#buggiebreak

[oryoucouldstay]

8 Days of Reindeer Games

Day 1: Dasher – Favorite location/set

+ the most important one:

[itsmarscosta]

How about.. "You better not pout." Oh my gosh, Betty's pout must be featured. For some reason I am picturing a bit of flirtation, saucy, sexy Bughead here. There is time for the romancing during the holidays NO DOUBT. Oh my gosh, maybe for day three? Jughead doesn't want to go to the ugly Christmas sweater party. Betty can even make a comment about he always wears those sweaters anyway... Eeee!

Thank you so much for my first prompt ever, @theheavycrown ! I hope you like it. And also, a huge thanks to my awesome beta @shrugheadjonesthethird 

“Please? Come on, Juggie.” From where Jughead stood with his back against the kitchen counter, arms crossed over his chest, he looked down at Betty, sitting in front of him, shaking his head for the millionth time. “Please.”

“Nope. Nuh uh. You better not pout. I’m not doing it again.”

“Juggie. Please. It’s not that bad.” He wanted to be strong against her pleading voice, but truth be told, her soft tone and the puppy eyes she was making, were doing things to him.

“Not that bad?! Betts, come on. Look at me.” Her eyes sized him up, head to toe, and for a second Jughead imagined what she was seeing. Black clothes, ragged jeans, the tattoos that covered both of his arms. “I am not the cute Christmas sweater type.”

“But we did it last year!” She pleaded.

“Yeah, because you ambushed me. I wasn’t aware of the Cooper tradition, and I couldn’t exactly say no. It’s already a challenge to get through the Holidays with your family, with your mom, more specifically, and a Christmas sweater is just adding insult to injury.”

Of course, he had a point. A good one at that. Holidays with her family were always… interesting, to say the least. Actually, every moment with her family fell under that euphemism. And Jughead… Well, Jughead was the exact opposite of everything her mother had pictured for her daughter. It had taken quite some time for Alice to understand that what mattered wasn’t his tattoos, his bad smoking habit, or the awkward way they first met. What mattered was how much he loved Betty and how happy they were.

“You know I’ll be there with you, just… no reindeer sweater.” Betty shook her head at his words, crossing her arms.

“It’s just… You wear sweaters all the time. What’s wrong with wearing another type of sweater? Just for one night?” Betty saw he didn’t have an immediate reply to this particular argument. It was her chance. “Juggie.” She said with her sweet voice. “Come on. This is the last time. I… I can try to get us out of it for next year. I swear.”

Jughead sighed. “Betts…” Something in his voice, the way he always said his nickname for her, gave her an idea.

“Juggie.” She said pouting. “Please? Pretty please? I can make it up to you.”

So much for her not pouting. The second she did it he couldn’t look away. And those words, along with her big puppy green eyes…

“Make it up to me?” He repeated, clearing his throat as their eyes meet.

“Uhum.” She hummed, and as she popped open the top buttons on her pink shirt, revealing the top of her bra, his mouth went dry. “But I’ll do it in true-fashion deal style. I pay half now, and the other half after the deal is done.” Her tone was sultry and sexy, and his blood rushed down as the heat inside his body increased.

“I like the way your mind works,” Jughead said, pulling her closer, to stand between his legs. “You better explain how the first part of this payment is going to work, though.” Betty gave him what could only be described as a naughty smile, biting her lower lip.

“Well, it’s simple. First, you take off your shirt. Then, you go to our bed, lay down, and wait for me.” She leaned in on his chest, and with a hand on the back of his neck, Betty pulled his head down, so she can whisper in his ear. “You leave the rest to me.”

Jughead did as she said, removing his t-shirt, and going to lay down on their bed, more than ready for whatever it was she had planned for the rest of their night.

Christmas Eve, sitting on the Cooper’s couch, all Jughead could think about was how Betty had really outdone herself this time. They were wearing matching dark blue sweaters, with a goofy looking Rudolf stamped on it, lights wrapped around his horns. The worst thing? The lights were actual lights, with small colorful LEDs that bothered his eyes if he looked down. It was official. He was an ambulant Christmas tree.

“You can’t complain, man. This is worse.” Jason said, sitting beside him. Polly had her husband wear a red Santa sweater that somehow made the sound of Santa’s laugh. The Ho Ho Ho’s were the high point of the kids night, and they would come every now and then to press down on their father’s abdomen to make Santa laugh again.

