He just wished his nephews a good night, as Scrooge got a weird feeling. All his senses where suddenly on alert. Could it be? In a cold night like that, right before christmas?

With force he opened the door to his backyard. A dark shadowed figure stopped dead in its track.

„Magica de Spell! I knew it!" He declared loudly.

The sorceress looked at him with big eyes, but her expression soon changed to anger. „Scrooge McDuck, how could you know I was here?" She spit.

„Call it intuition. You've been here so often, by now I sense you like I can sense gold. But what are you doing here? Today of all nights? Don't you have anything other to do then hiding in my bushes, the night before christmas? Look at you, all dirty and wet...you must be cold" He added with a softer tone. Magica looked down on hereself. He was right, crawling through the snow wasn't the best idea ever. „Pah, christmas. In case you don't recal, I am a witch. All of my family and friends are witches and wizards. We're not that fond of christmas you know...overrated holiday anyway.

I like my family, most of the time. Still, we don't meet very often just for the sake of it, why should we? But I knew you would be distracted. Sounded like a good plan to go for your dime tonight." She shivered a little in the cold wind without realizing it.

„You never cease to surprise me Magica. Always a new plan. You're probably more stubborn then I am. I kinda like that about you. But for today, lets call it even, wont we? I stopped you, before you could start anything!" He got a little closer to the woman and touched her hand. It was cold in his warm palm. „Please, get back home, or wherever you stay while in Duckburg. You will freeze out here".

Hesitantly she pulled her hand back from his touch. Even though it had felt very welcoming. „Thanks for your advice you old fool, but I am not cold and very capable of taking care of myself. But I admit, you won...this time! Just...leave me alone. Shush, go back into your mansion. I don't need your pity or opinion." She pushed him a little in the direction of his home. He would get cold, if he stayed out any longer with her. „Don't worry, I know when I lost." She assured him as he looked back at her with concern. Finaly the door closed after him. Magica sighed sadly. This was a short encounter today. A pity, she enjoyed to compete with him. She hold her hand, he just touched, close to her heart. It was such a wonderfull feeling. It just wasn't meant to last...

Scrooge leaned at the door, eyes closed, letting a long sigh escape. All this years, he really startet to enjoy their little encounters. Magica never gave up, she always came up with a new plan. More big, more crazy then the last one. It was fun and he admired that about here. True, in his believe, only hard work can gain you money and success. But in someway ,Magica was indeed working hard. Very hard. Fighting him, plotting new plans, following him arround the world. If only she used that drive for other things then his dime. It was a shame, Magica could be great. She already was, to tell the truth. She was very skilled in magic, why wasn't she satisfied with what she gained on her own?

He looked at his palm, her hand, he just touched, was cold as ice. While he had it cozy and warm inside the mansion.

Maybe...

It was a stupid thought, it had to be at least five minutes since he closed the door. Even though he did not move further from the door. She couldn't be...

Slowly he opened the door again and found big, startled eyes staring at him.

„Magica...you're still out here!..." he started but was interupted by her: „Just plotting, don't get me wrong, I was about to go. And you will soon see me again, I promise, and you will not like it!" Her voice sounded rasped, most likely from the cold.

„Then why even bother go? Stay..." he had said it before he could even get his mind arround the words and they kept coming: „Come inside with me, warm up and then...spent christmas with me and my family tomorrow." She looked at him as if he had gone crazy, and maybe she was right.

„Didn't I just said I don't want your pity you sentiment old fool? I don't need you, I don't need anyone. And I am NOT cold!" She sounded like someone who tried to convince himself more then anyone else. „Don't...don't do this to me Scrooge...you are...cruel. I know where enemies but this is just..." she looked down again, humiliated. He couldn't help it. With a few steps he was in front of her, gently wrapping her in his arms. It felt wonderful. Even though she was cold as ice and just as stiff.

„What are you doing? Don't touch me...I don't want your pity!" She repeated but didn't do much to get free beside of that. Instead she threw her fists at his chest. „Don't, just don't..."

Slowly he lifted up her head with his hands, to look her in the eyes. „Please Magica..." Under his hands her cheeks grow warm and a shimer of red was gracing her beautiful face.

She sighed. „You wont give up until you get what you want, right?"

