"Happy Holidays!" I greeted the security guard as my band, and I entered the venue. Rising Phoenix was going to perform a holiday special after the first two openers went and before KISS.

"Evening, Miss Potter." he greeted holding the door open for us as we made our way in.

"Ava!" Paul called out waving me over. I smiled and approached him. "Wow, you look stunning."

Paul picked me up by my waist and spun me around.

"As always." Peter stated crossing his arms. "You excited for your biggest show yet?"

"What do you mean?" I asked giving him a confused look as I was placed back on my feet.

"We changed the plan. Tonight, is all about Phoenix. But KISS will be your band instead of the figurines." Gene chuckled seeing the horrified look on Miku's face and the relieved ones on Chad and The Rev's.

"We thought it would be fun to perform together." Paul said. I looked at the figurines I considered my band and they all smiled and gave me nods.

"We'll go back and deactivate our runes." Chad gave my arm a pat before he and the other two left. I had given them runic clusters on the back of their necks, so it was instant activation and deactivation. Though at this point, I kept them life size and had added a special room for them to hang out in when not animated.

"For being plastic most of the time, they sure are good people." Peter noted.

"Yeah, they have their original selves' personalities." I smiled. 

"KISS and The Phoenix are a go. Places everyone." the stage manager called out.

"Wait, do you guys know the set list?" I asked suddenly panicking.

"Relax, you planned it out at the beginning of the month, and we may or may not have asked your guys for it so we could practice for tonight. It is the last show before Christmas, and we all go to New York to be with our families." Gene pulled me into a one-armed hug. When he mentioned families though, my smile fell. I have no family to go home too.

"I'm taking you in for Christmas." Paul stated as we walked onto stage. The guys all put Santa hats on and got into position. As I stood in front of my mic with Paul on my right and Gene on my right, the curtain rose up.

"Ho ho ho, Merry Christmas!" Gene called out in a very Santa-like voice. Chimes played before a spotlight landed on me. The cymbals could be heard as I began to sing.

I don't want a lot for Christmas
There is just one thing I need
I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree

I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is you, yeah

The rest of the guys soon joined in, and I couldn't help the smile that filled my face as I picked up the mic and began dancing around the stage.

I don't want a lot for Christmas
There is just one thing I need
And I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree

I moved over to Gene and leaned close to him as he stuck his tongue out and leaned into me.

I don't need to hang my stocking
There upon the fireplace
Santa Claus won't make me happy
With a toy on Christmas Day

Ace stopped playing briefly and offered his hand out to me. I had finally forgiven him and we were on okay terms. Taking his hand, I let him twirl me around before releasing to go back to playing.

I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is you
You, baby

Oh, I won't ask for much this Christmas
I won't even wish for snow
And I'm just gonna keep on waiting
Underneath the mistletoe

I won't make a list and send it
To the North Pole for Saint Nick
I won't even stay awake to
Hear those magic reindeer click

I moved to the edge of the crowd and high fived a few of the hands I could reach before spinning back to face the guys.

'Cause I just want you here tonight
Holding on to me so tight
What more can I do?
Baby, all I want for Christmas is you
You, baby

Oh, all the lights are shining so brightly everywhere
And the sound of children's laughter fills the air

And everyone is singing
I hear those sleigh bells ringing
Santa, won't you bring me the one I really need?
Won't you please bring my baby to me?

Prancing over to Paul, we shared my mic and sang the next verse together before he placed a kiss on my cheek and went back to his playing.

Oh, I don't want a lot for Christmas
This is all I'm asking for
I just wanna see my baby
Standing right outside my door

Oh, I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
Baby, all I want for Christmas is you
You, baby

All I want for Christmas is you, baby

The crowd lost it as I stood center stage and held my arms in the air.

"Are you having a great Christmas?!" I shouted. The crowd cheered and I laughed with mirth. "Good, because this next song, might get a little spicy. So ladies, hold you man tight and maybe give him a big sexy kiss and call him your... Santa Baby."

Swaying my hips, I prowled up and down the stage.

Santa Baby, just slip a sable under the tree,
For me.
Been an awful good girl, Santa baby,
So, hurry down the chimney tonight.

Santa baby, a 54 convertible too,
Light blue.
I'll wait up for you dear, Santa baby,
So, hurry down the chimney tonight.

