Phoebe loved Christmas time. The cold weather, the decorations, the warm drinks. It was her favorite time of the year. That and Halloween, and Valentine's Day. And St. Patrick's Day. Okay, so maybe Phoebe loved all holidays, but who could blame her? Holidays were fun and magical. Especially the holidays when snow falls down on the ground and there were pretty lights and different decorations all over the place. It was the start of the holiday season, and Phoebe was all for it.

Phoebe went to stay with her parents for the week to celebrate Christmas with them. Julie was with her parents as well, but they were invited to the Matthews one night to celebrate Christmas with everyone and their families. It was a lot of fun. Everyone got to spend some time together, and the kids were happy to be back in their old house where all the memories happened. Phoebe's family and Julie's family always celebrated Christmas together ever since they were little girls. It was just their thing.

Phoebe was currenlty sitting in class, anxiously waiting for class to be done. She tuned out most of it when it got close to the end of class. She was fidgeting with her pencil with a bored expression, her eyes focused on the professor's back as he wrote some things on the board. When class was over, Phoebe let out a sigh of relief.

"Have a great Christmas break everyone and be safe!" The professor called out as everyone packed their things.

Phoebe stood up and slipped on her backpack before leaving the classroom. She and Jack had planned on going to the coffee shop where they met to get some coffee when they were done with classes and they happened to get done at the same time. So she was going to wait for Jack out in the hallway by his classroom. She waved at Eric and Julie when they walked past her. They both smiled and waved back at her before continuing on with their conversation. Phoebe chuckled softly when she heard them arguing about which Christmas movie was the best. She wasn't fazed by their bickering at all anymore. In fact, she was used to it.

Phoebe waved and smiled politely at some other college students she recognized from sharing classes with them when they walked past her. She jumped though, startled when suddenly a hand placed itself on her shoulder. She whipped around to face Jack, a hand over her chest as she calmed her breathing down.

"Whoa, sorry," Jack laughs. "I didn't mean to scare you." Concern fills his gaze and Phoebe couldn't help but melt a little inside. He was always so concerned about her and made sure she was alright. "You okay, Pheebs?"

"Yeah, I'm okay." She nodded. Jack gave her a small smile before wrapping his arm around her shoulders. He placed a gentle kiss to her head, his lips lingering there a little longer before they both walked out of the building together.

"So, coffee and then what? Anything else before we head back to the apartment building?" Jack asked, glancing at her with a soft smile.

"I don't know. I guess we can just go back home. Maybe watch some Christmas movies. Julie and I are decorating our apartment sometime later this week. Are you and Eric decorating your apartment?" Phoebe questioned curiously, leaning into his side as she walked with him to the coffee shop.

"We'll probably just have a small tree or something like that. Nothing too big." Jack shrugged.

"That's just sad." Phoebe chuckles. "You have to decorate! It's Christmas!" 

Jack grins at Phoebe's enthusiasm. "Alright, alright, maybe we'll add a few decorations to the mix. But nothing too over-the-top, okay?"

Phoebe laughs, smiling at him. "Deal! Just a touch of holiday spirit won't hurt."

They reached the coffee shop, the familiar bell chiming as they entered. The cozy atmosphere welcomed them, and the scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. Phoebe and Jack settled into their favorite corner, each ordering their preferred drinks. Phoebe paid for them despite Jack trying to argue. Jack then said that next time he should at least pay for her. Phoebe had rolled her eyes, but nodded and smiled. As they sipped on their hot beverages, they chatted about their plans for the upcoming Christmas break.

"So, any plans for break? I know you're staying with your parents." Jack said with a small smile.

"Yeah, they're really excited about that. I'm glad they are. We have some traditions we do every Christmas break and I love them all. I'm actually going back tonight. What about you? Any plans?" Phoebe asked curiously, sipping her coffee.

"Probably just hang out at the apartment and watch some Christmas movies." Jack shrugged.

"Well, that's boring and sad." Phoebe frowns. "Come over to my parents house and spend the night with us."

