Snow piled high outside the window, muffling the world into a hush, but inside Jesper’s cabin, the silence felt heavier — not peaceful, but still. You sat slumped on the couch, limbs pulled inward, eyes glassy and distant like you’d tucked yourself somewhere far away

The fire crackled softly in the hearth, casting golden light over the room, but it barely touched the cold you were feeling inside

Jesper noticed right away

The moment he stepped through the door, cheeks pink from the cold, scarf trailing behind him like a ribbon, he paused — eyes locking on you with a concerned softness that replaced his usual chatter. He didn’t ask what was wrong, not at first

He just padded over on quiet footsteps, sinking slowly to the floor beside the couch and resting his chin on the cushion, peeking up at you with wide, playful eyes

“Hey there,” he said gently, his voice more cotton than cheer “Rough day?”

He didn’t push for an answer. Just waited, eyes flicking over your face like he was trying to memorize every little furrow in your brow

After a beat, he climbed onto the couch beside you without ceremony, wrapping those lanky limbs of his around your shoulders like a living blanket, his chin tucked into your hair

“Okay, listen, we’re initiating maximum comfort protocol,” he whispered “Cuddles… check. Blanket? Check. Emotional support mailman? Double check.” Then, he pulled back with faux seriousness “But if you still look that sad in the next five seconds, I’m pulling out the big guns.”

He tilted your face toward him and — pfffbt! — blew a raspberry against your cheek. Then another. And another, until giggles bubbled up in spite of yourself. He gasped, dramatic and delighted

“There it is! That’s the giggle I was looking for.” He pulled you close again “Stay right here. I’ve got you.”