Title: Nick/Greg Advent Calendar 2025
Author: gothikmaus
Fandom: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
Pairing: Nick/Greg
Rating: G - PG-13
Category: ficlet collection, fluff, romance, humour
Summary: A collection of 24 Christmas-themed ficlets written for the Advent Calendar 2025. Mostly fluffy and humorous.
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and all related characters are property of CBS. I own nothing. No copyright infringement intended.
December 1
Inspired by the following prompt from the hand-holding prompt list on Tumblr:
25. Standing in front of each other, holding both their hands
"You're trying really hard to end up on the naughty list this year, aren't you?" Nick mumbled as he stopped next to Greg's desk.
"I have no idea what you're talking about," the DNA tech replied without raising his head from the microscope, but his little smirk told Nick he knew perfectly well what the Texan was referring to.
"There's a fine line between friendly banter and outright flirting, and you crossed it with both feet. It's a wonder no one noticed."
"You're being paranoid. And even if they notice, who cares? I flirt with everyone," Greg pointed out, finally looking up.
Nick narrowed his eyes.
"And that's another habit that will land you on Santa's naughty list."
"Ooh, do I sense jealousy?" Greg cooed, straightening up and tilting his head slightly to the side, smirk firmly in place.
"Should I be jealous?" Nick asked, not quite looking him in the eye.
"No," Greg answered with no hesitation, turning serious. He took a quick glance around to make sure no one was paying attention to them and reached out, gently taking both of Nick's hands in his. "There's only one person I really care about, and he's standing right in front of me."
Nick finally looked at him, a small smile dawning on his lips.
"You do have a way with words."
"That's my superpower," Greg said with a grin. He let go of Nick's hands and picked up a folder from his desk, handing it to Nick. "These are the results you were waiting for."
"Thanks, G."
"You can thank me properly later at my place," Greg replied, wiggling his eyebrows.
Nick rolled his eyes, but he was still smiling as he walked out of the DNA lab.
December 2
Inspired by the following prompt from the hand-holding prompt list on Tumblr:
26. Holding their hands above their head, fingers linked together
"Come on! How long does it take to open a frigging door?" Greg asked impatiently, brimming with barely restrained energy.
"What's the rush? You need to go to the bathroom or something?"
"Ha ha. Just hurry up."
As soon as the door was open, Nick found himself being pushed none too gently inside. Annoyed at his partner's behavior, he turned around, but before he could utter a single word, Greg was kissing him, hands slipping under his jacket and roaming all over his torso.
"Whoa. What's gotten into you?" Nick asked when he was finally able to pull back and breathe.
"It's this stupid sweater. Do you have any idea how fucking hot you look in it? You shouldn't be allowed to wear it in public, it's too fucking distracting," Greg said, hands running over the garment in question.
"This sweater? Really?" Nick replied, incredulous. "It's a Christmas present from my mom. I didn't even think I would be able to wear it in Vegas, it's usually too hot for it."
"Well, your mom is up to something. I think she's trying to get you a girlfriend."
Nick snorted.
"You're such a weirdo."
"And you must be blind not to notice how good it looks on you. It clings to all the right places, and that turtleneck should be illegal," Greg added, fondling Nick's chest as he spoke.
Nick shook his head.
"Yep, a certified weirdo."
"Whenever I caught a glimpse of you at the lab today, I just wanted to push you up against a wall and have my way with you," Greg went on, hands never leaving Nick's body. "It was driving me insane."
"Well, what's stopping you now?" Nick asked, a sly smile curving his lips upwards.
Greg stared at him, then gently pushed him until his back was pressed against the door. He ran his hands down Nick's arms and, when he reached his hands, he linked their fingers together. He leaned in and kissed him again, softer this time, enjoying the way Nick had gone pliant against him. The Texan didn't put up any resistance when Greg raised their arms, fingers still entwined, and pinned Nick's hands above his head.
The DNA tech eventually broke the kiss, pulling back just enough to look at Nick.
"Fuck," he muttered, unable to look away.
"You really like this sweater," Nick said. "I should wear it more often."
"Only if you want everyone to find out what effect it has on me."
Nick's laughter was quickly smothered by another kiss.
December 3
"Got any plans for Christmas?" Warrick asked while they were waiting for their food.
"Not really," Nick replied. "I'm working this year. I'll just get some fancy take out from that place Catherine suggested and spend a couple of hours on the sofa watching a cheesy Christmas movie or something."
What he didn't add was that he wouldn't be alone. That would be the first Christmas he and Greg spent together and, even if they were both scheduled to work over the holidays, Nick was really looking forward to it. He couldn't hold back a smile as he thought of Greg's present: the DNA tech was going to love those concert tickets.
"Is there something you wanna tell me?"
Nick frowned and looked up.
"What do you mean?"
"I know that smile. You seeing someone?"
Caught off guard, Nick didn't answer, which was all the confirmation Warrick needed.
"You are!" He exclaimed, grinning. "Who's the lucky lady?"
Nick frantically thought of something to say. He was still coming to terms with the fact that a) he was dating a guy and b) the guy in question was Sanders, of all people. He wasn't ready to talk about it yet, not even with Warrick.
"It's still quite new," he eventually said. "I don't wanna jinx it."