Jack chuckles, looking at Phoebe with a playful expression. "Are you inviting me to crash your family Christmas celebration?"

"Absolutely! You're practically family anyway." Phoebe replied with a warm smile that made Jack's heart flutter.

Jack pretends to ponder for a moment, rubbing his chin. "Hmm, I don't know. Your family might kick me out for disrupting their traditions."

Phoebe rolls her eyes playfully as she chuckles. "Nonsense! They love you. You know you're always welcome. Plus, I can't imagine Christmas without you there. It wouldn't feel right."

"Are you sure? I don't want to intrude or anything." Jack frowned, already feeling guilty for even thinking about saying yes to her offer.

"Of course I'm sure! They've been dying to meet you, anyway. I've told them so much about you and they're curious." Phoebe smiles warmly, reaching across the table to give Jack's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Trust me, they'll be thrilled to have you there. And I'd love for you to experience our Christmas traditions."

Jack grins, unable to resist Phoebe's infectious enthusiasm. "Alright, you've convinced me. I'll come over to your family Christmas celebration. It sounds like it'll be a lot of fun."

Phoebe's face lights up with joy, and she leans across the table to give Jack a quick peck on the cheek. Jack's face turns a bit red, his heart fluttering.

The two of them continue to enjoy their coffee, chatting about various topics, from their favorite Christmas movies to their plans for the rest of the week.

As they finish their drinks and leave the coffee shop, the chilly winter air hits them. Phoebe wrapped her scarf tighter around her neck, and Jack put his arm around her shoulders to share some warmth. She smiled softly, trying to ignore the way her face was turning warm as she leaned into his embrace. The streets are adorned with twinkling lights, and the festive atmosphere puts them both in high spirits.

****

After they left the coffee shop, Jack went with her to her house. "Okay, um, there's something I need to tell you about my parents though..." Phoebe starts, stopping them at the front door of her house. She was nervous, fidgeting with her gloves she wore. Jack stood in front of her, looking confused yet he had a bit of concern in his eyes. "Uh, well, you see, they think-"

"There she is!"

Phoebe jumped and turned her head to find her father running over to her, a huge grin on his face. He threw his arms around her and pulled her into a hug, spinning her around in a circle. She laughed and wrapped her arms around her dad.

"Dad, could've given me a warning first!" Phoebe playfully scolded, still smiling from the surprise embrace.

"Surprises are my specialty, sweetheart," Her dad, Phill, replies with a twinkle in his eye. He finally set her down but kept his hands on her shoulders. He smiles softly at her. "I've missed you, honey. It's good to have you back home for Christmas."

"I've missed you too, dad. Yeah, it's great to be home." Phoebe said softly, returning the smile. 

Phil nods, pulling away from her as he noticed Jack standing by her. "And you must be the boyfriend my daughter talks so much about."

Oh. That must be what Phoebe was talking about. Jack's eyes widen, his face turning red and heart racing. Phoebe was blushing, too.

"Uh, well, um, dad, he's not, uh, not my-" Phoebe stuttered out.

"Nice to meet you, son. I'm Phil. Come on inside, it's freezing out here!" Phil grinned and clapped a hand on Jack's shoulder, leading him inside. Phoebe's heart dropped, feeling even more nervous now. Phoebe followed behind her dad, shooting Jack an apologetic look. Jack, though still a bit flustered, managed a small smile and followed Phil into the living room.

Inside the house, the warmth of the fireplace enveloped them, contrasting the chilly air outside. The familiar scent of holiday decorations filled the air, and the sound of cheerful chatter echoed through the halls Jack glances back at her with a look that read 'help' and she apologetically smiles at him before quickly walking inside and closing the door behind her. She walked into the kitchen, spotting her mom, Linda, baking some cookies. She looked up when Phoebe and Jack walk into the kitchen with Phoebe's dad.

"You must be Jack. It's so nice to meet you. Phoebe has talked so much about you." Linda smiled brightly, wiping her hands on her apron and walked over to him. She shook his hand, the warmth in her eyes reminding Jack a lot of Phoebe's.

