(Note: Due to the previous version being an early copy, that will be merged with this.)

It was a cold night in the city of Canterlot as the heavy snowfall blanketed the whole town in a layer of winter. The lights had mostly gone out as the many residents had all gone to bed waiting for the next day to come: Christmas. However, there were a few exceptions as many chose to throw parties that last well into the night. Some even chose to stay with family or friends. For one such couple, they were getting tired.

Iron Wingheart and Quasar, having been in love with one another since high school, were walking back from a Christmas Eve party thrown by one of their friends, Diamond Gleam, along with his husband, Obsidian Glint. With gift-giving, drinking, feasting and striking up memorable conversations, Iron and Quasar soon found themselves out of energy and desired rest before spending Christmas Day with family. They said their goodbyes as they walked home, basking in the snowy evening.

“That was quite a lot of egg nog they’ve served.” Quasar remarked, holding Iron’s hand, “I can’t believe that stuff was homemade, better than the supermarket stuff.”

“But that ham though.” Iron moaned, wiping a bit of snow from his brow, “Well, the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree as Diamond’s folks are great cooks. I really ought to ask for that recipe.” Iron looked at his lover who was smiling as they trudged through the snow. The sight of which always warmed his heart as they’ve been together for years.

As they neared their two-story house, a thought dawned on Iron, a reminder of what he intended to do for three months. He waited for the right time to make the moment perfect. “Well Iron,” Quasar said, looking at the sidewalk in front of their house, clean of snow, “we probably should give Ms. Derpy something tomorrow as thanks. Right?”

“I suppose.” Taking a quick glance at his watch, Iron saw the time was now to set his plan into motion. Taking Quasar’s hands in his, he looks him dead in the eye.

“Quasar, I remember the day we first met. You were one of my best friends and when I opened up to you that one day, your reaction made my heart feel complete.” Iron sniffled slightly, “When I learned of you being kicked out, I wanted to comfort you with every ounce I had because… I love you, always had and always will. When we graduated, I knew without a doubt that you’re the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. No other man would do. Nothing will convince me otherwise, nobody and no force in the universe. My love for you runs that deep.”

Quasar was left momentarily speechless at Iron’s words. “I-Iron, th-that was beautiful. I love you too but… what are you getting at?” What happened next left a lasting impression on him. He saw Iron get on one knee, pulling out a small box, opening it, revealing a gold ring nestled snuggly inside. Quasar couldn’t say anything, nor could he really move. He was in too much shock as he knew what the gesture meant.

“Quasar,” Iron said, “will you… marry me?” At first, Quasar couldn’t believe what was happening. Yet, the reality of the situation soon set in. It was finally happening. Iron was proposing to him, something he dreamed of for years. Without a second thought, he wrapped Iron in a tight embrace and kissed him passionately with tears running down his eyes.

“Yes! Yes, I will!” Quasar gasped with joy as Iron slipped the ring on his finger, holding his hands tightly, “Oh god, Iron, I love you so much!”

“I love you too.” Iron stared towards his wristwatch and smiled. Seeing the time read 12:05 AM, he saw it as the perfect proposal in his mind, planning every detail to make it all work. He sighed, satisfied all went well. “Merry Christmas, my love.” Going inside their house, they spent the next hour cuddling in front of a lit fireplace, taking in their warmth and those from the flames. Soon, they found themselves dozing off with smiles on their faces, eager to share the news with family.