep it. I have other coats."

She shook her head. "But it's yours."

He shrugged. "Don't need it."

She smiled. "Thank you, but I can't accept it."

He smiled coyly as he leaned across the table. "Then consider it a gift. Christmas is just eight days away after all."

"But-"

"No buts. Keep it. I insist." He held his ground as he leaned back, crossing his arms, standing firm in his resolve.

She smiled, warmed by his attitude. He was stubborn, but in a cute and admirable way. "Thank you. But I still feel guilty..."

He shrugged. "Then consider it a gift. That way you won't feel guilty."

She thought for only a second before she nodded. "Okay. Then let me give you something. I can't accept a gift and not give you one."

"Aw, ya don't hafta get me anythin'," he dismissed.

"I want to," she replied, then strengthened her own resolve as she laid the coat down next to her in the seat. "And don't try to make me change my mind."

He held up his hands, realizing she had her own stubborn streak. "Okay, okay. You win." Just then, a waitress walked up to their table.

"Welcome. What can I getcha?" the female fox asked.

Mickey didn't have to think about what he wanted, as he ordered it pretty much every day. "I'll have a grilled cheese sandwich and a regular cola, please." He glanced at the girl across from him.

Minnie picked up the menu and looked over it. "Uh, I'll have one grilled cheese sandwich, and..." She looked back up at the fox. "...one slice of angel food cake and a regular cola, please."

The waitress wrote it down. "Alright, be back in a bit." The fox walked off, leaving the two mice alone.

"And their sandwiches are really good?" Minnie asked, looking at the mouse across the table.

He nodded. "Yep. Best in town, or anywhere for that matter."

She giggled. "Well, then, I'll take your word for it."

"So you just moved here, huh? Whaddaya think of the town?" Mickey asked.

"I just moved here yesterday evening," Minnie answered, so I haven't gotten to see much yet. But from what I have seen, it's really quaint and cute. It's like one of those small towns you see on TV or read about in a book. And I love how festive it looks." She looked out the window at the decorations.

He scratched his head. "So where didja move to? I didn't know there were any places for sale."

She turned back to him. "I'm staying in the inn."

Mickey quirked a brow, a grin forming on his lips. "The ol' Rugby inn?"

She nodded. "Yeah. You know them pretty well?"

Mickey laughed. "Rugby's a great guy. And his wife is like a mother to anyone that stays there. I've heard folks stay there and say they didn't wanna leave."

Minnie giggled. "Well, you're right about that. They keep the place so clean and comfy. As soon as I walked in it felt more like a home than an inn."

"You couldn't have picked a better place. If I didn't have my own place I'd prolly move in!" Both mice laughed. "So how long you stayin'?" He wasn't sure why it nagged him so much to know that, but he hoped she'd be staying a little while. However, he couldn't help but notice her expression turn a bit... sad?

"I'm just sorta... passing through till after Christmas..."

"Oh..." He felt his heart sink like a rock, and suddenly the light atmosphere in the diner seemed much thicker.

Minnie noticed his sudden quiet voice, and it was very unlike the mouse she knew only seconds ago. The saddened expression didn't suit him. "But..." He looked up at her words, and noticed her giving a soft smile. "...I might stay longer... If I really like it here and have a really good reason to stay."

Hope rose within his heart again as a small smile found his lips. Although she only knew him a short time, she already knew she hated seeing him sad. Just then, the waitress brought them their meals. Mickey reached for his wallet as Minnie reached for her purse.

"I got it," he said.

She quickly shook her head. "No, I-" But he handed the money to the waitress, paying for both their meals. As the waitress thanked them and walked off, Minnie looked to Mickey in shock. "You didn't have to do that. I could've paid for my own food."

He gave a kind smile as he pulled a napkin from the holder on the table. "My treat. No big deal."

Minnie smiled softly. That's really kind of you, but I could've paid for my own food."

He shrugged. "Ferget it. My treat."

She smiled warmly. "Thank you. That's really generous of you."

He gave a wave of his hand. "No biggie."

She grinned playfully. "I'll bet you say that to all the girls, huh?" She wasn't really sure why she said that, but she knew what she hoped his answer would be.

He shook his head simply with a boyish smile. "Nope. Just you."

There was the answer she was mentally hoping for, though she actually doubted he'd say it. Her cheeks flushed and her heart suddenly backflipped in her chest. For a moment, she was unable to move or even think, and certainly not speak. She just stared at him, this kind, sweet, and might she add, adorable guy that she'd only known for about a half an hour, and already he'd given her his coat and bought her lunch. "Why're you being so nice to me?" she asked. Most guys wouldn't be this kind without wanting something in return, and she knew what that often was. However, she sensed something different, unique about him.

He looked at her with a mix of confusion and kindness. "What, do I hafta have a reason to be nice to ya?" He picked up his sandwich and took a bite, then took a sip of his soda.

She had to admit, with his kindness and generosity, he was very adorable, and she was greatly flattered by his kindness. It just took her by surprise. "No, it's just... we only just met, and..."

He paused, his still partly unchewed bite in one side of his mouth, making his cheek poof out from it, making him look a little like a chipmunk. "Moving too fast? Too forward?"

Not in her mind, anyway. In retrospect, she was the one to make the first move by offering him cocoa and asking to join him in watching the snow. And sitting here now, she didn't regret it. "Well, no... I mean... I mean I don't think so..." Her mind was abuzz now, her own thoughts conflicting with what her heart was doing, which was beating rapidly. He was cute, sweet, funny... No way a guy like him could actually exist. Could it?

He gave a lighthearted chuckle. "I'm sorry if I seemed too forward. But you were just as nice to me in th' park." She had to admit, he had a point. She technically was the one to make the first move by offering him cocoa. Now he'd bought her lunch, so she supposed they were even. He turned his gaze to the window, seeing the flakes continuing to fall. "'Sides, I know how it is when yer new somewhere. You're a stranger. So it's nice when someone offers to help ya out." He turned back to her. "However long ya stay for, I'd like to help ya enjoy the best this town has to offer. Help ya enjoy Christmas." By now his eyes were shining with boyish excitement. "I can even show ya 'round if ya'd like."

Minnie smiled. She was new to this small town after all. And she actually didn't want anyone else but him to show her around given the choice. She nodded, her eyes giving a soft twinkle. "I'd think I'd love that." Just then, the gurgle of her own stomach alerted her to the fact it was empty. She picked up her sandwich and after saying a silent prayer, took a bite. Her eyes widened as her taste buds tingled from the delicious meal. "Wow, this is good!"

