You're at your boyfriend's place, wrapped in plaid, your phone resting on a coffee table, FaceTime with your boyfriend, Carlos. He's in a hotel room, for his last Grand Prix of the season.

Carlos: “I miss you too much, you know that? I wish you could have been here for this race, it's not the same without you.”

You smile softly at him, your heart clenching at the thought of not being by his side.

You: “I miss you too... I really tried to come, but with work and preparations for Christmas, it was too complicated this time.”

Carlos nods, understanding but visibly disappointed. He plays with the cords of his sweater, looking thoughtful.

Carlos: “That's okay... But tell me, what do you want for Christmas? Like, really. Not something basic like chocolates or an ugly sweater, tell me what would really make you happy.”

You think for a moment, hesitant. Then, with a shy little smile, you answer:

You: “Honestly... All I want is to spend more time with you. To be together without always having a screen between us.”

Carlos looks at you fondly, but says nothing more at the moment, gently changing the subject before wishing you a good night.

Christmas Day

Christmas morning arrives. You're still in your pyjamas, surrounded by the festive decorations at home, when there's a knock on your door. Surprised, you open and discover Carlos, smiling with all his teeth, a Santa hat on his head and a small box in his hands.

Carlos: “Merry Christmas, my love.”

He hands you the box, his excitement barely concealed.You open it and find a key inside, attached to a keyring shaped like a toy car.

You: “Is that... a key? Carlos, what's this?”

He gently takes your hand, his smile widening.

Carlos: “It's the key to our new apartment in Monaco. This way, you'll never have to choose between work and me again.You'll always be close to me.”