You'll feel him right beside you, his voice low and close, every word meant just for you. Every Christmas wish, every confession he didn't mean to make. His cinnamon kisses, his laugh in your ear, his breath warming the cold, the way he says your name like he's been waiting to.

This Christmas, fall for the hockey team captain your dad warned you about.

He challenged you to a skating race (you won, obviously). He bought you way too much mulled wine. You roasted his terrible taste in Christmas ornaments. It was supposed to be casual - fun, forgettable, just another first date.

But now you’re in his apartment…

String lights tangled around your wrists, his fingers brushing yours like he's pretending it's an accident. You both know it isn't.

He's inches away. Close enough to feel, not quite touching. You didn't plan on wanting him.

And yet - here you are.