I lowered down to my knees and folded my arm over my shoulder before rising back up.

Think of all the fun I've missed,
Think of all the fellas that I haven't kissed.
Next year I could be just as good,
If you'll check off my Christmas list.

Santa baby, I want a yacht, and really that's not
A lot.
Been an angel all year,
Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight.

Santa honey, one little thing I really need,
The deed
To a platinum mine,
Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight.

Santa cutie, and fill my stocking with a duplex,
And checks.
Sign your 'X' on the line,
Santa cutie, and hurry down the chimney tonight.

Smirking, I grabbed my skirt by the fold and ripped it off. A cheer rose up from the guys in the crowd as the shorter skirt I was wearing flared out now that the hoop skirt wasn't compressed anymore. Throwing my longer skirt to the side, I saw a hidden stagehand catch it.

Come and trim my Christmas tree,
With some decorations bought at Tiffany's.
I really do believe in you,
Let's see if you believe in me.

Santa baby, forgot to mention one little thing,
A ring.
I don't mean on the phone,
Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight.
Hurry down the chimney tonight.
Hurry, tonight.

"How was that for a spicy Christmas?!" I laughed panting a bit. "Now how about a little Jingle Bell Rock before we slow things down? Huh?"

Cheers was the reply before Ace played the iconic rockabilly into to the classic song.

Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring
Snowin' and blowin' up bushels of fun
Now the jingle hop has begun

I gestured out to the crowd before putting the mic back in the holder and swaying side to side.

Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time
Dancin' and prancin' in Jingle Bell Square
In the frosty air

What a bright time, it's the right time
To rock the night away
Jingle bell time is a swell time
To go glidin' in a one-horse sleigh

Giddy-up jingle horse, pick up your feet
Jingle around the clock
Mix and a-mingle in the jinglin' feet
That's the jingle bell rock

Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
Jingle bell chime in jingle bell time
Dancin' and prancin' in Jingle Bell Square
In the frosty air

I looked over at Paul as he sang along with me. His eyes never left mine and it felt like the crowd melted away. Though it had to end, as I looked back at the fans.

What a bright time, it's the right time
To rock the night away
Jingle bell time is a swell time
To go glidin' in a one-horse sleigh

Giddy-up jingle horse, pick up your feet
Jingle around the clock
Mix and a-mingle in the jinglin' feet
That's the jingle bell
That's the jingle bell
That's the jingle bell rock

We all bowed as the crowd cheered and hollered.

"How about we slow things down now." I suggested.

Last Christmas
I gave you my heart
But the very next day you gave it away
This year
To save me from tears
I'll give it to someone special

I pulled a plush velvet heart I made out and waved it in the air before holding it close.

Last Christmas
I gave you my heart
But the very next day you gave it away
This year
To save me from tears
I'll give it to someone special

Slowly, I swayed in place.

Once bitten and twice shy
I keep my distance
But you still catch my eye
Tell me, baby
Do you recognize me?
Well, it's been a year
It doesn't surprise me

Merry Christmas

I wrapped it up and sent it
With a note saying "I love you"
I meant it
Now I know what a fool I've been
But if you kissed me now
I know you'd fool me again

Taking the heart, I looked at it sadly.

Last Christmas
I gave you my heart
But the very next day you gave it away
This year
To save me from tears
I'll give it to someone special

Last Christmas
I gave you my heart
But the very next day you gave it away
This year
To save me from tears
I'll give it to someone special

Turning to Paul, I picked up my mic and approached him with the heart in hand. I saw his breath hitch before he looked at his guitar.

Oh, oh, baby

A crowded room
Friends with tired eyes
I'm hiding from you
And your soul of ice
My god, I thought you were someone to rely on
Me? I guess I was a shoulder to cry on

Turning back to the crowd I hugged the heart close before lowering to my legs.

A face on a lover with a fire in his heart
A man under cover, but you tore me apart
Now I've found a real love. You'll never fool me again

Last Christmas
I gave you my heart
But the very next day you gave it away
This year
To save me from tears
I'll give it to someone special

Last Christmas
I gave you my heart
But the very next day you gave it away
This year
To save me from tears
I'll give it to someone special

Looking at Paul again, I held out the heart to him. He looked at it and then me before smiling and taking it. I smiled back and turned to approach the edge of the stage.