Mickey chuckled. "Heh, toldja."

She swallowed before she spoke again. "Oh, yeah, I'm definitely coming back here again." She giggled.

"So what brings ya to town anyway? What madeja decide to come here?" Mickey asked, curious.

Minnie wiped off her mouth with a napkin. "Someone told me I should come here, that I would enjoy it." She gave a soft giggle. "Like I said before, guess you could say I'm like a snowflake; just passin' through."

"Got any family here?"

She shook her head. "No. They live waayy outta town." She took another bite off her sandwich. "What about you? You always lived here?" she asked him curiously.

Mickey glanced out the window. "Nah, not always. I was born here, but I didn't stay. I wanted to travel, to see the world, so I did." He turned back to her. "But I came back once the holidays rolled around. Be weird spendin' Christmas someplace else other than home, huh?"

She nodded with a soft chuckle. "Definitely." She took a sip of her cola. "Can't beat being home for the holidays."

He chuckled. "Ain't that the truth."

"So what's it like here?" she asked, casting a gaze around the diner before setting her sights back on the guy in front of her.

He smiled as he turned his gaze to the window, before he looked up to the sky. The snow continued to sprinkle lightly from the heavens. "It's a great little town. Everybody knows ya, and you know everybody. There's usually always somethin' goin' on." He turned back to her as he motioned his head toward the window. "See that fella there?"

Minnie glanced out the window, seeing a dog that looked in his thirties walking down the street with female dog, whom Minnie presumed to be his girlfriend or wife. "Yeah."

"That's frank. He owns and runs the market here in town. That woman with him's Amelia. She works at the bank." Mickey gestured his head up the road, and Minnie looked back to see a white rabbit walking down the street with a dog on a leash. "That's Luther. He's the mechanic. On Friday nights, he and some of his pals go bowlin'. And on Saturday, fishin'. And you've already met Rugby and his wife." Mickey took another sip of his cola. "I'll show ya some other folks when I show ya around."

Minnie turned back to him and gave a wink, sending his heart into a frenzy. "Sounds good to me." She took another bite of her sandwich. "So do you have any family here?"

He was silent for a couple seconds before a sigh left his mouth, and when he spoke, his voice was quieter than before. "Nope. Just me."

As the realization sank in, guilt welled up inside her heart, her eyes going wide as she stopped chewing for a moment, before swallowed hard and forcing her bite down, which suddenly felt much heavier. "Oh... I... I-I'm so sorry... I..."

He waved a hand. "Don't worry about it." He offered a light smile, but she could tell he was forcing it. "'Sides, I'm not alone. Lotta the people here are like family." Before she could apologize again, he spoke up. "Anyway, what wouldja like to see first?"

Minnie knew he was both avoiding the topic and just being curious about where to take her first. She decided to follow him and avoid bringing up something he felt uncomfortable with. "Well, you're the tour guide," she said with a light smile. "You lead, I'll follow."

He nodded. "Alright. Well, then, prepare to be dazzled!" Then his eyes widened in excitement. "Oh, golly, ya should really see the town at night too, with all the lights aglow... It really looks like one a' those little Christmas villages ya see in the stores."

Minnie's eyes widened this time. Growing up, she couldn't count the times she'd stop by the shelves in stores during the holidays and gaze in wonder and excitement at the little porcelain Christmas village; with the tiny lights aglow and Christmas music playing over the store speakers. "Ooh, it sounds wonderful!" she said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. She finished her sandwich at that moment, then picked up a fork, pulled off a piece of the angel food cake and put in her mouth. "Mmmm!" she sighed at the delicious taste. "This is really good!" She pulled off a piece and held it up to him. "Try it."

He shook his head as he swallowed the last bite of his sandwich. "I'm not taking your cake."

She continued to hold it up. "Go on. Take a bite."

He watched her for a moment, seeing that she wasn't surrendering, and finally rolled his eyes. "Alright, you win." He leaned forward and took the bite she'd offered. As he tasted the slice of cake, he had to admit it was delicious. "Wow, that is good."

She giggled. "Heh, toldja. Lemme order you a slice."

He held up his hand. "Nah, I'm good. Thanks anyway."

She tilted her head for a second before he noticed a twinkle in her eyes. "Well, then, I owe you a piece. Next time we eat here, it's my treat."

He smiled softly. "Ya really don't hafta do that, ya know."

She smiled cutely. "Too late. Already made up my mind."

He shook his head. What was it with this girl that was so... charming? And... adorable? She was perky, spunky, and cavity-making sweet. If she didn't turn his blood to honey and syrup he'd be surprised. Minnie took another sip of her cola as Mickey leaned back in his seat, taking a sip of his own.

"So how big is the town?" she inquired.

"It's not real big," he said. "You could walk from one end of it to the other but it'd take ya a couple a hours. Some people walk and others drive." He watched her swallow the last bit of her cake and straightened up, ready to go. Minnie picked up her soda up and Mickey's coat, but he quickly got up and grabbed his coat, holding it up for her. "Here."

Minnie gazed up at him, her cheeks pinkening as she smiled shyly. "Oh! W-Why thank you..." She slipped her arms through the sleeves and looked up at him again. For a moment, both just stared, neither saying a word. It was only a few seconds, but certainly not an uncomfortable few seconds. Mickey cleared his throat as he rubbed the back of his neck shyly. "We, uh... We better get goin' if ya wanna see the town."

Minnie's cheeks were bright pink as she adverted her eyes away from his, though she really didn't want to. "...Right..." What was it about him that was so... interesting? So charming? So... So cute? She wasn't sure, but she knew he definitely had her curiosity piqued. As the two started walking back to the door, he swiftly opened it for her, making her heart flutter once more as she gave him a warm smile of thanks.

Outside, the chilly air hit the mice, and Minnie sunk inside Mickey's coat deeper for warmth. Being inside in the warm made them realize just how cold it was. As such, Minnie knew that Mickey still wasn't wearing a coat.

"Don't you need you coat?" she asked, looking up to him. "It's awful nippy out here."

He chuckled with a shake of his head. "Your coat. And nah, I'm good. I'm not the one in a short dress, remember?" She chuckled, and nudged him playfully with her hip. "So where do ya wanna go first?" he asked.

She shrugged. "Doesn't matter to me. You're the tour guide." She giggled.

