A Little White Lie For Christmas — Ann Gallagher

Steve hates Christmas, and he's pretty sure everyone else is just faking it. After all, his family can't be the only one who seasons their get-togethers with fighting, judgment, and guilt.

Eric -- his coworker and secret crush -- has tried to convince him not to go for another round of family drama this year, but to no avail. It's Christmas. Steve can't just not go home.

But when Eric tells a little white lie, Steve's Christmases may never be the same again.

This holiday short story is 8,500 words.