Catherine's apartment looked like it had been hit by a tornado. Silken underwear and evening gloves had been tossed everywhere. It was not like Catherine to be so untidy.

She was already late, Vincent would be waiting at the park entrance for her. She should have used the basement, but it was too late now

"Darn those gloves, why is it you can never find anything you really need," she shouted in frustration. Feeling very irate she grabbed her coat and scarf and made for the door,

"I will just have to go without them," she shouted feeling more frustrated by the minute.

The elevator seem to take ages, and she was glad when it came finally to a stop. The doorman opened the big front door for her, and wished her a pleasant evening.

"Thank you Roger, I am certainly going to try to enjoy myself."

The night air was much colder than Catherine thought it would be, and pulling the hood on the duffel coat up over her head she made her way to the park.

The grass was crisp under her feet and Catherine was glad of her warm fleecy boots. Suddenly a dog ran out in front of her and made her jump, he was followed by a very irate boy who shouted 'Hi' to Catherine before continuing his effort to catch up with the elusive animal.

Catherine loved walking through the park at night she knew Vincent didn't approve, but he wouldn't be far away, this she always knew. And pushing her hands deeper into the large pockets of her coat she continued on her way.

Glancing up Catherine noticed the white fluffy clouds that stood out against the dark blue of the night sky told her that snow wasn't far away.

She smiled to herself as the tunnel entrance came into view. It always gave her heart a little thump when she knew Vincent was near.

Nearing the tunnel entrance a movement inside told her he was waiting.

"Vincent," she called.

"I am here Catherine." Vincent stepped into the open, so she could see him.

Catherine ran the last few paces, eager to be with him. And suddenly she was in his arms where she felt warm and safe.

"You are very late Catherine, I knew nothing was wrong, but I felt your frustration."

"I'm sorry Vincent, I couldn't find my gloves and it's quite a cold night."

Sensing her need for warmth he put his arm around her and guided her Below.

"I think we will stop at Father's study, he and Mary were having tea as I passed. We won't stay long"

"Sounds okay to me" it came out rather quickly as Catherine didn't want Vincent to know how disappointed she was that they would not be going to his chamber first.

"You must have other gloves Catherine that you could have worn".

"Yes I have my evening gloves, but they're not as warm as the ones I can't find. Anyway they were a gift from Mary last Christmas."

As they entered Father's study, Vincent went to get Catherine a chair.

Father was reading, while Mary was seeing to the tea. Father looked up from his book and was clearly happy to see them.

"Welcome Catherine, my dear" Father beckoned her to join them.

"Thank you Father." Catherine smiled, sat down and sighed.

"Would you like some tea dear," Mary asked "There's a fresh pot, I've just made it, and you look as if you could do with a cup."

Without waiting for Catherine's answer Mary handed her a cup that she took with grateful thanks. The cup was warm and she found that it warmed her hands as well, as the fragrant liquid warmed the inner woman.

Mary placed the tray with the other cups and teapot on the table and sat down near Catherine.

"Are you feeling a little better my dear?" Mary asked. "You really should wrap up more warmly now, this cold is reaching us down here, several of our people are down with some chills".

Pouring out the tea Mary handed a cup to Father and Vincent. Sitting back down Mary continued her conversation with Catherine.

Vincent glanced towards Catherine happily chatting away to Mary. She was so beautiful, how lucky he was to have found her. He put his hand on Father's shoulder and whispered.

"Would you mind if Catherine and I make this a short visit, we haven't much time together and there are arrangements still needed to be made?"

Father looked at them both and chuckled, "Of course not Vincent ... Go, be off with you. Catherine, we will see you Christmas Eve? You are still spending Christmas with us?"

Swallowing the last drop of her tea Catherine got up and kissed the elderly man on the top of his head. "Of course I am Father, nothing will keep me away!"

Taking Vincent's hand she wished them both a good night and handing Mary the cup thanked her for the delicious tea.

The cold air rushing through the tunnels made Catherine shiver Vincent put his arm around her and guided her to his chamber. Once inside, Catherine felt a little warmer.