"Well then..." He thought for a second before taking a couple steps down the diner steps. "...'guess I'll hafta show ya everythin'." He gave her a wink, and her heart fluttered as her cheeks pinkened. "Follow me."

She giggled. "After you." She stepped down the steps and walked up alongside him as they started down the sidewalk. Suddenly he stopped.

"I'll get my truck. That way ya don't hafta be out in the cold. If ya wanna wait inside the diner till I get back ya can."

She shook her head. "Nah, I'll just follow you."

"Ya sure? It's pretty nippy out here," he reminded her.

She didn't want him to be the only one out in the cold. "I don't mind. Besides, I don't feel right you being out in the cold alone while I'm warm inside the diner. And I can keep you company."

He felt his own heart backflip. "Alright, if yer sure."

"I am," she nodded, and took a few steps past him. "So, shall we continue?"

He smiled. "Yes, Ma'am!" He walked up alongside her and the two walked down the street together, each enjoying the snowfall as they walked. Mickey had left his truck right outside the park, so it wasn't that far a walk, since the diner was so close to the park. As they neared the black '97 Dodge Ram, Mickey pulled out his keys and unlocked the passenger door. "Madam."

Minnie gave a curtsy. "Why, thank you." She climbed inside the truck and watched as he walked around, unlocked the driver door and climbed inside, it giving a squeak as it closed.

He started the truck and turned the heat on. "Don't worry, it'll get warm in here soon. This truck's got a good heater in it."

Minnie contemplated scooting closer to him, both for warmth and just because she had an urge to. His undenying charm was, well, charming. But she somehow fought it, and glanced around the inside of his truck briefly. It was very clean on the inside. A black leather bench seat which had a black seat cover over it, and a gingerbread scented air freshener hanging from the mirror. Over the radio, which was turned down to a soft volume, she could hear Christmas music playing over the station. Outside, the snow continued to fall, and was already laying on the hood, blanketing it in white. As the song current song ended, Minnie instantly recognized the next song as it started to play. It was Oh Come All Ye Faithful. Minnie couldn't help but begin to hum softly as she heard it. Mickey turned to her, watching and listening to her. She glanced up, seeing him watching with a smile. She hushed instantly, feeling her cheeks get hot.

"Oh! S-Sorry..."

He shook his head. "Don't be. Go on."

"Hm?" She titled her head.

"Your singing won't bother me," he assured with a kind smile, leaning back.

Her cheeks burned as she adverted her gaze away shyly. Softly, she started to hum along with the music as he turned the radio up a bit. Not much, as he didn't want to miss out on hearing her voice. Just enough so she'd have some music. Her humming soon turned to soft singing. Her singing was like her voice, as he quickly realized. It was soft, sweet, and very harmonic. It was so soothing and alluring, like the music of the heavens. She opened her eyes and looked towards him, giving a soft, shy smile as she continued. Obviously her shyness was slowly fading away, and she found herself actually enjoying having him for an audience. He listened contently to her melodic voice, wondering why this girl didn't sing professionally. When the song ended, she gazed at him for a second before adverting her eyes.

"Wow..."

She kept her gaze aimed at her lap. "I know. I suck."

"No, no, no, you were amazing!" he quickly said.

She looked up to meet his gaze, and realized that his cheeks were now the same dark pink as her own.

He rubbed the back of his neck. "I've... honestly never heard anything so beautiful before..."

Her heart did so man somersaults in her chest she lost count. "You... You really think so?"

His cheeks now nearly as red as a tomato, Mickey didn't bother to hide his thoughts. "You've got a beautiful voice, Minnie."

Besides the compliment making her heart twirl, the way he said her name... It was cute, and... She couldn't really explain it. She just loved how he said her name. And she actually hoped to hear him say it again. "Thank you, Mickey. That's really sweet of you to say." She couldn't look at him right now, as she knew her cheeks would match his truck.

Now it was his turn to feel fluttery in his stomach. The soft, sweet way she said his name just made him want to hear her say it more. Though he knew asking her to say it again would be completely weird. "Where'd you learn to sing like that?"

Minnie twiddled her thumbs in her lap. "I used to sing in the church choir when I was little. I especially loved it during Christmas." She chuckled. "There were so many songs to sing. Some I couldn't even do because there were so many other songs picked out that I wanted to do."

An idea struck Mickey like a load of bricks, his eyes widening as he suddenly beamed with excitement. "Wouldja consider singing at the church here? They could use somebody to sing in the choir."

Minnie shook her head. "I really don't think they'd need me."

"'Course they would!" he exclaimed, clearly excited about the idea, bouncing in his seat. "With that voice, who wouldn't love to hear ya sing? I know I'd love to hear ya again."

Minnie's cheeks felt really hot by this point. "T-Thank you. I'll think about it."

By now the truck was warmed up. Mickey put on his seatbelt, prompting Minnie to do the same. As he put the truck in drive, he chuckled. "Well, ya'd definitely wow 'em."

"Hee hee, thanks," she smiled. "I'll definitely think about it."

Mickey cleared his throat before he spoke. "Guess I don't hafta show ya the diner." Minnie giggled. "And you've already seen the park. So I'll just take ya through main street."

"You're the tour guide," she chuckled.

To be continued...

Description
The light snow fall sprinkled the streets, passersby not stopping to pay any mind to the snowflakes as they fluttered down to earth. Each unique and each with its own radiance. No one paid any attention to them as they hustled past, caught up in their holiday shopping. He, however, saw things differently.

He sat there on a bench on the sidewalk, first watching the people hurry past, talking on cell phones, texting, hurrying to get their holiday shopping finished, before he turned his attention back up to the sky. It wasn't clear blue like the summer sky was, but it didn't have to be. Winter had its own beauty, just like summer. He watched as the soft, tiny flakes of white seemed to magically appear out of thin air, and gently make their way down from the heavens to the earth below.

He stuck out his tongue, and tasted the cold flake as it landed upon his taste buds. A soft cold feeling, which instantly disappeared as the flake melted away from the warmth of his tongue. His eyes resumed their position upward, watching the beauty of winter. As he watched, he paid no mind to the people, the honking of horns or the ringing of phones that could be heard outside of the park occasionally. No, he just sat there and watched it snow. All was quite. All was calm. Nothing else existed.

Or so he thought...

Unbeknownst to him, he had been watched. His attention had been drawn so much to the snow that he'd failed to notice the person eyeing him with just as much fascination and contentment as he held for the snow. It wasn't until she spoke that he was made aware of her presence.