A face on a lover with a fire in his heart
I gave you my heart
A man under cover, but you tore him apart
Maybe next year I'll give it to someone—
I'll give it to someone special

Special
Someone
Someone
I'll give it to someone—
I'll give it to someone special

Who give me something in return
I'll give it to someone—
Hold my heart and watch it burn
I'll give it to someone—

I'll give it to someone—
I'll give it to someone special

I thought you were here to stay
How could you love me for a day
I thought you were someone special

Gave you my heart

I'll give it to someone—
I'll give it to someone—

Last Christmas
I gave you my heart
You gave it away

I saw Paul place his guitar down and walk up to me.

I'll give it to someone—
I'll give it to someone—

Before I knew it, I was being dipped down and his lips were firmly planted on mine. The crowd sounded nuclear at the display and unfortunately it was over sooner than I'd have liked.

"I've got a special surprise for you when we get to New York." he whispered before helping be back up and going back to his guitar. I felt dizzy and looked at the crowd.

"Gonna be honest. I was not expecting that." I nervously giggled. Yes, I fucking giggled in public.

God rest ye merry, gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember, Christ, our Saviour
Was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan's power
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

I leaned into Gene as fire flared up on the front corners of the stage.

In Bethlehem, in Israel,
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

From God our Heavenly Father
A blessed Angel came;
And unto certain Shepherds
Brought tidings of the same:
How that in Bethlehem was born
The Son of God by Name.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Multicolored lights flashed behind us as I looked out over the crowd and swung my arm up slowly before curling it to my chest.

"Fear not then," said the Angel,
"Let nothing you affright,
This day is born a Saviour
Of a pure Virgin bright,
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan's power and might."
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

The shepherds at those tidings
Rejoiced much in mind,
And left their flocks a-feeding
In tempest, storm and wind:
And went to Bethlehem straightway
The Son of God to find.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Paul and Ace came up to the front of the stage and put on a show for the crowd. Driving the fans crazy.

And when they came to Bethlehem
Where our dear Saviour lay,
They found Him in a manger,
Where oxen feed on hay;
His Mother Mary kneeling down,
Unto the Lord did pray.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Now to the Lord sing praises,
All you within this place,
And with true love and brotherhood
Each other now embrace;
This holy tide of Christmas
All other doth deface.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

     As the song came to a close, I was breathing hard. Between that kiss and this song, I was exhausted. Looking over at a just as hot and tired Paul, I decided fuck it. Grabbing him by the side of his costume, I pulled him in for a searing kiss that made the crowd deafening. He wrapped his arms around me, and I couldn't help but kick a leg up. When we broke apart, it was his turn to be shocked.

"Payback." I whispered to him before the rest of the guys came up next to us. We all gathered hands and did a bow together as the curtains closed. 

Once they were down, I walked over to my mic stand and put the mic back in place before wiping my forehead with the back of my hand.

"Holy fuck. That was exciting." I breathlessly laughed.

"I'll say. First Paul and then you!" Ace laughed loudly. "I've never seen the fans go berserk like that."

"So, you two like a thing now? Cause after every show, instead of the after parties, he goes and spends the rest of the night playing on piano or watching movies with you." Gene grabbed me in a headlock and rubbed his knuckles against my head.

"First of all, ow, and second of all. Life on the road isn't all about sex, drugs, and rock and roll you know." I snorted as the big guy released me. "Besides, tonight, I just want some butterbeer, my fleece blanket, and Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer while curled up in my glorious bed thank you very much."

"That sounds like one hell of a good time." Peter chuckled.

"If you all take showers and bring snacks, I might invite you all to a Christmas movie marathon while we drive to NYC." I cheekily smirked. The guys all looked at one another before racing off stage to change and get on the bus to clean up.

     Laughing my ass off, I casually made my way back to the bus where I was able to claim first shower. After my amazing shower, I walked out in just my towel to see the guys fighting to get on the bus first. Shaking my head and laughing at their antics, I waved when they froze to watch me before going into my room to put on my comfy flannel nightgown and set up my bed for five people to have a movie marathon. Pressing a button on my tv remote, the 80-inch tv lowered from its hidden spot and I walked over to my movie collection on the shelf next to it. Grabbing all my classic holiday movies, I decided on Nightmare Before Christmas as the first movie. Why not introduce the guys to some Tim Burton first. Firing up my DVD player, I put the disc in and laid the stack of movies next to it for the guys to choose from later. Once the title screen was playing, I set about gathering pillows and blankets and arraigned everything so there was a comfy spot for everyone. I had just taken out the yeti cooler of butterbeer, enough to serve an army, and placed it next to the bed when Paul came in with what could only be considered a bucket of popcorn.