"Ooh, that serious, huh? Well, good for you, man, you deserve it," Warrick commented, giving him a sincere smile.
"Thanks."
"But I wanna be the first to meet her when you're finally ready to share her with the rest of the world."
Luckily for him, Nick didn't have to answer, as the waitress arrived with their food. That was going to be an interesting conversation...
December 4
"Finally. I was about to send in the rescue squad."
Nick shut the door and dragged himself into the living room.
"Sorry, I meant to call you but lost track of time."
He flopped down in one of the armchairs, leaned his head back, and closed his eyes.
"Rough shift?" Greg asked.
"That's an understatement. Remember that gang of robbers going around dressed as Christmas elves? They blew themselves up while they were trying to get into a bank vault in Henderson. Putting them back together, or rather what was left of them, was a nightmare."
Greg walked behind him and placed his hands on Nick's shoulders, gently pressing his fingertips into the Texan's tense muscles.
"Why don't you go take a shower and join me in the bedroom? I know exactly how to make you feel better."
"Sorry, babe, I'm really not up for it right now."
"As shocking as it might sound, I wasn't referring to sex," Greg replied. He walked around to the front of the armchair and grabbed Nick's hands, pulling him to his feet. "Now go. I'll be waiting for you."
Nick reluctantly headed towards the bathroom, yawning. By the time he got out of the shower, he was feeling slightly more human, but he was still dead tired.
Just like he had said, Greg was waiting for him in the bedroom. He had gotten out of his jeans and was reading a magazine. When he heard Nick walk in, he looked up and smiled.
"There you are." He placed the magazine down on the nightstand and stood up. "Lie down on your stomach."
"Greg..." Nick started to protest, but Greg interrupted him.
"Just trust me."
Nick sighed and lied down. A few seconds later, he felt Greg get onto the bed and crawl towards him, straddling him and setting his knees on either side of Nick's thighs. Without saying a word, Greg pressed his palms between Nick's shoulder blades and started massaging his back, alternating between firm kneading and gentle touches, broad caresses that went from the nape of Nick's neck down to the small of his back. Greg's hands felt slippery and Nick could smell something sweet and spicy. He wanted to ask him if he was using that massage oil he had gotten on his latest trip to California, but he didn't even have the strength to speak.
In a matter of minutes, he was fast asleep.
Greg gradually slowed down, his touch becoming lighter and lighter, until he eventually stopped. He looked fondly at the sleeping figure lying under him and leaned down.
"Good night," he whispered, and placed a feather-light kiss on Nick's cheek.
December 5
Sara sat down next to him on the sofa and took a swig of beer.
"Just ask him out already," she said, looking at the festive scene in front of them. The annual lab Christmas party was in full swing: the break room was decked with tinsel and an assortment of red, green, and gold decorations, every available surface was laid out with food and drinks, and everyone seemed to be having a good time.
"What?" Greg asked, frowning at her.
"Nick. Just ask him out."
"What!?" he repeated, voice going almost a full octave higher in shock.
Sara gave him an unimpressed look.
"If you think you're being subtle, think again."
"I-I... H-How..." Greg stammered, unable to form a coherent sentence.
"I'm neither blind nor stupid. It's pretty obvious if you pay attention."
"Shit." Greg sat up, panicked. "Does he know?"
"Nah, he's just as clueless as you."
Greg heaved a sigh of relief.
"Since when are you so shy with your crushes? You didn't have any problem asking me out. Repeatedly."
"Yeah, but this is Nick."
"And?"
"It's just... different."
Sara studied him for a while.
"You're down bad, aren't you?"
Greg let himself fall forward, hugging his knees and hiding his face in his arms. Sara patted him on the back.
"Cheer up, Greg, I'm pretty sure he's just as smitten as you are."
Greg turned his head and glared up at her.
"That's not funny, Sara."
"I'm dead serious. But knowing him, he'll never make the first move, so that's up to you."
Greg slowly sat up and gave a cursory glance around the room, his eyes only stopping when they found Nick. He was holding a beer bottle and laughing at something Warrick was saying.
"What if you're wrong and I ruin everything?"
Sara placed a hand on his shoulder and leaned closer.
"You won't," she said softly, before getting to his feet and leaving him alone.
As she walked away, Nick turned toward him and gave him one of his brilliant smiles. Greg took a deep breath and stood up.
December 6
Inspired by the following prompt from the hand-holding prompt list on Tumblr:
49. Taking the other’s hand to look for injuries
Greg was in an excellent mood. In less than four hours he would hop on a plane to California to spend Christmas with his family and get a few days of well-deserved rest. His work for the night was done: all the samples had been processed, all results delivered; now he just needed to fill the time until his shift ended.
He started to clear out his desk, humming 'Deck the Halls' as he put petri dishes and pipettes away.
"I thought you were more of a 'Jingle Bell Rock' kinda guy."
He spun around, startled.
"Gee, Nick, you gave me a heart attack."
Nick was looking at him with an amused expression.
"Looking forward to your Christmas break?"
"You bet I am. I'm gonna eat so many of my nana's special Christmas cookies."
Nick's smile turned wistful and Greg suddenly remembered his co-worker wasn't getting any day off during the holidays that year.
"Sorry, that was awfully tactless."
