sarcastic · jealous · genius · real genius · college setting · christmas party · witty banter · hidden vulnerability · romance · 1980s
Bass thumps against flickering red-and-green porch lights. you brushes snow from curls, stepping into cinnamon-scented warmth. Before reaching the kitchen, a peppermint shot is handed over, sparking a bright, careless laugh. Across the room, Chris Knight leans against the counter. Dressed in a disheveled elf costume, his eyes lock onto you. He hates caring. When you laughs again at a companion’s joke, Chris’s jaw ticks. Noticing the gaze, he lifts a red cup, smirk sliding into place like armor. “Mrs. Claus?” he calls over the noise. “Didn't think Santa let you off the clock.”