Yes, he couldn’t complain. Especially because of Betty’s promise. That, along with the La Perla wrap he had seen on the trash can were the only things stopping him from taking off the damn sweater. He didn’t doubt she would certainly make it up to him as she had done a week ago when she had put on a gorgeous and sexy pink lingerie set, going down on him, and making him lose his damn mind as she had ridden him into cloud nine. With that in mind, not even Alice Cooper’s jabs or Hal’s judgemental silence could bother him.

Finally, it was two in the morning, and they were going back to the hotel room they rented for the night.

“Did you see the look on Polly’s face when Mom said we won best sweater this year?” Betty asked happily as she entered the car. She watched as Jughead took off the sweater, opening the top buttons on the black shirt that had been underneath it, putting on his black leather jacket, and she couldn’t believe how lucky she was to have this man and to be able to call him hers. “Thank you for doing this, Juggie.”

“You don’t need to thank me, baby.” He said leaning in to plant a sweet kiss on her lips. “I love you.”

“I love you, too, Juggie.”

He then crossed his arms, a serious playful expression appearing on his face. “Let’s get down to business, shall we? You owe me. I’d like to receive the other half of my reward.”

Betty licked her lips before taking off her own sweater. Under it, was a black dress, one of his favorites. Making sure to be looking into his eyes, she tugged down the front zipper to fully show him the red lacy bra she was wearing. “Oh, I don’t mind, but I thought you would like to wait until we’re back to the hotel. I mean… it would be more comfortable.”

Jesus. Immediately, his jeans felt tighter. “You’re gonna be the death of me, Betty Cooper.” He said, speeding down the street to get to their room as fast as possible.

[sweetbettycooper]

5 & 20

https://archiveofourown.org/works/17030034

Betty was in another world as she floated around the kitchen cooking up a storm. Christmas was her favourite time of year. It meant baking and snow and lots of kisses under the mistletoe. Her and Jughead had been living together for 2 Christmas’s now and each one Betty found her self cooking even more food than the year before.

This year though, their family and friends were coming over to their new apartment for a Christmas Eve feast and Betty was going to make it perfect.

With half an hour left until they all arrived she’d sent Jughead to get dressed and finish setting the table, while she put the finishing touches on her glazed ham and put her special vanilla chocolate chip cookies in the oven.

You should always have something baking when guests arrive.

Their aroma already started to fill the apartment as they began to bake and Betty closed her eyes and sighed in happiness. This Christmas was going to be the best one yet she could feel it. She loved Jughead so much there was no way anything could go wrong if they were together.

“What’s that smell….are you making cookies ?” Jughead appeared from their room, wide eyed and a gigantic grin on his face.

“Yes but their not for you.” Betty replied cheekily, cleaning up the last of her crumbs and dishes. Winking at him as she went.

“You wound me Betts.” Jughead chuckled knowing he could easily get his girlfriend to change her mind.

“Maybe I’ll just eat one of these instead.” He gestured walking over to her, where an large plate of cupcakes sat. Decorated in all different patterns and colours.

It had taken Betty hours to finish them all but it was the lots of fun. She did have some help from Jughead but he ate most of the ice rather than piping it onto their cake.

“Oh no you don’t.” Betty swatted his hand away. “These are for dessert.” She said proudly.

“But I’ve tried everything you’ve cooked except one of these.”

Staring down at them they did look delicious Betty thought. And she was feeling a bit hungry after all her cooking this afternoon. Jughead’s cute face and sly smile weren’t helping either.

“Maybe we can share one.”

“Yesss.” Jughead hissed under his breath making Betty giggle at his childish ways. He was completely ecstatic to have some. The biscuit smell was driving him mad.

Coming round to the same side of the bench as him she picked up the best looking one and hummed to herself. They really did look scrumptious.

They were both staring down at it licking their lips, transfixed by this one cupcake. Anyone would think this was the only thing they were going to eat for the entire Christmas season.

As she peeled back the paper Betty’s eyes travelled up to Jughead’s. They were glistening with want and she could see deep down how much he loved her.

Or was it her baking ?

But her happiness was cut short when she noticed what he was wearing.

“Where on EARTH did you get that sweater?” Betty spoke in surprise disapprovingly. “You are not wearing that tonight.”

“Betts come on.” Jughead laughed, reaching for the cupcake but she moved it away from him.

Sighing Jughead knew he had to tell her the story. “ Sweet Pea and I were talking..”

“Of course,” Betty sighed having a feeling she knew were this was going.