"It's nice to meet you, Mrs. Foster. Thank you for having me." Jack smiled politely, trying to hide the slight nervousness he felt. He didn't know why Phoebe's parents thought they were dating. Maybe it was because she talked about him so much and her parents were assuming? But he wasn't complaining, this was his chance to get closer to Phoebe.

"Please, call me Linda. No need to be so formal, dear." Linda replied with a kind smile. "You're always welcome here. Besides, Phoebe loves spending time with you. She never stops talking about you."

Phoebe's cheeks were pink, and she averted her gaze, not knowing how to respond to that. She wasn't used to being put on the spot like this. She could feel Jack's eyes on her, but she didn't dare look at him. Her heart raced, and she wanted nothing more than to disappear right then and there. She didn't know though that Jack was staring at her with a soft smile on his face, admiring the way her cheeks flushed pink.

"I love spending time with her, too." Jack smiled, his gaze softening as he glanced at Phoebe. He knew he was blushing because his face felt warm, but he didn't care. All he cared about was how adorable Phoebe looked when she was flustered.

Linda smiled at the pair, clearly seeing how much they cared about each other. "Mom, could you give Jack and I a moment, please?" Phoebe asked nervously. She didn't want her mom to get any wrong ideas, and she also didn't want to make Jack uncomfortable.

"Of course, dear." Linda replies softly. "I'll leave you two lovebirds alone." She gave the two a wink before leaving the kitchen, giving them their privacy. Phoebe let out a small sigh of relief once her mother was gone, turning to Jack with a nervous look.

"Sorry about that. My parents can be a little...Overbearing sometimes." She says sheepishly, rubbing the back of her neck. "They assumed you were my boyfriend when I was talking so much about you and I never had the chance to say you weren't and they were too excited to meet you. And I'm sorry." She rambled, her cheeks turning pink as she avoided his gaze.

Jack was grinning, his eyes filled with amusement. "Don't apologize, Pheebs. I'm not mad or anything." He tells her, taking a step closer. Butterflies were swarming in his stomach and he was suddenly overcome with a rush of confidence. "And you know what? I'm okay if they think we're together." He admitted softly, his heart racing.

Phoebe's eyes widened slightly, her cheeks flushing. She didn't know what to say, she was at a loss for words. She couldn't believe that he was okay with her parents thinking they were dating. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Jack chuckled at her speechlessness, gently taking her hand in his.

"What, no smarta** comment?" Jack teased, a smirk playing on his lips.

"Shut up," Phoebe laughs softly, playfully shoving him away. "You caught me off guard, that's all."

"Hey, I'm just kidding. You know I love your a** comments." Jack smirks, causing Phoebe to blush even more. "But seriously, it's okay. We can pretend for the holidays. No point in making them upset during Christmas, right? Unless you're uncomfortable with it," He added, looking a bit concerned.

Phoebe was touched by his thoughtfulness. He always made sure she was comfortable, and he always respected her boundaries. She smiles, shaking her head. "I'm okay with it. And you're right, it's not worth upsetting them during the holidays." She tells him, squeezing his hand as she felt the blush creep up her neck. "Besides, it could be fun. Just pretend we're a couple for the holidays."

Jack grins, his heart fluttering. "Alright, it's a deal. Just pretend we're a couple until Christmas is over."

"We should come up with a believable backstory, though. Just so it's more convincing." Phoebe suggested, her heart pounding. She was still nervous about this whole situation, but she knew that as long as she had Jack by her side, everything would be okay. At least she hoped it owuld be.

"How about...We met at a coffee shop. Which actually was how we met so we wouldn't be lying about that." Jack chuckles lightly, earning a small smile from Phoebe. "We were in the same class, and we talked and one day I asked you out on a date and the rest was history. We've been dating for...Two months? Yeah?" He asked with a nervous smile, hoping that she would approve of his made-up story.

Phoebe thought for a moment, then nods and smiles a little. "That's a pretty good backstory. It's not too complicated, and it's believable." She answered. She couldn't deny that the story made her heart flutter a bit, and she felt her cheeks turn pink.