"Hello."

A soft, sweet, affectionate voice. The only thing he could compare it to was honey, but even then the purest honey couldn't compare to the sweet sound of her voice. Rather startled, he turned to see the origin of the voice, and was struck by something even more beautiful than the snow.

She was a mouse like him, obviously either the same age as him or younger, with onyx skin, a cream face, and the warmest deep brown eyes he'd ever seen. A smile to match her eyes graced her lips, yet it contained a hint of playfulness and curiosity, of wonder and hope. Behind her, her little tail gently and slowly moved side to side. She wore a white bow on her head, and had a little piece of holly leaves and tiny berries in front of her left ear. The long-sleeve dress she wore came to just above her knees, but was also white, with soft white faux around the bottom hem and around the wrists. White pumps also covered her feet. She tilted her head a bit, in a cute fashion, obviously wondering if he'd say anything. Her sheer beauty made him forget completely about the snow, heck, about everything, and he had to think fast and hard to made his mind work again.

"Oh, uh, h-hi." Dang it. He mentally scolded himself for sounding like a doofus in front of her, but they were the only words his mouth could form.

She made a gentle gesture - a slight tilt of her head - to the bench upon which he sat. "May I join you?"

He could only nod, and scooted over to allow her some room. Though in his mind, he contemplated highly on not scooting over too much, as it would make her have to sit closer to him. He couldn't help but watch as she gently and gracefully sat down on the bench beside him, thankfully rather close to him, and noticed her little tail again as it curled gently up and down at the tip. He tried to steady his heart as he adverted his gaze away, not wanting to unsettle her, and redirected his attention back up to the sky. Though now with her next to him, the snow had lost most of its luster. Suddenly, he saw her, out of the corner of his eye, watching him. He pretended not to notice, and waited a couple of seconds before turning his head. But when he did, she also adverted her gaze upward, and he swore he saw a soft pink tint to her cheeks. Was she blushing? Man, was she cute.

"The snow's beautiful, isn't it?" she said softly, watching the falling flakes before turning her warm gaze to him, her soft, lightly tinted rosy cheeks adding to her already adorble-beyond-measure features.

He looked back up to the sky, blinking as another flake landed on his nose. "Yeah. It really is. Some people hate th' snow, but I think it's beautiful." He glanced back to her, surprised to see her still looking at him, apparently having listened to and taken in every word he'd said.

She turned her gaze back up to the sky, a playful, child-like innocence to her nature. "Amazing how something so tiny can be so beautiful."

He continued to watch her. I know, he thought, the snow never crossing his mind.

She turned back to him, and blushed and shyly adverted her gaze away from him when she found him watching her. She reached over to her side and after he heard the rattling of a paper bag, she held up two cups with lids on them. "Cocoa?"

He blinked, and slowly reached for one of the cups. "Oh, um... Thanks." The twinkle in her eyes as he accepted her offer made his heart jump. That and the adorable smile on her adorable face. He took a sip, and watched as she did the same. As the nearly hot liquid flowed down his esophagus, he relished the feeling as it warmed his whole body, which the cold had tinged since he'd first stepped out in it moments ago. He found it hard to actually focus on the snow with the beautiful creature sitting next to him, yet he didn't want to seem like a creep either. So he restrained himself from looking her way and kept his eyes focused upward. A few seconds of silence past, both looking up to the sky, neither saying a word. Until one did...

"I'm Minnie. Minnie Mouse," she spoke, glancing back to him, still bearing her radiant smile.

Forcing his brain to work, he held out his hand. "Mickey. Mickey Mouse."

Her eyes seemed to sparkle as her smile widened. She accepted his hand, placing her smaller one in his. As he felt the warmth of her hand connect with his, he felt a jolt go through him unlike anything he'd ever felt. Though he chalked it up to it just being his heart exploding in his chest.

As they withdrew hands, she leaned back, crossing one leg over the other. "So what're you doing out here? Taking a break from Christmas shopping or just watching the snowfall?" A playful and contagious smile graced her peach-colored lips, which he just knew tasted like peppermint.

He exhaled as he looked back up to the sky with a slight shake of his head. "Nah, not taking a break. Thought I'd come out here and just admire the snow." He turned to her. "How 'bout you? How come you're out in the cold?"

She looked back up at the sky for a brief moment before looking down at her cocoa, a light smile playing across her lips. "Same." She looked back up to the sky. "I love the snow. I wanted to see the flakes. So I came out to watch." She turned to him. "Glad I'm not the only one who enjoys it."

He smiled. "Must be the only two people on earth watchin' it right now." He coughed.

"Yeah." She took a brief glance around, and sure enough, he was correct in his assumption. There were fewer people in the park now, but she didn't see anybody else around them. So it did feel like they were the only two people on earth watching the snow together. She smiled fondly at the thought as she looked back down to her cup of cocoa. "Too many people get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. There's beauty in winter, you just have to look around to see it."

He glanced at her. He thought he knew what beauty was, but now she had contradicted his thoughts with her own radiance. His thoughts vanished as she spoke again.

"People often forget about what this time of year really means, about what it's all about." She smiled as she looked back up to the sky, then cast a glance toward him. "Love."

The way she said the word while looking at him sent his heart into a series of flips and spins, and the way she looked at him as she said it made it go into overdrive. At this point, she'd looked back up to the falling snow, and he noticed her tail curl up close to her on the bench and, thinking she must be cold, removed his jacket. "Here."

She turned to him just as he drapped the garment around her shoulders, and her cheeks flushed. "N-No, I can't take your jacket!" she protested, not wanting him to be without the warmth it provided.

He smiled gently as a chuckle escaped him. "It's cold out here. And yer wearin' a dress. If yer gonna sit out here, ya need it. I don't mind."

She stared into his eyes, which were the same brown as her own, seeing the sincerity of his words. And the warmth from his smile seemed to warm her like nothing she'd ever felt. His eyes were like summertime. As her cheeks remained a soft rosy pink, she smiled as she curled up inside his warm jacket. "T-Thank you..." Her smile suddenly faded. "But what about you? I can't take your jacket. Don't you need it?"

He shrugged. "Don't need it. I'm warm enough. 'Sides..." His eyes twinkled playfully. "I'm not the one wearing a dress in December."

She smirked, and nudged him playfully. Then she relaxed once more, curling up inside the warmth of his jacket as she gave a soft, content smile and sigh. "Thank you."