"Will this be enough?" he asked holding up the two-giant bowls. 

"With Gene around, probably not. But I have some wizarding snacks as well." I gestured to the wet bar in the lounge with my favorite candies and treats from the wizarding world. "Just place them on the nightstand for now."

"Alright." he nodded and did that before climbing on the bed. I pouted, because it was either climb over him or walk around so I can get in the middle. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing." I giggled before deciding to just climb over him. It was a bit of a struggle, but I managed before I was able to hunker down in my spot with the remote in hand. 

     Gene was next in the room, and he took the spot on my other side, leaving Ace and Peter to have to lay at the foot of the bed. Those two finally appeared with bags of chips and regular beer in hand, which they dumped at my feet before climbing on the bed. Once everyone was settled, I started the movie. They were confused at first and tried asking questions, but one look from me and they all shut up. After the first movie, I summoned the movies over and everyone was curious about Elf, so I then had to climb back over Paul and put it in the DVD player. This time I took a running start before jumping and landing in my spot, well kind of. More like halfway over Paul and my spot. Everyone laughed at my antics and Paul helped me back into place before I started the movie. To be honest, I don't think any of us made it through Elf before Paul passed out, Ace and Peter left for their rooms, and Gene then called it in the last fifteen minutes. I was the only one left awake to clean up as the movie wrapped up. The end credits were rolling when I finally collapsed into bed, which woke up Paul.

"Is it over already?" he rumbled looking around the dimly lit room.

"Yeah, I was the only one to finish the movie." I replied turning everything off with the remote and making the TV slide back into the ceiling. "I'm surprised they didn't last longer."

"Mmm." Paul made a noise as he wrapped his arm around my waist and buried his head into my side. "I'm jealous."

"Of what?" I asked.

"Your bed. It's so comfortable." he mumbled into my side. I could only chuckle and comb my fingers through his hair. "That feels good."

"Does it?" I hummed keeping up my ministrations as I leaned into the pillows.

"Yeah, but do you know what's also nice?" he said lifting his head.

"What's that." I smiled.

"Having someone to snuggle." he scooted up to where his head was next to mine.

"Oh really. I can get you a giant teddy bear for Christmas then, instead of what I got you." I tapped my chin in thought. "I'm sure Gene would enjoy your original present better anyway."

"Why not the teddy bear and the original gift?" Paul's arm tightened around my middle.

"Oh? Greedy, are we?" I giggled. What was this man doing to me? Yeah, we'd gotten closer over the past month. But this was a whole new level. "So, tell me. What was with the kiss on stage?"

"Did you not like it?" he sounded hurt.

"I wouldn't have pulled you into that kiss if I didn't. But at the same time, I was being cheeky. The heart thing was part of the performance. I was gonna give it to Chad, he'd act all lovestruck, and then that was it. Honestly, you made the performance better with your stunt." I said placing my hand over his arm on my stomach. "Don't tell me you got into the prank love potions."

"I haven't gone through your potions, only taken what you've given us as a group to better our health." Paul defended. "You joining us has really made me rethink my life."

"You're not quitting the band, are you?" I shot up and looked over at him.

"Not in a million years. It just made me rethink my future." he assured me. I laid back down and turned on my side where he tucked my head under his chin. "I just don't think being a lone wolf is what I want anymore."

"Oh." I mumbled. "So, does this mean you're going to start looking for someone to be with?"

I could feel my heart sink into my stomach.

"I was hoping that you'd be that someone. We can take things slow. Get to know one another better, on a personal level. Not just what you know about me from your past life, where I'm human. But me, the KISSterian me." he said rubbing my back. I buried my face in his chest, wiggling my nose as his chest hair tickles it.

"I'd like that, Paul. I really would." I said softly.

"Me too." he whispered as I started to doze off.

The Next Day:

"Up and at it you two! We've arrived!" Gene called out banging his fist on the door. I slowly blinked awake to find that we had moved around in the night, and I was the little spoon.