“And I kinda, may have said something about what we did the other night.”

“JUGHEAD!”

“ I know, I know I’m sorry. It just came out. He was talking about Veronica and how amazing she was and I just couldn’t sit there and listen to him knowing how spectacular you are- were that night and ….”

“How much did you tell him ?” Betty waited nervously. She was blushing beet red. She was slightly proud thinking back on it now but completely embarrassed to think Sweet Pea knew.

“Hardly anything. I promise. Just the bit about the whipped cream.” He finished quietly. “So he dared me to wear this and he’s going to wear one like this tonight as well.”

“What about my mom?” She asked, seeing Jughead attention waver back to the cupcake.

“ I guess that’s all part of the dare.” He said sadly knowing Alice Cooper would have a fit if she saw it. “But if it helps your dad would find it hilarious.”

“No. that does NOT help.” Betty chuckled, deciding to give up, handing him the cupcake.

A picture of a chimney was knitted into the fabric. Seeming innocent enough. But the words-

“This Santa loves going down” we’re definitely not.

“Maybe-“ Jughead mumbled with his mouth full of cupcake. The cream cheese icing smeared all around his lips. “If- Sweet Pea gets here- first.” He swallowed “-we can switch shirts. His isn’t as bad.”

“What does his say?”

“I’m nice. She’s the naughty one. With an arrow.” Jughead smirked.

“God.” Betty cursed starting to smile. She was beginning to see the funny side and admittedly she didn’t mind his sweater for a joke but her mother’s reaction was worrying her.

“Just keep this one.” She smirked cheekily. “Who cares about my mom.”

Jughead was surprised to say the least at her sudden surrender but what she did next almost made him choke on his own saliva.

“And don’t wipe your mouth. The cream icing completes the outfit.”

——

Thanks for the prompt ask ❤️❤️

I got a bit carried away hahaha

Hope you like it 😄?

[jughead-jones]

buggiebreak → week four day one: Tying the Knot 💍

       ↳ “I’ve been in love with you since that day you kissed me outside of my dad’s trailer after you and I confronted him about Jason’s jacket,” Jughead laughed. “But I’ve wanted to marry you since we were in third grade and you shared with me the lemon drizzle cake you baked.” 

[beachbabywrites]

A Present and A Promise // A Veronica Lodge imagine

SUMMARY: Veronica breaks her 'no present' agreement with R. This is for DANCER / Day 2 of the Riverdale Reindeer Games

"Hey, follow me real quick." Veronica whispered as she grabbed your hand, pulling you away from your friends. You glanced back at them, but they were so caught up in their conversation that they didn't even notice you were leaving. "What is it, Ronnie?" You asked as you took in the mischievous yet nervous smile on her lips. She didn't answer, but dropped your hand so she could hold onto the rail as she all but ran up the stairs. Half way down the hallway, she turned and ran back to the stairs that you were still climbing. "I almost forgot." She pointed to the ceiling and turned her cheek to you. "Mistletoe on the stairs, nice." You giggled and gave her a kiss. "Thank you." She replied, taking your hand once again as she lead you into her room. She motioned towards her bed as she made her way to vanity. As she walked back to the bed, she hid her hands behind her back. "So I know we agreed we wouldn't buy each other presents-" "Veronica." "But I technically didn't buy it. It's been passed down in my family for a few generations now. My dad's great grandfather bought if for his wife, she gave it to her daughter, who passed it down to Daddy, who gave it to my mom, and she gave it to me." "Well, then why are you giving it to me?" You asked her, still holding the small box in your hands. "Just open it." She chided. "Like soon, Christmas is only three days away I don't have forever." You rolled your eyes with a smile as you pulled the lid open on the box. "Veronica, I-" You were speechless, stunned as you struggled to find the right words. Inside was a locket, you weren't sure what was inside of it, but the outside was inlaid with little diamonds and a 'L' etched into it's face. "I know I don't say it much, or well, I know I haven't said it back yet, but I do love you and you will always be such an important part of me. I can honestly see myself marrying you someday." She ended in a whisper, staring at the bedspread, avoiding eye contact. You swallowed thickly, feeling your face heat up. The part of you that wanted her to keep the necklace, the part of you that thought it was too valuable a gift to be given to you was quieted as you realized this necklace was priceless to her and the unspoken implications were the whole point. "I love it." You promised her. "Will you put it on me?" You held the box out to her and she smiled brightly as she walked around the bed. As she clipped it on, you watched your reflection in the mirror, heart fluttering at Veronica's little smile. Veronica looked up, caught you watching her in the reflection, she held your gaze for a few silent moments. "We should get you back downstairs before you miss the whole party, huh?" You smiled. "I love you Veronica." "I love you too, (Y/N)."