"Great." Jack grins, his eyes shining with happiness. He was relieved that Phoebe liked his story, and he was glad that they were on the same page."Now, I wanna try those cookies your mom was making. They looked delicious." Jack commented, his gaze going back to the cookies that were cooling off in the kitchen. They were shaped like different things such as snowmen, ornaments, trees, snowflakes, etc and all were iced and some had sprinkles.

"Her cookies are to die for." Phoebe dramatically says. "You're going to love them." She grinned, taking his hand and dragging him over to the kitchen.Phil and Linda soon came back down and it was time for dinner. Phoebe and Jack offered to set the table, which her parents were very thankful for. Phoebe and Jack were messing around a little bit though, her gigles and his chuckles filling the room as they nudged each other and tried to set the table faster than the other. Phoebe's parents watched from the kitchen, smiles on their faces.

"They're cute." Linda murmured, gazing at her daughter with a warm expression.

Phil nods in agreement, his smile growing wider. "They're perfect for each other."

"I can't believe our little girl is all grown up and in love." Linda sighs, a bittersweet look in her eyes. "I'm happy for her, but it seems like just yesterday she was a little kid running around the house."

"Time flies, doesn't it?" Phil asked, wrapping an arm around her waist.

Linda nods, leaning into his embrace. "It really does. But I wouldn't have it any other way. I love watching our little girl grow up."

"Me, too." Phil murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

The two of them watched as Phoebe and Jack finished setting the table, both of them laughing at something one of them said. They had a sense of happiness and comfort around each other, and they looked genuinely happy. And that's all Linda and Phil ever wanted for their daughter. To see her happy and loved. And it seemed like Jack was the one who made her happy. And they were both thankful for him.

****

Soon it was time for dinner and everyone gathered around the table. Phoebe and Jack sat next to each other, their chairs close enough for their legs to touch. Phil and Linda sat across from them, smiling as they took in the sight of their daughter and her boyfriend. Dinner was full of laughter and conversation, and the food was delicious. Everyone was having a good time and they all got along well. After dinner, everyone gathered in the living room to watch Christmas movies and drink hot cocoa. Jack and Phoebe sat together on the couch, her parents across from them in the recliners.

Phoebe's parents had invited Jack to stay with them for Christmas after hearing he wasn't doing anything, and he was more than happy to accept. He'd never really celebrated Christmas with a family before. Not like a traditional one, anyway. He was excited to experience the holidays with the Fosters, and spending more time with Phoebe was a bonus. As the night went on, Jack found himself relaxing and enjoying himself more. Phoebe's family was very welcoming and they all got along well. There was a feeling of warmth and happiness in the air, and Jack couldn't help but smile. He hadn't felt this way in a long time. He felt like he belonged, and that was something he never expected to feel. Believe it or not, he often felt alone and out of place, but with Phoebe and her family, he finally felt like he had a place to call home. And that feeling was indescribable.

As the night went on, Phoebe and Jack grew closer, both of them enjoying each other's company. They sat close together on the couch, sharing a blanket and occasionally stealing glances at each other. Phoebe's parents noticed the way the two interacted, and they couldn't help but smile. They knew their daughter was in love, and they were glad that she had found someone who made her happy.

The two of them shared a few glances and Phoebe was surprised to see him lean over and press a soft kiss to her cheek. She blushed and smiled shyly, her heart racing. It felt so real, but it was just pretend, wasn't it? Was Jack just a good actor or was he also enjoying their little charade? Maybe he actually wanted to be her boyfriend, but she was too scared to find out. So, she pushed those thoughts aside and tried to focus on the movie. However, she couldn't stop her mind from wandering, and the butterflies in her stomach were becoming unbearable.

After the first movie was over, her parents had decided to call it a night. Not before they invited Jack to stay the night, adding that the roads might not be safe because of the snow. Jack was grateful for the offer, and he accepted without hesitation. After all, he didn't want to risk driving in the snow, and he didn't want to leave Phoebe yet. He had enjoyed her company and he was hoping to spend more time with her.