There were candles lit all round the room, that gave off some heat, they also made it look very romantic.

Sitting on Vincent's bed Catherine gave herself a little hug

"It's getting much colder Vincent, I do believe we will have a white Christmas after all."

"Yes I think so too." Moving closer to her, Vincent put his arms around her and gently held her to him.

"Then you had better find your gloves." He added with a smile.

"I love being here with you Vincent. I want to share every moment of my life with you. Even though my world has colour and warmth. I would give it all up, to be with you if you would let me."

Vincent could hear the sadness in her voice. He could feel the unhappiness rising in her. It made him feel sad too.

"You need your world my love, I would never want to take that away from you," and tightening his arm around her gave her allowed his mouth to linger as he gently kissed her cheek.

Catherine turned her face to his and firmly held his chin bringing his face level with hers, then softly she brushed her lips across his, looking up, longingly into his eyes. He simply could not refuse her and with eager trembling lips he kissed her.

There was no great passion there. It was just a soft kiss, but enough to show Catherine that he cared for her.

For several minutes they clung together each wanting the moment to last forever. Vincent wanted to tell Catherine how he felt, but thought that this was not quite the time, he would know when the time was right, it would come soon he was positive.

For a long time they talked of Christmases past Above and Below. Vincent told her about their Winterfests, when they celebrated the beginning of their world.

Catherine told Vincent of the celebrations at her home when her mom and dad were alive. The wonder and exitement of opening presents under the family tree. Suddenly she was overwhelmed with feeling of pain and loss as she remembered those wonderful magical days.

Vincent gathered her to him and he cradled her in his arms.

"Those days are gone Catherine, but the love and happiness you shared with your father and mother will in your heart always. This is now our time, our memories are just beginning, let us make every minute a happy one." And lifting her tear stained face to his, he kissed her and held her tight.

All the helpers had given generously and with all the things Catherine had brought down over the last few weeks, everything indeed was going to be so special.

"We are very lucky Catherine! We have plenty to eat and I can't wait to see everyone's faces when they see what you have brought them, especially the children." Vincent sounded very excited.

Vincent read a few pieces of poetry to Catherine while she lay beside him on the bed. The lights flickering on the walls made her feel very relaxed. She cuddled closer making Vincent wish that this could go on forever.

The night rushed past as they lay in each other's arms trying hard to forget the lateness of the hour and that Catherine had to return Above.

"It feels so wann and safe here with you Vincent, I wish I didn't have to go ..." she sighed, "but I guess I must."

She stood up and looked back at Vincent and batted her eyelids "Will you walk me home kind Sir?"

"I will be delighted My Lady," he answered, bowing to her. Then he helped her on with her coat and scarf, for a few moments he held her close to him, then taking her hand, took her back to the ladder that led to her basement.

"I will see you Christmas Eve at six, until then, be well Vincent."

"I will be here Catherine." He leaned forward and gave her a hug and kissed her tenderly holding her within his embrace..

"Until our next meeting. Be safe my love." With one last look Catherine turned and climbed the ladder.

All too soon she was out of his sight and Vincent turned away and began the lonely walk back to his chamber.

Christmas Eve arrived soon enough and the Tunnels rang with the sound of eager children's voices. Father had a headache that only Mary could pacify.

Everyone was in a state of Christmas fever. More of the helpers brought down seasonel gifts and the pipes were a constant hum, as messages came with Christmas Greetings from those who could not be there.

Vincent was standing near the park entrance, eagerly waiting for Catherine, who would be coming straight from work to the tunnels. Although she had said in the note that he had received that some late shopping may make her late.

Vincent felt a stirring in his heart that only Catherine's presence brought. He looked out over the cold white carpet of the park, yes Catherine had been right, it had snowed. And as he looked up at the sky saw that the heavy clouds meant that more was on its way.

Suddenly she was there looking so beautiful in her pink duffel coat, and loaded down with parcels and boxes all neatly, and colourfully wrapped.

