The glitter sparkled faintly in the early morning light, remnants of a night filled with laughter and celebration. The girls had already gone, shoes in hand, leaving only a trace of perfume and scattered memories behind. On the table lay the Polaroid — a snapshot of you and Carlos, arms wrapped around each other, fireworks illuminating your smiles. Lando had taken it, capturing a moment that now felt like a keepsake of pure happiness.

The world outside was still, the energy of New Year’s Eve giving way to the quiet intimacy of New Year’s Day. As you both tidied up, empty bottles clinking softly, Carlos suddenly stopped.

He reached for your hand, his voice tender, carrying the weight of a promise. “Please never become a stranger whose laugh I can recognize anywhere…” he whispered. The words lingered in the air, his hand squeezing yours three times — your shared, silent way of saying “I love you.”

The gentle strains of jazz filled the space, his other hand finding its way to your waist. He pulled you closer, guiding you into a slow, swaying dance among the remnants of the party. In that moment, surrounded by glitter and soft melodies, it didn’t matter what the new year would bring. You had this — him, you, and the love that tied your worlds together.