He wasn't entirely sure if what she said was true, but he knew that his assistance was at least helping her out a great deal. There had been too many years he had spent on his own for the holidays and the idea of leaving her for even one made his stomach churn. He couldn't think of anything to say, but simply squeezed her hand in response. He was there, and he always would be.
"I'm going to hold you to your promise of stew, then," her head heavy against his lap. He moved his hand slightly, stoking the side of her cheek. Just being in her presence made his heart skip a beat or two. It wasn't lost on him the tired look in her eyes, and he was entirely too tempted to slip down next to her and wrap his arms around her. "I don't want to spend another holiday without you if I can help it. I want to be right here next to you, holding you close."
The idea of being without her over the holiday made his heart ache
"It's been a long day for both of us," he comment offhandedly. His other hand landed lightly on her stomach, feeling the rhythm of her breathing. Even if 20 years from now they were doing the same thing, it didn't matter to him. He'd have her, and that was all that mattered.