Ruby didn’t quite understand what that meant. On screen was a jolly fat man in red handing out presents to kids.

“That’s Santa Claus,” Yang explained. “In his story, he gives presents to good kids. But he doesn’t really exist,” Yang smiled wryly remembering her childhood. Best that Ruby learned the hard truth now, rather than be broken-hearted later. Besides, she was way past the age limit.

“So usually we give presents to people who are close to us. To show how much they mean to us. That’s what Christmas is about.”

What would make good presents?

Ruby never had to think about something so complicated before. Last time she tried to get Weiss something nice… it ended less than amusing.

Fish might be nice for Blake… but not so much for everyone else. Besides, it might make Blake feel awkward.

Maybe think about what she liked? Strawberries were nice. They don’t grow in winter so it would be a nice reminder of warmer times.

But that didn’t sound special enough for her friends.

So deep in thought, she didn’t notice when she bumped into team JNPR.

“Hey Ruby,” Jaune greeted. “Why the long face?”

“Hey everyone,” Ruby managed a weak smile. “I didn’t know about Christmas until just now, so I can’t think of anything for Weiss, Blake, and Yang.”

“Oh, Ruby, I’m sure that anything you get them would be wonderful,” Pyrrha consoled.

“Yes, it’s the thought that counts and I’m sure they would love nothing more than to just spend time with you,” Ren agreed.

“Thanks, but I… I just want to show them… how special they mean to me…”

“Not to worry!” Nora suddenly shouted.

As Nora waved Ruby off before her team could stop her, they demanded to know what she told Ruby.

Nora smirked evilly. “I just told her, ‘It’s okay if you don’t know what you’re doing. Just let them take the lead, and you’ll both enjoy it.”

…

…

Inside the RWBY dorm, Weiss, Blake, and Yang were getting ready to exchange gifts. They were just simple gift, such as foodstuffs and books. Though their bonds were tight, this was their first Christmas together and they haven’t been around each other long enough to get anything more personal.

Now if only Ruby would show up, they can start.

“Where is that girl?” Weiss complained, always the one for punctuality.

“Yeah, I’m a bit worried too,” Blake glanced out the window at the lightly drifting snow.

Yang was about to say something when a knock at the door interrupted her.

“See! I’m sure that’s her now!” Yang said as she opened the door.

…

…

…

“…Welp! I’m not turning down a present,” Yang grinned as she wiped away some drool from the corner of her mouth.

As she advanced on Ruby, shrouding her with her shadow, Ruby felt fear.

“Because you’re just so precious,” Yang smiled warmly.

“Because you’re a good friend,” Blake whispered into her ear.

Both Yang and Blake looked at each other and then to Weiss.

“Well, we kissed her forehead and cheek,” Yang grinned. “What else is left?”

“Eye, ear, neck, collarbone,” Blake listed off easily. She smiled, “Lips.”

All of them carried significant meaning as Weiss caught on and blushed to her roots.

“T-this is how Atlassians show friendship, g-got it!” Weiss squeaked as she bumped noses with Ruby.

Ruby’s face heated up as well.

“Booo!” came two cries from the peanut gallery.

“Oh shush!” Weiss chided them. “We still have gifts to give.”

She cleared her throat, “Ahem! Thank you, Ruby, for your gift. It… made me happy.”

“More than that,” Yang muttered.

Ruby didn’t understand since it seemed like everyone gave her kisses, not the other way around. Despite that, they all assured her that her feelings were well received and that she’s given them more than she knew.

As the night descended, Ruby brought out a plate of cookies. Though Yang told her than Santa wasn’t real, a part of her still desperately believed that he existed.