Phoebe's heart skipped a beat, a blush creeping onto her cheeks. She had to admit, she didn't want him to leave yet either. She enjoyed his company and she wanted to spend more time with him.

"I can show him the guest room." Phoebe offered quickly, trying to hide the nervousness in her voice.

"Thanks, sweetheart." Phil nods with a small smile. "We'll see you two in the morning."

"Goodnight." Linda murmured, giving her daughter and Jack a small smile before she left the room with her husband.

Phoebe and Jack were silent for a moment, both of them unsure of what to say. Finally, Phoebe cleared her throat, breaking the silence.

"So, uh, the guest room is upstairs. I'll show you to it. And I'm sure there are some old clothes that my dad grew out of that you can wear." Phoebe mumbled, standing up from the couch and heading towards the stairs. Jack nodded, following her.

"Thank you." Jack replies, smiling at her. He had to admit, he was a bit nervous. He had never stayed at her house before, and he wasn't sure what to expect. "I really hope I'm not intruding, Pheebs. If I am, I can leave, I don't mind."

"No, no. Don't be ridiculous. You're not intruding at all. I'm actually really happy you're here." Phoebe admits shyly, her cheeks turning pink. "It's nice having you here. Besides, my parents adore you. And they really want you to stay."

Jack's heart swells at her words, a smile appearing on his face. He was touched by her sincerity, and he was glad that she was happy he was here. "I'm glad." Jack murmurs, his voice soft. He couldn't deny that he was falling for her. She was so sweet and genuine, and she made him feel things he'd never felt before. He was slowly but surely falling in love with her, and he couldn't stop it. He didn't want to stop it.

Phoebe felt the butterflies in her stomach flutter as they walked upstairs, her heart racing. She couldn't deny that she had a crush on him, and she couldn't ignore the way her body reacted to him. Every time he was near her, she felt a rush of excitement, and she couldn't help but blush. His presence made her feel alive, and she didn't want to lose that.

They reached the guest room, and Phoebe opened the door, leading him inside. The room was cozy and inviting, and the bed was large and covered with soft blankets. Jack smiled at the sight, a feeling of warmth spreading through him. He was thankful for the Fosters' hospitality, and he was glad to have the chance to get to know them better.

"Here you are." Phoebe smiles softly, gesturing around the room. "There's an attached bathroom if you want to take a shower or anything. And there's extra pillows and blankets in the closet. In the closet are all my dad's old clothes he grew out of, so just pick out something that looks comfortable and fits. And the thermostat is over there by the window if you're too hot or cold." She explained, pointing out everything.

"Thank you." Jack smiles warmly, his eyes twinkling. "This is very kind of you and your family for letting me stay here, I appreciate it a lot. You didn't have to."

"Don't worry about it. We're happy to have you." Phoebe assures him, her heart racing. She could feel her face heating up, and she cursed herself for blushing so much. Why was he so adorable? "I'll let you get settled. Just let me know if you need anything. My room is across the hall, so if you need anything, just come over."

"Alright, thank you. Again." Jack smiles shyly, his eyes never leaving hers. "And, uh, good night, Pheebs." He added softly, his cheeks turning pink.

"Good night." Phoebe murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. She gave him one last smile before turning and leaving the room, closing the door behind her.

She made her way to her room, her heart pounding. Her mind was racing, and her face was burning. She couldn't deny it anymore; she was falling for him, and she was falling hard. She couldn't believe that she had agreed to their pretend relationship, especially when she wished it was real. But, she knew that the lines were blurred, and she knew that she had to be careful. She didn't want to get her or his heart broken. She didn't want to make things awkward between them. But, she couldn't deny that she wanted to see where things could go. She wanted to see if he felt the same way about her, and if he was willing to take a chance on her.

Phoebe sighed as she flopped down on her bed, burying her face in her pillow. She was screwed. She was absolutely screwed.