"Damnit." Paul muttered into my hair as he unwrapped his arms around me and rolled onto his back. "Morning."

"Good morning, Starchild." I smiled stretching like a cat... right, I am a cat.

"Don't start, Firebird." he teased sitting up.

"Maybe I want to be a smartass in the mornings." I laughed before scooting over to the edge of the bed and standing up. "Well, I better pack up my room."

"You can leave your furniture until the end of tour. Just pack a week's worth of clothes." Paul yawned before heading out of my room. 

     Does he know that a week's worth for me would be like a month's worth for him? Shaking my head with a smile, I grabbed my old school trunk out of my wardrobe and laid it open on the bed before grabbing outfits and shrinking them before packing them. It took me an hour before I was lugging my trunk out of my room and magically locking it. The guys were already in the living room with their bags waiting for the bus to stop at the garage where it stays outside of tours. They were all in various forms of being awake, nursing cups of coffee. I greeted them and did a quick sweep and cleaning before perching on the arm of one of the couches as the bus came to a stop within a massive warehouse garage.

"Man, it's gonna be nice seeing our foster families." Ace yawned getting up and grabbing his bag. A knock came from the door before it opened to reveal a balding middle-aged man.

"KISS, happy to be home for a few days?" he greeted before he spotted me. "Ah, you must be Miss Ryder-Potter. Bill Aucoin, pleasure to finally meet you."

"The pleasure is all mine." I smiled shaking his hand.

"Have the guys been well behaved?" he asked.

"The start was rocky, but I whipped them into shape." I chuckled. Snorts were heard behind me before Bill lead us off the bus where nice vehicles waited. "Wow, those are some nice rides."

"Glad you have an eye for style." Bill nodded.

"Ready to go, Ava?" Paul wrapped his arm around my shoulders.

"Yeah. It'll be nice to not be in a moving house." I smiled. "It was nice meeting you, Bill. I'm sure we'll be seeing one another often."

"You can bet on it. Especially with that little band of yours. Where are they anyway?" he shook my hand again.

"Does he know?" I whispered to Paul. He nodded.

"Trust me, I know these guys aren't human." Bill laughed.

"That's a relief." I sighed. "My band isn't actually human. Their figurines that I brought to life when the guys needed an opener. I'm a witch, you see."

I showed him my wand and even cast Lumos and Expecto Patronum to prove my point.

"Fascinating. Well, I definitely look forward to working with you then." Bill smiled before Paul led me to a 1967 Chevy Impala.

"Holy shit! A '67 Impala and it's black too!" My inner Supernatural geek was coming out.

"You like it?" Paul asked.

"Like it? I love it!" I gushed running my fingertips over the fender. "I always wanted one, but father said I had enough cars."

"You have cars?" Paul looked shocked.

"Yeah. Like six muscle cars and three supercars. Papa always bought me a car if I obsessed over it for more than two months. They're in my dice bag." I said motioning to my backpack where the transformers printed bag could be seen.

"You'll have to show them to me." Paul said taking my luggage and loading it into the trunk before holding open the passenger door.

"Most definitely." I agreed sliding into the car.

     Paul walked around and got into the driver's seat before starting the engine and pulling out of the garage. He drove through the streets of New York and when I saw the twin towers still standing, I felt a pang of grief wash over me. Paul gave me a concerned look, but I waved it off as having not been in the Big Apple since my parents died. The silence in the car must have been too much for Paul, because he reached over and turned on the radio. Christmas music filled the car, and I couldn't help the small smile as Frank Sinatra's voice filled the small space. It didn't take long until we got stuck in the oh so famous New York City traffic.

"This is the one thing I don't miss about the Big Apple." I snorted as we idled in traffic.

"Really? What do you miss about the city?" Paul asked looking over at me.

"Central Park, Broadway, Times Square, the shopping." I listed off.

"We could do all those." Paul offered.

"In three days? Yeah right. We can just do those things after the tour." I laughed. It took a few hours, but we managed to make it to Queens and to Paul's apartment. I didn't realize I had fallen asleep until Paul was shaking me awake.

"We're here." he said opening his door and getting out. I blinked and looked around to get my bearings before unbuckling and getting out myself. Cold wind hit me, making me shiver and pull my puffy coat tighter around me.