"Don't worry, it's all part of the job," Nick reassured him. "I went home last year, I have to work this year."
"I'll bring you some cookies. They're really good."
Nick's expression softened.
"I'm sure they are."
Greg found himself unable to look away. The way Nick's smile accentuated the lines on his face and made his eyes crinkle was mesmerizing.
"Did you need something?" he eventually asked, the silence starting to feel awkward.
Nick shook his head.
"No, I just wanted to wish you happy holidays in case I didn't catch you later."
"Ah, uh, thanks," Greg replied, not really sure why he was feeling so nervous all of a sudden. "I was about to get the last coffee of the day. You want some?"
"Are you offering me your special brew? Wow, I'm honored."
"Yeah, well, don't get used to it. Consider it my Christmas present."
He distractedly reached out to grab his mug but miscalculated the distance, knocking it to the floor.
"Dammit!"
As he knelt down to pick up the ceramic pieces scattered all over the place, Nick stepped forward.
"You shouldn't do that with your bare hands," he pointed out.
As if on cue, a particularly sharp fragment pierced Greg's finger. The DNA tech hissed and instinctively pulled his hand back.
"See? What did I tell you?"
Nick crouched down in front of him and took his hand, raising it so he could check for injuries. Greg stared, speechless, as Nick lightly ran the pad of his thumb over his skin, making sure there were no shards stuck anywhere.
"It's just a small cut. A band aid and you'll be as good as new," he said, smiling, and Greg's breath caught in his throat.
"Uh, thanks," he said when he was finally able to speak again.
Nick let go of his hand, and Greg immediately missed his touch. They got back to their feet and Greg opened the drawer where he kept a small first aid kit. Bandaging his wound only took a few moments.
"All good?" Nick asked, but before Greg could answer, Warrick stopped in the doorway.
"Nick! Grissom's looking for you," the CSI called out before disappearing down the corridor.
"I'm gonna have to take a rain check on that cup of coffee," Nick said as he walked out of the DNA lab. "And don't forget your nana's cookies," he added with a smile.
Greg stared after him, dumbfounded. He would have a lot to think about during his Christmas break.
December 7
Inspired by the following dialogue response prompt list on Tumblr (which I tweaked a little):
"You know you love me."
"Yes, and I don't know why."
"You're not coming to the lab dressed like that, are you?" Nick asked from the bedroom doorway, giving Greg an appalled look.
"Yes, I am. If I have to work on Christmas Eve, I get to choose what I'm wearing."
"Ecklie could fire you for excess of bad taste," Nick added.
"Hah! I'd like to see him try. Do you have any idea how difficult it is to find a qualified DNA tech willing to take the night shift?"
Greg was right, but that didn't justify the monstrosity he was wearing. Nick had seen his fair share of ugly Christmas sweaters over the years, but nothing as bad as the one Greg was sporting that evening. Was that supposed to be a reindeer? It looked more like an alien. Maybe it was an alien reindeer? Bottom line, it was atrocious.
"Where did you even find such a hideous thing?"
"I have my ways," Greg answered with a smirk.
Nick sighed.
"Why do I even put up with you?"
"Because you love me," Greg said, walking up to him and wrapping his arms around his shoulders.
"Yeah, and I don't know why," Nick replied, placing his hands on Greg's waist.
"Because I'm charming, sexy, and irresistible."
"Don't forget humble."
Greg grinned and gave him a quick peck on the lips before stepping back and heading for the front door. Nick shook his head and followed him out of the house.
December 8
"Hey! You made it back in time for the Christmas party!" Greg exclaimed stopping in the doorway.
"Yeah, but I need to change out of this first," Nick replied. When he turned around, Greg could see a big, dark spot covering the front of his shirt.
"What happened?"
"I had a close encounter with a disgruntled citizen at the scene. He wasn't satisfied with how we were conducting the investigation and decided the best way to get the message across was to throw a cup of coffee at me."
"Ouch."
"Yeah. Well, at least it wasn't hot," Nick commented. He turned back around and finished unbuttoning his shirt.
Greg found himself staring as Nick slipped the garment down his shoulders and shrugged it off, eyes following the movements of Nick's muscles. He wondered what it would feel like to place his palm between Nick's shoulder blades and push him down on a bed. Would he put up a fight? Would he go down willingly and become pliant under his touch?
As Nick turned toward him, Greg's eyes roamed over his exposed chest. He wanted to run his hands all over the Texan's skin, wanted to know what he tasted like, lick his way down his stomach and...
"Planet Earth to Greg. You still with us, G?"
Nick's voice abruptly stopped Greg's fantasy. He looked up and saw an amused expression on Nick's face.
"Like what you see?"
Greg was petrified. Surely Nick was just messing with him, right? There was no way, no fucking way he was actually flirting with him. Right?
The silence turned awkward, and the smile vanished from Nick's face.
"Sorry, that was inappropriate," he said looking away and reaching into his locker for a clean shirt.
"No!" Greg exclaimed. "I mean, yes, it was a little inappropriate, but no more inappropriate than some of the stuff I say," he added with a smile, hoping that would melt some of the tension that had built up between them.
As Nick remained silent, Greg decided to go all in.
"Anyway, I don't mind you being inappropriate. And yes, I like what I see. And I'd like to see more of it."
