it was christmas eve, and the house was filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and pine. your family and riki’s were gathered in the living room, laughing and chatting like they always did. the two families were so close that it felt like one big, happy unit, especially on holidays like this. your mom and riki’s mom were best friends, which made every holiday even more special.

but there was one thing that always made you groan: the christmas sweaters. every year, without fail, your moms would insist you and riki wear the ridiculous matching sweaters, the ones with reindeer and snowflakes and blinking lights. this year, it was a bright red sweater with a giant, sparkly snowman that made you cringe every time you looked at it. riki’s was equally bad, with a christmas tree that lit up every time he moved.

after a delicious christmas dinner, filled with laughter and too much food, you found yourself on the balcony, the chilly air brushing against your cheeks. the house was cozy behind you, lights twinkling through the windows. riki followed, his sweater still blinking as he stepped outside. you both leaned against the railing, the night quiet except for the distant sound of holiday music from inside.

as you stood there, not knowing what to say, your mom’s voice echoed from inside: “hey, you two! look up!”

you both glanced up and froze. above you, a sprig of mistletoe hung, the perfect cue. riki’s gaze met yours, and for a moment, everything felt still. he smiled softly, his cheeks tinged with the same pink as the sweater.

"guess this is it," he whispered.

and before you could respond, he gently cupped your face and leaned in, giving you your first kiss under the mistletoe. it was sweet, soft, and everything christmas should feel like — warm and full of love.