[cooper--jones]

of fairy lights and snow covered stories

Betty runs away from university, seeking refuge in a little trailer in Riverdale’s south side, home to Jughead Jones. Here she manages to bring back the holiday spirit into a space which had long abandoned even the possibility of such celebration.

Word count: 3.5k

A/N: this is my entry for the first day of the Reindeer Games hosted by @riverdale-events​​. I know I’m technically a day late but, in my defence, I had finals (which are done now so yay!) so I finished the prompt for Dasher a day later than anticipated. I hope you like it!

Archie asked if he could see her everyday, and everyday Jughead had to tell him that she wasn’t ready yet and she would rather not see him. Betty was staying in his trailer because she knew if she went home, her mother would have questions – the primary one being why she was back in Riverdale and not at university, a question she didn’t have the willpower to answer. Especially when university was where, the day after Archie told her that he had been reconsidering them, he had promptly made out with someone at a party for all the world to see. FP had gone to Toledo for a few months, leaving Jughead alone, making the trailer her perfect hiding spot.

The first night she had come back, he had slept in the pull-out sofa while she slept in his bed. He heard her crying but didn’t know what to say that he hadn’t already. She had appeared on his doorstep, a blubbering mess, eyes and nose red from all the crying and face very puffy. She asked him if he had space and he nodded, not having the heart to say no. After all, how do you tell the girl you’ve been in love with since kindergarten that you don’t have the money for one let alone two? She didn’t tell him the whole story immediately. Instead, she told him a general overview and, when Archie called that night, Jughead didn’t pick up, seeing red. He texted Veronica to let her know that Betty was at his trailer but didn’t bother giving Archie any information. Veronica arrived early the next day, with a breakfast basket for a family of ten. Luckily Jughead had an appetite to match so, while the girls talked and Betty cried some more, Jughead polished off the entire breakfast.

“You did a good thing, Jughead,” Veronica said as she left and he nodded, awkwardly acknowledging her gratitude and admiration. Betty resigned herself to Jughead’s room, exiling him to the living room. The day he knew she was getting better was the day he awoke to the wafting smell of pancakes and bacon. His stomach rumbled, waking him up.

“Hey,” she said, with a smile, “I made breakfast. I made enough for five so you would get your fill,” she laughed and his heart ached – he had missed her laugh more than he realised. Even though her eyes were still sad, she was trying to appear happier and he wasn’t going to impede this noble effort. They ate in silence, only punctuated by Jughead’s occasional compliment about the breakfast, which actually was one of the most incredible ones he had had.

“That was amazing, Betts,” he said, scraping the last of the maple syrup with his fork and licking it off, incredibly satisfied with this meal.

“Thanks, Jug. And also, I wanted to thank you for letting me crash here. I know I just kinda showed up at your doorstep unannounced which isn’t cool but you really helped me through this so thank you.”

“Hey,” he took her hand instinctively and she glanced at it but didn’t remove hers, “you don’t need to apologise, okay? I’m here for you. Completely. Okay?” She nodded and he saw her furiously blink away new tears which pooled into her eyes.

That night had been different. Jughead had just gotten comfortable in the sofa when Betty walked out of the bedroom in his t-shirt and her pyjama shorts. He could barely look at her when she was clad in this – she looked far too good in that t-shirt. It was simply unrealistic that a single human being could look so damn good in an oversized t-shirt. And yet, before him, stood Betty Cooper, hair down, in a giant red t-shirt with an S on it, wearing tiny grey shorts, her legs on full display.

“Jug?” She said, pulling him out of his reverie. Gulping, he forced himself to meet her eyes. “Do you think you could, maybe, sleep in the bed with me? I don’t want to sleep alone.”

“Yeah,” he replied and immediately checked himself, hoping his enthusiasm wasn’t too evident. “Yeah, sure. I’ll be there in a minute?”

“Thanks,” she smiled and returned to the bedroom. He waited a few moments, packing up the sofa, giving himself time to process this development. He finally joined her, careful to keep his distance, just lying under the blanket. He accidentally brushed his leg against hers and immediately apologised, receiving a giggle as acceptance of the apology.

It had been two months since that night. Ever since, there had been many pancakes and beds shared. On days when energy to cook evaded them, they made their way to Pop’s and got something to eat there. Betty, thus far, had successfully avoided her mother; and FP had told Jughead that he wouldn’t be back for at least another month – he was missing Christmas. Jughead didn’t mind, though. It wasn’t as if their trailer had ever been to the privy to the much-discussed holiday sprint. Christmas was just an excuse for his dad to get drunk on eggnog instead of hard liquor. Besides, Jughead couldn’t have asked for better company this holiday season. Or at least that’s what he told himself.

On November 30th, Jughead was woken up by Betty at two in the morning. She tapped him on the cheek until he blearily opened his eyes and squinted at her in the moonlight. He was immediately more awake when he realised how happy she looked, sleep completely leaving his eyes when her green ones shone with excitement. Although he wasn’t sure why she was grinning, he couldn’t help the smile appearing on his face.

“You need to come with me,” she said, pulling him out of bed and taking him out of the trailer. It was freezing outside and Jughead hadn’t had the time to grab a coat so he rubbed his hands together hard, trying to keep warm. Betty, on the other hand, didn’t seem bothered by the cold at all. On the contrary, she was smiling with a serenity that he hadn’t seen in a while.

“Betty, what are we doing out here?” He finally asked when nothing happened. She opened her mouth to reply but instead let out a cry, making him jump. She pointed at a single snowflake slowly floating to the ground.

“It’s snowing. It’s finally snowing,” she whispered and, in spite of Jughead being sure that he was going to get hypothermia, he smiled softly at her, watching her grin at the snow. “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?”

“Yeah. Yeah, it is,” he agreed, not looking at the snow.

The morning of December 1st, Jughead overslept. He wasn’t sure how he missed his alarm (it may have had something to do with getting up at two in the morning to look at snow the previous night) but the space beside him was empty. He wasn’t used to waking up and not seeing Betty – his alarm usually woke them up at the same time. For a moment his biggest fear was realised: the weather had changed and with it Betty had left him. But then a rational part of him told him that her bag was still here and it would be stupid for her to leave all her stuff here. So he walked out into the living room and was greeted with the sight of Betty in a red jumper, hanging baubles on a Christmas tree.

“Wait, what?” Jughead stared at the tree. He was certain there hadn’t been a tree there the last time he had looked.

“I thought this place could use a little Christmas spirit,” Betty said, smiling at him. “Oh my god, do you mind? I knew I should have asked first. I wanted it to be a surprise but if I’ve overstepped, please tell me.” She looked so worried, he couldn’t help but laugh a little, shaking his head.

“No, no, it’s okay. It’s really pretty and I agree. This place could do with some positivity of any kind.” He poured himself some coffee and watched her decorate the tree. He had learnt from experience that asking Betty if she wanted help was a death sentence. She would agree until you actually tried to help – immediately she would tell you everything you were doing wrong and just redo the whole thing on her own. That was something he had learnt from Veronica’s birthday. “Do you have plans for today?”

“Veronica’s taking me out of town to shop for Christmas presents. What about you?”

“Just working on my writing.”

“Does that mean you’re actually going to try to work through the writer’s block at long last?” She asked, passing him as she put the empty box in storage. He dropped his jaw in mock hurt.

“I take serious offence at that tone, I’ll have you know,” he exclaimed and she laughed. This was the first time he had seen the light completely return to her eyes. It had nearly happened in the past two weeks but this was the first time it completely happened and her face lit up with laughter. It made him glad to see her finally reach this state. “Anyway, I was thinking of going to Pop’s and working. You’re staying here, I assume?”

“Yeah I’m not leaving any time soon.” She winked and he chuckled.

“Good,” he said and she raised an eyebrow at him. Instantly he felt awkward and, scratching the back of his head, “I mean not that I want you to stay indefinitely. I mean, no that sounded awful. You can stay as long as you like. Whatever you want is cool with me.” She was laughing hard now, watching him fumble over words and ramble incoherently to no avail.

“You’re really cute when you ramble,” she commented. His face achieved a redness rivalling Rudolph’s nose. He nodded, keeping his eyes trained on the ground as he shuffled back into his room to change and go to Pop’s. She called out to him as he left, saying bye, a word he echoed in a mumble, unable to muster the confidence (or eye contact) to say it with equal tone. She glanced at him curiously as he left and Jughead felt his face go redder (a feat he had previously believed unachievable) thank before.

Pop’s was rather empty when he arrived and Jughead was glad to find his favourite booth empty. Sitting down, he opened his laptop and Pop brought him a coffee before he had a chance to order. Jughead couldn’t help smiling every time Pop did something for him – he would never admit it out loud to anyone but, over the last few years, Pop Tate had been more of a father than FP Jones had ever been. Sometimes, Jughead stayed until closing and Pop would give him leftovers for free to take back to the trailer. There was a time when Jughead relied on these leftovers. Then money began to mysteriously appear in his bank account at the beginning of each month. The fact that the money kept coming was how Jughead knew that his father still had a job.

“I see you’re writing again, Jughead,” Pop said from behind the counter as Jughead’s fingers flew over the keyboard. Jughead simply smiled and nodded, hearing a laugh behind him. “It’s nice. Christmas truly is a time of miracles. Betty has clearly been a good influence.” Jughead whipped around to face the man, incredulity colouring his expression.

“Are you implying that I wouldn’t be writing if Betty hadn’t come back?”

“I never said that. All I’m saying is that you hadn’t written for months in here. And now Betty’s staying with you and you’re writing again. I’m not implying causality, I’m just pointing out a coincidence,” Pop shrugged, a small smile playing along his lips as he spoke.

“I’m just fighting through the block, Pop.”

“Or you found inspiration.” Jughead gave an exasperated sigh at this, turning back to his laptop, hearing Pop chuckle when he didn’t have a retort. Sometimes it ached to have these conversations with Pop – he had always imagined being teased by FP rather than someone he had all but adopted as his dad. It hurt more the closer the holidays got. FP had done a lot of things but he always made sure to make it home for Christmas. The Jones family Christmas was always a giant let-down to the holiday spirit but Jughead still got to see his dad and, in spite of how it actually went, a part of him always looked forward to it. And now that FP was missing Christmas, although Jughead’s intellect told him it was for the best, emotion got the better of him as he sat in the empty booth at Pop’s.

Jughead wrote until closing. People streamed in and out but they were all background noise to him as he concentrated on the document before him. It was only when Pop put a hand on his shoulder at ten that he looked up. Pop smiled at him, pointing at the clock on the wall behind the counter, indicating that it was time to leave. Jughead reached for his wallet – Pop had brought him food at regular intervals even though he hadn’t asked. Pop shook his head.

“It’s on the house.”

“But--”

“It’s okay, Jughead. You’re planning to do the Christmas shift anyway – you can repay me then.” He smiled softly and Jughead nodded, slowly smiling back. They left together, Pop locking up behind them and Jughead returned to the trailer park. His trailer was dark when he arrived and panic set in – was she actually gone? He had a little trouble unlocking the door due to his shaking hand but the second he did, he threw the door open.

“Betty?” He called out, once inside and the Christmas tree beside him lit up, throwing yellow light on the rest of the room. Jughead stared at it, breathless for a moment. Betty was sitting beside the tree, grinning.

“It worked!” She exclaimed. “I surprised you!” He gave a breathy laugh of relief – she wasn’t gone. He fought the urge to hug her, to tell her how glad he was that she hadn’t returned, to let her know how incredibly glad he was that she was staying here and he didn’t have to spend Christmas alone even though it was still a while away. Instead he complimented the tree, shutting out the cold and walking to the tree instead to examine it. He could see that she was proud of it and she had every reason to be: it was the most beautiful Christmas tree he had seen. And he told her that. Her grin widened at his appreciation. “I’m so glad you like it,” she said before disappearing into the kitchen and reappearing a minute later with two glasses of eggnog. She handed him one and they clinked glasses together before drinking it. He took the smallest sip – eggnog had never really been his thing. But he figured that taking a small sip would keep his father with him in spirit, if nothing else. “So, did you get any writing done?” Betty asked once they had sat down. He nodded fervently.

“So much. I managed to get back into the head space and got a large amount done.”

“That’s really good. I’m happy for you,” she smiled, cocking her head to one side.

“Me too. What about you? How was your day?”

“Oh Veronica was great. I didn’t find anything I wanted to get anyone, though so she just bought a bunch of stuff and I went around with her, carrying bags. But it was really nice to get out for a bit.”

“I’m glad you had a good time. I mean you did a fantastic job with the tree so you honestly don’t need to get me anything else. Christmas lights are something that haven’t graced this trailer in a while so this is really nice. I actually don’t think they’ve been owned by the Jones family since my mom left,” he stared at the tree whimsically. Betty studied his face for a moment.

“You never talk about her,” she said, softly, barely a whisper. Jughead met her eyes and shook his head, averting his gaze to the ground.

“I don’t usually like talking about her. Or my dad. But, I don’t know, I guess...” he paused and glanced at her face. The earnest with which she looked at him compelled him to divulge the torrent of emotions he had experienced today. He had assumed they had come out in a spell of writing-clad catharsis but, looking at her – someone who evidently cared and wanted to know about him – he found himself itching to allow another person in. He had always considered his family history a burden meant for him to carry alone but now, for the first time, a doubt about this perception crept into his mind. “I’ve always had either my mom or my dad for Christmas. Sure, it’s always been crappy but it’s always had some semblance of family. This Christmas is the first time neither of them will be spending it with me and it just... I thought I wouldn’t mind – and I really didn’t for the longest time – but then I was sitting in the diner and Pop and I were, er, talking, and I realised how much I missed them. Didn’t think I would but here we are, apparently.” He gave a hollow laugh. She simply continued looking at him. “Sorry, um, I didn’t want to make it awkward or ruin the holiday mood by bringing this up.”

“You don’t have to apologize, Jug,” she shook her head, a small and sad smile on her face. “I know exactly how you feel, actually. This is the first time I’ve spent Christmas away from my dysfunctional family too. Or, at least, this is the first time I’ve actively taken a decision to spend Christmas away from them. I’m sorry your parents aren’t here. It sucks, doesn’t it?” She looked away, this time at the tree, before turning back to him. “I actually didn’t go out with Veronica today.”

“What?” He now took his gaze off the ground, looking at her once again, in confused curiosity.

“Yeah. Actually, I went to see my mom. Before you say anything, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. I just figured if the visit went badly, I could just pretend I had an eventful day shopping with Veronica instead of hurling insults at my mother. She thinks my reaction to Archie was a bit extreme but, honestly? Archie was just a trigger. Yeah it sucked to see him make out with someone immediately after giving me hope but it was everything else too. I just... I wasn’t happy at university. My mother, of course, doesn’t understand this, saying that I’m just going through a rebellious phase and says that the only reason I’m apparently indulging in playing hooky for months is to spite her. Spite her for what? Single-handedly ruining my mental health for twenty years of my life? I feel like that deserves something a little more than getting away from university.”

“Wow, Betty, I don’t even know what to say. I mean, I can’t believe your mom would... I’m sorry, too,” he finally decided on and she sighed, her small sad smile returning as she blinked away tears.

“It’s okay. That’s another thing I wanted to talk to you about. I know Thanksgiving is over but, Jug, I really wanted to thank you. Not just for taking me in when I had nowhere else to go but for... everything. I know you never planned on supporting two people but you’ve managed to do something that....” She stopped, taking a breath, reorganising her thoughts, “This trailer has actually shown me what happiness is. Staying with you these past few months... it’s been the happiest I’ve been in a long time.” The tinge of sadness had disappeared from her smile. She simply looked at him, her green eyes shining in the yellow light, her hair glistening as it grazed her shoulders, her lips ever so slightly upturned in appreciation. Jughead couldn’t help it.

On instinct, he leaned in and, placing both hands on her cheeks, kissed her. He expected her to recoil immediately but, to his surprise, she didn’t. Although she stiffened for a moment, once she realised what was happening, she melted against his frame, leaning in and gently touching his face.

They kissed in the soft glow of the Christmas tree, while the snow fell softly outside. For those few moments, they relished in each other’s company – they were each other’s family. And the holiday spirit, which they had craved in the form of community, was achieved between the two of them, in the silence and softness of a single kiss. When it ended, they didn’t speak, instead just looking at each other, using the quiet as a preservative of a rare moment of serenity they had unwittingly found in a little trailer, marking the beginning of a truly different and definitely magical holiday season.

[catthecoder]

a belated gift

inspired by a prompt by @verytrulyviolet​

“I am sorry I texted you this late,” he finally said, “you didn’t have to come immediately. I just- I worked really hard on this and I wanted to give it to you.” He looked deeply to Betty’s eyes, as if he was looking for some kind of permission to continue. “Because you deserve it.”

What was he talking about? It couldn’t be the house… right? That would be too extra, even for him.

He got up from the armchair, probably too nervous to be able to sit in a place.

“It took me almost three years to finish this,” he said slowly, voice clearly showing that he was thinking carefully about every word, “I know there is nothing I could do to make up for those years - and I am not trying to. But I still care about you and I want you to have this.”

read now on ao3!

[thesecretfandom]

(You Can’t Put a Price Tag on) Perfection - Bughead

8 Days of Reindeer Games

Day Three: Prancer

Word Count: 791

Rated: G

Prompt: Parties- Ugly sweater, balls/galas, office

(Read on AO3)

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She said five more minutes ten minutes ago. Jughead was waiting for Betty on the couch, mindlessly scrolling through his phone.

"Honey! Are you almost ready?" Jughead shouted up the stairs. "We're gonna be late!"

"Okay, I'm coming down."

Jughead stood to wait at the bottom of the stairs. Betty appeared from the dark hallway with only the light of a nightlight making a halo around her silhouette. Her dress  was form fitting, but flared out at the bottom. A vision in red silk gliding down the staircase, she took Jughead's hand when offered to her.

"Why do I feel like this is Prom all over again?" Jughead commented as he helped Betty into her coat.

"You know what they say, the Christmas Charity Ball is just like Prom for adults."

"I don't think anyone has ever said that."

"I just did."

The sun had already set when they arrived at the banquet hall where the event was taking place. Smooth jazz  poured out through the speakers. The room was filled with members of the local government and other local business owners. Betty and Jughead, as owners of the local newspaper, were invited to help raise money for Riverdale's Children,  a non-profit that split donations between nearby orphanages and foster homes and the children's hospital.

Some such children were there that night, munching on cookies from the refreshment table and laughing with the other kids.

"Juggie look… they are so sweet." Betty watched as a few older kids danced with the younger ones.

Jughead slid his arm around his wife's waist. "Yes, I know. Betty wants a baby…and you'll have one soon."

"Not soon enough." She grumbled, but leaned into his embrace.

"I'll keep trying until it works."

Betty giggled when Jughead kissed her cheek. He had no right to be acting naughty at an event like this, but Betty still found him terribly irresistible. She forced herself away from him and into the welcoming smells from the refreshment table.

"Attention, esteemed guests." Fred Andrews, recently elected mayor, spoke through the microphone. "Thank you all for attending the first annual Charity Christmas Ball for Riverdale's Children All proceeds from tonight's event will go directly to Riverdale's Children, because who are we without our kids?"

Cheers erupted from the audience, especially the younger ones. All off the little ones seemed to want to be as close to the stage as possible.

"We will start our auction tonight with an offer from yours truly. A full backyard remodel from Andrews Construction and Landscaping."

The auction covered a huge variety of products and services. Local high schoolers would offer to babysit your kids or clean your house. Veronica Lodge both procured a signed Hamilton Playbill and offered up a private visit to Pop's and La Bonne Nuit for one night.

Betty's chance came later in the night. Jughead watched with jealousy in his eyes when Betty stepped up on stage.

"Now introducing, the lovely Betty Cooper." Fred announced. Betty whispered something in his ear. "Pardon me, now introducing Betty Jones. That's right ladies and gentlemen. Tonight you will have the chance to buy a date with a married woman."

Jughead heard a few hoots and hollers from the back of the room. With a glance back he saw a few of his former classmates comparing large bills with each other. He was not surprised that his Betty was suddenly desirable to these losers after she'd become a successful journalist… and subsequently married her best friend.

"We'll start the bidding at fifty dollars."

Jughead snorted as three bids went up at the same time. The bid was up to one-fifty in under thirty seconds. Little did any of them know that Jughead came tonight with a full wallet. He let the other's bid it up, though by the time two hundred rolled around they had started getting more nervous. Jughead thought they could do better… Betty was priceless after all.

"Two-fifty." He shouted. Betty smiled at him from her spot on stage.

"Three hundred." Reggie Mantle called.

"Four hundred." Jughead countered, not taking his eyes from Betty.

"That's four hundred." Fred announced over the murmurs and laughter from the attendees. "Going once, going twice… sold! That's one date with Mrs. Betty Jones for Mr. Jughead Jones. Congrats, you get to take your wife on a date."

Jughead stepped up to the stage and took her hand. They'd done their fair share for the evening, and he was eager to start their date.

"Four hundred, huh?" Betty asked, as he escorted her out to the lobby.

"Well, I wanted to give the kids a great Christmas." He said, once again helping her into her coat. "And besides… you can't put a price tag on perfection.”

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A/N: On Wednesday I will catch up with this posting schedule... until then, I hope you enjoy!