„You know me well Madame." He answered cheerfully. Another deep sigh from her. „Fine, but don't blame me if your family kicks you out of your own mansion because you invited a witch, that is also you greatest enemy, for christmas!" He gave her a warm smile: „Just let that be my concern, come on." He took her hand, to lead her into the comfy mansion."...You really think you're my greatest enemy? Personally, I enjoy our little encounters. I can not say the same thing about Glomgold or the Beagel Boys, or anyone else who believes he can take a stand against me. Believe me, I would never invite any of them even NEAR my home, my family or my christmas celebrations!" Scrooge turned arround to look at the raven haired woman. „Thus I believe that doesn't make you my greatest enemy, but it makes you very special."

Awesome, he couldn't even gave me that, Magica thought. But she still blushed and smiled a little at his last words. Special, not often did anyone in her life ever think of her as special. And it was true, beside all the failure and the greed for this stupid dime. She enjoyed herself. Somehow all of that turned out to be some kind of hobby. Also, over the years she developed greater magical skills, just to be eye to eye with him. Cause he was worth the effort.

Magica had been into the Mansion many times, but she never took time to appreciate her surroundings. The interior was cosy.

„We need to be quiet, the children are allready sleeping. Or at least pretending to be." Scrooge sniggered. „Still, I can not surprise everyone tomorrow that you're here. Besides, you're soaking wet and cold as ice. A warm shower and dry clothes will do you wonders. Just wait here a sec." Knocking on a nearby door he called for his housekeeper Mrs Beakley. Magica startet to feel nervous about all this. Was that some kind of trick of the old geezer? A trap? Should she go running as long as she still could? But his smile was so warm, so real. He once told and prooved to her, that he is not that kind of Duck. While she still betrayed him again in the end. No. Really, it should be his turn to worry.

So she waited as he whispered to Mrs Beakley, pointing in Magicas direction. To no surprise the first reaction of the housekeeper was a startled squeak. „Mr McDuck, what in the name of..." she started screaming but Scrooge shut her up quickly. „Quiet Mrs Beakley, please. It was my idea..." He turned arround to fully look into Magicas eyes again. Was there fear? Shame? Kindly he took her hand in his again. „Just this once, I believe we can trust her. Not everyone is gifted with a family like ours. Isn't christmas the time to show compassion and...love to each other?" The housekeeper still looked sceptical at the witch. But Magicas heart was warmed by the kind words. Scrooge had absolutley no reason to trust her, to be kind, still here he was. Also there was no pity in his words, she doesn't feel worthless, she just felt his kindness. It was wonderful. The only person who really ever was nice to her, was her self-appointed fiancé Rosalio. And that was the sort of kindness she tried to get away from as far and fast as possible. If the goose knew where she was right now he would be furious. He already was jealous of the rich duck just because she spended all her time thinking of him...well, his dime. She had to smile as she pictured Rosalios face right now.

Both Scrooge and Mrs Beakley seemed to take that as agreement, the elder squeezed her hand a little more as sign of approve. The houskeeper came face to face with her. „Listen here Madame. I trust Mr McDuck with my life. So, when he says you shall stay, you stay. But I warn you: Ruin christmas for my granddaughter and you will wish that you where freezing to death outside rather then endure what I will do to you. Understood?" Mrs Beakley was a very nice looking elder woman. But right now Magica believed every word she said. Who knows what a grandmother could be capable of? Magica nodded. „ I understood. At least for christmas I will be no harm for anyone who lives in that household...nor steal or break anything for that matter." She added after a quick sideglance to Scrooge. She had decided for herself to enjoy this as long as she could. To finally experience what a family could be. And what was so special about christmas.

Mrs Beakley shot her one last glance, then nodded satisfied. „Ok then. Mr McDuck will show you the bathroom. You take a nice warm shower while I prepare one of the guestrooms." With that she took of just to do so.

„Sorry if she was a little rude. But I think the other way arround I would be the same. Honestly not even I know myself what I am doing here, or why I trust you. I just...do...for now." Scrooge looked a little sheepish. „Follow me."

Magica did so. „Don't worry, It was far better then I expected any reaction to this whole...venture..." She stopped as they arrived in the bathroom. „Goodness Scrooge, this is no bathroom, this is a ballroom. Why on earth did anyone need so much space?" She looked arround astonished. „Well, when you have the money you just start to get used to everything beeing extra special I guess. Why are you asking? Wasn't your goal to become just as rich? What will you do with all that money?" It was an honest question from him. A question Magica honestly couldn't answere. Not on the spot. „Nevermind, it's a nice change to my usual interior."