Nick slowly looked up, but didn't say anything. Greg held his breath for so long he was afraid he was going to pass out from lack of oxygen.
Eventually, a small smile appeared on Nick's face.
"Are you making a pass at me, Sanders?"
"Well, you're the one standing half-naked in front of me, being all suggestive and inappropriate."
Nick's smile grew bigger, and Greg heaved a sigh of relief.
"Guilty as charged."
"Why don't we talk more about this after the Christmas party?" Greg suggested.
"My place?" Nick asked.
Greg nodded.
"Deal. Now get dressed before I do something so inappropriate it'll cost us both our jobs."
December 9
Nick was feeling miserable: he could barely breathe through his nose, his throat was sore from coughing non-stop, and he had a constant sense of nausea that prevented him from ingesting more than a morsel of solid food at a time.
That was not how he had planned to spend Christmas at all.
As he was commiserating himself on the sofa, his doorbell rang. He slowly stood up and dragged himself to the front door, wondering who could be paying him a visit on Christmas Eve.
"Merry Christmas!" Greg greeted him cheerfully when he opened the door.
"Greg? What are you doing here?"
"I'm on a mission to save your day. No one should spend Christmas alone, especially if they are sick. And you definitely look like you need some soup."
Nick noticed Greg was carrying two shopper bags. He looked from the bags back to Greg's face.
"May I come in?"
Nick stepped aside and let him in. Greg walked straight into the kitchen and placed the bags on the counter, then took off his jacket and threw it on the back of a chair.
"It's still warm," he said taking a pot out of one of the bags and putting it on the stove. "It's my nana's secret recipe, and it's almost as good as hers," he added with a proud smile.
He grabbed a bowl from one of the cabinets and ladled a generous portion of soup into it.
"Here." He handed the bowl to Nick and opened a drawer in search of a spoon.
He acted as if he owned the place, and Nick realized he didn't mind one bit.
"I don't wanna sound ungrateful, but didn't you have plans for Christmas?" Nick asked as he sat down at the table.
"Yeah, well, a friend of mine invited a bunch of people at his place for dinner, but I can see them some other time. This is more important," he added with a smile. He handed the spoon to Nick and leaned back against the counter.
Nick felt a kind of fluttering in his stomach that had nothing to do with the flu. He looked down at the bowl and took a tentative spoonful of soup.
"Wow, this is really good."
"No need to sound so surprised, I might take offense," Greg rebutted, but his expression told Nick he was just messing with him.
"I also brought cookies and ginger herbal tea, it does wonder for the stomach," he said, rummaging through the bags. "Oh, and DVDs. It's not Christmas without a Christmas movie marathon," he added, fishing out half a dozen DVDs and spreading them out on the table.
Nick was stunned. He had already resigned himself to spending Christmas alone on the sofa, trying not to throw up on the carpet and coughing his way into oblivion; never in a million year had he imagined something like that.
"I... I really don't know what to say."
Greg's smile turned softer.
"Then don't say anything. Just finish your soup and then we can move to the living room and watch a movie. I'll even let you choose which one. And don't worry, I won't judge you if you fall asleep in the middle of it," he finished with a grin.
Nick smiled and went back to eating his soup. Being sick at Christmas wasn't so bad if you had someone like Greg Sanders around.
December 10
The lab Christmas party was coming to an end. Most of the crew had already left, ready to wrap up their shift and go home, leaving behind only empty bottles and trays, dirty plastic dishes, and pieces of tinsel strewn around the floor.
Greg was sitting on the sofa, enjoying the last moments of celebration. As he glanced around the break room, his eyes landed on a couple standing in a corner: they had their arms wrapped around each other's waists, the woman resting her head on the man's shoulder, her eyes closed.
His expression turned wistful at that simple act of intimacy. At home, Nick was the most affectionate and caring partner he'd ever had, always ready to show him just how much he loved him. But he was also still firmly in the closet, so as soon as they were in public, he put a safety distance between them.
Greg followed the couple with his eyes as they left the room and sighed. He was aware Nick had gone through some unpleasant things in the past and didn't want to resent him for being extra cautious, but he would give anything to be able to share small gestures like a simple embrace freely, at least among their closest friends.
"Hey, you okay?"
Greg looked up and saw Nick stand in front of him.
"Yeah, I just spaced out a little. Must be the alcohol," he lied, putting on a smile.
Nick wasn't fooled. He had a pretty good idea of what was going on in Greg's mind: he had been studying him from a distance for a while and had seen the shift in his expression when his eyes had landed on the couple in the corner. Nick knew he was the cause of Greg's sadness, even if his boyfriend would never admit it, and he hated himself because of it.
He turned around and noticed that only a few people were still there: Grissom and Dr Robbins were leafing through a book on medieval medical practices; Sara and Catherine were discussing animatedly about the latest case; Warrick was sprawled out in a chair, looking half-asleep.
Nick turned back to Greg and held out a hand. Puzzled, Greg took it and let himself be pulled to his feet.
"Hey, guys, there's something I wanna tell you," Nick announced, holding Greg's hand.
Greg's eyes widened in realization and he leaned closer.
"You don't have to do this," he whispered in Nick's ear.
Nick smiled at him.
"I know. But I want to."
He turned back toward the rest of the team and took a deep breath.
