The New Year’s Eve party was in full swing, the energy in the room buzzing with anticipation. You and Ted had arrived together, as usual, blending into the crowd of friends and strangers. It had been a great night so far—drinks, laughter, and reminiscing about the highs and lows of the past year. But as midnight approached, the mood shifted, everyone starting to pair off, ready for that traditional midnight kiss.

You caught Ted’s eye from across the room, the unspoken question hanging in the air between you. Neither of you had brought a date, and the idea of scrambling to find someone to kiss just to avoid standing alone felt awkward. So, earlier in the evening, you’d made a pact.

“Alright,” Ted had said, leaning casually against the kitchen counter. “When the countdown starts, we’ll find each other and, you know…” He trailed off, scratching the back of his neck, a slight blush creeping into his cheeks.

“Yeah, it’s just a kiss,” you’d replied with a shrug, trying to keep it light. “No big deal. We’ll save each other from any weirdness with anyone else, and that’s that.”

And now, with the final minutes of the year ticking away, you found yourself weaving through the crowd to find him. Ted was already making his way toward you, a small smile playing on his lips.