The elder Duck smiled, then showed her how to adjust the water temperatur, where to leave the laundry and was about to leave the room as her voice stopped him: „Scrooge...thank you..." She looked to the side bashfuly. „You are very welcome my dear Magica." With a smile he left the room to give her some privacy. At that moment Mrs Beakley arrived again with towels and some fresh clothes in hand. „Surprisingly we don't have any womans clothing in the house beside of my own. So one of my nightgowns have to do for now." She informed her Boss while putting everything in the bathroom, then closing the door quickly again. „Why are you lingering here? I hope you don't want to peak Mr McDuck!" Said Duck blushed furiously at this. „Mrs Beakley what are you thinking of me?" Non the less he made his way to his room. „You can go to bed now. I show Magica the rest. She is my guest afterall. Goodnight, and thank you Bentina." The housekeeper still found all of this very strange. She just couldn't understand what was driving her boss. Still, he always had prooved to be responsible and intelligent. She trusted he knows what he was doing. „Goodnight then Mr McDuck. This will be a very...special christmas day tomorrow..."

„I guess you're right Bentina, I guess you're right..." Scrooge murmured as he sad down on his bed. The bathroom was in the room next to his, so he would hear when his guest was finished. What didn't take very long. „In here Magica" Scrooge called over. The sorceress came over and peaked into the room, not entering completly at first. „Uhm, not to sound ungratefull but this clothes..." As she finally entered the room Scrooge could see why she complained. The gown was far to big for her. Even when she holds it together with her hands, it slided over one shoulder and was so long it covered her feet aswell. He couldn't help but snigger at the sigth. If he was honest to himself, she looked adorable cute like this.

Magica just glared daggers at him. He tried his best to restrain himself. „I am sorry Magica. I fear my household isn't prepared for a Ladys visit." And why should it? The only other woman beside Mrs Beakley that ever came over was Daisy, and she hardly left any clothing. „Funny..." Magica still glared. „I will not be able to sleep in this...tent without strangeling myself in it..." But she couldn't help but snigger at herself aswell. She knew she was looking ridiculus in the housekeepers nightown.

„That would be true and I want my guest to stay alive for christmas tomorrow. Let's see what we can do..." Scrooge went to his closet. „You are about my size...Here." He handed her one of his own nightshirts. „R...really? Yours?" Magica blushed as she took it from him. That was all getting real personal real quickly. But the man looked at her with innocent confusion. Stupid old fool. Again she sighed and decided to just go with it. She already came to terms with all of that beeing strange. One thing more wouldn't make a difference. The shirt smelled like him. Well, like his detergent. Of course it does. Magica scoldet herself for stupid thoughts. She looked at him while he looked at her. The witch quirked an eyebrow at him. „Would you mind turning arround while I change?" The geezer really wasn't adapted to woman. At least he had the decency to blush at her question. Turning arround quickly. „S...sorry I wasn't thinking." he murmured. „Yeah, I noticed that about you the whole evening now" She deadpanned. „You're family will think that I put you under a magic spell. I start to think I did..." The shirt fits her way better then Bentinas, althoug it was a little tight around the chest. She had to open the buttons there. „You can look again."

Scrooge had realized by now that the whole idea of showing Magica what life could be was getting out of hand already. He was never good with woman and this particular one was like fire. Way more then Goldie back in the days. Magica de Spell was extraordinary in many ways. Headstrong, powerfull and as it became more clear to him every passing minute, astonishing beautiful. He never really noticed that about her while beeing distracted figthing her. But now it was hard not to stare. Looking at her after the shower, he saw that she hadn't worn any makeup beside her green eyeshadow. The full black lashes were natural. He was quiet sure that she had no idea of her very pleasant appearance

Magica looked at him sadly. „Scrooge...you know its not to late for me to leave. It was a stupid idea you had out of pity. When it starts to get awkward we really should..." „No!" He interrupted her. Yes, he was a stupid fool with no experience with woman, but that wasn't her fault. And there wasn't a single issue in his life he couldn't handle before. This won't be the exception. „I want you here!" The old convidence flooded him. He was Scrooge McDuck for goodness sake. He will not be defeated by a pair of beautiful eyes. „You should know by now that I am pretty stubborn, when I set my mind on something I will not waver until it's done!" He approched her and took her hands in his yet again. „And I said we celebrate christmas together, so we will!" His smile was warm and wide again. What was confusing for Magica who was used to see him glare at her. It was a nice change, really nice. A smile you can not help but return.