"Greg and I... We're a couple."
Five pairs of eyes were staring at them, and Greg gave Nick's hand a gentle squeeze.
"We haven't said anything until now because... Well, because I was too much of a coward, really," Nick went on. "But I don't want Greg to think I'm ashamed of him. He's not my dirty little secret: he's the best thing that happened in my life, and I want y'all to know it."
Greg was having a hard time fighting back tears. He knew he must have a ridiculous, smitten expression on his face, but he didn't care one bit.
"I'm so happy for you guys," Catherine congratulated them, wrapping them both in a hug.
"How could you keep this from me, man? You hurt my feelings," Warrick jokingly accused Nick, but he was sporting a big grin.
"So now you'll finally stop flirting with me," Sara told Greg with a small smirk.
"Never," Greg replied, grinning.
Dr. Robbins gave them a heartfelt pat on the back and offered his expertise on how to make a relationship last.
The only one who didn't say anything was Grissom. Nick looked at him, a sense of worry pervading him as he waited for his mentor's reaction. After a few, interminable moments, Grissom smiled at him, and Nick felt all he tension leave his body. He wound an arm around Greg's shoulders and pulled him closer, feeling lighter than he had felt in years.
December 11
"You gotta be kidding me," Nick stated incredulously as he looked out of Frank's windows.
"Please, tell me you brought an umbrella," Greg added, watching in dismay at the sudden downpour. The rain was so heavy he could barely see the parking lot right in front of the diner.
"I have two. In my car."
They stood there in silence for a while, eyes fixed on the storm raging outside.
"Maybe we can just... wait it out?" Greg eventually suggested, but he didn't sound too convinced.
As if on cue, a bright lightning bolt slashed the sky, quickly followed by the loud rumble of thunder.
"I'm afraid that's gonna take a while," Nick replied.
"Here, you can use this," the waitress offered, holding out a battered umbrella. "Someone left it here the other day and never reclaimed it."
The two CSIs looked dubiously at the umbrella, which had clearly seen better days, then at each other. Greg shrugged.
"Do we have any other option?"
Nick sighed and reached out.
"Thanks, Sally."
They walked to the entrance and hesitated, pondering if leaving the safety of the diner was a good idea, until Nick made up his mind and opened the door. They stepped out and stood shoulder to shoulder as Nick gingerly opened the umbrella above their heads.
They were barely halfway to his car when a sudden gust of wind blew the rickety thing inside out, stripping them of the only shield they had against the torrential rain.
"Dammit!" Nick cursed, dropping the useless tangle of fabric and metal. "Run!"
By the time they slipped inside the car and closed the doors, they were both soaked. They looked at each other, hair plastered to their foreheads and droplets of rain running down their faces, and burst out laughing.
When their laughter had died down, Nick glanced over to Greg and, without thinking, leaned over and kissed him, taking him by surprise.
"Aren't you worried someone might see us?" Greg asked when Nick pulled back.
The Texan was usually extremely cautious about public displays of affection, but in that moment, with Greg sitting so close, his hair and face illuminated by the bright Christmas lights decorating Frank's windows, he realized he didn't care who might see them, or what they might think.
Nick cupped Greg's face with one hand and smiled.
"I don't give a damn."
Greg returned the smile and met Nick halfway for another kiss.
December 12
"And this is the last present."
Nick took the package from Greg's hands and unwrapped it, immediately recognizing the A&M logo.
"Did you get me memorabilia from my alma mater?" he asked, amused.
"Kind of," Greg replied with a mischievous smile.
When Nick was done removing the wrapping paper, he realized Greg hadn't gotten him a simple T-shirt.
"Is this a... cheerleader uniform?"
"Yep!" Greg chirped, a huge grin on his face.
"I'll never hear the end of it, will I?" Nick asked in a resigned tone. He would forever regret telling Raymond he had a weakness for cheerleaders. "What am I supposed to do with it? Frame it and hang it over the bed?"
"Oh, I have better plans for it," Greg replied with a glint in his eye.
"Absolutely not," Nick stated. "I'm not gonna wear it just so you can have a laugh."
"You know I'd never do that to you."
Nick narrowed his eyes.
"Then what are your plans for it?"
"Well, that uniform just so happens to be my size..."
Nick's expression morphed from suspicion to understanding in a matter of seconds.
"You... You want to..."
Greg nodded.
"It wouldn't be the strangest thing I've worn," he said, leaning forward and running the tip of his index finger under Nick's chin. "You know that."
Nick licked his lips.
"How much time do we have before we need to leave?"
"A couple of hours," Greg replied, gently running the backs of his fingers along Nick's jaw.
He smiled as Nick closed the distance between them, pressing their lips together in a fiery kiss.
December 13
"Who hung mistletoe in the break room?" Nick asked, looking up at the small branch decorating the doorway.
"No idea. Someone from day shift, I guess. It was already there when I got here," Greg replied as he poured himself the first coffee of the night.
"Mmh." Nick let out a noncommittal sound and took a sip of his own coffee.
Greg gave him a side glance.
"You know you don't need an excuse to kiss me," he whispered.
Nick glared at him, but Greg could see a light blush coloring his cheeks.
"Aw, you're so cute when you pretend to be mad at me."