"So cold." I mumbled walking around the car to grab my trunk out, but Paul already had it in hand. "I can carry that."

"Let me, you're my guest after all." he gave me a smile before leading me into the building and up a few flights of stairs. "It's not much, but it's home."

"I've been in smaller." I replied as he unlocked his door and pushed it open for me to walk in first. His apartment was lightly furnished, but there were posters of him and the guys all over as well as guitars hanging on the wall and even a few records from past albums on display. "It's so cozy."

"Says the witch." Paul teased after setting our bags down and closing the door. "You'll be staying in my room, and I'll be on the couch."

"Paul, how many times have we shared a bed now? I mean, you were wrapped around me like a cocoon last night." I gave him an incredulous look. "I think we can manage three nights in a row sharing the same bed."

"Why do you always have to make such a valid point." Paul groaned rubbing his face. "Well, let's get our things in the bedroom and have the rest of today to do whatever."

"Okay." I nodded making a dive for my trunk before he could grab it. He gave me a playful glare and I just smiled back at him innocently. "Lead the way."

     Paul led me through the apartment showing me the guest bedroom turned private studio, the guest bathroom, the kitchen, where everything was if I needed towels and such, and lastly his bedroom and the master bathroom. His bedroom was just as sparsely furnished as the rest of the apartment. A queen-size bed, dresser, nightstands, and a floor length mirror. Paul took the side of the bed closest to the door while I was given the side near the windows. While he was unpacking his clothes, I pressed a rune on my trunk and four legs popped out to where it looked like a table. Opening my trunks, I began raising compartments until it looked like a closet for a doll. A mirror on the lid of my trunk reflected my messy hair at me, making me sigh. Paul looked up from his task at the noise and only shook his head when he saw me attempting to tame my wild mane of tri-colored hair. As we were busy getting settled, his phone went off.

"Hello?" he answered. "Yeah, I just finished unpacking.... Tonight? I'd have to ask Ava if she wants to tag along. She's..."

Paul covered the speaker and looked at me.

"It's my foster parents, they want me to come over for dinner. And they want to know what we are." he whispered.

"I hadn't really thought of that. We are taking things slow... just tell them we're together but nothing is really official, I guess." I shrugged before taking out my wand and casting some protective charms on my stuff.

"Mom, Ava's and I are close and we're together, but we're taking things slow for now." he said into the phone. "Okay, I'll tell her. By Mom, see you tonight."

"Did she accept that?" I asked when he hung up the phone.

"She didn't sound convinced, but said you were invited." he replied flopping onto the bed. "Man, I was hoping to just stay in tonight and order takeout."

"We can get takeout tomorrow night." I suggested walking around the bed and sitting on the edge next to him. "I'm sure your human parents aren't that bad."

"They've been asking when I was going to bring a girl home for ages." he sighed rolling onto his side and playing with a stand of my hair. "Now they're going to start asking when I'm going to get married and give them grandchildren."

"My parents were the same way." I chuckled remembering all the times I'd bring a guy over for dinner. "We never really appreciate them until they're gone."

"I know that for a fact." Paul hummed.

"How old were you when you came to Earth?" I asked.

"Fifteen, I completed my training and was sent here to learn about this planet's customs and how to channel rock and roll into power. Gene was sixteen." he let my hair go and rolled back over with an arm over his eyes. "Ace was exploring the solar system before deciding to have an extended vacation here, and Peter tagged along with him."

"Peter's not KISSterian?"

"No, he's from another planet that's close allies with Jendall." was the reply.

"Huh. So, they aren't Guardians like you and Gene." I mused.

"No, the other two are still on KISSteria training."

"Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer, right?" I looked at my hands in my lap. "They were the latest Spaceman and Catman in my world."

"Really?" Paul moved his arm and looked at me.

"Yeah, in my opinion, they're the best versions." I nodded grabbing my phone and showing him the picture, I took before my untimely appearance in the tour bus. "Eric, bless his heart, was exhausted and had sat down on a part of the stage when your counterpart was talking, and Gene ratted the poor guy out. The poor drummer was so embarrassed."

"Sounds like Eric." Paul chuckled before looking at the clock and sighing. "We should get cleaned up for dinner."

"Sure, I'll use the guest bathroom." I got up and walked over to my trunk and grabbed black pantyhose, and a dark blue and black plaid long-sleeved dress that reached my knees in the front and half-way down my calves in the back.