„Come on now, we both need some sleep. Your room ist right next door to mine. Please feel free to ask me, if you need anything. No matter the time. You are not alone here, remember that." Scrooge led the sorceress to said room. It was very big and very tidy and Magica knew in an instant she wouldn't be able to sleep here at all. It screamed loneliness from every corner. But she was not about to nag about it. She already felt so ungrateful. Whatever happend to her selfishness? Maybe the warm shower had washed it away. For now.

The thought of the dime in the library crossed her mind. As a guest in the house now she was unobserved. The perfect opportunity. Then she could finally melt the damn thing into an amulet. The most poweful witch in the world and unbelievable rich. Happiness at last, right? Scrooge really had her thinking. What if he was right? Was there more to achieve?

It was just not worth the risk. Let's see what Scrooge could offer her tomorrow. Worst case was a boring day or maybe his family would just threw her out. She could always go back to plotting getting the dime after that. Best case...well, she had no idea what to expect.

„Something wrong? You're so quiet?" Scrooge interupted her train of thoughts. „No, I was just getting used to this palace. Good night Scrooge." He looked a little sceptical but decided it would be best to give her her own pace. „Well, goodnight then Magica. See you tomorrow. And don't worry. My family has the biggest heart you can think of." With a last warm smile and glance in her direction he left for his room and Magica stood alone in this horrible cold place of a bedroom. That was going to be a long night...

Two hours and Scrooge was still lying awake, staring at the ceilling. He couldn't stop thinking about Magica. About why she was here, what he was thinking, what was happening, what the next day would bring. What his family would say. About how beautiful she looked...

It was unnerving. Suddenly a quiet knock on his door made his heart skip a beat. Slowly the door opened and he could see the Sorceress peaking into the room. „Scrooge...are you awake?" She whispered so softly as if she doesn't really wanted to be heard. Not even from an awake Scrooge. Wrapped in her blanket she looked very small. She was about to leave before he could react. Quickly he shoutet her name softly to stop her: „Magica!". She stopped dead in her track. Sheepishly she turned arround to look at him. „Sorry, I didn't want to wake you..." she said with concern. „You didn't my dear. What is it? Do you need something?" Honestly, he was kinda relieved that she was still here. After all this years, beeing double crossed by her many times. He had feared a little that she would fall back into old habbits and just dissapear with his dime. And truth be told, the lost of his dime was not the thought that made him sad about that.

But here she was. In his bedroom to be precisley. A nervous bundle, shaking a little in the cold. „It's silly, really. I shouldn't bother you. I go back." She finally answered. „Nonsense, there is no request or question to silly for a guest of mine. What is bothering you Magica?" She looked down ashamed. „Its just...the room is so...big and empty. My hut on Mount Vesuvius is small and cozy. Not matter how far appart from any civilization, it always felt like home. But here..I just feel lonley..." She blushed. It really took a lot of her to confess this. But Scrooge wasn't making fun of her. He just smiled his warm smile. „You know what Magica? At the beginning I felt the same here. I simply get used to it. But I fear I have no smaller rooms to offer you." He looked at her for a moment. Studying every detail. Still quivering in the cold, tired eyes. „Would you feel better if you're not alone. When you...just stay here with me? I mean, this bed is big enough for at least four of us and I would never...well, do anything to you...you know." It was his turn to blush again but he hold her gaze. Proof that he meant what he said. Her cheeks turned bright red at his suggestion, looking at him with wide eyes. He just waited for the explosion that had to come. But suddenly she just nodded and came closer. „Yes, I would feel much better with you...if you really mean it..." As an answere he just raised the bedsheet so she could come under with him. The sorceress dismissed her own sheet on the floor and layed down by his side hesitantly.

She brought a wave of cold air with her. Even at some distant he could feel she was almost as cold as before, when he found her outside. How long had she been standing infront of his door before she even dared to enter? He sighed, she was just as stubborn as himself. „Come here, your freezing and I don't want you to catch a cold. Let me warm you." He opened his arms. Yes it was a very intimate situation but all that matters to him right now was helping her. Although the thought of holding her again send a warm wave trough his body. This time, she didn't even argue. She just looked deeply in his eyes and moved closer till he could fully embrace her. A content sigh escaped her lips as she cuddled closer to his warmth and comfort. „Thank you Scrooge..."she mumbled. Then she dozed off in an instant. The elder Duck stroked her hair and back absentmindly smiling down on her sleeping face. The amount of trust she showcased here made him very happy. He would never betray it.

Chapter 02

Scrooge hadn't slept that well for a very long time. It was a pity it had to end with such sudden force. Namely as Mrs Beakley stormed into his room loudly: „Mr McDuck, the witch is..." The housekeeper stared at the bed where a now fully awake Scrooge stared back at here. „...gone..." She ended her sentence absentmindley. Bentina turned arround to face the door rather then the bed and took a deep breath. „Mr McDuck how could you...with a witch no less. This is..." she gasped. „This is NOT what you're thinking!" Scrooge interrupted her. It was a miracle to him how Magica could still sleep through all that noice. She must have been really exhausted.

„So this woman is not lying in your bed right now? Or what else is there to missunderstood Mr McDuck?" Mrs Beakley turned to her employer again. Scrooge sighed. „Yes, she slept in my bed. But only because she couldn't do so in the guestroom. She felt...lonley..." he looked down on the witch with a smile, stroking a few straw hairs out of her peacefull face. The look on Mrs Beakleys face changed while watching the man. The whole venture started to get clearer to the woman. She smiled at last. „I see...anyway Mr McDuck, you should make sure to get up and down to the living room bevore your nephews decide to get you and stumble over this...rather misleading scene..."

With a last glance she was gone to let the two ducks some privacy for whatever reason they need it.

Scrooge sat there flabbergast over the sudden mood change from his housekeeper. Woman he would never understand. But she had a point. Carefully he started to shake the sorceress lightly. „Rise and shine Magica." he purred. „Hmmm...Scrooge..." came a soft murmur from the woman. „Precisely!" answerd the later cheerfully but to no response. Magica was still fast asleep. He blushed. She was sleeptalking...about him? Better not to think about that right now. He shook her again, with a little more force this time. Finally a result was shown with her eyes fluttering open. „Well good morning Magica. I take it you slept well." He smiled at her, his cheeks still a little to red for his liking. „I fear we need to get up before my family stormes in." There was real regret in his voice. Finally Magica seemed to wake up fully. She blushed as she realized where she was and how close to the other duck she lay. „Are you always that cheerful in the morning? „ She rubbed her eyes and yawned a little. „Well, good morning to you too Scrooge. I believe I had the best night of my life to be honest." She added with a smile that made Scrooges heart melt.

„You still think it is a good idea for me to celebrate with you? It's your last chance. I can still vanish before your nephews even know." She continued with worry. Scrooge sighed: „You can ask as many times as you want. No matter what it will bring. You belong here today! Now get up and get dressed, unless you wanna keep my nightshirt on. I fear my dear Mrs Beakley will faint if you do though...she just stepped in into...us..." he looked aside out of the window. „Oh..." was all the sorceress answered at first. It wasn't hard to imagine what the housekeeper must have thought. „But what shall I wear then? My dress is all dirty from the mud and the bushes outside. Please don't say another dress from your housekeeper, in that case I will indeed stay as I am..." Still with the buttons open, she was sporting a decent plunging neckline. Scrooge didn't wana trust himself with that sight all day. A witch shouldn't be that attractive. Without a word or even a glance he went to his wardrobe. Searching for the highest turtleneck he could find. It was a soft cashmere pullover in red. It would look stunning with her black hair but it was still...safe...

Magica stroked the fabric like a cat a few times, as if she never felt something like that before. And most likely she didn't. „Wow that feels nice...uhm, but...is that...everything?" She added cause he stopped looking into his closet. „What do you mean? Isn't it to your liking?" He was truly confused, she seemed to like the garment. „Thats not it, but I am not used to just wear tops like Daisy or Brigitta do. I am a witch. We prefer our bottom a bit more...wrapped." She explained patiently.

„Oh I see, well thats kinda problem. I don't own any pants." He looked truly sorry. „Oh! But wait, maybe..." He started searching another locker. „Here, would you mind that? It's the McDucks tartan!" He showed her a fancy looking kilt not without some proud. „It even matches the red cashmere!" His pride was kinda cute. „And I will feel a little more like I belong here with your family." Magica added. She was absolutley overwhelmed that he was willing to lend her something so precious. „Thank you!" She added a little to cheerfull and went to the bathroom to change into her bra she left there last night. The fitting pullover showed of her curves just in the right ways and the oldfashioned tartan gave her the comfort of a witches dress. She loved the attire.

Scrooge used the time to change into his trademark Jacket. Without a tophad. As Magica returned fully dressed he gasped a little. She was stunning, in a very elegant way. „You look beautiful!" escaped his lips before he could stop the words. He noticed that the red from both their outfits even matched.

„And you as handsome as always..." She answered with a seductive smile that made the man blush again. „Gosh Magica, now you exaggerate..." Her smile turned more coy „How did you notice?" He punshed her arm playfully, he already had the best time. „Now, now witch, stop fiddling. We have a party to attend. I am just glad we found something you can wea..." he stopped in his tracks. „Wait a second. Couldn't you just make some clothes appear with your magic? You disguised yourself all the time, a dress or a nightgown should be a breeze!" He asked sceptically. Her smug face was answere enough. „And miss out on how you fuzz about it and even lend me your own clothes? Never!" As she saw his bitter face she added with a warm smile. „But I liked it, you know. Your fuzzing and even wearing what is yours. It is like a gift. Also your stuff is way more comfy then anything I could provide with my magic. Magic is practical, but not as soft as a cashmere sweater from you, and not as special as your familys tatar." Scrooge was defeated, how could one possible stay angry with that smile. „Glad I could already make you a litte happier, before our party even started." He just stated and meant every word. „Now shall we mylady?" He offered her his arm. She took it, carrying her handback in the other hand. Holding her arm, he started wishing, that it could always be like that. Well, let's say often. He would truly miss their little encounters if they stopped completly.

They could hear that the rest of the family was already in the living room by the noise. Three young voices declared hunger. While a female adult voice tried to explain that they needed to wait for their uncle.

Scrooge and Magica shared a glance. „Ready Magica?" „Can I ever be?" She answered now unsure again. But let herself be lead into the room by the man.

The pair entered the room, at one go everyone went completly silent as soon as they saw them.

„No! Not today!" There was a sudden scream from Donald who leaped at Magica immediately. „Whatever spell you cast on my uncle. You will release him at once! It's christmas, that should mean something. Even to a witch like you!" It touched Scrooge that his nephew was so furious for him. But he needed to be stopped. „Please Donald, I am not bewitched. Listen to me. I invited her for christmas!"

„You did what?" His whole family asked in union. Only Mrs Beakley decided it was best to ignore the fuss. She had seen it coming anyway. „Please everyone. Her family isn't the same as ours." He looked Magica in the eyes. „I know her for so many years now, she has a huge part in my life and makes it special. I feel, she truly belongs here for now!" Magica couldn't say anything, she felt her heart warm at his words and just gazed into his eyes.

Webby was the first one to speak again. She stepped a little closer to the sorceress. „Does that mean you wont hurt unca Scrooge today miss?" The little girl reminded Magica of her own little niece Minima, she smiled at her. „No deary. I promise. For once, I just wanna enjoy christmas like the rest of you. I want to learn, what makes this day so special and Scrooge here"...She took his hand without realising it. „...Said, he would show me. No mischief today!" All eyes followed the holding hands with big eyes. But Webby smiled and closed the distant to gave the witch a hug. A little gasp was heard of Mrs Beakley. „Then you are welcome to celebrate with us pretty lady. Right boys?" The triplets shared some glances but then all three noded carefully. Daisys expression had changed from shocked to a gentle smile as soon as she saw how her uncle squeezed the hand that was offered to him. He looked calm and happy, not the same as the casual lovepotions made him act before. Maybe here was something real and she wouldn't miss out. „Yes, welcome Magica. We have enough to share." She said warmly to the other woman. „Fine..." Donald mumbled. „But I keep an eye on you. You better not betray my uncle and the childrens trust today woman"...

„Thats fair." Magica answered calmly. She couldn't believe it. That went down way smoother then she would have ever thought. Scrooge was right. His family was wonderful.

„Thank you all a lot. I know what I am asking of you. Really, what would I be without my loving family!" Scrooge grabbed his family into a hug.

Magica took the time to look arround the room. It was beautifully decorated, a huge christmastree was lit in hundreds of tiny lights. The whole room felt welcoming. Presents lay underneath the tree and a fine piano was in the room. She liked everything.

„Well then, I heard something about breakfast?" The scottish duck interrupted her thoughts. „Come on Magica, take a seat beside me!" He took her hand again in a assuring hold. He wasn't going to make her feel out of place if he could help it. She took it gratefully and sat down on the table with him and the rest of the family.

After breakfast the children went out into the snow a little while the adults played some board games. That was familar to her. Witches loved to play boardgames and such. It made everything feel less akward and Scrooge was always by her side. Touching her hand or shoulder now and then to assure her, that he was with her. It was a wonderful feeling, she already knew she would miss when this day was over.

As it was getting later Daisy and Mrs Beakley went into the kitchen to do some final preparations for diner and invited her to join. Magica cast a quick glance to Scrooge but he gave her a warm smile and a nod. „Don't worry, they wont kill you. And if you feel akward to be alone with them any longer. I am just here next room. I think they like you already, but maybe Daisy might want a word with you. But don't worry, she is one of the nicest persons you will ever meet. Scrooge stroked her cheek absentmindly, what wasn't unnoticed by his niece. After that encouragement the witch joined the other woman in the kitchen and helped cutting vegetables. She was very good with a knive. Used to it by preparing ingrediants for potions.

„Mrs Beakley, would you mind fetching the children. Diner is almost ready!" Daisy said after a while of light chatter. Uh oh, here we go. Magica thought.

„So, do you enjoy christmas so far Magica? I am sorry if we had a rough start, but you have to excuse us. After everything, it was a little hard to believe to see you and my uncle in such concord. I noticed he is a lot more gentle then he used to, today. He really talked you into coming, right?" The pretty duck turned to the sorceress with honest interest. „He wouldn't take no for an answere, yes. I mean, he is your uncle, you know him. Stubborn as a mule...but I like that about him..." Magica said vacantly and smiled at the memory.

„I see..." Daisy answered with a knowing smile. „Say, I know you two are enemies, you need his dime and all. But beside that, I think you hold him dear. Isn't that true? I saw you two interact today. You look comfortable beside him. When did you even arrive here? When did he ask you?" Magica blushed furiously, all of that wasn't something she wanted to discuss with an almost stranger. „Uhm, it's not...He is the only one I really know here...I really think I should go back to the living room now..."

Yes Daisy was nice, but also nosy, good to know. Before she could leave Daisy put a hand on her shoulder. „I am sorry, that was to personal." Magica nodded, but smiled at the other duck. „Its ok...but I don't think I could answere your question anyway...Just, we met yesterday evening as I was...well, Ok I admit, as I was behind the mansion plotting to get his dime again. But Scrooge found me outside and it was cold, we talked and suddenly he hugged me and invited me over. He is such a bullhead..." The sorceress explained without taking a breath. Daisy giggled a little. „I already thought so. We would have noticed if you arrived in the morning. It's ok, we all know thats just how you two work. Oh, and I am sure you'll find the other answere. It's christmas after all." With that Magica was free to leave.

Back in the living room she found Scrooge pitching the piano. „Ah you're back. I hope you like christmas carols. It's a tradition in this family to sing together after gift giving...did something happen? Your face is all red." He rambled before he realized the look on her face. „No, it's ok. I think I got along with Daisy. Diner is almost ready and yes, I love to sing. In italia we celebrate loud and cheerfully, in a witch family not for christmas in particular but still... So, you can play the piano?" Scrooge really didn't need to know what his niece was suggesting. Scrooge could see in her eyes that something happend, she just didn't want to talk. But as long as she was not running away, he was ok with not knowing everything. „You will hear me play later. Diner sounds awesome by the way. I am starving!" He said full of cheer. It was cute how much this cold business man enjoyed family and christmas time.

Soon they all where seatet again and Magica hadn't eaten such good food in...well, to be honest. It was the best she ever tasted. Mrs Beakley and Daisy both smiled full of proud as she stated her opinion. Even Donald seemed to be less suspicious of her while the day lasted. „Can we open our presents now unca Donald?" The children started soon after everyone had enough. „Yes, can I too grandma?" Webby joined in. The adults smiled. „All right then, off you go!" The progress of gift giving was loud and filled with cheerfull laughter. Daisy couldn't stop fiddeling with her new necklace form her fiancé. Everyone seemed happy with what they got.

It felt akward to be the only one without giving or getting something. As the ruckus went down a little, Magica stepped into the middle. „My invitation here was a little...on short notice. I couldn't bring any present for that. But I know a little trick my niece enjoys very much. She got her wand out of her handbag and turned to the fireplace. Donald was on high alert at once but Daisy hold him back to wait. Magica chanted some spell and suddenly the smoke came alive. Forming animals of all sorts. Running and flying free trough the room. A little smoke bunny hopped arround Webby till she had tears of joyfull laughter in her eyes. The boys where more impressed by Owls and Ravens flying arround. Even the adults in the room watched the spectacle with awe. After the show ended all clapped there hands and cheered. „Wow, that was the cooles trick I ever saw!" Exclaimed the triplets in union. Everyone joined in. Magica stood in the middle of the attention, barely holding back a tear of joy.