Jack leaned against the door, his heart racing. His mind was going a million miles an hour, and he couldn't stop thinking about her. He was falling for her so hard, and he couldn't ignore the way his heart fluttered whenever she was around. She was the most amazing person he had ever met, and she had captured his heart from the moment he saw her. But, he didn't know if she felt the same way about him, and he didn't know if she would be willing to take a chance on him. He was worried that he would mess everything up, and he didn't want to lose her. But, he couldn't deny that he wanted to take a chance on her. He wanted to see if there was a possibility for them, and if they could be something more.

Jack sighed as he shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. He needed to get a grip, and he needed to remember that they were pretending. That their relationship was fake, and it was all an act. But, a small part of him wished that it was real, and that it was something more.

****

The next few days were full of holiday cheer and excitement. The whole house was buzzing with activity as everyone prepared for the big Christmas Eve dinner and celebration. Throughout the rest of the week, Jack spent most of the time with Phoebe and her family. Half way through the week Julie and her parents joined them since that was one of the two families tradition which was to have Christmas together. Phoebe and Jack informed Julie in on how Phoebe's parents think Jack is her boyfriend so they've been fake dating. They told her the story they made up of how they met and got together. Julie agreed to go along with it after lots of teasing.

Jack fit in very well with her family and they all seemed to love him. Phoebe was relieved. Her parents were very happy for her and loved seeing her happy. Julie kept trying to tell Phoebe to confess her feelings to Jack and make the fake dating real, but Phoebe refused. She didn't want to ruin her friendship with him and she was scared. So she continued to be his fake girlfriend and tried not to get her hopes up.

They were now all at the Matthews, celebrating Christmas. Phoebe and Jack had told the others when her parents weren't nearby for them to go along with the fact they're fake dating and thankfully they all went with it. They spent that night full of laughter and smiles as they hung out together while celebrating Christmas.

"And now for my favorite part of the holidays. A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens." Mr. Feeny announces. Phoebe smiled to herself as she glanced over at him. Mr. Feeny had always came by to the Matthews and read A Christmas Carol. It was tradition whether they wanted him to or not. Everyone gathers in the living room, getting comfortable as Mr. Feeny started reading the book. Phoebe sat on a chair by Jack and Shawn, her parents sitting by her. Julie sat on the couch between Topanga and Eric, her parents sitting by Phoebe's parents. Cory sat on the couch as well with his parents and Morgan sat on Topanga's lap.

"As read by George Feeny. 'Marley was dead, to begin with, there was no doubt whatever about that. The registrar of his burial was signed by the clergyman, the clerk, the undertaker...'"

After feeling a weight on her shoulder, Phoebe giggles when she looked over and saw what was going on. Jack had already started falling asleep, his head on her shoulder. She carefully adjusted him, letting him lean more on her shoulder. He didn't seem to mind and in fact, moved closer to her and wrapped his arms around her. Phoebe was surprised by this, her cheeks flushed. She couldn't help but smile, feeling a warm feeling spread through her and her heart race. She wrapped her arm around his waist, cuddling him with a soft smile.

Everyone had soon fallen asleep except for Mr. Feeny, who kept reading. Everyone was either laying against each other or against the couch or the chairs. Morgan even laid across everyone's laps on the couch. Eric had his arm around Julie's shoulders and she had her head leaned against his chest. Topanga had her head leaned on her hand, her elbow on the armchair of the couch. Cory was leaned over on his mom, who was leaned on Allen. Allen was sleeping on a small pillow that was under his head.

Shawn and Jack had moved off the chairs, on the floor now along with Phoebe, leaning back against the chairs. Well, Shawn was, but Phoebe was leaned against his chest, his arms around her and his head on top of hers. Phoebe's parents had leaned on each other, sleeping as they held hands. Julie's parents were asleep as well, their arms around each other.

Mr. Feeny rolls his eyes. "Bah, humbug!" He grumbled, closing his book. 

A/N i couldn't resist adding in the fake dating trope, lol. i thought it would be cute & i love how it turned out