He shrugged, returning her expression. "You're welcome."

She couldn't help but notice, however, that when he'd placed his jacket around her, he'd left his arm laying across the bench behind her. Be it intentional or unintentional she didn't know. But she didn't care. And took the opportunity to scoot a little closer to him, nuzzling him gently as she leaned into him.

This set his heart and brain into a frenzy. Behind him, and unknowing to her, her action had caught him off guard so much that his tail had shot out straight, and was now as stiff as a metal rod. However, as the tiny young girl mouse relaxed next to him, he found his heart began to beat again, and he slowly moved his hand down to rest on her arm. In response to this, he swore he felt her move closer. No, he knew he felt it. As a smile found his face, he began to relax as well, letting her rest against him. He didn't know how he'd went from sitting on the park bench alone to now having a beautiful angel sitting cuddled up to him, but right now, he didn't care. If this was a dream he never wanted to wake up. And anyone that woke him up wouldn't live to see another day.

A few more minutes passed in silence. Neither mouse spoke, but then they didn't need to. There was something in the air that couldn't be explained. A sense of calm, serenity, and joy that neither had felt until that very moment. A sudden euphoria that was unlike any other. And amidst the peaceful silence, each young mouse would secretly steal glances at the other.

"Thanks again for the hot cocoa," Mickey finally said, his voice a relaxing vibe within the air around her.

"You're welcome," Minnie replied, looking up to him. "Thanks again for your jacket."

He shrugged. "No prob." He took another sip of his cocoa, and paused for a moment, thinking. "Say..." She looked up to him once more as he spoke. "How did you know I loved hot chocolate?"

An impish smile crept to her lips as she looked down, trying to hide her pinkening cheeks. "Who doesn't love hot chocolate on a winter day?" She looked back up to him. "How'd you know I was feeling chilly?"

He grinned playfully. "I seen yer tail curl up around you."

Her cheeks flushed once more as she looked back down again. "...Oh... Heh... ...Right..." She looked back up again, and for a few more seconds, neither spoke. Until an idea came to mind. "Did you ever try catching a snowflake?" she suddenly asked, her eyes a glitter.

He chuckled, a little confused by the sudden random, out-of-the-blue question. "Don't really have much luck catchin' 'em..."

She quickly sat down her cup before she jumped up. "Hee hee! Well, then c'mon! Lemme show you!" She grabbed his hand, and he barely had time to set his cup down before she pulled him up and out into the snow. She pulled her arms through the sleeves of his jacket and grabbed his hand once more, her steps bouncing as she excitedly pulled him near the hill. When they got there, she turned to him with that same childlike excitement shining in her eyes. "You can't enjoy a snowfall and not be tempted to catch a snowflake." She gave a cute tilt of her head. "It's like... the law of winter, ya know." She let go of his hand and took a few steps back. She looked up and within three seconds, caught one in her gloved hands. "Ha ha! See? It's easy!"

He watched her, as she giggled gleefully at having just caught a snowflake in her hand. She continued to giggle as she did a twirl, the bottom of her dress flaring out around her as she spun once, then stopped, looking back at him. By now his heart was pounding, and he was fascinated by this girl. By how easy going she seemed, and heart attack inducingly cute she was. With her white attire, she looked like a beautiful snowflake.

"Come on, Mickey!" she beckoned with a giggle, waving a hand for him to join her. Her merriment was contagious, and he found himself smiling and his heart twirling from her evident joy.

That giggle. That melodious giggle. His heart was barely withstanding it. That soft, sweet, innocent, charming little giggle. He'd found a new favorite harmony. "Alright, hang on!" He closed the distance between them and placed his hands on her slender - and as he felt, soft - sides and lifted her up in the air. She first squeaked with surprise at his action, but she giggled happily as she was hoisted into the air, her arms out wide as he held her. He turned around, allowing her to catch several flakes in her palms, before gently lowering her to the earth.

As her pumps rested in the snow, their eyes locked. In that moment, each realized something; He was taller than her, he realized how soft she felt and she realized how warm his hands felt. They stood there, him with his hands on her sides, staring into each others eyes. Suddenly, a flake landed on the tip of his nose.

"Hee hee, looks like you caught one," Minnie giggled, then stepped back a bit. "Here. Just hold out your hand." She took his hand and held it palm up, holding his gently with her own. He was glad she couldn't feel his heart, otherwise she'd swear he was having a heart attack right now. But then, sure enough, a flake landed in his palm. "See. It's easy."

He stared at the flake, or at least what of it wasn't melted yet, then back up to her. "Huh. I actually did. Thanks."

She gave a soft giggle. "You're welcome." Then her cheeks flushed pink again. "Thank you for helping me catch a snowflake."

"You're welcome." Suddenly, he coughed again. But this time, he couldn't stop at just one. He coughed four times. And each cough became more fierce than the last. So much, in fact, that it concerned her.

She placed her hand on his back as her eyes widened in concern. "Are you alright?"

He coughed again before managing to speak. "...Yeah... Yeah, I'm okay. Nothin' t' worry about. Jus' got choked a little." He cleared his throat and smiled it off. "I'm good."

"You sure?"

He nodded. "Yeah. Don't worry."

"Okay... If you're sure..." Just then, a rumble broke through the silence, and Minnie knew where it had come from. "Hee hee, sounds like you're getting hungry."

"Heh, guess I am," he said with a sheepish smile, rubbing the back of his neck. Truth was, he barely had any breakfast. Just a couple pieces of toast that morning.

"Well, then, come on." She grabbed his hand and gave it a light tug, urging him to follow. "I'm gettin' kinda hungry too. So where should we go?"

He thought for a second. "How 'bout the diner?"

She stopped walking as she tilted her head. "And that is... where?"

He looked at her, confused. "You don't know where it is?"

She shook her head. "I'm new here."

It dawned on him. "I knew I hadn't seen ya 'round before. So ya just moved here?"

She nodded, a little smile creeping to her lips. "Yup. Guess you could say I'm like a snowflake; just passing through."

He knew of one place that everybody in town enjoyed. "Well, the diner on 34th Street has really good grilled cheese sandwiches," he suggested.

"Ooh, I love grilled cheese!" she said, her eyes brightening up.

"No way..." What were the chances? His favorite food at the diner had long since been their grilled cheese, and now her favorite was also the same? Yep, if he'd died and gone to Heaven, then man, what a Heaven this was. "Ha ha! Then you'll love theirs! Trust me, you'll love the place!"

"Then let's go! You lead, I'll follow."

The two young mice made their way down the street to nearby diner. It was a modest setup; a simply decorated little diner that was clean and decorated with lights, tinsel and wreaths for the holidays.

At the door, Mickey held it open for Minnie. She blushed and gave a cute curtsy. "Why thank you." As she entered the diner, she was stunned. "Wooow," she said, looking around.

"Heh, toldja you'd love it," Mickey grinned as he stepped up alongside her. He spotted a table in the back and stepped forward. "Care to join me?"

She smiled as she nodded. "I'd love to."

The two sat down opposite of each other at the table. The seats in the diner were comfy red leather. The table had a shine to it and in the center was a small wreath with a lit cinnamon candle in the middle. Inside the diner, the smell of fresh pie and cinnamon candles filled the air. People talked amongst themselves as soft Christmas music played over the speakers. On the window the frost and snow had nestled themselves on the bottom of the sill, and outside was a view of the snow-covered park, along with the streets and houses.

Minnie took off the jacket and held it out with a sweet smile. "Here's your coat. Thank you for letting me use it."

He gave a wave of his hand as he leaned back in the seat. "Keep it. I have other coats."

She shook her head. "But it's yours."

He shrugged. "Don't need it."

She smiled. "Thank you, but I can't accept it."

He smiled coyly as he leaned across the table. "Then consider it a gift. Christmas is just eight days away after all."

"But-"

"No buts. Keep it. I insist." He held his ground as he leaned back, crossing his arms, standing firm in his resolve.

She smiled, warmed by his attitude. He was stubborn, but in a cute and admirable way. "Thank you. But I still feel guilty..."

He shrugged. "Then consider it a gift. That way you won't feel guilty."

She thought for only a second before she nodded. "Okay. Then let me give you something. I can't accept a gift and not give you one."

"Aw, ya don't hafta get me anythin'," he dismissed.

"I want to," she replied, then strengthened her own resolve as she laid the coat down next to her in the seat. "And don't try to make me change my mind."

He held up his hands, realizing she had her own stubborn streak. "Okay, okay. You win." Just then, a waitress walked up to their table.

"Welcome. What can I getcha?" the female fox asked.

Mickey didn't have to think about what he wanted, as he ordered it pretty much every day. "I'll have a grilled cheese sandwich and a regular cola, please." He glanced at the girl across from him.

Minnie picked up the menu and looked over it. "Uh, I'll have one grilled cheese sandwich, and..." She looked back up at the fox. "...one slice of angel food cake and a regular cola, please."

The waitress wrote it down. "Alright, be back in a bit." The fox walked off, leaving the two mice alone.

"And their sandwiches are really good?" Minnie asked, looking at the mouse across the table.

He nodded. "Yep. Best in town, or anywhere for that matter."

She giggled. "Well, then, I'll take your word for it."

"So you just moved here, huh? Whaddaya think of the town?" Mickey asked.

"I just moved here yesterday evening," Minnie answered, so I haven't gotten to see much yet. But from what I have seen, it's really quaint and cute. It's like one of those small towns you see on TV or read about in a book. And I love how festive it looks." She looked out the window at the decorations.

He scratched his head. "So where didja move to? I didn't know there were any places for sale."

She turned back to him. "I'm staying in the inn."

Mickey quirked a brow, a grin forming on his lips. "The ol' Rugby inn?"

She nodded. "Yeah. You know them pretty well?"

Mickey laughed. "Rugby's a great guy. And his wife is like a mother to anyone that stays there. I've heard folks stay there and say they didn't wanna leave."

Minnie giggled. "Well, you're right about that. They keep the place so clean and comfy. As soon as I walked in it felt more like a home than an inn."

"You couldn't have picked a better place. If I didn't have my own place I'd prolly move in!" Both mice laughed. "So how long you stayin'?" He wasn't sure why it nagged him so much to know that, but he hoped she'd be staying a little while. However, he couldn't help but notice her expression turn a bit... sad?

"I'm just sorta... passing through till after Christmas..."

"Oh..." He felt his heart sink like a rock, and suddenly the light atmosphere in the diner seemed much thicker.

Minnie noticed his sudden quiet voice, and it was very unlike the mouse she knew only seconds ago. The saddened expression didn't suit him. "But..." He looked up at her words, and noticed her giving a soft smile. "...I might stay longer... If I really like it here and have a really good reason to stay."

Hope rose within his heart again as a small smile found his lips. Although she only knew him a short time, she already knew she hated seeing him sad. Just then, the waitress brought them their meals. Mickey reached for his wallet as Minnie reached for her purse.

"I got it," he said.

She quickly shook her head. "No, I-" But he handed the money to the waitress, paying for both their meals. As the waitress thanked them and walked off, Minnie looked to Mickey in shock. "You didn't have to do that. I could've paid for my own food."

He gave a kind smile as he pulled a napkin from the holder on the table. "My treat. No big deal."

Minnie smiled softly. That's really kind of you, but I could've paid for my own food."

He shrugged. "Ferget it. My treat."

She smiled warmly. "Thank you. That's really generous of you."

He gave a wave of his hand. "No biggie."

She grinned playfully. "I'll bet you say that to all the girls, huh?" She wasn't really sure why she said that, but she knew what she hoped his answer would be.

He shook his head simply with a boyish smile. "Nope. Just you."

There was the answer she was mentally hoping for, though she actually doubted he'd say it. Her cheeks flushed and her heart suddenly backflipped in her chest. For a moment, she was unable to move or even think, and certainly not speak. She just stared at him, this kind, sweet, and might she add, adorable guy that she'd only known for about a half an hour, and already he'd given her his coat and bought her lunch. "Why're you being so nice to me?" she asked. Most guys wouldn't be this kind without wanting something in return, and she knew what that often was. However, she sensed something different, unique about him.

He looked at her with a mix of confusion and kindness. "What, do I hafta have a reason to be nice to ya?" He picked up his sandwich and took a bite, then took a sip of his soda.

She had to admit, with his kindness and generosity, he was very adorable, and she was greatly flattered by his kindness. It just took her by surprise. "No, it's just... we only just met, and..."

He paused, his still partly unchewed bite in one side of his mouth, making his cheek poof out from it, making him look a little like a chipmunk. "Moving too fast? Too forward?"

