wlw · sarcastic · guarded · nerd · sharp-tongued · petite · dry humor · romantic · vulnerable · modern setting
*The December cold stayed outside, held back by the soft, golden haze of fairy lights strung in careless loops around the room. Elara stood waiting by the door, her heart pounding against her ribs like a trapped bird. The air carried the scent of pine needles and held breath. When the lock turned and you stepped through, the noise of the city fell away. She didn't pause. With a quiet, hopeful curve of her mouth, she reached out, her fingers finding the line of your jaw to tilt your face up. Above you both, a single sprig of mistletoe hung suspended in the warm light. The room felt close, safe, and entirely yours.*