     Paul had also gotten up to grab a change of clothes for himself. I also grabbed my black heels with a blue sole as well as my glasses. Time for a break from contact lenses. With my clothes in hand and my toiletries as well, I left the bedroom and made my way to the guest bathroom. Humming, I placed my stuff on the counter and locked the door before stripping out of my sweats and sweater. Paul's hair had been wet when we got off the bus earlier, so I didn't think he'd be taking a shower. Turning on the water, I grabbed my soaps and quickly washed up before drying off and change. I used some hair product to tame my curls to soft waves before removing my contacts and putting them in their case and applying a gray and nude shimmer eyeshadow as well as a purplish red lipstick. Sliding my glasses on, I checked to make sure I had no stray threads or stains before nodding in approval and putting on my heels. A simple leather cord, knotted to the left of my bellybutton completed the look. Once I was done, I grabbed my dirty clothes and my toiletries and returned to Paul's room where the door was still open.

"Paul? Is it safe to come in?" I asked knocking on the door.

"Yeah, I'm in the bathroom." he replied. Sighing in relief, I entered the room and walked over to my trunk and shrunk my clothes before dropping them in the compartment for dirty clothes. Grabbing one of my roller perfumes, I placed a few quick dabs on my wrists and neck. The scent of cloves and cinnamon filled my nose as I rubbed the oil into my skin.

"Wow, you look great." Paul smiled walking over to me. "Is that clove and cinnamon?"

"Yeah, it's a calming scent." I nodded looking up at him. He was dressed in a red and black flannel, dark-wash jeans, and black dress shoes. "And you look like a lumberjack."

"So do you, in a fashionable way." Paul chuckled before checking his phone. "Ready to go?"

"Yeah, I just need to grab my purse and my wand in holstered under my sleeve." I said reaching into my trunk to grab my leather purse. "Okay ready."

     He just shook his head as we left his room and grabbed our coats from the living room before heading out the door and down to his car. The drive to his parent's house wasn't long, just a few neighborhoods over. As he pulled to a stop, I realized something.

"Do your foster parents know?" I asked. "About you being KISSterian."

"Yeah, they do." he replied getting out of the car. I followed suit and met him on the sidewalk. I could feel my nerves starting to get jumbled as we approached one of the townhouses. "Relax, their nice people."

"I'm always like this when meeting new people." I defended. He just shook his head and knocked on the door. It took a few minutes, but soon the door opened and an older woman in her fifties opened the door.

"Paul! I'm glad you were able to make it!" she greeted warmly giving him a hug before turning to me. "And you must be Ava. You really are a beauty. Please, come in, come in!"

"Thank you, Mrs. Eisen." I smiled as Paul took my hand and led me inside. The smells of turkey, mashed potatoes, and other foods filled my nose and made my mouth water.

"Please Dear, call me Eva." she gave my arm a pat before leading up deeper into the house after we hung our coats up. "So, tell me, how did the two of you meet?"

I paused and looked at Paul in a panic.

"She's from KISSteria, Ma. The Elder sent her to help Gene and I out. Ava's actually got her own band that she uses when we need an opener." Paul explained. I felt the panic lessen a bit. "She's actually an enchantress and uses magic instead of rock and roll for power."

"How wonderful! You hear that, William? Paul is dating a girl from his home world!" Eva gushed to a man around the same age as her sitting at the table reading a newspaper.

"Really. Well, that's wonderful to hear." Mr. Eisen looked up from his papers and gave me a critical once over. "Say, aren't you that girl who's part of the band, Phoenix?"

"I am, Sir. My name is Avalon Ryder-Potter. But on stage I go by Phoenix." I nodded as Paul led me to a chair and held it out for me. "And my band is actually called Rising Phoenix."

"I see. Are you a rock singer too?" he asked. "And like Paul?"

"Yes, Sir. I'm considered and enchantress back home as I use magic powered by all music." I gave Paul a side-eyed look. "My band is actually just dolls I animate and give temporary sentience to so that I have the appearance of being in a full band of my own."

"That's quite interesting, dear." Eva said bringing in a platter with a whole turkey on it. She seemed to be struggling.

"Here, let me help." I offered taking out my wand and casting the levitation charm on it, before lowering it to the table. "Do you need help with the rest of the food?"