Not in her mind, anyway. In retrospect, she was the one to make the first move by offering him cocoa and asking to join him in watching the snow. And sitting here now, she didn't regret it. "Well, no... I mean... I mean I don't think so..." Her mind was abuzz now, her own thoughts conflicting with what her heart was doing, which was beating rapidly. He was cute, sweet, funny... No way a guy like him could actually exist. Could it?

He gave a lighthearted chuckle. "I'm sorry if I seemed too forward. But you were just as nice to me in th' park." She had to admit, he had a point. She technically was the one to make the first move by offering him cocoa. Now he'd bought her lunch, so she supposed they were even. He turned his gaze to the window, seeing the flakes continuing to fall. "'Sides, I know how it is when yer new somewhere. You're a stranger. So it's nice when someone offers to help ya out." He turned back to her. "However long ya stay for, I'd like to help ya enjoy the best this town has to offer. Help ya enjoy Christmas." By now his eyes were shining with boyish excitement. "I can even show ya 'round if ya'd like."

Minnie smiled. She was new to this small town after all. And she actually didn't want anyone else but him to show her around given the choice. She nodded, her eyes giving a soft twinkle. "I'd think I'd love that." Just then, the gurgle of her own stomach alerted her to the fact it was empty. She picked up her sandwich and after saying a silent prayer, took a bite. Her eyes widened as her taste buds tingled from the delicious meal. "Wow, this is good!"

Mickey chuckled. "Heh, toldja."

She swallowed before she spoke again. "Oh, yeah, I'm definitely coming back here again." She giggled.

"So what brings ya to town anyway? What madeja decide to come here?" Mickey asked, curious.

Minnie wiped off her mouth with a napkin. "Someone told me I should come here, that I would enjoy it." She gave a soft giggle. "Like I said before, guess you could say I'm like a snowflake; just passin' through."

"Got any family here?"

She shook her head. "No. They live waayy outta town." She took another bite off her sandwich. "What about you? You always lived here?" she asked him curiously.

Mickey glanced out the window. "Nah, not always. I was born here, but I didn't stay. I wanted to travel, to see the world, so I did." He turned back to her. "But I came back once the holidays rolled around. Be weird spendin' Christmas someplace else other than home, huh?"

She nodded with a soft chuckle. "Definitely." She took a sip of her cola. "Can't beat being home for the holidays."

He chuckled. "Ain't that the truth."

"So what's it like here?" she asked, casting a gaze around the diner before setting her sights back on the guy in front of her.

He smiled as he turned his gaze to the window, before he looked up to the sky. The snow continued to sprinkle lightly from the heavens. "It's a great little town. Everybody knows ya, and you know everybody. There's usually always somethin' goin' on." He turned back to her as he motioned his head toward the window. "See that fella there?"

Minnie glanced out the window, seeing a dog that looked in his thirties walking down the street with female dog, whom Minnie presumed to be his girlfriend or wife. "Yeah."

"That's frank. He owns and runs the market here in town. That woman with him's Amelia. She works at the bank." Mickey gestured his head up the road, and Minnie looked back to see a white rabbit walking down the street with a dog on a leash. "That's Luther. He's the mechanic. On Friday nights, he and some of his pals go bowlin'. And on Saturday, fishin'. And you've already met Rugby and his wife." Mickey took another sip of his cola. "I'll show ya some other folks when I show ya around."

Minnie turned back to him and gave a wink, sending his heart into a frenzy. "Sounds good to me." She took another bite of her sandwich. "So do you have any family here?"

He was silent for a couple seconds before a sigh left his mouth, and when he spoke, his voice was quieter than before. "Nope. Just me."

As the realization sank in, guilt welled up inside her heart, her eyes going wide as she stopped chewing for a moment, before swallowed hard and forcing her bite down, which suddenly felt much heavier. "Oh... I... I-I'm so sorry... I..."

He waved a hand. "Don't worry about it." He offered a light smile, but she could tell he was forcing it. "'Sides, I'm not alone. Lotta the people here are like family." Before she could apologize again, he spoke up. "Anyway, what wouldja like to see first?"

Minnie knew he was both avoiding the topic and just being curious about where to take her first. She decided to follow him and avoid bringing up something he felt uncomfortable with. "Well, you're the tour guide," she said with a light smile. "You lead, I'll follow."

He nodded. "Alright. Well, then, prepare to be dazzled!" Then his eyes widened in excitement. "Oh, golly, ya should really see the town at night too, with all the lights aglow... It really looks like one a' those little Christmas villages ya see in the stores."

Minnie's eyes widened this time. Growing up, she couldn't count the times she'd stop by the shelves in stores during the holidays and gaze in wonder and excitement at the little porcelain Christmas village; with the tiny lights aglow and Christmas music playing over the store speakers. "Ooh, it sounds wonderful!" she said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. She finished her sandwich at that moment, then picked up a fork, pulled off a piece of the angel food cake and put in her mouth. "Mmmm!" she sighed at the delicious taste. "This is really good!" She pulled off a piece and held it up to him. "Try it."

He shook his head as he swallowed the last bite of his sandwich. "I'm not taking your cake."

She continued to hold it up. "Go on. Take a bite."

He watched her for a moment, seeing that she wasn't surrendering, and finally rolled his eyes. "Alright, you win." He leaned forward and took the bite she'd offered. As he tasted the slice of cake, he had to admit it was delicious. "Wow, that is good."

She giggled. "Heh, toldja. Lemme order you a slice."

He held up his hand. "Nah, I'm good. Thanks anyway."

She tilted her head for a second before he noticed a twinkle in her eyes. "Well, then, I owe you a piece. Next time we eat here, it's my treat."

He smiled softly. "Ya really don't hafta do that, ya know."

She smiled cutely. "Too late. Already made up my mind."

He shook his head. What was it with this girl that was so... charming? And... adorable? She was perky, spunky, and cavity-making sweet. If she didn't turn his blood to honey and syrup he'd be surprised. Minnie took another sip of her cola as Mickey leaned back in his seat, taking a sip of his own.

"So how big is the town?" she inquired.

"It's not real big," he said. "You could walk from one end of it to the other but it'd take ya a couple a hours. Some people walk and others drive." He watched her swallow the last bit of her cake and straightened up, ready to go. Minnie picked up her soda up and Mickey's coat, but he quickly got up and grabbed his coat, holding it up for her. "Here."

