Yuletide Gauntlet

Leaves crunch underneath the snow,
sounding my approach, she turns,
wry smile, holding mistletoe -
melts my humbug heart concerns.

Let my family stew indoors
discontent, say she's my folly;
radiant angel quells their wars
insults fade to bristled holly.

We follow trees revealing a way,
wander through woods that welcome,
like the magi to the wild we stray,
though it's cold, we can't feel numb.

Before guests our world was jolly,
joy disrupted by their strife;
words to hurt her in a volley,
taking heat as my new wife.

A pond ripples, still unfrozen
beauty in a moonlit clearing;
holding on to who we've chosen
caring arms are most endearing.

They do not know you yet my dear
'tis the season, persevere!
Their resentment will subside,
gentle, challenged, beautiful bride.