"If you would be so kind." Eva nodded, motioning for me to follow her into the kitchen.

"You know, Son. Your mother and I aren't getting any younger. She seems like a very nice young woman. Perhaps she'd make a good wife in the future?" I could hear Mr. Eisen say as I entered the kitchen. Paul groaning in exasperation made me chuckled.

"So, how long have you known our Paul?" Eva asked as I began levitating multiple dishes of food up. "He's never really mentioned you before."

"Oh, I've known him for a while. He's really famous back home, and we properly met back in November when I came to Earth." I nervously smiled. "This is my second time here, actually."

"Really?! Are you a guardian like my son?" she looked over at me.

"More like a guardian of the guardians." I replied as we walked into the dining room with the rest of the food. Once that was placed down, she had me come back to the kitchen for the tableware.

"What are your feelings for him?" 

That questioned stopped me dead in my tracks. What did I feel for him? 

"It's hard to explain. He's been so good to me and took care of me when I got into an altercation with Ace. Before we properly met, I was just another typical fangirl. But now that I'm getting to know him, I feel happier? To be honest, I've never felt like this with anyone else." I explained.

"You're in love with him." she gave me a knowing look.

"I wouldn't say love, but definitely a deep affection." I nervously laughed as we carried the plates, cups, and utensils to the dining room. My face felt like it was on fire as I helped put plates down before Eva put the rest out.

"You okay?" Paul whispered in my ear after I sat down. "Your face is all red."

"I'll be fine." I waved him off as Mr. Eisen cut the turkey and food started getting passed around.

     Dinner was a lovely affair, with Paul's parents asking about the tour and trying to ask about my life on KISSteria. It was easier for them to believe I was from the same planet as Paul than try to explain I'm from an alternate Earth. The food was amazing, and it reminded me of my own mother's cooking. I definitely teared up a few times, earning worried looks from everyone. Telling them that I had lost my parents in an accident, and that was why I was back on Earth got me sympathetic looks from his foster parents. Things soon turned back into livelier conversation though when Paul started talking about the rest of the tour, and even made a jab at me when he said I was the most excited to be going to Hawaii. I just rolled my eyes affectionately before taking a sip of my tea. After dinner, we all moved to the lounge where we had dessert and mulled wine. It was a good way to finish off the meal and evening. Before we knew it, it was dark out.

"Wow, where has the time gone?" Eva sighed before getting up. "I best get started on cleaning up."

"Would you like help?" I asked.

"Oh no, Dear. You stay right there. What kind of hostess would I be having my guests help clean up from dinner?" she gestured for me to stay.

"Actually, Ma. We have to get going. I've got a lot planned for Ava these next few days, so we should get back to the apartment and get some rest." Paul stood up and offered his hand for me.

"Well, it was so nice to meet you, Ava. Don't be a stranger and if Paul acts up, just give me a call." Eva came over and gave me a tight hug that reminded me of the ones my Nana Molly would give when we'd visit the Burrow.

"Of course! Thank you for a wonderful dinner." I hugged her back before William stood up and gave me a lighter hug. 

"Paul, this one is definitely a keeper. Don't screw this up." William warned Paul as the older couple walked us to the door.

     Paul said his own goodbyes before we got into the car, and he started driving back to the apartment. I couldn't help the smile on my face as I looked over at Paul and saw he was thinking about something. Reaching over, I grabbed the hand that was laying in his lap and rubbed my thumb over his knuckles. He looked at me and gave me a smile in return. Instead of returning to the apartment, Paul kept driving until he stopped and parked outside Central Park. I looked at him confused before he kissed my knuckles and got out. Following suit, I stepped onto the sidewalk and rubbed my arms as a cold breeze blew my dress around.

"What are we doing here?" I asked.

"I figured you'd like to go ice skating." he said coming up and wrapping his arm around my waist before leading me into the park.

"That sounds like fun." I replied smiling and leaning my head on his shoulders.

All I Want for Christmas Is You

https://youtu.be/w4RCuwRFa4M

Santa Baby:

https://youtu.be/0qXWsR3pSPc

Jingle Bell Rock:

https://youtu.be/XurfvD1kmQA

Last Christmas:

https://youtu.be/IvAbKoKYTfE

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen:

https://youtu.be/NONtlwyHaRs

Concert Outfits: