Patrick loved Christmas because it was an excuse to be ridiculous. He was happier than he had been in decades and it showed. He was wearing two Santa hats when he finally stepped through Clio's door with a huge grin affixed to his face. He went in search of her instead of yelling out, in case Ella was sleeping.
He found them both and moved forward to kiss Ella. "Merry Christmas, little girl!" he cooed, and then he turned to kiss Clio. "Merry Christmas, my love."