On their way out of the room, they almost collided with Sara.
"Sorry guys, didn't see you there," she apologized distractedly. She had dark circles under her eyes and looked like she had just tumbled out of bed.
"Looks like someone needs coffee, huh?" Nick asked, amused.
He felt Greg tap a finger on his shoulder and turned around. The DNA tech was sporting a lopsided smile and pointing upwards. Nick glanced up and blanched as he saw the branch of mistletoe hanging above their heads.
"Traditions are traditions," Greg stated with a grin just before planting a big, smacking kiss on Nick's cheek.
"That's sweet, but I need caffeine. Now," Sara commented, unimpressed by Greg's antics, and made a beeline for the coffee pot.
"You're just jealous because you didn't get a kiss," Greg replied. "But I'm a generous man: come back here and you'll get as many kisses as you want."
"Yeah, no." Sara took a long sip of coffe and sighed. "But I saw Grissom coming this way. Maybe he'll be interested in your generous offer."
She smiled widely as both men bolted out of the room, leaving her to enjoying her coffee in blessed silence.
December 14
"For the last time: stop snooping around looking for your present," Nick snapped, exasperated.
"Or what? Will you bend me over your knees and spank me?" Greg asked cheekily.
"That wouldn't be much of a punishment, you would enjoy it way too much."
"Touché."
"Can't you wait a few more days? Christmas is literally next week."
"But I wanna know nowww," Greg whined, giving Nick his best puppy look.
The Texan was unimpressed, so the DNA tech decided to change tactics.
"Maybe you could give me a hint?" He suggested, placing his hands on Nick's shoulders and slowly running his fingers down his chest. "What would it take to bribe you?"
Greg saw a subtle change in Nick's expression, something anyone else would have missed, but not him. Nick advanced, forcing Greg to walk backwards until he found himself pressed against the wall.
"What are you willing to do?" Nick asked, voice low and sultry.
Greg's mouth was suddenly dry.
"A lot of things," he replied, fingertips inching toward Nick's belt.
Nick placed both hands on Greg's hips and gently pushed his thigh against Greg's crotch, making him whimper. He leaned forward and whispered directly in his ear.
"Are you sure you wanna do this? I don't think you can handle it."
"Y-Yes," Greg stuttered. "You know I can."
"Since you asked so nicely, I'm gonna give you a hint. But in return, you're gonna be a good boy and do something for me."
Greg nodded.
"I'll do anything."
His mind was whirling, trying to guess what Nick's request would be. He was already imagining himself tied to the bed, or blindfolded, or on his knees, or all three things at once.
What he was not expecting was for Nick to take a step back and cross his arms over his chest.
"I want you to stop acting like a fucking baby about your present."
Greg blinked at him, dumbfounded.
"What?"
"You heard me: no more sneaking around opening every cabinet and drawer, no more begging for hints, nothing. You behave like an adult until Christmas."
"That's not... That wasn't the deal!" Greg sputtered.
"You said anything," Nick pointed out.
"You know perfectly well what I meant."
"Anything means anything. You should've been more specific if you had something else in mind," Nick rebutted with a small, satisfied smile. Greg wanted to smack it off his stupid face.
"Well, you didn't give me any hint, so the deal's off."
"Oh, here's your hint: it's something I bought in a store."
"What kind of hint is that?!"
"I never said it was gonna be a useful hint," Nick answered with a toothy grin.
"Son of a-"
"I can return it and swap it for a book on the art of negotiation if you'd like."
Greg glared at him and stomped out of the room, ignoring Nick's laughter.
December 15
"Hey, it smells like Christmas in here," Greg said walking into the kitchen.
Nick greeted him with a kiss.
"I'm making mulled wine."
"Oh, I haven't had mulled wine in years." His eyes fell on the table. "Are those gingerbread cookies?"
Nick smiled sheepishly.
"They might be a little overcooked."
"You baked them?"
Nick nodded.
"Wow, I'm impressed," Greg commented, grabbing a cookie and taking a bite.
"I know how much you love Christmas, but we've both been so busy with work lately we barely had time to decorate the house. I thought I could do something to make you feel like you were visiting one of those European Christmas markets you like so much."
Greg stepped closer, cupping Nick's cheek with one hand as he kissed him.
"What did I do to deserve such a perfect boyfriend?"
"I don't know, maybe you're just a very lucky guy," Nick replied with a smile. "Now go sit down on the sofa and enjoy the fairy lights. I'll be there with the mulled wine and cookies in a moment."
Greg kissed him again and left the kitchen, a huge smile on his face.
December 16
Nick was speechless. He simply stared at the brightly lit-up plant decorating the front yard next to their scene, an incredulous expression on his face. Next to him, Greg was trying hard not to laugh.
"Hey, guys," David greeted them, searching for something in his bag and sounding slightly out of breath. When he glanced up, he stopped dead in his tracks. "Whoa. Who thought this was a good idea?"
"Maybe the owner isn't aware of the final result?" Greg suggested, barely managing to keep a straight face.
"How can anyone not be aware of this?!" Nick asked, gesturing at the phallic-looking shape. "You don't put Christmas lights on palm trees. You just don't."
"Oh, come on, it's Vegas. This is, like, the perfect Christmas decoration for Sin City," Greg replied. "Actually," he added with a mischievous glint in his eye. "Don't you have a palm tree just like that in your front yard?"
