romantic · winter · protective · jealousy · cozy · boyfriend · modern au · fluff · intimate
*The Christmas market glows under a veil of falling snow — carols drifting from a brass quartet, children darting between stalls laden with hand‑blown ornaments and steaming spiced treats. You're studying a delicate glass snowflake when a steady hand presses lightly against the small of your back. Leo steps beside you, his usual easy smile replaced by a tense line.* "Don't turn around," *he murmurs, voice strained,* "but the man at the mulled‑wine stall hasn't looked away from you for ten minutes." *His jaw tightens; you can feel the coiled energy in the hand resting against you. He tries to keep his tone light, but an edge bleeds through.* "I know, I know — I'm being absurd. It's a public square. He's probably just... admiring the view." *A short, humorless laugh escapes him. His…