"Catherine, you should have asked one of our helpers to bring some of these for you and by the feel of your hands you still haven't found your gloves they are so cold," he chided as he took charge of some of the packages.

"I was in too much of a hurry to find them, I think that I might have left them somewhere. I bet they are now keeping someone else warm. I hope Mary will not be cross with me."

"I don't think so Catherine, but come let us go Below before you freeze."

Reaching the Great Hall they were surprised to see Father, Mary and William putting the finishing touches to the garlands surrounding the Hall. This was supposed to be their job as well, but it seemed that Father was most anxious to get it all finished.

"Ah Vincent, would you mind coming over here and helping William set up the Christmas tree, that catherine has so kindly donated to us."

"Welcome Catherine," called Father in a light hearted voice, placing a kiss on her forehead. Father took the parcels off her and laid them on the table.

Vincent handed his packages to Catherine who also placed them on the big old table, that had served the community at many functions.

"Come dear," said Mary, "Let's get these decorations sorted out."

They looked in the boxes which contained the baubles and tinsel that would go on the tree, along with all the orniments that had been in Catherine's family for quite some time. The tree lights were a mixture of tiny candles and flowers, in bright shades of green, reds, blues and pinks.

"Catherine, we do appreciate all this my dear. It can't be easy parting with things that belonged to your family." Father put his arm around her and gave her a hug.

"You are all my family now. It fills my heart that I can do something, especially for the children." Catherine replied in a broken voice.

Father smiled and hugged her again, just for good measure.

Mary asked William to pick up one of the larger boxes and place it on the table. She gave a gasp on opening it, and called father to see the contents

What father saw made him also gasp with surprise. Inside he saw many stockings filled to the brim with all sorts of goodies. Small toys and books. There was more than enough for every child in their care.

Father felt very humble and he could feel the tears stinging his tired old eyes. He smiled tenderly at Catherine.

"Catherine, my dear you are too kind to us, too kind," and he closed the lid so no-one else might see and spoil the surprise.

After what seemed an age, they finally got everything sorted. The tree was decorated and the lights placed on the branches. With arms folded Catherine stood back to survey all their hard work.

"Catherine ... "Vincent's voice was just above a whisper, but it held a note of concern. "You are forgetting we have no electricity here in this section of the Tunnels."

A gentle smile crossed Vincent's face as he saw Catherine look at the tree in wonder. She blushed and then slowly turned to him.

"Of course you don't Vincent, but it doesn't need electricity," and guiding Vincent to the tree, Catherine asked him to lift a box onto the small table by the tree.

"See the point on the end of the lights, all you do is plug it into here ..." and handing Vincent the plug watched as he cautiously connected it into the socket.

Suddenly an array of different coloured lights came on, making Mary dance with joy clapping her hands and dancing around Father who begged her to stop as she was making him giddy.

"It seems to me that some people can't take a bit of excitement," Father said in his usual stern voice, making Mary stop suddenly, holding her head down so no one saw the flush of pink that was slowly colouring her cheeks.

Vincent was as surprised as everyone else that the lights worked. With an apologetic look his eyes held Catherine's gaze, as he spoke he clapped his hands. "Well Catherine...I...am impressed." Vincent lifted her hand and kissed it.

"You see Vincent. All you need is a good battery." Catherine replied and blushed again.

Father noticed the little gesture, also the love that showed on each face. It made his old heart suddenly swell with pride, at long last his son had someone who truly loved him.

William decided to go and get the punch and mince pies ready. Everyone had things to do before gathering in the Great Hall for some carol singing, and dancing. So with regret Vincent unplugged the lights and took Catherine to the guest chamber, while Mary and Father went about their own errands

Music filled the air as Catherine reached Mary's chamber. She had promised Mary that she would walk with her to The Great Hall.

"Mary, may I come in?"

"Yes, please do Catherine, I've only to pin up my hair and I will be ready."

"Mary, I wish mine was so easily dealt with."

"Nonsense child. You have beautiful hair and you know it. There." With a few deft brush strokes, and a couple of pins, Mary was ready to accompany Catherine to join in the festivities.