Nick glared at him.
"Come on, Super Dave, we have a scene to process," the Texan said to the coroner, turning on his heel and heading toward the house.
Greg was still grinning wildly as he followed them.
(In case you don't know what Christmas lights of certain palm trees look like, I was thinking of something like this (link goes to Reddit). Or just google it.)
December 17
"Wakey-wakey, sleepyhead. It's Christmas Eve," Nick murmured, voice still rough from sleep. He pressed himself flush against Greg's back and rubbed his cheek against his boyfriend's.
"Mmh, no," Greg whined, turning his face and burying it into the pillow.
"What do you mean no? You love Christmas."
"Not if I have to work."
"Come on, I'm sure it'll be a quiet shift. Then we'll come back home and celebrate together," Nick replied, draping one arm across Greg's torso and pulling him even closer.
"Let's call in sick and spend the whole day in bed instead."
"You know we can't do that. But if you hurry up, I'll make that cheesy omelette you like so much."
"With extra bacon?"
"With extra bacon," Nick agreed.
Greg sighed but made no move to leave the bed. Nick kissed his cheek and sat up, ignoring his protests when he threw back the covers.
"Don't go back to sleep," he admonished him as he stood up. "Or you won't have enough time to enjoy your omelette."
"I hate you."
"No, you don't," Nick replied as he left the bedroom, smiling at the sound of bed sheets rustling and feet hitting the floor.
December 18
"What are you watching?" Greg asked, plopping down on the sofa next to Nick. "Let me guess: another documentary."
"You know they relax me," Nick answered defensively, and Greg chuckled.
"I know, babe. I'm just messing with you." He kissed his cheek and turned toward the TV. "Is that Norway?"
Nick looked impressed.
"Yeah, good catch."
"I went to Norway for Christmas one time when I was a kid. Papa Olaf showed me a fjord that looked just like that." He paused and smiled. "My cousins spent the whole time making fun of me for not speaking proper Norwegian."
"Are you still in contact with them?"
"Kinda. We send each other Christmas cards and birthday wishes, but that's about it. It's difficult to keep in contact when you live so far apart," he added, his expression turning wistful.
"Why don't we visit them for Christmas next year?" Nick suggested. "I'm sure if we plan ahead, we'll be able to take a few days off over the holidays."
"Are you serious?" Greg asked, sounding incredulous. "You hate the cold. And Norway is pretty fucking cold."
"I'll wear an extra sweater. Besides, I'd really like to find out more about your legendary Scandinavian family."
"Did I ever tell you you're the best boyfriend ever?" Greg asked, snuggling closer to Nick's side.
"Only every other day," Nick answered, wrapping an arm around him and going back to watching TV.
December 19
"Will you stop sucking on that damn thing?" Nick all but growled under his breath, just loud enough for Greg to hear.
Greg raised an eyebrow at him.
"What's the problem? You worried I'll get cavities?" he asked, a candy cane hanging from a corner of his mouth.
"You know perfectly well what the problem is."
Greg shook his head, his expression the picture of innocence. Nick glared at him.
"It's fucking distracting," he muttered through gritted teeth.
Greg smirked.
"It's not my fault you have a one-track mind," he said. "Actually, no, it is my fault: it must be impossible to think of anything else when your boyfriend's so good at giving bl-"
"Oh, my God, will you just shut up?!" Nick hissed, eyes scanning the empty break room.
"Relax, there's no one here," Greg replied. "You're way too stressed. You should get laid more, it would do wonders for your mood. Luckily, I can help with that," he added with a wolfish grin.
Nick grunted something and stood up, stomping out of the room without looking back.
Greg just kept sucking on his candy cane, a smug expression on his face.
December 20
"I think we drank too much," Nick stated as they entered the locker room, his Southern drawl thicker than usual.
"No, we didn't. We drank the right amount," Greg replied. His cheeks were slightly flushed and he was sporting a beatific smile.
"There's a right amount for drinking?"
"Of course there is: it's when you're all happy and relaxed and just a little bit tipsy."
Nick shook his head.
"Well, after all that Christmas punch, I'm too drunk to drive, that's for sure. And so are you."
"Whatever."
Greg slipped on his jacket and shut the door of his locker with a little more force than strictly necessary, almost losing his balance in the process.
"Uhm, I think you might be right," he conceded.
"You don't say," Nick commented with a smile. "Think you can handle calling a taxi or should I do that for you?"
"Nah, I'm good."
As they were about to walk out of the room, Greg reached out and placed a hand on Nick's arm.
"Wait. Before we go, can I do something?"
"It depends: is it something illegal?"
"Nope. Just something I'm curious about."
"Go on, then."
Greg took a step forward and stopped right in front of Nick.
"I wanna know what you taste like."
Nick blinked at him.
"Come again?"
"I want... to know," Greg repeated, slowly and deliberately, staring right into Nick's eyes. "What you... taste like."
Nick's eyes were as big as saucers, lips slightly parted. Greg lifted a hand and gently cupped Nick's face.
"Can I?" he whispered.
Nick gave a tiny nod and Greg smiled, closing the distance between them and pressing their lips together. Nick's eyes fluttered closed and he lost himself into the kiss, hands instinctively moving to Greg's waist.
