You're going to have to close your eyes. [He sounded dead serious about it.]

*Naturally, he closed his eyes.*

Eyes closed!

*He strained his ears to listen, trying to figure out what he was doing. He keeps his eyes shut as promised though.*

*He can't really hear anything anymore. But he's keeping his promise to keep his eyes shut!*

Did you find it?

*He still has his eyes shut. He huffs.*

If you did find it, can I have it now?

[Finally leaning in close, he gave him a quick kiss on the cheek.]

I don't know. You didn't say please.

*He whines.*

Pleaaassee can I have it now?

I suppose so. You did ask nicely that time.

[After a quick kiss on the cheek, he took a few steps back.] Open your eyes.

[He was holding out a stuffed rabbit with a red and white bow around its neck.]

*He opened his eyes, a smile already on his face. He gasped at what he saw and quickly moved to embrace his gift and his boyfriend, squealing happily.*

AWWMATTIEABUNNY?!FORME?!THANKYOU!!

Mhmm. I took the time to stitch him together. [...so the rabbit was a bit lopsided maybe and a bit lumpy, but he had given it his best.]

*He doesn't care if it's lumpy or lopsided. It's his. And his boyfriend made it for him.*

How long did it take you? He's adorable!

[He also made him something else. Which he'll give him in a moment or two.]

Long enough. [A soft laugh accompanied his words.]

*Ooooh so many presents!*

Well I love it! *He gives the bunny and Matthew another squeeze.*

What should I name him?

[It was a nice, thought-out gift.]

I'm glad to hear that. [Smiling happily, he hugged him tightly.] I've been calling it Patch, but it's probably obvious why.

*He appreciates them!*

Patch huh? How about Patches? *He smiles up at him, giving his lips a quick kiss.*

It is a rather cute name. [He couldn't help but grin as he returned the kiss.]

I also have another present for you.

Thanks! *He looks at him, a bit surprised.*

ANOTHER present?! Really?!

[Nodding his head, he laughed a bit at his reaction.]

Mhmm. Close your eyes again.

Okay! *He closed his eyes again, hugging Patches close. He was so excited! TWO PRESENTS!*

[There was some movement and rummaging as he found the second gift. Moving back in front of him, he was holding up a small tin that had a bow and ribbon around it.] Okay. You can open your eyes.

*He opens his eyes and looks at the tin, speechless.*

What is it Mattie?

Open it and find out. [His smile gave nothing away. It was star-shaped chocolate chip cookied, frosted with red, white, and blue frosting. And every now and then, there was the occasional heart-shaped, frosted cookie as well.]