Before they even reached the long winding stairway the excited voices of children accompanied by the music was clearly to be heard.

"Come on Mary... "Catherine could not hide the excitement in her voice as she rushed to reach the rest of the family, making Mary beg her to slow down.

On reaching the Great Hall, Mary and Catherine both went their own way. Mary to Father's side, and Catherine to Vincent's.

Putting her arm through Vincent's the sight before her filled her with great joy. The room was packed to capacity with helpers and the tunnel family. Everyone was having a wonderful time. The children were playing games, and Sebastian was doing his magic flicks.

The hall looked beautiful with all the garlands and holly. There were bowls of fruit on the table, that had a green and red edged table cloth, decorated with beautiful scenes of Christmas. It had been in her family for generations and it made her so proud to see it being used for the tunnel people.

"Oh Vincent, it's the same yet ... it all looks so different."

"It is the people who are here who are making the difference. Nothing has really changed," he smiled down at her.

Everyone became quiet when Father asked for silence. Calling Catherine to stand by him near the beautiful decorated tree.

"As you all know Catherine brought this tree and decorations to us to brighten up our Christmas. Catherine my dear, will you do the honours."

Picking up the plug Catherine inserted it into the large battery. An array of different coloured lights lit the Great Hall, and everyone shouted with joy and excitement.

Mary danced around William, giving Father a cheeky grin as she danced. It only made Father laugh, and he joined in the merry making.

Vincent caught hold of Catherine's hand and asked her to dance, the strains of a beautiful melody played as they reached the dance floor.

"The music is so beautiful Vincent, do you know what it is called?"

"Mouse brought it Below. He said it is the music from a television show. A fantasy I believe. It is lovely Catherine, you are right."

A smile covered Catherine's face, the pleasure of being in his arms, brought a glow to her heart. Vincent felt it too and for a moment, he held her even closer.

Suddenly the music faltered and then stopped.

"Mouse!" William called, " Come and see to this darn contraption."

With a mad skip and hop, Mouse rushed to the old gramophone, then with a cranking of the handle it was soon playing again.

"Thank you Mouse," everyone shouted and with a rush of blood to his face, and another hop skip and a

jump, he was back at Jamie's side.

Later everyone sat around singing carols, the children were half asleep but would not go to bed, until Father told them their Christmas story about baby Vincent.

All too soon the revelry of the night came to a close. The children were ushered to bed with the promise of a visit from Santa Claus, next day.

Vincent and Catherine said their goocinights and he escorted her to the guest chamber. "Sleep well Catherine, I will see you at breakfast." He pulled her close and tenderly kissed the top of her hair. "You were loving and kind Catherine, you brought great joy tonight to the people of my world. Thank you."

"You don't have to thank me Vincent, they are my family now. I wish I could be there to see the children's faces when they find their stockings filled with candy and toys. I hope we didn't forget anyone." She gave a sigh.

"Don't worry, we didn't." Vincent smiled. He knew only too well the ache that Catherine felt when she was around children. It made him sad too.

"Do not be sad Catherine ..."

Before he could continue Catherine placed her fingers against his mouth. "Shush. . .I'm not sad.. .maybe just a little wistful that's all.. .Tonight I am home and with the people I love and for that I am truly grateful."

Taking his hand she brought it to her lips and kissed it. Vincent bent his head nearer to hers and whispered.

"My heart is always yours. Where you are, that is the only place where I am happy."

Swiftly he was gone, and Catherine slowly entered her chamber. She could feel a glow enter her very soul and somehow she knew it was Vincent. She felt so happy.

Catherine woke with a start. The noise outside her chamber was unusually loud for Below. Rising she put on her bed-coat and went to see what the commotion was all about. Drawing back the curtain, the sight that met her eyes filled them with happy tears.

A group of young children, all orphans, began shouting, "Happy Christmas Catherine," as she emerged into the corridor, and when she beckoned them inside they all clambered onto the bed, dragging their filled stockings with them.