Minnie gazed up at him, her cheeks pinkening as she smiled shyly. "Oh! W-Why thank you..." She slipped her arms through the sleeves and looked up at him again. For a moment, both just stared, neither saying a word. It was only a few seconds, but certainly not an uncomfortable few seconds. Mickey cleared his throat as he rubbed the back of his neck shyly. "We, uh... We better get goin' if ya wanna see the town."

Minnie's cheeks were bright pink as she adverted her eyes away from his, though she really didn't want to. "...Right..." What was it about him that was so... interesting? So charming? So... So cute? She wasn't sure, but she knew he definitely had her curiosity piqued. As the two started walking back to the door, he swiftly opened it for her, making her heart flutter once more as she gave him a warm smile of thanks.

Outside, the chilly air hit the mice, and Minnie sunk inside Mickey's coat deeper for warmth. Being inside in the warm made them realize just how cold it was. As such, Minnie knew that Mickey still wasn't wearing a coat.

"Don't you need you coat?" she asked, looking up to him. "It's awful nippy out here."

He chuckled with a shake of his head. "Your coat. And nah, I'm good. I'm not the one in a short dress, remember?" She chuckled, and nudged him playfully with her hip. "So where do ya wanna go first?" he asked.

She shrugged. "Doesn't matter to me. You're the tour guide." She giggled.

"Well then..." He thought for a second before taking a couple steps down the diner steps. "...'guess I'll hafta show ya everythin'." He gave her a wink, and her heart fluttered as her cheeks pinkened. "Follow me."

She giggled. "After you." She stepped down the steps and walked up alongside him as they started down the sidewalk. Suddenly he stopped.

"I'll get my truck. That way ya don't hafta be out in the cold. If ya wanna wait inside the diner till I get back ya can."

She shook her head. "Nah, I'll just follow you."

"Ya sure? It's pretty nippy out here," he reminded her.

She didn't want him to be the only one out in the cold. "I don't mind. Besides, I don't feel right you being out in the cold alone while I'm warm inside the diner. And I can keep you company."

He felt his own heart backflip. "Alright, if yer sure."

"I am," she nodded, and took a few steps past him. "So, shall we continue?"

He smiled. "Yes, Ma'am!" He walked up alongside her and the two walked down the street together, each enjoying the snowfall as they walked. Mickey had left his truck right outside the park, so it wasn't that far a walk, since the diner was so close to the park. As they neared the black '97 Dodge Ram, Mickey pulled out his keys and unlocked the passenger door. "Madam."

Minnie gave a curtsy. "Why, thank you." She climbed inside the truck and watched as he walked around, unlocked the driver door and climbed inside, it giving a squeak as it closed.

He started the truck and turned the heat on. "Don't worry, it'll get warm in here soon. This truck's got a good heater in it."

Minnie contemplated scooting closer to him, both for warmth and just because she had an urge to. His undenying charm was, well, charming. But she somehow fought it, and glanced around the inside of his truck briefly. It was very clean on the inside. A black leather bench seat which had a black seat cover over it, and a gingerbread scented air freshener hanging from the mirror. Over the radio, which was turned down to a soft volume, she could hear Christmas music playing over the station. Outside, the snow continued to fall, and was already laying on the hood, blanketing it in white. As the song current song ended, Minnie instantly recognized the next song as it started to play. It was Oh Come All Ye Faithful. Minnie couldn't help but begin to hum softly as she heard it. Mickey turned to her, watching and listening to her. She glanced up, seeing him watching with a smile. She hushed instantly, feeling her cheeks get hot.

"Oh! S-Sorry..."

He shook his head. "Don't be. Go on."

"Hm?" She titled her head.

"Your singing won't bother me," he assured with a kind smile, leaning back.

Her cheeks burned as she adverted her gaze away shyly. Softly, she started to hum along with the music as he turned the radio up a bit. Not much, as he didn't want to miss out on hearing her voice. Just enough so she'd have some music. Her humming soon turned to soft singing. Her singing was like her voice, as he quickly realized. It was soft, sweet, and very harmonic. It was so soothing and alluring, like the music of the heavens. She opened her eyes and looked towards him, giving a soft, shy smile as she continued. Obviously her shyness was slowly fading away, and she found herself actually enjoying having him for an audience. He listened contently to her melodic voice, wondering why this girl didn't sing professionally. When the song ended, she gazed at him for a second before adverting her eyes.

"Wow..."

She kept her gaze aimed at her lap. "I know. I suck."

"No, no, no, you were amazing!" he quickly said.

She looked up to meet his gaze, and realized that his cheeks were now the same dark pink as her own.

He rubbed the back of his neck. "I've... honestly never heard anything so beautiful before..."

Her heart did so man somersaults in her chest she lost count. "You... You really think so?"

His cheeks now nearly as red as a tomato, Mickey didn't bother to hide his thoughts. "You've got a beautiful voice, Minnie."

Besides the compliment making her heart twirl, the way he said her name... It was cute, and... She couldn't really explain it. She just loved how he said her name. And she actually hoped to hear him say it again. "Thank you, Mickey. That's really sweet of you to say." She couldn't look at him right now, as she knew her cheeks would match his truck.

Now it was his turn to feel fluttery in his stomach. The soft, sweet way she said his name just made him want to hear her say it more. Though he knew asking her to say it again would be completely weird. "Where'd you learn to sing like that?"

Minnie twiddled her thumbs in her lap. "I used to sing in the church choir when I was little. I especially loved it during Christmas." She chuckled. "There were so many songs to sing. Some I couldn't even do because there were so many other songs picked out that I wanted to do."

An idea struck Mickey like a load of bricks, his eyes widening as he suddenly beamed with excitement. "Wouldja consider singing at the church here? They could use somebody to sing in the choir."

Minnie shook her head. "I really don't think they'd need me."

"'Course they would!" he exclaimed, clearly excited about the idea, bouncing in his seat. "With that voice, who wouldn't love to hear ya sing? I know I'd love to hear ya again."

Minnie's cheeks felt really hot by this point. "T-Thank you. I'll think about it."

By now the truck was warmed up. Mickey put on his seatbelt, prompting Minnie to do the same. As he put the truck in drive, he chuckled. "Well, ya'd definitely wow 'em."

"Hee hee, thanks," she smiled. "I'll definitely think about it."

Mickey cleared his throat before he spoke. "Guess I don't hafta show ya the diner." Minnie giggled. "And you've already seen the park. So I'll just take ya through main street."

"You're the tour guide," she chuckled.

To be continued...