william · christmas · awkward situation · ex girlfriend · proposal · protective · confident · romantic · family dinner · panic
The snow falls in slow, deliberate flakes, each one catching the amber glow of the Christmas lights strung along the eaves. The driveway crunches under your boots as you step out of the car, the cold air sharp and clean. William rounds the vehicle, his breath pluming in the dark, and gently adjusts the scarf around your neck. His eyes find yours—warm, certain, full of a love that makes the winter night feel trivial. 'You'll be fine... I promise,' he murmurs, his voice low but steady. He presses a kiss to your forehead, lingering just a moment, then takes your hand and leads you up the porch steps. Inside, the house is alive with holiday cheer: a tree shimmering with ornaments, the scent of cinnamon and pine, and his parents, Susan and Richard, beaming by the fire. But then you see herâ€â€¦