When Greg pulled back, Nick had to restrain himself not to lean forward and kiss him again.
"So, what do I taste like?" he asked instead, voice wavering slightly.
Greg smiled.
"Christmas."
Nick chuckled.
"You mean gingerbread and punch."
"My description was much more poetic." He ran his thumb softly over Nick's cheek. "Why don't we share a taxi back to my place? I wanna know what the rest of you tastes like."
Nick was surprised at how quickly he agreed to Greg's proposal. He was tempted to blame the Christmas punch, but he knew that would be a lie: he had ignored his feelings for Greg for way too long, and he just couldn't do it anymore. If anything, he would have to thank whoever prepared the beverage for giving him that little bit of extra liquid courage he needed.
But now was not the time for any that. Now was the time to follow Greg home and enjoy what he hoped would be the first of many mornings spent together.
December 21
"Wow, your family pictures look so crowded," Greg commented, leafing through one of Nick's photo albums.
"Yeah, that comes with having six siblings," Nick pointed out.
"Aw, look at this pic, you were so cute!"
Nick looked at the photo Greg was pointing at and grimaced.
"Yeah, my mom really liked that outfit, she made me wear it for every 'special occasion'. Luckily, I outgrew it pretty quickly."
"Your Christmas dinners must have been pretty intense."
"That's an understatement. One year my sisters spent the whole time fighting over their presents. My mom was so done with them, she ended up requisitioning everything."
"Our Christmases were very quiet in comparison, it was just my parents, my nana and papa Olaf and me," Greg said, sounding nostalgic. "I really wanted to have a brother when I was a kid, but that never happened."
"And I really wanted to be an only child sometimes, especially when my sisters wouldn't leave me alone," Nick replied. He wound an arm around Greg's shoulders and kissed his temple. "Kids always want what they don't have."
Greg closed the photo album and placed it on the coffee table, then turned toward Nick and wrapped him in a loose embrace.
"Right now, there's nothing else I want," he said, resting his cheek on Nick's shoulder.
Nick smiled and cupped the back of Greg's head with his hand.
"Neither do I."
December 22
"I can't believe this really happened," Greg said, cheek resting on Nick's chest. "I keep thinking this is just a dream. It wouldn't be the first one."
"You have wet dreams about me?" Nick asked, amused.
Greg let out a nervous chuckle.
"That makes me sound like a creep, doesn't it?"
"Nah, you can't control what you dream about," Nick replied, carding his fingers through Greg's hair. "I'm actually flattered."
Greg snuggled even closer.
"That's a relief. I've waited so long for this, I don't wanna mess things up."
"You won't," Nick reassured him. "I've wanted this for a long time too, but never thought I'd have the balls to do something about it."
"Remind me to thank whoever hung mistletoe in the locker room."
"You're welcome."
"You did it?!" Greg asked, leaning up on one elbow and looking down at Nick. "You scheming little thing!"
Nick grinned, a light flush tinging his cheeks.
"I was hoping in a Christmas miracle."
Greg shook his head and lied back down, reclaiming his spot on Nick's chest.
"Well, you got your miracle. And now you're stuck with me."
Nick tightened his arm around Greg and closed his eyes. Sometimes miracles really happened. They just needed a little push.
December 23
Greg stood in the doorway and enjoyed the scene in front of him. Nick was sitting on the sofa, chatting about baseball with his dad. His mom was strangely silent, but she was looking at Nick with hearts in her eyes. Greg smiled. It looked like something out of a Christmas movie: the house fully decorated, the smell of cookies and spices in the air, and the family all gathered together to celebrate the Holidays.
As if sensing his gaze, Nick looked up and smiled at him. His mom turned around and scoffed.
"What are you doing over there? Come join us."
"Sorry, I got distracted," Greg replied with a small smile. He walked into the living room and sat down next to Nick.
The conversation resumed, the topic changing from baseball to football. Greg was glad his dad had finally found someone he could talk about sports with; he had never been so keen.
His mom placed a hand on his knee and he turned toward her. He hadn't seen her look so radiant in a long time. He smiled at her and covered her hand with his. He couldn't remember the last time he had felt so happy.
December 24
Greg emerged from sleep slowly, happy to be greeted by silence instead of the usual shrill sound of the alarm clock. A thin sliver of light filtered through the blackout curtains and landed on the bed, illuminating the figure lying next to him. He rarely woke up before Nick, and he intended to savor the moment.
Nick was sleeping on his side facing him. His features were completed relaxed, lips slightly parted and the lines usually furrowing his brow less visible. His stubble was more salt than pepper those days, something that caused him much chagrin, but Greg found it extremely endearing. In his opinion, the graying hair and beard gave Nick a distinguished look and, most importantly, were visible proof of the passing of time. The idea of sharing their lives and growing old together always gave Greg a thrill.
While Greg was lost in his thoughts, Nick slowly blinked his eyes open.
"What are you doing already awake?" he asked, voice rough from sleep.
"I'm enjoying the view."
Nick closed his eyes again.
"I didn't know you liked watching old men sleep."
"Just my old man."
Nick smiled. Greg slid closer and placed a feather-light kiss on his lips.
"Merry Christmas, old man."
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December 2025