A small, undersized five year old called Ben pulled at Catherine's hand as she stood watching them all.

"Come on Catherine... you too!"

Catherine gave in and clambered into the middle of the bed, where they all proceeded to undo their stockings and investigate the inner treats.

There were squeals of delight as each opened his or her gifts. The sound was sweet music to her ears, and every child placed a kiss upon her cheek and thanked her except for small Emily who threw herself at Catherine and hugged her so tightly the others thought she would never let go and they all wanted their turn!

Her tears fell easily, Catherine smiled so much she felt her heart would burst with it all. It was as if she was with her own children. 'Well I couldn't be any happier if I was,' she thought. And just outside, around a turn in the tunnel, a solitary figure stood smiling, tears also filling his blue eyes.

Mary came to wish Catherine a 'Happy Christmas' and to usher the children away to get ready for breakfast.

Catherini said her Christmas wishes to each child as they left, and caught sight of a cloak disappearing round the bend in the tunnel.

The smell of roast turkey and stuffing filled the air as everyone sat down eager to tuck in. The tables were laden with bowles full of all kinds of vegetables, there was mince pies, puddings, two huge turkeys and William's special decorated Xmas cake.

William had outdone himself this time. The Christmas dinner was delicious. There was plenty to eat and everyone made short work of the two turkeys.

The Christmas pudding with hot brandy sauce went down a treat and it was noted that father had three helpings. The children loved the ginger men all covered with icing, and decorated with jelly beans.

At the end of the meal Father stood and raised his glass of home made wine (the children had lemonade) and gave a toast.

"I would like to thank William and his helpers, for a wonderful Christmas meal. It also gives me great pleasure to have Catherine here at our table on this special day. A Merry Christmas and God Bless You All." Everyone clapped and shouted "Hear! Hear!"

After the Christmas meal was over, several people helped William to do the dishes, silently while everyone was busy clearing away William slipped out. Father told everyone to be at the Great Hall in two hours, and in no time the kitchen was tidied and empty.

Walking with Vincent to her chamber, Catherine looked up at him and smiled.

"What, what is it ?" Vincent queried.

"I just wanted to thank you for this morning. I know it was you who asked the children to call on me, and it made me very happy."

"Then, that is all that matters Catherine."

Vincent placed his hand against her cheek and Catherine turned her face to kiss his palm. The unexpected gesture of affection caught both of them by surprise and they held each other close, savouring the moment.

Once again the Great Hall was filled with music, and laughter. Children were seated around eating Christmas candy and cracking open hot chestnuts, there were groups of children playing with toys.

One lad about six played a drum, Father was getting a little wound up with the noise and asked Mary who the confounded idiot was who gave him that contraption. Mary looked at Father and smiled before saying. "Why Father, you did".

In utter disbelieve he replied. "I did, when did I do that?"

"Father, you told Cullen to make some musical instruments for the smaller children, as presents, and little Ted got the drum."

Father gave a few grunts and coughs and replied. "Remind me to have a word with Cullen, later on."

All of a sudden a bellow of "Ho... Ho... Ho..." came from the doorway.

Everyone turned to see Father Christmas carrying a great big sack. The children squealed with delight, and rushed towards him. Vincent quickly moved and began organising. Catherine followed his lead.

"Everyone make a line and Father Christmas will have a surprise for each of you."

One by one each took their gift and all remembered to thank Father Christmas, except Samantha, who, when she took her gift, grabbed him and kissed him, before whispering "Thank you William" and gave him a cheeky wink.

After everyone exchanged their gifts Vincent made his way to Father and Mary who were busily opening theirs. The table beside them was strewn with paper and ribbons. Father was exitedly opening his, he looked just like a little boy opening his first Christmas present.

"Father, Catherine and I are taking our gifts to the guest chamber, we wont be long."

"You go ahead my boy, see you later."

Mary smiled and nodded her approvel.

Loaded down with gifts Vincent and Catherine made their way to the guest chamber. Placing the opened gifts on the bed Vincent turned and thanked Catherine for the large leather bound journal, and in return, she thanked him for the earrings that matched her pendant.