Suddenly she felt warm arms embracing her from behind. „That was a wonderful idea of you Magica, look how happy you made everyone. Thank you." Scrooge whispered into her ear and gave her a very soft kiss on the cheek. The spot where he touched her felt warm and she wished instantly it would had last longer. „Thank you Scrooge..." she whispered equally soft. They freed themselfs hesitantly from each other. No one seemed to have taken notice of the gentle exchange. Everyone was still to hyped from the magical smoke show.

„Now then, shall we come to my favorite part?" Scrooge exclaimed loudly to get everyones attention. „Gather round the piano, lets sing together!" The four kids climbed on top of the instrument while the adults stood arround it. Magica took position right next to the piano. Near to Scrooge. She wasn't so sure about this, yes she loved to sing but only knew a few words of the lyrics. After two well known songs, Scrooge seemed to realize that Magica had her problems. „Here, sit down with me. The lyrics are in the music book aswell." He made room for her on the small stool. Gratefull she took the offer. Now she could really enjoy singing with everyone. She sure hadn't a clear voice like Daisys. But from what Scrooge could make out between the other voices. She sounded powerful and a little raw. Just like her appearance. Beautiful.

„Hey Magica, do you know italian christmas songs?" Louie asked after a while. „Yeah, that would be great, to hear christmas carols from a different country!" Ever so eager to lern new things Huey chimed in. Webby and Dewey just stared at her with pleading eyes.

All that possitiv attention she was getting tonight, it was confusing for the witch but made her really happy. Scrooge beside her smiled pleased. He seemed to sense that he reached his goal.

„Well, I wasn't that much into christmas before. But I do know one song, the most famous. It's called: Tu scendi dalle stelle. From Starry Skies Descending."

She stood to get her wand again. The witch chanted a spell and the piano started to play on it's own. A wonderful melody. As she got used to the rythm Magica started to sing along.

Hearing her voice all alone now. Scrooge was certain it was the most beautiful sound he ever heared. This time all had their mouth hang open. No one had expected such a wonderful performance from the sorceress. Not even Scrooge had any idea that bringing Magica along, would enrich their whole christmas celebration that much. He considered himself the most lucky person on earth right now. Even Gladstone couldn't match this.

If possible, this time the cheers where even louder as Magica ended her song. She hinted a curtsy playfully. Her eyes, glittering full of happiness, found Scrooges again. His smile gave her a queasy feeling. She settlet down next to him, shoulders touching. „I can only repeat myself Magica, this was wonderful." he greatet her warm. Her mind couldn't provide more then a smile right now.

The rest of the evening went on just as smoothly. At some point. Webby fell asleep on her grandmothers lap. The housekeeper excused them and retired off to bed. One by one the triplets also started yawning till Donald and Daisy wished their uncle and Magica good night aswell. Donald still took a look over his shoulder at the witch as they went off to leave his uncle alone with her. But his fiancée pushed him out of the room rigorous.

Now Scrooge and Magica stood infront of the huge window next to the illuminated christmastree, watching the snow fall.

„So...did you enjoy yourself today Magica?" Scrooge finally asked, even though the answere was quiet obvious. „Is that the point where you tell me: I told you so?" The witch asked playfully but with a gentle smile on her lips. „It is the point where I say thank you Magica. For giving it a chance. For giving me a chance." He answered seriously, but also smiling warm at her. He reached down for her hand. Immediately her fingers closed around his. With a content sigh she leaned her head softly against his side. „Yes, I enjoyed this day very much. All of it. It is me, who has to thank you." Her voice was soft, afraid to speak of it more loudly.

Gently Scrooge turned her to face him. He laid his hand arround her waist lightly, pulling her closer into an embrace. Still so soft to give her room to resist. She didn't, loosing herself in his eyes she finally wrapped her arms arround his neck.

„Would you grant me a wish Magica?" He whispered softly. His eyes spoke clearly of what he wished to do. The sorceress eyes shone with the same desire. „Just kiss me you old fool..." she answered softly. Closing the distance a little more. „Demanding, aren't we?" Scrooge ran his fingers trough her beautiful raven hair, enjoying the soft feeling. As he leaned in to close the distance completly in a gentle kiss.