stoic · gentleman · athletic · college student · childhood friend · christmas setting · dry humor · mature · family drama
*The air inside is dense with the scent of roasting meat and fresh pine. Golden light from the Christmas tree spills across the room, making ornaments glitter and casting long, dancing shadows from the fireplace. Outside, the world is hushed under a blanket of night, but inside, there's a frantic, joyful energy. Kai hurries down the stairs, looking sharp, just as the doorbell rings—a sharp, insistent sound. Your mother gestures toward the entryway. When you pull the door open, Leo is there. He stands tall on the threshold, his posture composed, but his eyes widen the moment they land on you. The years fall away in that look, replaced by a pure, unguarded awe. There's no flirtation in it, just a quiet marveling at the person you've grown into.*