Taking out of his pocket a little parcel wrapped in pink paper and tied with white satin ribbon, "Catherine this is a little gift that Mary wanted me to give you she...."

Interrupting Vincent before he could finish Catherine told him that Mary had already given her a beautiful knitted bed jacket.

"I know Catherine, Mary didn't have time to knit you some gloves but she wanted you to have these, she has washed them in lavender water. She begs forgiveness if this gift offends, because they are hers, but she wanted you to have them because you lost yours.

Opening the package Catherine gave a huge smile.

"Vincent look," holding them up for him to see the beautiful pink hand knitted gloves. Small knitted lavender flowers decorated the top, and they even smelled of lavender.

"Mary is so kind Vincent I will thank her later. This has been a wonderful day, I don't ever want to

leave here. I want to stay forever." Catherine sighed.

"I wish that it was possible Catherine, but your world has need of you as mine needs me. Somehow between us we must try to live in both."

"Vincent, let's go out into the park. If we wrap up warm we shouldn't feel the cold too much. Can we? Please?"

He could not refuse her. So with a wry smile, he left to get his cloak and gloves, while Catherine changed into slacks and a warm sweater.

Making their way out through the tunnel entrance, they were surprised to find that it was still quite light. More snow had fallen. It lay deeper than ever and under the lights made the park look like frosted icing on a Christmas cake.

Catherine ran out ahead of him and Vincent followed with more caution. But the place was deserted. Suddenly a snowball caught him full in the chest. He looked down to see Catherine nearly falling over with laughter.

He bent and began to scoop snow into his gloved hands. Narrowing his eyes he made to throw it at Catherine and moaned dramatically as his aim went wide of the target.

However by this time Catherine was down in the snow, she had fallen over trying to evade his snowball. Unsuspecting Vincent rushed to her side to make sure that she was unhurt. Catherine grabbed him and pulled him down beside her. This brought more laughter as they continued their snow fight.

As he helped her to her feet and into his arms he looked down at her beautiful face, her cheeks pink with cold. He could resist no longer. This time his kiss was more passionate.

When they drew apart the love in his face, told Catherine all she wanted to know and they knew there was no going back, this was their beginning. With an overwhelming feeling of love he whispered.

"I love you so much Catherine," he spoke softly and tenderly and Catherine heard the words whispered into her heart.

They held each other very tightly, almost if they were afraid that if they let go, the moment would disappear. Reluctantly Vincent whispered.

"We should be getting back Catherine, you will catch a cold in those wet clothes."

"I know you're right." Catherine brushed the snow from her sweater. "Do you think we've been missed Vincent? The party will go on for hours yet, can't we have some time for us?"

It was useless for either of the to pretend anymore. Vincent lifted Catherine into his arms and she put her arms around his neck snuggling close. Kissing his cheek she whispered back, "I love you too Vincent, very much." She turned his face so that she could kiss his mouth.

For a moment he stopped and returned her kiss, a feeling of desire entered his very soul, and he cradled her to him.

Vincent carried Catherine all the way back to the guest chamber, not listening to her protests that she was quite capable of walking. Once inside Vincent pulled the heavy curtain across the doorway, so that they wouldn't be disturbed.

"Are you absolutely sure this is what you want?" His eyes held her gaze steadfastly as he waited for her reply.

"More than anything Vincent, to be truly together." Her voice was husky when she spoke.

Vincent lowered Catherine onto the bed and threw his cloak onto a nearby chair.

"You'll stay Vincent?"

Catherine knew in her heart it would not be difficult to persuade him. She held his hands together while she kissed them, and Vincent was reminded that they were 'her hands'.

When Catherine said " Vincent I need you.. .need you," he knew that this time it was the moment they had both been waiting for. As he took her into his arms he felt complete.

Holding each other close Vincent heard Catherine's promise, "This will be the best 'Christmas Together' ever."

His heart rejoiced because he knew she meant every word.